The people that use genuine underwater digital cameras are those where it is usually used in the course of their work as these cameras are very expensive. Studying the life below the surface, underwater digital cameras are only normally within the realm of marine biologists and other nautical scientists. Waterproofing a camera is not an easy thing to do so many, so called, underwater cameras aren't really designed for that type of work.

In fact the only way you are really going to get to use an underwater digital camera is if you buy one of these small specialist cameras that are able to be submerged for short periods.

There aren't that many manufacturers of these specialist cameras owing to the problem of water ingress into the cameras case and the pressure they have to work under. The closest electronics has ever got to producing underwater digital cameras are producing underwater casings for digital cameras. Of course this kind of compromise is enough for some people who are still able to take pictures underwater with their digital camera.

Before you rush off and buy one of these clever cases there is some information about underwater shooting you need to know.

Light distorts or diffuses underwater an effect that is made worse at greater depth. You will notice that images captured underwater are always darker and this is a direct result of diffusion; a problem that can be overcome by changing the white balance settings. The water also has a strange effect on how the pictures look giving them the appearance of being magnified. Be sure to check your underwater digital camera's viewfinder to check the right picture angle and size that you want.

On the subject of checks prior to going underwater, it is a good idea to make sure the digital camera case doesn't leak so submerge it underwater for a short while just to confirm it will be ok when you dive. It has not been unknown for a grain for sand to be breaking the seal on the casewhich will allow water to access the case so look for this as well. Small silica gel packs can be useful if they can fit in the case without causing an obstruction.

Ask your underwater digital camera supplier if you can add extra lenses to complete the kit. Lenses that allow you to get really close to the subject can also normally be fitted just ask if the camera has a macro facility.

When you have finished using your underwater digital camera be careful to wash it thoroughly to make sure all the salt water is removed as the salt will crystallize and this can cause leaks. Sometimes, small grains of sand gain access to the case and in this instance rinsing with water is the most preferable solution.

It is usually the better Underwater Digital Cameras manufacturers that will sell the more specialized Waterproof Digital Cameras