Underwater camera technology

for the underwater images on this webpage, I used the 3 following systems:
(actually, the Fuji and Canon only on Hawaii, the others are made with the Minolta)


Underwater imaging using the Minolta Dimage X in the MC-DG100 marine case:
good:
  • camera still OK
  • almost all functions of the camera available under water
  • survied 30+ m depth (all buttons worked OK)
  • relatively inexpensive (for underwater equippment)
  • many pictures possible (compared to film)
  • allows video and flash operation
  • if you drown the camera, the casing should still be OK ;-)

  • (the casing is as expensive as the camera)

    bad:
  • very long release lag
  • resolution somewhat low (2MP)
  • new camera versions don't fit the case anymore
  • weak battery
  • scratch sensitive (has a hard lens window, though)
  •  


    Underwater imaging using the Fuji Quicksnap single use camera:
    good:
  • got some pictures!
  • cheap - if you damage it - get a new one.
  • available nearly everywhere
  • good fast film (Fuji 800)
  • considerable magnification possible


  • bad:
  • only 27 pictures
  • no flash
  • fixed focus
  • buttons can lock up below 10 or so m depth
  •  


    Underwater imaging using the Canon Sureshot A1 analog underwater camera:
    good:
  • got some pictures!
  • whole camera half the price of the digital casing alone.
  • free choice of film - very good magnification possible
  • all functions of the camera available under water


  • bad:
  • drowned in operation

  • (well, this was probably my fault - always check the O-ring!)
  • but - when it drowned, it was irreparable...
  • No film longer than 36 exp (changing on a trip is a bad idea)
  •