Here's How To Get Started Photographing Underwater.
Other than a few special pieces of gear and some unique shooting conditions that you must be aware of, taking pictures at depths of up to 12 feet is relatively straightforward and requires a minimal investment.
First, you'll need a camera that's safe underwater or a way to keep your terrestrial camera dry while it's submerged. For occasional underwater photography--such as a once-a-year island vacation--one-time-use underwater cameras will let you take pictures down to a depth of 12 feet. They come preloaded with color film, so you can just plunge in and shoot.
Several brands of reloadable underwater cameras are also available, ranging from fixed-focus point-and-shoots to sophisticated SLRs. (Check diving magazines for ads or reviews.)
You can adapt your terrestrial camera for down-under shooting using an underwater housing. Inexpensive plastic-bag-type housings (safe to depths of about 70 feet with an SLR) are available for point-and-shoot, SLR, and some video cameras. They feature a built-in glove that allows you to manipulate camera controls under water and glass windows for the lens and the viewfinder. For deeper dives, a rigid acrylic housing will provide ultimate protection to your camera.
An is example is Made from molded polycarbonate, this compact housing enables you to access all the camera's functions. A built-in diffuser helps to widen and soften the built-in flash. The Olympus PT-010 has a maximum depth of 30m.
Whatever the camera, getting good results underwater requires attention to the nature of the environment. Even very clear water acts as a filter, absorbing both light and color (especially red), so it's important to use a moderately fast (ISO 200) film. Colors will photograph naturally to a depth of about 10 feet but fade away quickly beyond that. Using either a built-in or a detachable accessory flash will restore colors and is the best method for providing consistent lighting, especially with close-ups. Below a depth of 12 feet, a flash is a necessity.
The real keys to success are patience and practice. Fish and other sea creatures have busy agendas that don't include posing for you; if you find waiting for them frustrating, practice on more stationary subjects like colorful anemones and corals.
