Class Shot
Megapixels
Compact cameras:
Will more megapixels give you a better picture and should you ditch Strobe

your older model for a newer one? A six-megapixel camera can For those who have one of the
produce some beautiful A prints. On canvas a six-megapixel image newer Canon Powershot Range in
choosing the right underwater system
can be blown up to 2m-high – more than big enough for most Canon housings, such as the G7, 9
homes. It is true that the newer cameras out today have the ability or 10 models you will need a small
to take photos underwater much faster as there is less shutter delay strobe to be able to avoid shadow
and you can also crop the photograph far more and still be left with a issues caused by the housing’s
reasonably sized image when choosing a camera with 10 megapixels port being larger than the Ixus
or more (just watch out for digital grain/noise creeping into an image models.
when shooting at higher film speeds).
However, as long as you get close to your subject (within a foot for
Wide-angle lens
macro shots) and fill the frame with your subject, press your finger
The Red Sea is unique in having so many world-class wrecks and
half-way down to focus before taking your shot, there is no reason
caverns to explore, not to mention big animals, making a wide-angle
why you can’t take fabulous photographs with older camera models.
lens a must-have accessory for any compact camera. Make sure that
And of course if you like taking photographs of static subjects such as
you can add one on at a later date before purchasing if you happen to
wrecks or smaller subjects like clams and corals, a slower shutter delay
be a wreck-junkie like me. Different manufacturers such as Epoque,
is never going to cause a problem. The top tip is to make sure that
INON, Sea & Sea or Fantasea make wide-angle lenses, which can either
your film speed is set to 200 to ensure sharp shots.
be attached direct to the housings or can be attached via an adaptor.
Just remember to make sure that it is firmly in place before a dive,
otherwise it may end up as treasure for a future diver to find.
Video Mode
Housing controls The Video Mode in the newer models is now much better to be
Before purchasing, make sure that you can see the controls able to record underwater video. Canon Ixus or Powershot users can
underwater and that you have access to the on/off buttons, film speed access their white balance menu while in video mode and can shoot
and white balance settings during a dive. Also, make sure the battery in beautiful colour by presetting the white balance with a white
has some chance of lasting at least an hour or more (always buy a card. They can also record wrecks in black and white in fairly good
spare one just in case). definition. The newer Sea & Sea models, such as the 1200, also make
it possible for divers to record in high definition while also accessing
Being able to pre-set the camera’s white balance with a white card or the white balance menu. Other models will need an external filter or
the palm of your hand whilst underwater has made it so much easier a Magic Filter to be able to replace colour while in video mode. With
to bring colour back into any underwater photographs. It offers a all the models, always remember to push the macro button while in
great way for any beginner to get started into the wonderful world movie mode for extra definition and sharpness. Making an underwater
of underwater photography. For those looking to make underwater movie has never been so easy or so much fun.
photography a more serious hobby, the need for full manual
controls where you can change both the aperture and shutter speed Whether you are shooting pictures or video, the principles are the
independently is a must. These features allow you to get really creative same, always remember to get as close as possible to your subject,
shots underwater. (without harming any corals or disturbing the marine life) and get
level or underneath your subject. Underwater Photography can be
really addictive and I’m already looking forward to sharing more tips
Accessories
and tricks to ensure you all come home with fabulous photos in future
So what accessories does your compact really need to be able to get
editions. Stay safe and have fun!
great underwater shots? Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple answer
to this as it all depends on the individual and what subjects they
are planning to shoot. Do you like taking photographs of close-up
Maria runs tailor-made Underwater Photography Trips
subjects such as anemonefish or lionfish, for example? If so, you might for Digital Compact Cameras for all levels in Nuweiba,
not need to purchase any extras as your built-in flash will do a superb
Egypt with Emperor Divers.
job in capturing these subjects. Just remember to set your flash to
forced flash, press the macro (often depicted with a tulip icon), keep
your finger pressed half-way on the shutter release button to focus
Find out more: www.oceanvisions.co.uk
first, and get within a foot of your subject for wonderful colour and
punch to your subject.
Issue 1 June 2009 www.cdws.travel 2
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