Underwater Action Cameras

Technological progress does not stand still, and therefore new types of video equipment are constantly appearing on the modern market. One of the most popular video devices among consumers is an action camera that has the ability to shoot underwater. Today in our material we will consider the features and existing types of products.

The waterproof underwater action camera hit the market and became available to a wide range of buyers in 2012. The inventors of this device were Americans working for the world famous GoPro company.

Today, a large number of trade brands are engaged in the production and release of such video equipment, thanks to which buyers have a wide choice (this applies both to the types and models of the camera themselves, and to their cost).

If we talk about the distinctive features of underwater action cameras, then it should be noted:

• light weight and generally quite compact size;
• stability, reliability and durability;
• the presence of protection systems (against water, dust, dirt, mechanical damage), etc.

Due to the great popularity of video devices for shooting underwater, experts began to create more and more diverse models with a large number of new and modern functions.

Accordingly, for convenience, all video cameras began to be classified into several groups:

• amateur;
• research;
• industrial;
• military.

Cameras in different categories have significant differences among themselves. For example, research cameras are devices that need to have unrivaled picture quality (such as Ultra HD 4K) as well as high battery capacity.

A distinctive feature of military cameras is mandatory presence of a flashlight... On the other hand, there are increased requirements for amateur cameras in terms of price (it should be the lowest possible), as well as functional content (for example, the presence of such technology as Wi-Fi).

In addition, there are cameras that can shoot underwater even without a specially designed aqua box (they are usually quite expensive). They are used as deep-sea devices.

As mentioned earlier, a large number of brands are engaged in the production of underwater action cameras. As a result, many buyers often face difficult choices. Today in our article we will consider a rating of the best models and manufacturers, as well as make a small comparison between them.

• SONY CYBER-SHOT DSC-TX30

The market value of this action camera is about 17,000 rubles, and therefore it can be classified as a luxury video device. Accordingly, not every person can afford to purchase it. The model is perfect for those people who like to actively relax in nature and try to capture their experience on camera. The outer casing of the camera is made strictly in accordance with IPX8 standards, so it is highly durable, reliable and resistant to negative factors emanating from the external environment.It is allowed to submerge the device 10 meters under water. In addition, the camera of this model is striking in its compactness in terms of size.

• MARCUM LX-9 + SONAR

The price of this camera is much higher than the previous one, since its cost is about 30,000 rubles. It should be noted that this device is considered one of the latest and most modern among the developments in the field of video equipment. The model is able to perform not only the functions of a camera, but also act as an echo sounder and video recorder. Accordingly, the high price is fully compensated by the functional content. The display size is 8 inches. With its help, you can see not only a picture, but also practically important information about the depth, direction and temperature of the water in the reservoir.

• EKEN H9R

This camera belongs to the category of budget devices and is made in China. It is suitable for amateur use. With the help of the model, you can take photos and videos at a depth of 30 meters. In addition, along with the camera, you can purchase additional accessories that significantly increase the comfort of using the device. The main production material is corrugated plastic.

The choice of an action camera for shooting underwater is difficult for many consumers (regardless of whether they are purchasing an inexpensive device or a luxury product).

In order for the camera to be able to fully work under water, it must be equipped with a special protective system - aqua box... At the same time, it is important that it is distinguished by increased reliability and durability.

It is important to note that not all cameras are sold complete with an aqua box, therefore chances are you will need to purchase this item separately.

When buying a device, you should pay attention to the fact that whether it gets hot during operation.

So, if you notice a significant increase in temperature, then you should refuse to purchase a camera, since in this case the aqua box will fog up, which, accordingly, will negatively affect the quality of your photos and videos.

The presence of a quality stabilization function is essential, as it is very difficult for an operator or photographer to remain stationary under water, which can significantly deteriorate the image quality.

For underwater photography experts recommend giving preference to cameras with narrow lenses and to refuse such devices, which are equipped with the so-called fisheye technology.

The optimum viewing angle for the camera should be 90 degrees. In addition, the presence of a function to eliminate image distortion is useful.

Preference should be given to action cameras that can function even in the presence of a small amount of light. This is due to the fact that only a small part of the light passes under the water, which negatively affects the overall quality of the picture.

This indicator is the maximum individual, since it all depends on which camera size is most convenient for you.

So, in some cases it is recommended to choose a very small and compact devices, while some users note that cameras that are too small can be easily dropped and lost underwater.

Give preference to those devices that equipped with state-of-the-art features - for example, the ability to record video in 4K format.

Due to the fact that using the camera underwater is not very convenient, the device should have a special fastening and fixing system.

It is believed that the best way is mounts on the mask.

This indicator affects how long the camera can be used without additional recharging.

It is recommended to give preference to such devices that are capable of functioning for 4-5 hours.

You should choose options the amount of built-in memory in which is the maximum.

Some camera models have additional functionality such as GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.

However, it should be borne in mind that the presence such functions significantly increases the value of the goodsso make sure you use them beforehand.

For more information on how to shoot underwater with a GoPro action camera, see the video below.