How to Use a Compact Digital Camera Underwater

For enthusiasts who enjoy water activities, many underwater digital cameras can help keep your recreational memories alive. As a good tool to help capture rare findings under the water, digital underwater cameras can be expensive. Researching different Internet sites and/or stores can find you a moderately priced digital camera that can be used under the water. Taking underwater pictures can be challenging as light and colors can become faded as you dive deeper. But if you carry the right equipment, you will find this form of photography a little easier.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Camera flash (if desired)
Camera flash (if desired)

Step 1

Find the right location. This can be hardest part of underwater photography. When selecting the location, keep in mind the light source available for the photo. If the area you are photographing is dull, consider using a flash. Photographers can also shoot upward toward the surface, which can provide more clarity and light within the frame. To make sure you have found the right location, take a few "snaps" with the digital camera to see if you are getting a clear shot.

Step 2

Get the location "shot ready." This is an extremely important part of underwater photography. It is important to remember that while filming underwater you sometimes have to wait for the location to "settle down." Maybe the water has become murky, or perhaps unsettled, making the image blurry or faded. If this is the case, and it is safe to do so, wait a few moments before taking the shot.

Step 3

Take lots of pictures. Different light sources and underwater objects can change very quickly, and by taking many shots, you will have a much better chance of getting the image you are looking for.

Step 4

Review your pictures after the shoot. This can help you grasp a better understanding of how to take underwater pictures. Reviewing past mistakes is a good way to start learning how to take clearer and better shots. Remember to practice, practice, practice.

Tips & Warnings

When taking underwater pictures, remember to always be safe. Check your surroundings, your air supply, and make sure you have your dive buddy with you at all times, if scuba diving. Be aware of your surroundings, and if you feel unsafe, get out of the area immediately. No picture is worth your life.

Article Written By Quentin Shires

Quentin Shires has been writing since 2003, covering topics such as safety issues, travel and counseling. Shires holds a Master of Science in mental health counseling from Nova Southeastern University and is working toward his Ph.D. in human behavior from Capella University.

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