Underwater Cameras

1) Disposable underwater cameras

2) Waterproof Cameras

3) Traditional Cameras in a waterproof housing

Disposable cameras are a nice option if you aren't too serious about your photography and want to get a few pictures to remember your trip by. Underwater disposable cameras are relatively inexpensive - generic brands are available for under $9 for 25 exposures, and a higher quality kodak underwater disposable can be had for about $12 (obviously higher if you buy it in a touristy area). The quality of the pictures won't be spectacular, but for the price you can't beat them.

These cameras are designed from the get go to be taken underwater. Most waterproof cameras look like you'd expect, with big rubber gaskets and bright yellow casings. These types of cameras are generally expensive - starting at around $200 on the low end but going well over $1,000 . Recently however, several great camers for snorkelers have hit the market - the Pentax W20 and the Olympus 770sw and 790sw. These aer all "normal" looking digital camera that can be completely submerged underwater! These cameras have all the average snorkeler could want - and for under $300!! Another option available is a very cheap 35mm camera in a plastic housing - these can run from $40 - $100 depending on the quality and are nice because they are reusable.

If you already have a camera that you enjoy, you may want to investigate buying a plastic housing to make your existing camera an underwater camera. These casings are generally made for each specific camera (or camera line, ie Casio Exilim) but beware - they are more expensive than you might think. A plastic camera casing for a Casio Exilim will run you about $175 - in which case many might just go ahead and purchase a waterproof model.