The underwater world has always attracted people with its immense depths and secrets. For a long time there was no way to capture what was happening under water. Digital devices very poorly tolerated moisture and quickly failed. But when the first waterproof action cameras appeared, the situation changed radically. Now the task was to increase the immersion depth of the device, as well as improve the technical characteristics.
What are waterproof action cameras
As the name implies, waterproof cameras are devices for shooting video at a certain depth underwater without distortion or other inconvenience.
All devices are divided into four classes:
- amateur;
- research;
- industrial;
- military.
Features for different classes are different. If intelligence or research should produce the maximum quality of the picture, then for amateur emphasis is placed on the maximum balance of price and functionality.
You can dive to depth with several types action cameras. It can be aquaboxes, which are special waterproof covers for various equipment. They also produce completely autonomous models that allow you to dive to a depth of 20 meters without the use of special devices. Such devices are most often made very small, devoid of helmet mounts.
There are full-fledged action cameras designed for shooting in depth. They are equipped with all the mounts and are best suited for deep sea shooting.
Masked camera
Often diving enthusiasts are offered an option mounted in a swimming mask. This is very convenient, but limits the use of the device. If the device is needed only for underwater shooting, then this is one of the best options. A small drawback can be considered an increased load on the neck, because the weight of the mask increases significantly. With prolonged use, this can lead to pain.
The most common option is the use of aquabox. Almost all action cameras are equipped with such covers, but even if not, it will not be difficult to choose a universal one. This is very convenient, as it does not deprive the camera of versatility. This solution has a number of disadvantages:
- aquabox significantly increases the weight of the device;
- mounts are not always suitable for masks;
- streamlining is not provided, which can lead to increased diver energy consumption.
How to use the action camera in depth
Deep use
The use of an action camera for underwater shooting is due to some specific features. Most importantly, very reliable mounts. After all, if the device is detached, it can be very difficult to find it at great depths.
The most common option is a clothespin mount that secures the camera to clothing. This is a very simple and effective solution, more than once proving its feasibility.
You can fix the device to the mask using a special lock. This type of mount can be used to fix directly on the diver's head.
The use of a special tube with a pin resembling a selfie stick is very common. The camera is attached very securely to such a device, but not everyone will like the need to hold a stick in their hand.
You can try to fix the waterproof action camera with a special suction cup. However, in this case it can be difficult to find a point of accession. Unfortunately, diving suits rarely provide for such needs.
Spread distribution clamps. They are durable fasteners that fix the device on the hand. This limits freedom of action, but sometimes you can use your hand.
The basic rules for using an action camera under water:
- regular drying of the device is required to remove excess moisture;
- you need to monitor the cleanliness of the lens and, if necessary, clean it;
- storage is carried out in places with an appropriate level of humidity, as excess dryness will affect tightness;
- It is important to monitor the battery level.
The last item includes the need for a constant charge in the battery. If you store the device completely discharged, then very quickly need to replace the battery.
How to choose a camera for underwater shooting
Choosing a reliable machine that won't drown in water
The choice of camera for shooting under water, in addition to the basic rules, includes consideration of some specific features. Of course, it is important to determine the class of water resistance. But this is obvious.
But an unobvious detail is the consideration of the size and weight of the device. And the size is the most important here. After all, the weight under water is felt differently, so that you can pay less attention to it. The main thing is to choose a smaller camera, so as not to increase the resistance of the environment
The material of manufacture is also very important. It must be strong and durable. Usually cameras for underwater shooting are made of special plastic or aluminum.
The battery plays an important role in choosing a device. Do not need to say that the more its capacity, the better.
Standard for action cameras is the consideration of the matrix and the viewing angle of the lens. It all depends on the individual buyer and his goals.
A microphone for spearfishing is unlikely to be needed, so its presence is not necessary.
A very important parameter of a deep-sea device is color rendering. With each new meter of immersion, the surrounding landscapes will lose color, which means that to capture them you need a really good matrix.
Pay attention to the shape of the case. It should be smooth and streamlined with a minimum of sharp corners. The water resistance is very large, and the ergonomic device will serve its owner much better.
As for stabilization, the conditions under water are somewhat different. There is no need for a digital stabilizer. It will be quite enough to use a reliable mount.
Required Features and Features
To shoot video in depth, the model must have the following properties:
- moisture resistance of the case;
- insulating electrical parts;
- special optics that compensate for distortions and refractions of light under water;
- increased strength of the casing to withstand high pressures of the water column.
Conventional action cameras do not have all of these features. This means that the range of suitable cameras is noticeably narrowing.
Rating of the best cameras for underwater shooting. Top 5
SJCAM SJ5000X Elite
SJCAM SJ5000X Elite
Really good camera from a well-known highly specialized brand. It has a powerful processor and 12 megapixel matrix. It is possible to change the viewing angle and frame rate. The device is equipped with several stabilizing sensors. Video is recorded in several popular formats, including .mp4 and .mov. Built-in wireless modules greatly facilitate data transfer. The weight is quite small and is only 100 g. Given the functionality, this is a very good value. Underwater shooting may be possible. Moreover, immersion can be carried out up to 30 meters.
Pros:
- low price;
- elegant design;
- small dimensions;
- universality.
Minuses:
- weak battery.
Model price: 7000 rubles.
Sony FDR-X3000R
Sony FDR-X3000R
Another inexpensive camera that allows you to shoot video in depth. The device is equipped with all popular wireless protocols. The protection class is very impressive. The device is protected from water and dirt. All connectors are covered with rubber plugs. The camera can operate at sub-zero temperatures up to -10 degrees. There is a display. A wide-angle lens will capture all the important points. The case withstands water pressure at a depth of 60 meters, which makes the camera one of the best in its class. The device is equipped with a remote control with buttons and a screen.
Pros:
- excellent protection class;
- good equipment;
- remote control.
Minuses:
- high price;
- light body, subject to pollution.
Model price: 30 000 - 34 000 rubles.
EKEN H9R
EKEN H9R
Great camera of a Chinese company. It has a 12 megapixel sensor and a lens with a viewing angle of 170 degrees. There is a touch screen for easy operation. Battery 1050 mAh. Wireless wifi module. The kit is supplemented by a special box that allows you to use the device at a depth of 30 meters. There is the possibility of shooting an action camera.
Pros:
- moisture protection;
- good equipment;
- several color schemes.
Minuses:
- weak battery;
- tangible weight of 100 g;
- average performance.
Model price: 4500 rubles.
Xiaomi Yi 4K Action Camera
Xiaomi Yi 4K Action Camera
Camera from a famous electronics brand. Manufacturers were able to create a small weight device that has all the characteristics of a universal action camera. The device has very small dimensions. It is controlled by a 800 Hz processor. 12MP Matrix There is a rather large screen with a resolution of 640x360. Viewing angle of 160 degrees. The device has a very good autonomy, allowing you to work on a single charge for almost 2.5 hours. The use of aquabox ensures comfortable shooting at a depth of 40 meters.
Pros:
- light weight 95 g;
- good battery 1400 mAh;
- wireless modules.
Minuses:
- poor equipment.
Price: 17,000 - 18,000 rubles.
Sport Cam A7
Sport Cam A7
The powerful camera at very reasonable prices completes the review of the best cameras for underwater shooting. The device has all the necessary parameters in order to compete with expensive flagships. Shooting video in full HD. The presence of support for all wireless protocols, as well as synchronization with mobile applications. Very impressive equipment includes a wide range of different mounts, as well as a box for immersion under water at depths of up to 30 meters. The device can be used as a DVR. The matrix has a resolution of 12 megapixels. Have a microphone.
Pros:
- excellent equipment;
- improved lens;
- universality;
- relatively low price.
Minuses:
- for the sake of universality, emphasis on any characteristic was not made.
Price: 3 000 rubles
Action camera underwater - a specific autumn device. Not everyone needs devices that are really well protected from water. Therefore, more buyers should focus on universal cameras, allowing them to be used both on land and under water.
If the real diver needed a deep-sea diver, then you will have to properly understand the issue and select a device that meets all the requirements of an aggressive environment.
