TL;DR
Action Cameras vs. Point-and-Shoot
When deciding between action cameras like GoPros and traditional point-and-shoot cameras such as the Olympus Tough series, consider your primary use. Action cameras are excellent for capturing dynamic videos and can be easily mounted on various accessories, making them ideal for activities like diving and snorkeling [5:3]. On the other hand, Olympus Tough cameras excel in macro photography and provide better control over still images, which might be more suitable if you want to focus on wildlife photography
[5:4].
GoPro Series
The GoPro HERO series is highly recommended for underwater video capture due to its durability and quality. The latest models, such as the HERO11 Black, offer advanced features like 5.3K resolution and excellent stabilization [3:1]. They are also compatible with dive housings and filters for deeper dives
[3:2]. Users have noted that GoPros are reliable even without additional lighting, though for deeper dives, extra lighting might be necessary
[3:8].
Olympus Tough Series
For those focusing on photography, the Olympus TG-6 or TG-7 with a PT-059 housing is recommended. These cameras are robust and well-suited for close-up shots, although they may not perform as well for wide-angle underwater scenes [1:2]. The Olympus Tough series is praised for its ability to produce high-quality stills, especially when paired with extension sticks for stability
[5:4].
Budget Options
For budget-conscious buyers, GoPro knockoffs like Akaso can be a viable option. These cameras come with underwater cases and are affordable, though their image quality may not match that of higher-end models [4:1]. Older models of GoPro can also be found at reduced prices and still offer decent performance
[4:3].
Additional Considerations
When choosing a waterproof camera, consider whether you prioritize video or photography, as this will guide your decision [5:6]. Additionally, think about the depth and conditions you'll be shooting in, as deeper dives may require additional equipment like dive lights and filters to ensure optimal image quality
[3:7].
Looking to get a camera before diving this summer, have been diving for many years but never had a camera, looking online is confusing, so many options. I’m advanced open water & cave diver - want something that will be robust at depth, easy to use and hold, good quality video and still pictures….. Will have a torch so don’t know if I’ll need a flash…. Any advice from your experience would be hugely appreciated 📷🪸
At the entry level (I’m assuming you don’t want to invest $15K+ into cameras yet) determine what you want more: photos or video. There are few cameras that do both well. If video, go GoPro or DJI route: they’re simple to use, dive related parts are easily to come by, and there are TONS of forums related to them for advice. If photo, it’s hard to beat an Olympus TG-6 or TG-7 with the housing (PT-059). It’s not great for wide angle shots (shark in the distance, turtle swimming by) but it is great for anything up close. It also shoots ok video in a pinch.
I've an osmo action 4 with case and Orcatorch d710v on a tray.
And a TG7 and case on a tray with an Orcatorch d710v and another high power torch.
They take photos I can bore my friends with and I like to look at. And they didn't break the bank.
Unless someone were paying me and I had tons of time to plan and dive a cave a few times beforehand, I would not take expensive camera gear on a cave dive.
That being said, underwater photography, all photography really, is about light. I agree with everyone saying start small. You don't really need strobes anymore but some people still like them. Your cave-diving torch isn't exactly suited to photography as it will has too-narrow of a beam.
Some sort of action camera and a Chineseum video light is a great way to start. Make sure you get a housing no matter what and keep in mind that the button springs on the cheap ones wear out after a while and don't work so well below 45 meters sometimes.
Otherwise, I'd steer you toward some sort of Sony Alpha something with a housing for it. Even with lights, white balance changes very rapidly underwater and dealing with that takes time to learn. It's not as much of a deal in a cave though, so there is that.
Thanks for all the help, after a deep dive decided video was what I wanted and have gone with a GoPro
Advanced Open Water and cave is an interesting combo.
I have pals with camera rigs that cost more than my car - the anxiety on setup is somewhat off putting but having a good profile picture is nice.
I dropped on an Action Osmo 5 with the dive housing, and a couple ammonite stingray lights for night time/low light stuff. I quite like it so far, it's compact but decent enough for what I need it for. Couple pals have latest model GoPros and the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 and they're happy enough with those.
Start small and get a feel for it.
Have same camera. No lights tho. Even with just the dji mimo app, you can make the video look really good. If a little oversaturated anyway…
If I just had to buy someone an action camera for water sports without knowing much about their specific needs, I’d buy the current GoPro and the GoPro-brand dive housing. If I was buying today for myself, I’d get the GoPro 11 and the GoPro floating handle, maybe add the dive housing if I was going deeper than snorkel depth.
I spend more time mountaineering & backpacking than anything, though I do paddleboarding too, & the floaty handle is brilliant!
Fell in many times last summer while learning the kick back turn & my GoPro Hero 9 Black was absolutely fine, & this was without the waterproof case. Only thing I'd add was this was always in fresh water, not sea water
They mostly all have different strengths and weakness. I wouldn't really qualify any as "best", though if you forced me to pick I would probably pick the latest GoPro (currently the Hero 12).
Yeah just watch the release video by GoPro on YouTube for 10,11,12 but I’d buy the newest one I can afford.
dji osmo action 4
GoPro 7
OM System TG-7
I am going away to Hawaii in the beginning of August and I would really like to capture some videos and pictures of the underwater wildlife (as well as above). I will be snorkeling/ going on boat rides, biking, and a helicopter ride if that helps with the type of camera I would need. I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for a good action camera? Thanks
Get a GoPro. You'll get pretty good footage without needing to think much about it. You can get cheaper action cameras for 1/5th the price but the quality is worse, and you can never be sure they're pressure tested before putting them in water.
An Olympus TG-5 or TG-6 would also do well, but honestly if you want an action camera you're better off getting something specialising in video and pulling stills from that video later. Any camera underwater will be fine in theory just snorkeling, but a Go pro with mounts and clips means you're less likely to lose it. If you want photos over video, go TG, if you want video over photos, go GoPro. Act like you will drop whatever you bring so attach it to yourself somehow. Many of us have recovered dropped action cameras/phones while diving or know someone who has.
Thank you! I was going to also do some scuba diving but I wasn't sure if that deep would be different camera or like more expensive? I've never used anything underwater before.
Gey a dive housing and flip filter if you will be going over 50' deep.
I have several different models of GOPROs, but I still like diving with a 3+ Black or 4+ Black in a dive housing with flip filters. I mount a GOPRO on my camera housings anytime I dive.
GoPros are great for diving. I use mine with a dive housing because even though the camera itself is waterproof and rated for depth sometimes the pressure compresses buttons and changes settings without my knowledge but the housing prevents that from happening and keeps it safe from breaking other ways. You can get filters and a dive light as attachments to help with color correction. And finally get a floating handle, it’ll help with stabilization while filming and if you lose it then it’s easier to find ;)
>I've never used anything underwater before.
This is why I suggested a GoPro. They take pretty solid video these days, the only issue is they don't function that well at depth without additional light, a problem that all cameras face due to the way red light attenuates in water. If you want great photos/video deeper than about 10m, you'll need lighting of your own which isn't cheap. Nice dive sites with good conditions you can get great shots down to about 20m but the visibility must be excellent. Try to shoot upwards if you can so the light is captured better in your shot. A GoPro is naturally a better choice for things like biking and taking onto a helicopter where it can be stashed in a pocket when not in use.
More expensive gets you better photo/video if you know how to use it, but you could spend $10000 on a camera setup, sacrifice a lot to bring it with you and try and use it everywhere, and still walk away with under 20% of what you take in photos/video being any good. It's just the way it works. I recommend starting with something simple, if you find you really love it, then consider delving deeper and putting more time into learning it.
This. Right balance of quality and simplicity. Underwater photography is a deep dark hole of expensive parts and accessories. Start simple and enjoy yourself.
If I could choose again I would have gotten the GoPro.
I typically shoot Sony cameras and had an old job 5N. Got the underwater housing for it (made it a brick to carry) and used it snorkeling/hiking in Hawaii.
Friends all got GoPros. Their videos were far more stable, picture colors did not need to be edited in raw, and overall had a great time carrying a tiny GoPro vs my mega brick.
Half my photos didn’t even come out focused. Video was unusable. That said I’m about to go to Hawaii again. I’m still not buying the GoPro out of stubborn commitment to my $80 underwater housing purchase, but if I could do it again, I would have just gotten the go pro.
No matter what you choose to do, you’ll have a great time and enjoy what a beautiful place it is!
Ah, I'm at this decision point... Moved to Cayman. I have a Canon 5D mk4 and was thinking between a go pro and a housing for the slr... so go pro?
Life is an experiment hahahaha. I’m still using my Sony. But still wish I had a GoPro? But I also appreciate the photographs that worked out a lot more.
I see your post is from a few years ago, but I wanted to chime in just in case you're still planning a similar trip or someone else stumbles upon this looking for the same info. For capturing both underwater and above-water shots in places like Hawaii, you can’t go wrong with a good action camera. These are a few options I’d recommend:
Since you're going to be in Hawaii, these options should help you capture all those breathtaking underwater moments, as well as your other activities. I actually wrote a blog post covering the best underwater cameras if you want more details and additional recommendations: [https://voyedy.com/best-underwater-cameras-for-every-budget/].
Hope this helps, and if you're planning another trip or diving into underwater photography in the future, these cameras will definitely do the job!
Right, I have moved to Grand Cayman and I have my Canon 5D mk4. Housing for this or get the most recent go pro?!
SeaLife Micro 3.0.
Go Pro has more fps for video, but SeaLife uses a Panasonic sensor. It's all contained in one housing (no additional accessories), easy to use, and very durable.
The second GoPro comes out with a new model (every year), all of a sudden your old GoPro seems to be unreliable after it updates...
Going to be fishing the Florida Keys soon and would like to take a waterproof camera to shoot some underwater footage at the bridges and piers, but not wanting to spend the bank on it. We want to see what's swimming around down there.
Maybe tie it on a rod and launch it just to see what it looks like out there.
Water depth maybe 20ft at the most. Got plenty of weights for it. Water should be quite clear so won't need any lights.
This is definitely saltwater.
Any suggestions?
Sounds like you need a GoPro.
They've been making them long enough you should be able to get an early model pretty cheap.
Used GoPro, got it. Any suggestions on what I should look for, for about $50-75?
Oh boy it's been quite a few years since I've looked at them carefully.
I'm not sure the current price horizon is.
Anything past the 3 should have pretty solid resolution.
Get one of those chinese gopro knockoffs (Akaso) that comes with an underwater case. I got one for about $75. Note they have poor low light performance, but are serviceable. I use mine for scuba diving and wasn't satisfied with image quality for deep, murky or nighttime water but works fine if well lit. I got an insta360 ace pro and am happy with image quality under more lighting conditions but it is around $500 with case. You might not need the image quality I demand for making videos though.
If you're that shallow and using during daytime the Akaso might work for you.
Get a GoPro imitator. You can get them for about $50
Nikon makes real cheap 4k cameras, cheaper than go pros and don't have that awful lens that you just can't change
Good tip, thank you!
I've read about recommendations for each category, but what about recommending between the categories?
In the past, I've just dealt with not being able to share what I've seen, cheap phone enclosures you couldn't really control or take pictures with, or a disposable camera from a local shop.
I like the idea of using the Olympus camera for pictures outside of the water when on the cruise instead of my budget phone. I also read that the macro mode on the point-and-shoot could potentially be better for focusing on wildlife.
On the other hand, is it more practical to video with an action camera with an extension stick? Do yall like taking still photos in tbe moment or from the video afterwords? Maybe this would be better for "a beginner" like me? How do yall like to swim with yalls cameras?
How about RAW photos or filters? It seems important for underwater pics and it seems like a little bit of an extra hassle with GoPro, maybe fine with DJI and Olympus. Is my reading correct, or maybe it isn't much of an obstacle? Or maybe, doing RAW photos wasn't worth it in yalls experience?
Thanks for reading!
I use a TG6, connected to an extension stick (and I can hold it either by the camera case for stills, or extension for video). My pictures on the TG are exponentially better than anything I took on GoPro. I split video/stills about 50%.
I saw that floating extension sticks were recommended for action cameras. I'd imagine a heavier Olympus might not work as well. Any experience?
Also are you using a timer function on the camera+extension stick or are there extension sticks with a button and connection that work underwater?
the combo camera/stick (about 36" fully extended) I use is somewhat but not totally buoyant. I do have the stick attached by a secure tether around my wrist. When doing video, I start the video, extend the stick toward my target, then pull it back and manually stop the video. If the video is too long, I edit it to a desirable length, cutting out the "extend/withdraw" parts.
....and I am just an old snorkeler, certainly not a photographer/videographer-it is all for my own pleasure. More professional shooters may have much better suggestions.
Thank you for your experience! Probably leaning towards looking at older Olympus models if the discount is deep enough.
I experienced both types in the past. Main difference: filming on GoPro style cameras makes you ‘hunt’ for action; still cameras -from which the Olympus tough is an excellent example- make you very aware of your object, mastering your buoyancy and finding the right angle to shoot. The latter got me for sure, as it makes my diving experiences more interesting and the former one more exhausting. Take your pick.
Never thought about it like that. Thanks for your input!
Do you want to take videos and the occasional picture, or pictures and the occasional video?
Start there.
That's a good point, thank you.
Hey everyone! I used to have an Olympus waterproof/shockproof camera that I took hiking with me until a rather unfortunately butterfinger moment over a lake (blame alcohol for that). I’ve since learned my lesson and have been looking at other sturdy cameras to buy for upcoming hiking trips in very wet conditions. I’m tempted to return to Olympus (looking at the TG-5) but wanted to check here for any suggestions or input.
I do have a DSLR and am very comfortable shooting in manual, in fact I kind of hate automatic. I don’t know if any good waterproof cameras would have that option, especially in my price range which is up to $400.
Thanks!
I have an Olympus TG-5. Took it down south and I take it hiking and kayaking. It’s indestructible. Great little rig.
The photo quality is ok. Not fantastic and I still use my iPhone a lot. But it’s so nice to have something that I don’t care about dropping or getting wet that can still get decent images.
Yeah I loved my Olympus but now I know a bit more about manual cameras I want something I can really change about
Fujifilm xp models. They’re water proof, shock proof, freeze proof, and dust proof. They take good pictures, and the top tier model has manual mode as an option. I normally use a DSLR, but the Fuji is great for under water, and basic touristy stuff. Plus it’s super small and fits in your pocket easily. They’re also under your budget.
Yup I have an XP130 as my “summit camera” for places where an expensive camera has no business being. It’s great and can handle being at high altitude with some of the worst weather you can imagine.
Hey sorry but would you have any idea what xp model has a manual mode? Not the 120 or 130 right?
Sorry, I thought the 120 had it, I went with the 90 because it cost less, and the only difference was the manual feature, and 10 more feet under water or something. It looks like they may have dropped that feature, as I don’t see it listed. Maybe you could find an older model. I can tell you I had an older similar type camera that had M mode and it was not convenient, or worth the effort like it is on a DSLR.
Shit, I've always been a gopro/housing guy and that thing doesn't look half bad for the price
Ooh I’ll look it up now, thanks!
TG-5 is a great option. But for hiking in bad weather a solid weatherresistance should be barely enough. Pentax and Olympus (e-m5/e-m1, don't know about Pentax models) are known for good weathersealing. I'm using a e-m5 II, rain, snow, hail, no problem so far. I dumped it in a stream, dropped it on concrete, still works like on day one. Unfortunately weathersealing is rather expensive.
www.actioncamerafinder.com has some alternatives that you may be interested in.
The Olympus TG5 is a solid choice, especially for macro! The only thing is that you don't get full manual with this model, but a semi-manual system, it's weird but can produce decent photos.
Oh that’s awesome, thank you so much!
TG-5 is probably the best bet unless you want to get a housing for a DSLR, yes.
I am incliné to go with a go pro.. but is there a better option? Obviously quality of picture is important but let’s face it I am no Annie Leibovitz! Budget is $400.
Thanks 🙏
I just got an Olympus Tough HG 6 on eBay for under $400, but if you want to use it deeper than 50 feet you need a separate housing which in itself is about another $350
They also recommended housing for 25-50ft.. confused.
I recently went scuba diving in the red sea. GoPro hero 10 did all I needed and more. Excellent quality (for videos)
Depends on depth.
Gopros excel underwater. Tg-6 is an unsurpassed macro setup.
Nothing crazy, around 25 feet
That's not a big budget. A gopro is probably your best bet.
Great thanks!
Many People have said GoPro. I’d like to throw in the DJI Osmo Action 4. They are pretty similar in most regards and each have their weaknesses and strengths. But the DJI shines for scuba divers as they have a dedicated color temperature sensor and better lower light ability as well as longer battery life and thermals.
Looking for a camera mostly for scuba diving, with a bit of spearfishing and snowboarding. I was looking at the GoPro 12&13 hero and the osmo action 5 pro but honestly I have no idea what brand is good or which model. An ideal price range would be $300-400. Any ideas?
My son and I have a dive channel on YT and we carry an X5 (sometimes 2) on every dive.
The dive case is the only way your footage will turn out well. On quality - 360 cameras arent on par with the newest gen action cams yet but we still carry them on every dive.
Here is a link to the X5 being used underwater https://youtu.be/Yuitdc8X01M
I also have multiple shorts comparing the X5 to GoPro 13 and the Ace Pro 2.
The biggest advantage diving 360 is capturing things you would have missed and being able to worry about framing in post and not while youre diving.
Hope this helped. Check out some of our videos. We also just gave away an X5 in our global treasure hunt. Fun if you are a diver
GoPro has housing for down to 60m, that should be enough for most divers
I recently upgraded from a gopro10 to the insta360 x5 and love it.
Those action cameras are good for capturing wide angle shots, especially video.
If you are interested in stills, Olympus TG-7 with the dive case (if you need it for depth) is one of the best entry level dive cameras.
Stepping up from that, you are looking at pro level cameras and enclosures and lighting.
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The Olympus TG are probably the best, and if you only need water resistant ( rain etc), the OM-D line is the best weather seal I've ever seen ( see YouTube vids of people washing their camera under the sink)
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If you want wide shots consider an action cam like ace pro 2 or GoPro.
The OM (Olympus) TG 7 would be my go to.
Absolutely there's no other camera beats TG7 but if there's a budget constraint then Kodak WPZ2 is a decent option.
One of the Olympus/OM System Tough TGx series; the TG7 is current. The other Tough models, though good, and cheaper, are not so robust and feature-full as the TGx ones. Check out the many YouTube videos about it. And you ask about users' experiences---mine with the TG6 have been great: extreme close-up; 4K video; Slo-Mo; small, handy size. I haven't used it actually submerged though it is rated for quite deep, farther than I can hold my breath. And I have been careful not to drop it, so no experience there. I only wish it had a viewfinder in addition to the rear screen. Free manual can be found online for research. HTH
I work in reptile and amphibian conservation, and it is also my biggest hobby. Since I am almost always in/around water, especially slippery creeks and waterfalls, I need something that can withstand exposure to water at the bare minimum, but the ability of full submersion is preferred. I am also usually out at night, so my headlamps and the darkness can cause issues with my photography. Another compounding factor is that amphibians have a slimy coating, which adds glare or ruins the visibility of patterns on their skin which are often crucial for identification.
I attached some pictures I have taken to give an idea of how I am taking pics. The very last picture is an example of how I had to blow up the brightness to make the pattern visible.
Olympus Tough TG.
The older models will save you $. Newer will give more features.
There's a TG-5 on MPB for $264 right now. You can definitely get cheaper on eBay, especially if you don't need it immediately. Some TG-5s at 210/220. TG-6 240. TG-4s down at 150ish.
OM System Tough. Maybe a used, older model.
He said his budget is 250 not 500
“Maybe a used, older model.”
You should get the Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 Rugged Waterproof Digital camera
best waterproof camera
Key Considerations for Choosing a Waterproof Camera:
Water Resistance Rating: Look for a camera with a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating, ideally IP68, which indicates it can withstand submersion in water beyond 1 meter for extended periods.
Image Quality: Consider the megapixel count and sensor size. A camera with at least 12 MP and a larger sensor will generally provide better image quality, especially in low light.
Durability: Check for shockproof and freeze-proof features if you plan to use the camera in extreme conditions. A rugged build is essential for outdoor adventures.
Lens Options: Some waterproof cameras come with interchangeable lenses or zoom capabilities, which can enhance versatility for different shooting scenarios.
Video Capabilities: If you plan to shoot videos, look for cameras that offer 4K video recording for high-quality footage.
Battery Life: Ensure the camera has a decent battery life, especially if you’ll be using it for extended periods.
Recommendations:
Olympus Tough TG-6: This camera is highly regarded for its ruggedness, featuring a waterproof rating of up to 15 meters (50 feet), 12 MP sensor, and excellent macro capabilities. It also shoots 4K video and has a variety of shooting modes.
GoPro HERO11 Black: If you're looking for versatility, the GoPro HERO11 is waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without a housing, offers stunning 5.3K video, and is compact and easy to mount for action shots.
Nikon W300: This camera is waterproof up to 30 meters (100 feet) and offers 16 MP images, 4K video, and built-in GPS, making it great for underwater adventures and travel photography.
Choosing the right waterproof camera depends on your specific needs, such as whether you prioritize video quality, ruggedness, or ease of use.
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