Underwater Photography

[fathometernity]

I am new to underwater photography. It’s something I plan to try out this summer. I have a Canon 350D digital rebel xt and am looking for good but cheap underwater camera housing which fits my camera with the 24-105mm EOS lens. Any suggestions?

Also it would be great to also gather any tips I made need to know like how deep in the water I can go and what to do if the housing leaks.

Thanks!
Amanda Leigh

[4g63photo]

I think the cheapest you can go is an underwater camera bag. Ive never tried these. I believe they are around 50 bucks at bh photo.

[slappy sam]

They are more like $200+

[ssim]

This would be the very last piece of equipment I would cheap out on. The consequences aren't nice. Here a few sites I found on a google search.


http://www.ikelite.com/
http://www.underwaterphotography.com/Store/default.aspx?CT=1638
http://www.backscatter.com/hostedstore/products/favoriteSLRhousings.html

[c3p1]

I have used an underwater bag for a point and shoot (cheaper one) camera. First the point and shoot is no way to go for underwater photography (I know you plan on using your 350D). I bring this up because after about 20th use of this bag of taking the camera in and out it developed a slight split in the seam that I could not see---that is until the bubbles started to rise and it took a few seconds to realize what it was. By then, the camera was ruined. Just a little salt water, I had no more than a tablespoon or less. can ruin the camera when it hits the right spot.
My point, for your 350D, I would not trust a bag. You need to commit to good housing or a dedicated underwater camera, neither route is cheap!
Good luck, Paul

[StewartR]

There are advantages in using a P&S for underwater photography. The housing is less expensive. The camera is less expensive if the housing fails. And it's much easier to compose by looking at the LCD than by trying to look through a viewfinder when you're wearing a mask.

[fathometernity]

Thank you for all of your replies. I also have a sony cybershot which I will start out with to get a feel for what I am doing. I found this case for the cybershot,

http://www.camera-warehouse.com.au/product_images/main/SONY-SPK-WA.jpg

Does anyone have any experience with it? I want to trust it more then the bad type:

http://static.zoovy.com/img/goshotcamera/-/underwater/packs/capac1

[Aquaman]

I have a very similar case for my Canon A70 point and shot. (I can't afford to take my SLR in the water). I have not had any leaks or problems with my case. Just make sure the seal is coated with silicone grease to ensure a good seal. Never store your camera in the case (because of greenhouse effect) and make sure you clean the case thoroughly if you take it in salt water.

[Jim G]

I used to shoot underwater with an Olympus Mju and a $300 Olympus casing for it... worked very well. No way in hell would I be taking my DSLR underwater in just a bag.. I'd be forking out for a decent Ikelite casing or similar.

As far as if it starts leaking... ascend as quick as is feasible and get it out of the water? :p My Olympus casing took me down to 60-90 foot without any difficulties whatsoever...

[Madweasel]

At snorkelling depths I've never had any trouble with my Ewa-marine bag-type underwater housing. Underwater photography is quite a challenge though!