View Full Version : Best Camera for underwater video?


Cameron Stainton
January 12th, 2004, 11:31 PM
I am prepared to purchase a new camcorder for underwater video documentaries. I have discovered that the Sony VX 2100, Canon XL1s/GL2, and JVC HD10 all have 3rd party (underwater)video housings readily available. Cost is not a factor... I just want the best product I can get my hands on. Reliability is a factor as I will be filming in remote locations. Can anyone please steer me in the right direction?
Sincerely,
Cameron

Rob Lohman
January 13th, 2004, 09:09 AM
I moved your thread to the general forum since it is about
multiple camera's.

Don't forget to look at how to operate all of the controls on the
camera. Make sure the underwater housing has all you need.
Sometimes it might be handy if the housing has room to add
filters or a wideangle adapter etc. as well.

Rick Bravo
January 13th, 2004, 08:30 PM
Cameron,

We have had a great deal of success with housings from Gates Underwater Products. http://www.gateshousings.com/

We currently own three, two for the now discontinued Panasonic AG-EZ30 and one for the SONY TRV-950.

They are all heavy duty, deepwater housings and are all milled from a solid block of aluminum.

The housings balance out beautifully underwater without the need to add additional weights.

All the controls are mechanical which minimize the potential problems associated with the mixing of electronics and water.

The housing for the TRV-950 has a remote color monitor and all the housings are equipped with NightRider underwater lights. All the housings also have a standard, macro and wide-angle port.

If you are looking to go with electronic controls I would strongly recommend any housing by Amphibico. http://www.amphibico.com/

If cost is not a factor then these are probably the way to go...not cheap, but you get what you pay for!

Good luck, RB.

Cameron Stainton
January 14th, 2004, 12:25 AM
Thanks...I just ordered a gates today with niterider & external view screen.
Cam

Shawn Mielke
January 14th, 2004, 04:21 PM
Divers also speak highly of the PDX10, for size, and for 16:9, of course. (And for cost.)
The Sonys seem to have garnered a reputation as being most resistant to condensation, or it's effects, rather.....

Cameron Stainton
January 14th, 2004, 09:36 PM
Thanks for the info. everyone. Looking forward to shooting with new camera & Housing!
Cameron