Underwater Photography

Reports abound about consumers dropping their digital cameras in the toilet, in swimming pools, or spilling water or another liquid on them. Besides a drop from a table or chair, there is no greater danger to your digital camera than water. Sure, if you have a top of the line DSLR (digital single lens reflex) with the proper weather seals, you can minimize the interiors exposure to water.

However, all digital cameras will stop working with only slight water exposure. The best thing you can do is to protect your camera and lenses from the rain, snow, and moisture by investing in the proper gear beyond grabbing a plastic bag when you get caught in a downpour. Protecting your DSLR camera from the elements really comes in two phases.

First, you need to protect your camera, lenses, and accessories from the elements, so there are protective cases highlighted from such manufacturers as HPRC and Lowepro. These cases are designed so your camera doesn't get wet when you are traveling from one location to another. The Best of the Best Rain Gear for your digital camera is the HPRC 3500DK ‘hard shell' backpack. It is virtually indestructible and will keep your digital camera investment safe and secure. The Lowepro takes the idea of a hard case a step further by allowing you to use the interior contents in two ways. You have the option to use it as a belt pack or a shoulder bag and can accommodate a minimum of two SLR camera bodies, lenses, and accessories.

The second phase of protection for digital camera rain gear is when you take your camera out of its waterproof case and decide to use it in the field. Beyond the proverbial plastic bag, you need something that helps to prevent the camera from being besieged by constant downpours and snowstorms. A good choice would be the Kata E-702 Elements Cover with the Kata E-704 Lens Sleeve Kit. These products feature a waterproof cover with adjusters and pull cords and are easy to store. For more extreme weather, consider the AquaTech SS-300 sport shield allowing photographers to work in downpours.

When you combine a waterproof case with a waterproof sleeve or cover, you are assured your digital camera will be protected from the elements, most notably water and moisture. Please note the Best of the Best section for Rain Gear is designed for DSLRs while the Best of the Rest is designed mostly for consumer digital cameras.