Affordable Underwater Camera Housing UAE: Top Picks for Beginners and Pros.

Imagine that you are swimming into the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf, surrounded by exotic marine life and colorful coral reefs, but your camera is still on the boat because it is not designed to go into the water. That is one experience that you will never have.

The camera housings used underwater are important tools that help protect high-end electronics from the damaging effects of saltwater corrosion and high pressure. For beginners, polycarbonate is the preferred option due to their light weight and affordability, while professionals use milled aluminum housings that are more durable with depth ratings of 100m or more.

In this post, we will discuss the cheapest underwater cameras that beginners and professionals can use, as well as the usefulness of each camera.

Why is an underwater camera housing UAE required ?

The need for an underwater camera housing arises because a normal camera cannot be used underwater. An underwater housing serves as a protective case for a camera to allow its use underwater. Here are the main reasons why an underwater housing for a camera is necessary:

1. Protects the Camera from Water Damage

Water may damage the camera’s internal circuitry. An underwater camera housing acts as a camera case that prevents water from damaging the camera.

2. Allows Deep Water Use

This housing can withstand water pressure at various depths. Without this housing, the camera will not work if it were to be used at certain depths.

3. Maintains Camera Functionality

This camera housing has buttons that allow the camera to function while submerged in water.

4. Improves Image Quality Underwater

Some camera housings have filters, ports, and lights that help correct the colors and improve the quality of the view while taking Underwater Surf Photography and surf photography.

5. Protects from Sand, Salt, and Impact

In addition to water, the camera is protected from damage caused by sand and salt, as well as impact from accidental bumps while surfing or engaging in any activity.

What Are Safety Tips for Using an Underwater Camera? 

While it is important to protect your gear, it is even more important to protect yourself. Here are the safety tips that every underwater photographer should be aware of:

• Check the Waterproof Housing Seal- Always check the O-ring seals for any cracks or hair before every dive. A compromised seal is the leading cause of flooded housings.

• Test the Housing Before Use- Always test the housing before use. A dry test involves submerging the camera housing without the camera. This is a precautionary measure that will save you from a costly mistake.

• Secure the Camera with a Strap or Leash- A strong current or a slip while swimming may send your camera to the seabed. Always use a wrist strap or leash.

• Avoid Opening the Housing Near Water- Even the briefest exposure near splashing water can allow moisture inside. Always open your housing in a dry, controlled environment.

• Rinse with Fresh Water After Use- Saltwater is corrosive. Rinse your housing thoroughly with fresh water after every session, paying special attention to buttons and port connections.

• Check Depth Limits- Every housing has a maximum depth rating. Exceeding i- even slightly- risks catastrophic failure. Know your housing's limits before you descend.

• Use of Anti-Fog Inserts- There are temperature variations between water and air, which may result in internal condensation, causing your lens to fog up during the dive. Anti-fog inserts are cheap, easy to use, and vital.

• Diving or Swimming Safety- Sometimes, the pursuit of perfection can distract you from the task at hand. Always dive with a buddy and never compromise your safety.

• Have Well-Charged Batteries- Cold water is known to drain the power of the batteries faster. Always ensure that the camera is well charged.

• Proper Equipment Storage- Always store the camera housing in a cool and dry place, away from the sun. Always lubricate the O-rings with silicone grease.

Are You Planning an underwater shoot in DUBAI?

While it may seem quite complex for a beginner to get into underwater photography, the right equipment is what makes the difference. Cameras, housings, lighting, and stabilizers are just a few of the underwater photography equipment, and they are all vital in ensuring that the real images of the underwater world are simply breathtaking.

Access industry-grade underwater photography equipment and professional gear for film, TV, and commercial projects with Base Film. Our team is here to assist you with reliable equipment for underwater photography and commercial productions in the UAE.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

• Are cinema cameras used for underwater filmmaking?

  Yes. Cinema cameras such as ARRI ALEXA, RED Komodo 6K, and Sony FX3 are used for underwater filmmaking. These Arri alexa cameras are put inside underwater housings that are used for underwater filmmaking.

• Are ARRI Alexa underwater filmmaking setups affordable?

  No. An underwater filmmaking setup with ARRI ALEXA can be quite expensive, over $100,000. However, most production companies opt for renting these cameras for filmmaking purposes.

• Are Sony A-series cameras good for underwater photography?

  Yes. Sony A-series cameras such as the Sony A7 III and Sony A7S III are used for underwater photography. These cameras are quite good for underwater photography and are relatively inexpensive.

• Are RED cinema cameras used for underwater filmmaking?

  Yes. RED cinema cameras such as RED V-RAPTOR 8K and RED Komodo 6K are used for underwater filmmaking.