If you’re passionate about capturing the beauty of the underwater world, you’ll need a camera that’s up to the task. The best camera for underwater photography will have many features that make it ideal for this challenging environment.
Such as a waterproof housing, good low-light performance, and fast autofocus. But, with so many different cameras on the market, it can be tough to know where to start.
I spent many hours testing the best underwater cameras to find the best camera for underwater photography. And guess what? I’ve done it all for you.
In this guide, I’ll review the best underwater cameras on the market in 2023, and help you choose the right one for your needs and budget.
Table of Contents
List of 5 Best Camera for Underwater Photography
1. Nikon D850 — Best camera for underwater photo and video
2. Canon 5D Mark IV — Best action camera for underwater photography
3. Canon EOS R7 — Best mirrorless camera for underwater photography
4. Sony A7R IV — Good cameras for underwater photography
5. Canon EOS R — Best Canon camera for underwater photography
1. Nikon D850 — Best camera for underwater photo and video
The Nikon D850 is a powerful camera. It takes really sharp pictures with its 45.7MP sensor. It’s easy to handle and loved by professionals and enthusiasts. Many experts also say it best camera for interviews.
Features:
- Waterproof Housing Compatibility: Seamlessly pairs with waterproof housing for secure underwater use.
- 45.7 Megapixel Full-frame Sensor: Captures vivid, high-resolution images even in challenging lighting conditions.
- 4K UHD Video: Records stunning 4K videos for dynamic underwater videography.
- Wide ISO Range (64-25600): Ensures excellent low-light performance, a must for aquatic photography.
- Fast Autofocus: Swift and accurate autofocus for capturing fleeting underwater moments.
Why I Say It’s the Best Camera for Underwater Photography?
The Nikon D850 stands out as the best camera for underwater photography due to its exceptional imaging capabilities, versatile ISO range, and compatibility with waterproof housing. It’s a reliable companion for capturing the mesmerizing underwater world.
Pros:
- Outstanding image quality
- Wide ISO range for varied lighting
- 4K UHD video capabilities
- High-resolution sensor
- Durable and reliable build
Cons:
- Pricey investment
2. Canon 5D Mark IV — Best action camera for underwater photography
Canon’s 5D Mark IV is a reliable and versatile camera. It captures clear images with its 30.4MP sensor. It’s great for both photos and 4K videos, and it’s built tough.
Features:
- Water-resistant Exterior: Withstands water exposure to a certain extent, perfect for shallow dives.
- 30.4 Megapixel Full-frame Sensor: Delivers high-resolution images with rich detail.
- 4K Motion JPEG Video: Allows for professional-grade video recording even in the depths.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Provides smooth and fast autofocus, ideal for underwater action shots.
- Built-in GPS and Wi-Fi: Enables easy sharing and tracking of your underwater photography adventures.
Why I Say It’s the Best Camera for Underwater Photography?
The Canon 5D MK IV combines durability, high-resolution imaging, and superb video capabilities, making it a top choice for underwater photography enthusiasts looking for a versatile and reliable tool.
Pros:
- Impressive image quality
- 4K video capabilities
- Advanced autofocus system
- Water-resistant design
- Connectivity features for easy sharing
Cons:
- Limited water resistance compared to fully waterproof cameras
3. Canon EOS R7 — Best mirrorless camera for underwater photography
Canon’s EOS R7 is a small and best camera for underwater photography. It’s great for action shots with its 32.5MP sensor and fast focus. Easy to use and great for capturing moments on the go.
Features:
- Waterproof Housing Compatibility: Compatible with waterproof housing for secure underwater usage.
- 32.5 Megapixel Full-frame Sensor: Delivers sharp and detailed images, capturing the underwater beauty effortlessly.
- 4K UHD Video: Records stunning underwater videos in high resolution for cinematic footage.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Enables precise and quick autofocus for capturing fast-moving underwater subjects.
- Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): Offers a clear view even in underwater lighting conditions.
Why I Say It’s the Best Camera for Underwater Photography?
The Canon R7’s high-resolution sensor, 4K video capabilities, and compatibility with waterproof housing make it a top choice for underwater photography, ensuring you capture the essence of the underwater world vividly.
Pros:
- Excellent image quality
- 4K UHD video capabilities
- Swift and accurate autofocus
- Electronic viewfinder for enhanced visibility
- Water-resistant design
Cons:
- Requires additional investment for waterproof housing
4. Sony A7R IV — Good cameras for underwater photography
The Sony A7R IV is a super high-resolution camera with 61MP. It’s not too heavy and captures incredible detail. Great for photos and 4K videos.
Features:
- Waterproof Housing Compatibility: Easily paired with waterproof housing for secure underwater use.
- 61 Megapixel Full-frame Sensor: High-resolution sensor capturing incredible details in every shot.
- 4K UHD Video: Records stunning 4K videos with exceptional clarity for underwater videography.
- Fast Hybrid AF: Provides quick and accurate autofocus, ideal for capturing fast-moving aquatic subjects.
- 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilization: Ensures steady shots in challenging underwater conditions.
Why I Say It’s the Best Camera for Underwater Photography?
The Sony A7R IV’s remarkable sensor, 4K video capabilities, and fast autofocus, combined with its compatibility with waterproof housing, make it a top choice for underwater photography aficionados seeking precision and performance.
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality
- 4K UHD video capabilities
- Advanced autofocus system
- In-body image stabilization
- Sleek and compact design
Cons:
- Higher price
5. Canon EOS R — Best Canon camera for underwater photography
Canon’s EOS R is a user-friendly mirrorless camera. It takes clear 30.3MP pictures and focuses quickly. It’s handy and works well with Canon’s other lenses.
Features:
- Waterproof Housing Compatibility: Works seamlessly with waterproof housing, ensuring secure usage underwater.
- 30.3 Megapixel Full-frame Sensor: Captures high-resolution images with vibrant details.
- 4K UHD Video: Records 4K videos, bringing your underwater adventures to life with cinematic quality.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Swift and accurate autofocus, ensuring you capture perfect underwater shots effortlessly.
- 3.69 Million-dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder: Offers a clear view of the underwater scene for precise composition.
Why I Say It’s the Best Camera for Underwater Photography?
The Canon EOS R, with its compatibility with waterproof housing, high-resolution sensor, and 4K video capabilities, is an excellent choice for underwater photography, promising an immersive and visually stunning aquatic experience.
Pros:
- Excellent image quality
- 4K UHD video capabilities
- Reliable autofocus system
- Electronic viewfinder for enhanced visibility
- Interchangeable lens system
Cons:
- Requires additional investment for waterproof housing
How to Choose the Best Camera for Underwater Photography | Best Buying Guide
I understand that choosing the best camera for underwater photography can be a daunting task. Fear not, I’ve analyzed various underwater cameras, considering essential factors and industry expertise to present you with an informed choice. Let’s dive right in!
Understanding the Essentials — What Makes a Camera Ideal for Underwater Photography?
When choosing the best camera for underwater photography, it’s important to consider the key features that make it ideal for this challenging environment. Like, Waterproof housing, exceptional low-light capabilities, and rapid autofocus are vital factors that enhance underwater photography.
These features ensure your camera can endure water exposure, capture stunning shots even in dimly lit conditions, and quickly focus on dynamic underwater subjects.
Here are a few more factors to consider:
Image quality:
If you want to take professional-looking underwater photos, you’ll need a camera with a good sensor and lens. Look for a camera with a resolution of at least 16 megapixels and a lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower).
Low-light performance:
Underwater environments can be dark, so you’ll need a camera that performs well in low light. Look for a camera with a high ISO range and good image stabilization.
Autofocus:
Underwater subjects can move quickly, so you’ll need a camera with fast autofocus. Look for a camera with a variety of autofocus options, such as eye tracking and continuous autofocus.
Waterproof housing:
You’ll need a waterproof housing to protect your camera from water damage. Make sure to choose a housing that is specifically designed for your camera model.
FAQs about the best Camera for Underwater Photography
Which camera is best for photography underwater?
The best camera for underwater photography depends on your needs and budget. If you are a serious underwater photographer, you may want to consider a full-frame mirrorless or DSLR camera. These cameras offer the best image quality and performance in low light. However, they can be expensive and bulky to carry around.
Here are a few of the best underwater cameras on the market in 2023:
- Sony A7R IV
- Canon 5D Mark IV
- Nikon D850
- Olympus E-M1 Mark III
- Sony RX100 VII
- GoPro Hero11 Black
Can you use any camera for underwater photography?
You can use any camera for underwater photography if you have a waterproof housing. A waterproof housing is a case that seals around your camera to protect it from water damage.
However, not all cameras are well-suited for underwater photography. Some cameras may not have good low-light performance, which can be a problem in underwater environments.
Is Canon or Sony better for underwater photography?
Both Canon and Sony make excellent underwater cameras. It really comes down to personal preference.
Canon cameras are known for their excellent image quality and color reproduction. Sony cameras are known for their advanced autofocus technology and low-light performance.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which camera is right for you is to try them out and see which one you prefer.
Is a GoPro the best underwater camera?
GoPro cameras are very popular for underwater photography because they are small, lightweight, and durable. They also have a wide field of view, which is great for capturing underwater landscapes and marine life.
However, GoPro cameras are not without their drawbacks. They have relatively small sensors, which means that they may not perform as well in low light as larger cameras. Additionally, GoPro cameras do not have interchangeable lenses, so you are limited to the field of view of the built-in lens.
Is there anything better than a GoPro?
Yes, there are a number of underwater cameras that are better than a GoPro. These cameras offer better image quality, low-light performance, and autofocus than GoPro cameras. However, they are also more expensive and bulky.
Here are a few underwater cameras that are better than a GoPro:
- Sony A7R IV
- Canon 5D Mark IV
- Nikon D850
- Olympus E-M1 Mark III
- Sony RX100 VII
How far underwater can a GoPro go?
The GoPro Hero11 Black is waterproof down to 33 feet (10 meters) without a housing. With the GoPro SuperSuit housing, it is waterproof down to 196 feet (60 meters).
What do underwater photographers use?
Underwater photographers use a variety of equipment, including:
- A waterproof camera housing
- A strobe or other underwater lighting
- A wide-angle lens
- A macro lens
- A tripod or image stabilization device
How do you take high-quality underwater pictures?
Here are a few tips for taking high quality underwater pictures:
- Use the right settings: In low-light conditions, set your ISO high and your shutter speed slow. This will allow you to capture more light, but it’s important to use a tripod or image stabilization to prevent blur.
- Focus on your subject: Underwater, it can be difficult to focus on your subject, especially if it’s moving quickly. Use autofocus and focus peaking to help you get sharp images.
- Use a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture more of the scene, which can be especially helpful when photographing underwater landscapes.
- Be patient: Underwater photography can be challenging, but it’s also very rewarding. Be patient and experiment with different settings and techniques to capture the best possible photos.
Do you need a special camera for underwater photography?
You do not need a special camera for underwater photography. However, if you want to take high-quality underwater photos, it is best to use a camera that is specifically designed for this purpose. These cameras will have features such as good low-light performance, fast autofocus, and a waterproof housing.
Why is underwater photography difficult?
Underwater photography can be difficult for a number of reasons:
- Low light: Underwater environments can be very dark, especially at depth. This can make it difficult to get sharp, well-exposed photos.
- Water refraction: Water refracts light differently than air, which can make it difficult to focus your camera and get accurate colors.
- Buoyancy: When you are underwater, you and your camera are weightless. This can make it difficult to stay stable and take clear photos.
- Marine life: If you are photographing marine life, you need to be careful not to disturb the animals or damage the environment.
Is it worth getting an underwater camera?
If you are passionate about underwater photography, then it is definitely worth getting an underwater camera. With the right camera and a little practice, you can take amazing photos of the underwater world.
My Final Verdict
Picking the best camera for underwater photography means finding one that takes great pictures and videos, and can handle being underwater.
Think about what you like, how much you want to spend, and how deep you’ll go with your underwater photos.
Taking pictures under the water is so exciting! You can capture the amazing world of the ocean. With a good camera and a bit of practice, you’ll get awesome shots of fish, corals, and more.
So what are you waiting for? Get your best camera for underwater photography and start planning your underwater adventure today!
