We’re researching cameras for underwater photography for our next project in Greece. Three options are contending:
The Expensive Route
The Canon 5D is our current dream camera. It’s the camera we rented to document Channelbone. It delivers high quality 12.8 megapixel (mp) images, however costs $2700 + $400 for an underwater housing. The problem: comically expensive.
The Inefficient Route
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 is the rave of the current Consumer Reports comparison. Its $400 price for a 10 mps + $250 for an underwater housing is tempting. The problem: spending $650 for a point and shoot camera (with a hard to use “point and shoot” interface) does not make sense—that’s the price of a 10mp Canon SLR (which doesn’t go underwater—but there you are).
The Underpowered Route
The Olympus 770SW is a 7mp camera that is designed to be submersible to 33’ for a cool $350. The problem: 7mp is on the low side for what we need and the lens is so small that “breaking the surface” images would be 30% distorted.
The Red Herring
Any of the above could be used with a partially submerged aquarium and potential risk depending on wave size.
M&M the aquarium is a good bet when used along with a Aqupac. The Aquapac is good for a depth of up to 15′. Aquapacs for SLR cameras sell for $119.00
wow thanks Brett–we’ll check that out
were did you locate the underwater housing for the LX2?
were did you locate the underwater housing for the LX2?