Digital Cameras for Underwater Photography

Digital cameras for underwater photography are not just for divers - anyone who loves being out of doors should consider buying a waterproof camera. If you enjoy biking, fishing, boating, walking in snow or even just watching the kids swimming, you will love having a camera where you don't have to worry about it getting wet.

If you are thinking of buying one, here are a few things to bear in mind.

• Compact cameras will only work to a depth of about 33 feet of water as loss of light beyond that results in poor quality photographs. Beyond that the flash is too weak and water pressure increases causing other problems which can only be rectified by using a professional camera with an underwater housing and an external flash unit.
• Compact digital cameras for underwater photography do not produce the same quality of image as some of the more expensive point-and-shoot cameras. On the other hand, if you are off to the beach, maybe it's better to have a camera that can handle the sand, sea and surf than risk ruining your 'normal' camera.
• Check the size before you buy - I would advise buying a compact camera that really does fit in your pocket. Then it will be available whenever and wherever you want it.
• Note that if a camera manufacturer claims its camera is 'freezeproof' that doesn't mean the batteries are freezeproof, and below zero temperatures it is unlikely that the batteries will last beyond a handful of pictures.
• The most important aspect of an underwater camera is not the waterproof rating or any other feature but whether you are going to be happy with the photos when you get them home. Read carefully what other customers say in this respect before making your decision.