Posted by Paul Schutt (68.77.149.207) on January 15, 2004 at 20:04:30:
In Reply to: Beginning UW photography posted by Snowlock on January 07, 2004 at 04:15:52:
: I'm trying to find some advice on where to start with UW photography. I have been looking at all manner of housings and cameras and have yet to find something I can realistically aquire. Most housings for good cameras end up costing $1000 or so... and for an amateur that is nowhere near realistic. I think all my diving gear cost about that much so there is no way I'm gonna spend that on just a camera housing at this stage. There is no dive store near me which has photo equiptment so I am stuck looking at pictures online. What is a good beginning camera / housing combo which can make it down to ~50 meters and costs around (under) $500? Or is there no middle ground between the cheaper Sea King style cameras and SLR housings.
There are some alternatives that do not cost an arm and a leg. Just remember that a good flash unit for a Nikonos or an SLR housed camera will probably cost at least $350 used. The cheapest way to get into a quality 35mm SLR in a housing is to look for a used housing for a Nikon 8008. The used 8008 cameras are under $300 and Helix often has good Aquatica used housings with a dome port in the $500 area depending on what is included.
As an alternative you can look for a used Sea & Sea motor marine with flash. This is not the same as a Nikonos but it will take some very nice pictures. If you want to discuss this call Dennis orr Justin at 1-800-33-HELIX. They can help you select something you can aford.
Thanks for the inquiry,
Paul Schutt
HelixCamera.com