With the Sealife DC1200 Underwater Digital Camera Elite Kit you can take photographs and video as you explore the world's oceans, rivers, and lakes. The Elite kit contains everything you need to get started in underwater photography. This easy to use 12.0MP camera has a housing that is rated down to 200' (60m). Of course it is also ideal for taking worry-free pictures in the rain, at the beach, or on the ski slopes.
The camera features a large 3" LCD screen that allows for precise framing underwater. When shooting underwater without flash the camera has 4 underwater white balance settings: blue ocean water less than 25' (8m), blue ocean water deeper than 25' (8m), green fresh water less than 25' (8m) and green water deeper than 25' (8m). With the Spy mode feature you can set the camera to automatically take photos from 3 seconds to 60 minute intervals. By setting the camera on a tripod and swimming away you can photograph very shy creatures.
The camera housing allows access to all camera functions underwater. The housing is designed with "Piano Key" controls that have replaced the button cluster found on most housings. This along with the large shutter button that extends forward with a fingertip-control lever that allows scrolling through menus or zooming in and out without releasing your grip from the camera allows for easy handling even when wearing gloves.
The sure-fire flash connection system holds your fiber optic cable in the perfect position so the flash will fire every time. External Flash Auto mode is the perfect feature to get you started in underwater photography. In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts the exposure. For a more creative approach advanced users can use External Flash Manual mode. In this mode you have complete control over the aperture and shutter speed.
The kit includes one Sealife SL961 external strobe. Since water absorbs the red and yellow light spectrum resulting in blue pictures, you need a flash to bring out the intense colors of the underwater world. It also reduces the backscatter problem that normally will occur when using a camera with a built-in flash.
When using the Auto mode setting, the strobe automatically adjusts the brightness for optimal image exposure. You can also shoot in Manual mode. The strobe features variable flash control enabling you to dial the flash power up or down for better image exposure. Also included is a flexible, rubberized arm for easy aiming and a sure grip. This will allow you to position the flash for the best possible lighting.
Since one of the most important secrets to quality underwater photography is to be as close to your subject as possible, for large subjects the included Sealife Wide-angle Lens is extremely important. It will increase your field of view by 50%. You will be able to capture that 5' shark from 5' away or fit a group of divers into one frame. You can get as close as 12" to your subject to ensure bright colorful pictures.
This wet lens can be attached or removed from the camera while underwater. This allows you to shoot wide-angle and close-up photos on the same dive. The optional lens dock allows you to store the wide-angle lens on the flash arm when it is not attached to the camera housing.
Also included is a soft, lightweight travel case that is large enough for the complete kit. This kit will get you started, nurture your creativity and allow expansion of your underwater photography skills; just add water.