Canon Underwater Camera Housing: A Complete Guide

So, you're thinking about taking your Canon camera for a swim? Awesome! Underwater photography opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities. But before you take the plunge, you're going to need a proper underwater camera housing. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Canon underwater camera housings, helping you choose the right one and keep your gear safe and sound.

Why You Need an Underwater Housing

First things first, let's talk about why you can't just dunk your regular camera into the ocean. Water and electronics, as you probably know, don't mix. An underwater housing creates a watertight seal around your camera, protecting it from the damaging effects of saltwater, pressure, and all the other hazards of the deep. Without it, you're pretty much guaranteed to fry your camera, and trust me, that's a very expensive mistake.

Beyond just protection, a good housing also allows you to control your camera's settings while you're submerged. Most housings have buttons and dials that correspond to your camera's controls, so you can adjust things like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO without having to surface. This is crucial for capturing the perfect underwater shot, as light behaves very differently underwater.

Choosing the right housing is an investment in your photography. Think of it as insurance for your camera and a key to unlocking stunning underwater images. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, a reliable housing is an essential piece of equipment. When selecting the appropriate housing, you want to consider its depth rating. This specifies how far the housing can be submerged. It is also important to note that most housings are made specifically for certain camera models, so make sure that the housing you choose is compatible with your camera before purchasing.

Understanding Canon Underwater Housing Options

Canon offers a range of underwater housings, each designed for specific camera models and depths. Generally, there are two main types: Canon-made housings and third-party housings. Canon's own housings, typically labeled with a "WP" designation, are designed specifically for their compact cameras. These are usually more affordable and simpler to use, making them a great option for beginners. They're typically depth-rated to around 10-40 meters, which is fine for recreational snorkeling and diving.

Third-party housings, on the other hand, are made by companies like Ikelite, Sea&Sea, and Nauticam. These housings are generally more robust and offer more advanced features, such as support for external strobes and interchangeable lens ports. They're also typically more expensive, but they're a worthwhile investment if you're serious about underwater photography. These housings often cater to both compact and DSLR or mirrorless cameras, offering a wider range of compatibility.

When you're browsing through your options, pay close attention to the depth rating. Make sure the housing can handle the depths you plan to dive to. It's always better to go with a higher depth rating than you think you'll need, just to be on the safe side. Also, consider the controls. Are they easy to reach and operate, even with gloves on? Does the housing allow you to access all the important camera functions you'll need underwater?

It is also useful to check the material that the housing is made from. Common materials include polycarbonate, acrylic, and aluminum. Polycarbonate is a durable and lightweight plastic that is commonly used in entry-level housings. Acrylic is a transparent plastic that offers excellent visibility. Aluminum is a strong and durable metal that is often used in high-end housings. Aluminum housings are generally more expensive than polycarbonate or acrylic housings, but they offer superior protection and durability.

Key Features to Look For

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of what makes a good underwater housing. Here are some key features to keep in mind:

• Depth Rating: As we've already discussed, this is crucial. Make sure the housing is rated for the depths you plan to dive to. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution.
• Material: Housings are typically made from polycarbonate or aluminum. Polycarbonate is lighter and more affordable, while aluminum is more durable and can withstand greater depths. Aluminum housings also tend to dissipate heat better, which can be important when shooting in warm water.
• Controls: The controls should be easy to access and operate, even with gloves on. Look for housings with clearly labeled buttons and dials that correspond to your camera's functions. Some housings even have levers or gears that make it easier to adjust settings like zoom and focus.
• Lens Port: The lens port is the part of the housing that covers the camera's lens. It should be made of high-quality optical glass to ensure sharp images. Some housings have interchangeable lens ports, allowing you to use different lenses with your camera underwater. This is a great feature if you plan to shoot both wide-angle and macro images.
• O-Rings: O-rings are the rubber seals that create the watertight seal between the housing and its various parts. They're essential for keeping your camera dry, so it's important to inspect them regularly and keep them clean and lubricated. Most housings come with spare o-rings, and it's a good idea to have a few extra on hand.
• Leak Detection: Some housings have a built-in leak detection system that will alert you if water starts to enter the housing. This can give you valuable time to surface and save your camera.
• Strobe Compatibility: If you plan to use external strobes for underwater lighting, make sure the housing has the necessary connections and mounting points. Many housings have built-in bulkheads for attaching strobe cables.

Choosing the Right Housing for Your Canon Camera

Okay, so how do you choose the right housing for your specific Canon camera? The first step is to determine your camera model. Once you know that, you can start researching housings that are compatible with your camera. Check the manufacturer's website or online retailers to see what options are available.

Next, consider your budget. Canon-made housings are generally more affordable than third-party housings, but they may not offer as many features or as much durability. Third-party housings can be a significant investment, but they can also provide better protection and more control over your camera.

Think about the type of underwater photography you plan to do. If you're just snorkeling in shallow water, a basic polycarbonate housing may be all you need. But if you're planning to dive deep or shoot in challenging conditions, you'll want a more robust aluminum housing with advanced features.

Don't be afraid to read reviews and ask for recommendations. Talk to other underwater photographers or visit online forums to get their opinions on different housings. They can offer valuable insights based on their own experiences.

Finally, before you buy, make sure the housing feels comfortable in your hands and that the controls are easy to reach and operate. If possible, try the housing out in a pool or shallow water to get a feel for it before you take it on a real dive.

Maintaining Your Underwater Housing

So, you've got your shiny new underwater housing. Now what? Proper maintenance is key to keeping your housing in good condition and protecting your camera from water damage. Here are some tips:

• Rinse thoroughly after each dive: After every dive, rinse the housing with fresh water to remove any salt, sand, or debris. Pay special attention to the o-ring grooves and any moving parts.
• Inspect the o-rings: Before each dive, carefully inspect the o-rings for any signs of damage, such as cracks, cuts, or debris. If you find any damage, replace the o-ring immediately. Also, the O-rings should be properly lubricated to ensure a water tight seal. Apply a thin layer of silicone grease to the o-rings to keep them supple and prevent them from drying out.
• Store properly: When you're not using the housing, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent the o-rings from drying out and cracking.
• Test before each dive: Before each dive, test the housing in a shallow pool or bucket of water to make sure it's watertight. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your camera is protected.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Don't leave your housing in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can damage the o-rings and other components.
• Consider a desiccant: Desiccants are moisture-absorbing packets that can help prevent condensation from forming inside the housing. This is especially important when shooting in humid environments.

Essential Accessories for Underwater Photography

Okay, you've got your housing and you're ready to go. But before you jump in, here are a few essential accessories that can help you capture even better underwater photos:

• External Strobes: Underwater, colors get absorbed quickly as you descend. Red is the first to go, followed by orange, yellow, and so on. External strobes provide artificial light that can bring back those lost colors and illuminate your subject. They also help reduce backscatter, which is the annoying snow-like effect you often see in underwater photos.
• Strobe Arms: Strobe arms are used to position your strobes away from the camera housing. This helps prevent backscatter and allows you to direct the light exactly where you want it.
• Macro Lens: If you're interested in shooting small subjects like nudibranchs or coral polyps, a macro lens is a must-have. It will allow you to get incredibly close to your subject and capture stunning details.
• Wide-Angle Lens: If you prefer shooting wide landscapes or large marine animals, a wide-angle lens is the way to go. It will allow you to capture a wider field of view and create dramatic images.
• Color Correction Filters: Color correction filters can help restore some of the lost colors underwater. They're available in different colors to compensate for different depths and water conditions.
• Dive Lights: A good dive light is essential for navigating underwater and for illuminating your subject in dark or murky conditions. Look for a light with a high lumen output and a long battery life.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide to Canon underwater camera housings. Choosing the right housing and taking care of it properly is essential for protecting your camera and capturing stunning underwater images. With the right gear and a little practice, you'll be amazed at the underwater world you can capture. Happy diving and happy shooting!