Point and shoot, compact underwater cameras are not big and bulky anymore, nor do they require a waterproof housing to become at home in the water. The most effective underwater cameras look no different than other point and shoot compact cameras, as well as don't cost a leg and a leg more. For this reason it makes no sense to get anything but a waterproof camera. At some time most cameras will be in the situation where they may come into contact with water, but if you have an underwater camera, then you definitely won't think twice about it. Individuals are catching on to the reassurance that waterproof cameras can offer, and manufactures are catering to them by competing to produce the best underwater camera. Wish to consider discuss the things to bear in mind when deciding which to purchase for your situation.

Depth

Underwater cameras are rated because when deep they can be taken beneath the surface. The deeper down the more pressure they'll be exposed to, causing water to make its way into the mechanics with the camera, which is not obviously good. After i purchased my first underwater camera many years ago, it was rated to feet; I was thrilled. Now, I would not buy one that wasn't rated 15 feet or deeper. The higher ones are rated for 30 feet. To be honest, that unless you will probably be scuba diving or extreme free diving, most people will not need to buy a camera which will go 30 feet plus. Nevertheless, it may be wise to opt for a camera that's warranted to go a bit deeper than you'll need for a little extra insurance.

Shape and size

The size of point and shoot cameras has definitely been reduced significantly lately. In fact, when I buy a camera, I am more concerned it is not too small. Personally, it is important that a camera be able to stand on its own to ensure that I can take timed shots where I'll sit it over a rock or other structure to ensure that I can be in the image as well. For fisherman, an underwater camera must be able to sit on surface of uneven rocks. Not everybody carries or has time for you to set up a tripod, so you've to use what you have around during the time.

Adventure Rated

If you're at all interested in buying an underwater camera, then you're most likely the adventurous type. If that is the case then you will need to make sure you purchase a camera that can handle whatever you will throw advertising online. You will want to make sure your purchase can take a few bumps and bruises. Makes it rated to take falls and definately will stand up under pressure. There are not many models out there given that are made to be abused.

Price

The problem of price is not as realistic these days because it once was with the difference between underwater and hydrophobic (regular) cameras. In fact, they cost about the same and come in different price ranges. Point and shoot underwater cameras range from under $200 to over $400, the same as standard digital cameras, making price not really a factor when choosing between one or the other. It is an important factor though in choosing which underwater camera, as price can fluctuate quite a bit.

Just thought you may well be interested in reading this guide: underwater digital camera and olympus underwater camera.