Underwater cameras are cameras you can use under the water safely. Electronics and water usually don't mix, but manufacturers seal these types of cameras against water penetration, protecting the components inside. Manufacturers provide recommendations on how long you can safely use each camera underwater, and how deep you can take it. Always check specifications to understand how to correctly use the waterproof camera.

If you want extra water depth, consider an underwater ROV system (remotely operated vehicle). This type of camera system can reach a few hundred feet of water depth safely, depending on the model you select.

Underwater Cameras and Accessories

Underwater digital cameras are those that you can use to shoot photos and videos when swimming or diving. With a well-designed waterproof camera, you should be able to use it in essentially the same way underwater as you use it out of the water.

Some people choose to use a waterproof camera any time they're around the water, just in case they drop it in the water. The camera's waterproof properties protect it in this instance, too. For more protection, choose underwater photography add-on equipment, such as floating wrist straps, to keep a dropped camera from sinking. You also can connect underwater arms and accessories to these cameras to provide extra features, such as an improved grip or additional lighting.

What Is Camera Housing?

When the camera's case doesn't contain waterproof protection on its own, you can purchase underwater camera housing that fits around it to provide waterproof protection. Housings will only work with certain models of cameras or camcorders. Underwater camera housing should fit perfectly, giving you access to all the buttons for normal operation.

How Do Underwater Cameras Work?

When working with a camera underwater, it must be sealed against any water penetrating the case. You cannot open any of the doors or compartments when the device is in the water. Manufacturers seal the cameras against water penetration with rubberized rings that fit inside the edges of the compartment doors. These rings compress under pressure, creating a waterproof seal.

Beyond the sealing of the compartments, underwater cameras work just like any other digital cameras, in or out of the water. If you shoot video with camcorders, rather than with DSLRs or other photo cameras, you can also find underwater camcorders and housings with the same protection as waterproof cameras.

Can GoPros Go Underwater?

If you own an older GoPro, it likely isn't waterproof on its own. However, you can purchase housing for this type of camera that'll protect it. With newer GoPro underwater video cameras, the camera cases will protect them up to a certain water depth. Check specs on each camera to be certain how far it can go.

Finding the right waterproof camera gear will give you photos with amazing vibrancy. B&H Photo and Video has all the best underwater photography equipment, including Nikon underwater cameras and Canon underwater cameras, so you can enjoy your time spent diving and swimming even more.