If you're new to underwater photography, you might feel a bit intimidated when you see other divers equipped with costly dSLR cameras and fancy add-ons. While it is true that you will get the best results with a high quality camera and the right accessories, beginning photographers and occasional divers can still get good photos with compact (point and shoot) cameras. Here are some tips to help you get started.
ISO, Shutter Speed, Focus, and More
Because compact cameras are equipped with smaller sensors than dSLR cameras are, it's best to use ISO 100 when possible. As for shutter speed, you can follow the same recommendations you'll find on photo guides written with dSLR users in mind since compact camera shutter speeds are essentially the same as dSLR shutter speeds. Compact camera users are always thrilled by the ease with which they can capture excellent sunburst and sun ball shots!
Adding Strobes to a Compact Camera
If you equip your point and shoot with strobes, which are an excellent way to increase photo quality, you'll find that maximum sync speed varies from one model to the next. You may end up having to lower your strobe power after a certain speed, so be sure you test your camera in manual mode topside before taking it underwater. The best way to ensure your strobes are user-friendly is to read up on them beforehand and confirm that they'll work well with your camera.
Just in case you're wondering whether toting an extra piece of equipment along with you on dives is worth the effort, you should note that taking good fish photos and getting good color in your underwater photos is very difficult without added light. Some divers try to compensate for this by shining a dive light on the subject; the biggest problem with this is that when you do this, you have to focus on two pieces of equipment at once instead of just pointing your camera and shooting it. In addition, the added light from your strobe will help your camera to focus properly and give you greater depth of field, just like you get in photos you take topside.
Most compact cameras are capable of optically triggering a strobe or two via the internal flash, but a few models go the extra mile by connecting to a strobe via a dedicated sync cord.
Compact Camera Shooting Modes
Your camera may or may not be equipped with manual mode. If it only has aperture priority mode, then use that, even though the shutter speed will normally default to 1/60th when you do. if your camera can shoot in RAW mode, then you'll be able to do a lot more with photo editing software, plus you'll get better photos no matter what the light is like.
Wet Lenses and Compact Cameras
Also known as add on lenses, wet lenses add macro and wide angle ability to just about any point and shoot camera. You can add and remove them underwater, which greatly increases your ability to get great photos of different types while diving. When purchasing, remember that you generally get what you pay for. Higher quality wet lenses are going to cost a bit more than the cheapest ones on the market.
Finally, keep the basics of photo composition in mind as you snap away, and remember to properly maintain your camera and your underwater camera housing, no matter how much or how little you paid for them. Not only will your gear last longer, you'll also get better photos in the bargain.