What’s the Best 35mm Underwater Camera?
Since some enthusiasts still prefer film over digital cameras, they would still buy a 35mm underwater camera whenever they want or need to take photos underwater on a dive. Here are some suggestions if you would like to try out the old school way of taking pictures.
The SeaLife SL545 SportDiver II is a compact 35mm underwater camera that is well known for its large “Push Here” shutter-release lever that makes taking photos very convenient. Its durable Lexan housing, considered a major feat, is small enough to fit into most Buoyancy Control (BC) pockets. The SportDiver II can be waterproof up to depths of 164 feet (50 meters) and has a small inner camera (that can be removed from the housing). It is buoyant enough so that it would not rush immediately towards the surface should it slip from your fingers. This SportDiver II has a built-in automatic flash and can be expanded with SeaLife external flash. You can even attach lenses using its snap-on lens port. For starters, the price is very friendly yet the product is easy to sue and produces good quality shots from underwater camera.
However, if you want a cheaper alternative, there’s also the AquaLung Sport that can take photos up to 10 feet (or 3 meters) deep. It is focus free, reusable, and has a 28mm f/9.0 picture taking lens. The AquaLung Sport also has an Easy Film Loading System and already comes with a flash. It also has a wrist wrap that can secure the camera while you are diving.
Another option would be the Intova Snap Sights SS04 reusable camera, which is waterproof up to 25 feet deep (or 8 meters). Aside from being a waterproof camera, the SS04 is also shock resistant. Its clear polycarbonate and buoyant housing is also very durable. It also comes with a built-in flip-up sports finder so you can easily frame your shots even while wearing a mask. The downside is that this inexpensive camera is only great when used in daylight. Otherwise, photos might not come out as good.
If you want to try out underwater photography for the first time using film, just choose a 35mm underwater camera from among these three choices and shoot the dive away!