Waterproof Camera?

[bigjoefish]

I'd like to have a digital camera on my boat just for taking fishing pictures not to be submerged when diving or anything like that. I could use some advise on what to get given that id like it to be water/weather proof. There are water proof cameras and cameras that fit into waterproof cases. Any suggestions?

[ruge13]

Does it have to be digital? If not, honestly the waterproof disposables take decent pics. I use one for snorkling on the north shore.

Otherwise I have an Olympus 3.5mp 300 digital that is "Weather proof" I have never dunked it, but it had taken a ton of abuse in salt water with a kayak. Still no issues. Not sure about other models but a full service warrenty is a must for saltwater use. Even if it is weather proof salt will destroy a camera. With the extended lithium battery, extended warrenty, and a 250 mb card it cost about $400. I am hapy with it so far. Only drawback is it takes low resolution video at 16 second clips. I wish it had higher resolution video and unlimited length like other cameras.

[cjr]

I trashed my Olympus Stylus 400 this spring. Its marketed as weather resistant and splash proof. Not surprisingly, it didn't survive a saltwater dunking. I am considering sending it back to try to get some sort of repair, but I'm sure its shot. I can even see salt crystals on the inside of the view finder.

It was a great camera and did survive a few splashes before going for its swim. I will probably end up getting the same one again. You can also purchase an underwater housing which would probably be good for everyday use for me. (#$119)

chris

[ruge13]

Know anyone that has the housing? I actually almost pushed the button yesterday but am going to wait another week. I want it for underwater shots and diving..curiopus about the performance and what anyone did or didn't like about them?

[cjr]

No, I don't. It looks nice though. Depth rated to 130' and full access to the camera's features. I was about ready to buy one for diving before I trashed my camera. Now I guess the money needs to go toward a new camea. painful.

To be honest though, I haven't heard any non-biased reviews.

[bigjoefish]

Guys, thanks for the replies I contacted somebody that carries the Olympus models and he recommended a Pentax Optio 33 WR which claims to be submergable in shallow water for up to 30 min. Its a 3.2 MP camera and I think the also make a 4 MP version. I'm going to go compare them with Olypus although taking the salt into consideration I may just go with a disposable - Ill have to do the math as to which is cheaper given how much I plan to use it and how often I break stuff.

[ruge13]

Some window shoping...prices here can be probably be beat, but it lists a bunch of options.

http://www.diversdiscount.com/resources/frameset.asp?src=/shop/product.asp?category=154&categoryname=Weights%2Band%2BBelts

[peanuts]

go to the Aquapac websight they do waterproof bags from $30 depending on the sort of camera you have. I use one for my canon s30 digital camera and having dropped it whilst wading can vouch that it works.

[wittich]

I really liked my Cannon Elph Adventure camera. It is not digital but it takes great underwater pictures. I got it for 129$ on the internet.

[Frisbie]

I use a Samsung digital that is outfitted with a waterproof housing. I use it for diving, freediving/spearfishing, fishing, boating, surfing, everything. I love it...takes great pics. I bought a 256 mb memory card, so at any given time, I can take like 200 pics, go home, upload them to my computer and print save, etc...
The waterproof housing was an optional accessory, so I can remove and use the camera on dry land as well. THe camera got great reviews in diver mag. I just recently upgraded the housing with a strobe light for underphotography. It may be alittle much for what you are looking for, but may spark interests in other areas besides fishing; like spearfishing perhaps.

If interested, I can email you the information.