Underwater Cameras Reviews

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Pentax Optio WG-1 14 MP Waterproof Digital Camera with GPS and 5x Optical Zoom

Flex your sense of adventure with the newest generation of waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, coldproof, and now crushproof digital camera models. The 12th generation of PENTAX adventure series digital camera, the Optio WG-1 takes adventure photography to new heights (and depths). 

New and improved features on the PENTAX Optio WG-1 model include a 14 megapixel sensor, waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof to withstand falls up to 5 feet and new crushproof construction to withstand weight force up to 220 pounds (100kgf kilogram-force). GPS functionality allows for positional data recording with images for geo- tagging applications. enhanced the Digital Microscope mode with a total of five macro LEDs for excellent macro lighting plus a detachable macro stand for steadier capture. The handy new Self-Portrait Assist mode is perfect for Facebooking and other social networking activities.

Product Features

  • Rugged 12th-generation waterproof digital camera is adventure proof, and suitable for almost any environment
  • Waterproof to 33 feet; shockproof design protects from drops up to 5 feet; also crushproof, cold proof and dustproof
  • 14-megapixel resolution; wide-angle 5x internal optical zoom lens (28-140mm equivalent)
  • Capture video in widescreen 720p HD at 30 frames per second
  • GPS functionality allows for positional data recording with images for geo- tagging applications.

Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP 10 MP Waterproof Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

The FinePix Z33WP is Fujifilm’s first waterproof digital camera. No longer do you need to worry about damaging your camera in less than optimum shooting conditions. The FinePix Z33WP ensures you’ll never miss capturing any of life’s precious moments, any where, any time, under any conditions, and be able to share them easily with your extended network of friends and family members. 

The 10-megapixel FinePix Z33WP is ready for any adventure including underwater activity up to 10 feet. The Z33WP uses a Fujinon 3x optical zoom lens, has Fujifilm’s ‘Automatic Scene Recognition’ SR AUTO mode, and features a 2.7-inch, 230,000 pixel resolution LCD screen. 

Intelligent Scene Recognition
Adding ease to outdoor navigation, the FinePix Z33WP is equipped with a new SR Auto (Automatic Scene Recognition) mode that enables the camera to intelligently recognize six types of scenes automatically. For each picture taken in this mode, the Z33WP will optimize the ideal exposure, focus, white balance and ISO for the scene to ensure the best quality picture is captured with ease. In addition, Fujifilm’s Picture Stabilization is powered by high sensitivity for faster shutter and operational speeds to help reduce camera shake, keeping real life moments as true to form as possible. 

Easy Sharing
The family-friendly Z33WP also features Fujifilm’s handy Blog Mode which allows for easier sharing with friends and family members. The Blog mode automatically resizes a photo to a standard 640x480 pixels (VGA) or 320x240 pixels (QVGA) image size and enables 12 in-camera editing features such as Zooming, Miniature effect, Illustration and Painting, cutting the need for extra time with home editing. 

In addition to these innovations, the FinePix Z33WP is loaded with the following handy features:

  • Face Detection Technology: Operating in tandem with automatic red-eye removal, the FinePix Z33WP identifies up to 10 human faces in a scene, and sets the correct focus and exposure, regardless of where subjects are located within the frame.
  • Automatic Red Eye Removal accents the aforementioned features by lending an extra touch to that group shot. The Z33WP automatically checks for red eye and self-corrects it in each and every person in the photo, saving time on post-editing.
  • Couple and Group Timer Modes: Working in conjunction with Face Detection technology, detects two faces in 'Couple Timer Mode' and up to four faces in 'Group Timer Mode' in a frame.
  • One Touch MOVIE Button: Capture VGA quality movie clips at 30 frames per second with sound to capture all of those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
  • Battery Life: The long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery (up to 200 shots) allows for extended use without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of the trip.

Fujifilm FinePix XP200 16MP Digital Waterproof Camera with 3-Inch LCD

The Finepix XP200 is an advanced compact camera for those that like to venture out into the elements and have fun. With it's Four Proof design (Waterproof - 49.2', Shockproof - 6.5', Freeze proof 14° & Dustproof), the XP200 is built to take the rigors of the elements no matter what your outdoor activities may bring. Snow, Rain, underwater, dirt, mud and dust are all no match for the XP200. 

The camera's advanced CMOS sensor makes camera operation lightning-fast with great low light performance, and after you've captured your images, transfer them to your Smartphone or tablet wirelessly with a free downloadable app. Full High Definition 1080 movies and a host of creative features such as Advanced Filters, round out the benefits to the XP200.

Product Features

  • 16MP CMOS
  • 4-Proof Protection: Waterproof 49.2', Shockproof 6.5', Freeze proof 14 , Dustproof
  • High quality Fujinon 5 x Optical zoom (28-140mm)
  • 3.0" LCD 920k
  • Full HD Movies - 1080i/60fps

Olympus Stylus TG-830 iHS Digital Camera with 5x Optical Zoom and 3-Inch LCD

TOUGH SHOOTING CONDITIONS CONQUERED

The Olympus Tough TG-830 iHS combines Olympus’ trademark indestructibility with outstanding image quality so that you no longer have to compromise image quality for durability. Featuring a state-of-the-art 16-megapixel Backlit CMOS sensor and TruePic™ VI Image Processor that fuel Olympus’ cutting-edge iHS Technology, the TG-830iHS delivers uncompromised image quality in a rugged camera. It’s impressive low-light performance and high-speed responsiveness means you’ll get astonishing results shooting fast-action subjects, night scenes and other tricky shots above and below the surface. 

Designed for adrenaline junkies, but equally at home in the hands of soccer moms, younger users and the clumsy, this camera can handle just about anything you throw at it. It’s Crushproof (220lbf/100kgf), Waterproof (33ft/10m), Shockproof (5.5ft/2m), Freezeproof (14°F/-10°C) and Dustproof, meaning you can capture stunning images and 1080p Full HD Video without having to worry about damaging your camera’s high-grade components like it’s precision 5x wide-angle optical zoom lens, high-resolution 3.0" HyperCrystal III LCD, or in-body GPS & e.compass system. Still want more? Capture still and videos simultaneously thanks to the Multi-Recording feature. Add a splash of creativity with 11 in-camera Magic Art Filters like Pop Art, Dramatic and Reflection. 

Take more control when recording videos with Advanced Movie Mode which allows you to record high-definition videos at 120fps for slow motion playback. The Olympus TG-830iHS: where image quality meets durability.

LIFEPROOF

Waterproof 33ft/10m
The Olympus-original complete sealing system and double lock construction borrowed from Olympus’ long history of manufacturing underwater housings ensures that the TG-830iHS is completely waterproof down to a depth of 33ft. Even on land, the TG-830iHS ensures that you’ll never miss an awesome shot just because of heavy rain or snow.

Shockproof 6.8ft/2.1m
The shockproof structure of the TG-830 iHS ensures that your investment is protected. Carefully sandwiched between two protective frames, the lens and camera unit remain unfazed by bumps, drops, falls and other impacts. Even after repeated drops, critical camera components and functions like the lens, shutter, aperture and auto-focus remain safe. Drop, pick up, and keep on shooting.

Crushproof 220lbf/100kgf
No case, no problem! With a rugged body and reinforced LCD, the TG-830 iHS withstands up to 220 pounds of pressure so your camera and images are always protected.

Freezeproof 14°F/-10°C
Keep shooting outdoors even in the winter. The TG-830iHS is designed to keep operating at below freezing temperatures, safe from the two most common problems when shooting in cold weather: lens condensation and auto zoom malfunction. Hit the slopes, fire up your snowmobile, or break out the skates, because with the TG-830 iHS by your side, you’ll never miss those awesome wipe out moments.

Dustproof
Life gets dirty. Between dusty fields and muddy trails, sometimes your camera doesn’t stay as pristine as you’d like it to. But even in less-than-spotless environments,the fine protective sealing of the TG-830 iHS helps keep out dirt and debris allowing you to capture shot after shot even in the harshest environments.

EXTREME VERSATILITY

GPS & e.Compass
The ideal travel guide. With the GPS and e.compass functions on the TG-830 iHS, location and landmark information will be displayed and recorded along with the image. The TG-830 iHS is also equipped with a logging function so you can track the route taken from recorded images by using applications such as Olympus Viewer 3, Google Earth and Picasa.

Automatic Underwater Balance
The Olympus TG-830 iHS boasts 4 different underwater scene modes -- Underwater Snapshot, Underwater Wide 1, Underwater Wide 2 and Underwater Macro -- each carefully calibrated to allow for optimal color balance, exposure and flash so you automatically get the best results. Beautiful underwater photos made simpler.

LED Illuminator
An LED Illuminator is like a mini-flashlight on the front of the camera to enhance focus and exposure for macro shooting – great for underwater close-ups where light is scarce. The LED illuminator also works in conjunction with the flash to help illuminate your subject in low-light conditions.

Magic Art Filters
Express your creativity with 11 different special effects for your photos and HD videos. Olympus’ Magic Art Filters infuse familiar scenes with new and unexpected moods ranging from the excited to the serene and from the whimsical to the mysterious. Choose from Pop Art, Pin Hole, Fisheye, Soft Focus, Punk, Sparkle, Watercolor, Miniature, Reflection, Dramatic and Fragmented. (Some effects apply only to still photos. Effects may reduce image size.)

Product Features
  • Waterproof 10m/33ft, Shockproof 2.1m/6.9ft, Crushproof 100kgf/220lbf, Freezeproof -10C/14F, Dustproof
  • 16MP BSI CMOS Sensor, TruePic VI Image Processor, High-Speed Performance
  • GPS and e.Compass, Full 1080P Full HD Video


Pentax Optio WS80 10MP Waterproof Digital Camera with 5x Internal Optical Zoom and 2.7-inch LCD

The water and dustproof Optio WS80 is a perfect choice for travel, outdoor activities and families. Featuring a 10-megapixel CCD and a 5x internal optical zoom housed in a slim, palm-sized body that is less than an inch thick, the Optio WS80 has a large 2.7-inch LCD with 230,000 dot resolution for easy composition. With waterproof construction that can withstand depths up to five feet (1.5 meters), the Optio WS80 captures underwater photos and video including high resolution, widescreen, HD video up to 720p at a full-speed 30 frames per second. 

Optio WS80 Highlights 

Exceptional waterproof performance for underwater shooting and adventure
The palm-sized Optio WS80 assures reliable waterproof performance that allows underwater photography up to five feet for up two hours (JIS Class 8 standard). The WS80 also features the Pentax-exclusive, highly water-repellent SP (Super Protect) coating on the protective glass panel that covers the zoom lens. As a result, the Optio WS80 may be rinsed clean with fresh water if it becomes covered with dirt or sand. Coupled with remarkable dustproof capabilities equivalent to JIS Class 6, the Optio WS80 may be used without worry in many different situations where water or dirt is a major concern. 

High-quality images delivered by 10.0 effective megapixels
Combining 10.0 effective megapixels with the Pentax-developed imaging engine and high-performance Pentax zoom lens, the Optio WS80 produces brilliant, high-resolution prints with edge-to-edge sharpness even when images are enlarged. 

High-performance optical 5x zoom lens
The slim, palm-sized Optio WS80 features an optical 5x zoom lens covering focal lengths from 35mm to 175mm in the 35mm format. The camera offers an Intelligent Zoom function that extends the zoom range up to approximately 28.5x for even tighter zooming in on the subject. 

High-quality, widescreen, HD movie recording
The Optio WS80 captures beautiful, flawless HD movie clips at 16:9 aspect ratio (1280 x 720 pixels)* at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The camera also comes equipped with advanced, user-friendly features designed to facilitate movie recording: the Movie SR (Shake Reduction) mode, which automatically compensates for camera shake during movie shooting; and the Underwater Movie mode, which automatically optimizes color settings for underwater movie shooting.
*When the Optio WS80’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output as normal image-size data. If the user wishes to play back movie clips at high-definition-TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels), the data must be transferred to a personal computer for playback. 

High-speed Face Detection, with a range of user-friendly features
The Optio WS80’s advanced Face Detection AF & AE function captures 32 faces in sharp focus and perfect exposure in a mere 0.03 seconds. It also accurately detects a subject facing the camera at an angle or with a tilted head. The Optio WS80 offers other user-friendly features, including:

  • A Smile Capture mode automatically releases the shutter the moment the camera detects the subject’s smile.
  • A Blink Detection function warns the photographer when a subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.
  • A Small Face filter helps reduce a subject’s face so that it appears smaller in proportion to the body to produce more flattering well-balanced portraits.


Triple anti-shake protection to prevent different types of camera shake

  • Pixel Track SR mode : When recording still images, the Optio WS80’s Pixel Track SR (Shake Reduction) mode effectively compensates for camera shake by processing affected images.
  • High-Sensitivity SR mode*: When it detects low-lighting conditions in still-image shooting, the Optio WS80 automatically raises its sensitivity to as high as ISO 6400, making it possible to use a higher shutter speed. This effectively minimizes the adverse effects of camera shake and subject motion blur under poor lighting conditions.
  • Movie SR mode**: During movie recording, the Optio WS80 prevents blurry images by effectively minimizing annoying camera shake.

* When the High-Sensitivity SR mode is selected, the recorded size is fixed to 5M (2592 x 1944 pixels).
** When the Movie SR mode is selected, the angle of view becomes narrower than normal shooting. 

Large 2.7-inch LCD monitor for effortless image viewing
The Optio WS80 features a large 2.7-inch extra bright color LCD monitor so photographers may view on-screen images, menus and mode-settings with ease while shooting and during playback. 

Additional Features

  • Interval shooting mode, convenient for fixed-point observation of starry skies, flowers and plants
  • High-speed 9 point AF system, with Auto-Tracking function, to maintain constant focus on a moving subject
  • Auto Picture mode automatically selects one of eight shooting modes for the optimum results in a wide variety of shooting conditions
  • A variety of digital filters including Toy Camera and Retro to add distinctive visual effects to recorded images
  • Dynamic Range adjustment prevents overexposed and underexposed areas in images
  • Digital Wide function creates a panoramic, extra-wide-angle image (equivalent to an image taken with an approx. 25.4mm lens in 35mm format) from two images
  • Digital Panorama mode creates a single panoramic picture from as many as three images
  • Style Watch function displays the time with pushbutton operation, even when the camera’s power is turned off
  • Image recovery function recovers accidentally erased images
  • Frame composite function (with 90 frames stored in the camera) shoots or composes images with decorative photo frames

SeaLife DC1400 14MP Digital Underwater Camera, 3" Color LCD, 5x Optical Zoom, 20MB Internal Memory

The SeaLife's DC1400 Pink Edition 14-megapixel camera combines diver-friendly design and six underwater color modes for sharp, colorful photos and HD video - underwater or on land. The SeaLife DC1400 is the easiest digital camera to use underwater, EVER. The camera features five widespread "piano key" controls, a large shutter button and a fingertip-control lever that allows scrolling through menus or zooming in and out without releasing your grip from the camera.

Product Features

  • "Piano Key" controls for easy operation. 5 large buttons with big shutter and zooming lever for easy camera control, even with gloves on
  • Easy Set-up mode - Easy 1-2-3 graphic on screen guide -takes the guess work out of setting up the camera for great pictures
  • 6 Underwater Modes for sharp, colorful underwater pictures under any conditions. Includes 4 built-in digital color correction filters
  • Expandable with one or two SeaLife Digital Pro Flashes (SL961) and Photo-Video Lights (SL980) (Note: SL970 wide-angle lens will vignette)
  • Spy Mode - The camera automatically shoots continuous pictures at set time intervals

SeaLife ReefMaster Underwater Camera

Greater Depth and Enhanced Color Correction The ReefMaster was designed specifically as a self-contained underwater dive camera. With a 200ft / 60m depth rating, an included external Mini Wide Angle Lens, and new color enhancing firmware, divers are able to capture outstanding photos and videos with the compact and easy-to-use ReefMaster.   

The distinctive red rubber grip pad and dive graphics of the camera set it apart from its multi-purpose Mini II sibling. For optimum performance, add the color-enhancing Digital Pro Flash (SL961) or the powerful Photo/Video Light (SL980).   An easy-to-use, self-contained dive camera The large LCD of the ReefMaster makes for easy on-camera viewing, and the bold-red rubber grip and widespread controls allow for easy underwater handling. 

Additionally, the onscreen Easy Setup Guide ensures the settings are correct in all conditions, and the new color enhancing firmware keeps colors vibrant.   Waterproof  to 200ft / 60m Mini Wide Angle Lens (SL974) included - Provides a wider field-of-view and 1ft/30cm shooting distance Large, wide spread 3-button design for easy operation Easy Set-up mode – Graphic on-screen guide for setting camera mode – no complicated menus - Land Auto mode for action land pictures and videos in extreme conditions - Dive and Snorkel modes for underwater exposure control and color correction – no more blue pictures - Ext Flash mode for integration with external flash to enhance color and brightness underwater Video mode at 30fps with sound Fully Rubber-Armored, Shockproof  6ft / 2m Instant focus lens from 1 ft to infinity Spy Mode – The camera automatically shoots continuous pictures at set time intervals Compact, Slim design Self-contained dive camera (no housing) 9 megapixels for sharp, high-resolution pictures Large 2.

Product Features

  • Waterproof to 200 ft / 60m
  • Mini Wide Angle Lens included
  • Large, wide spread 3-button design for easy operation
  • Video mode at 30 fps with sound
  • 9 megapixels for sharp, high-resolution pictures

Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera with GPS and Full HD 1080p Video

The Nikon AW100 26290 COOLPIX Digital Camera is the perfect companion for all your rugged and extreme adventures. Shoot every view and heartbeat with its 5x Zoom-NIKKOR ED glass lens and a 16.0-MP CMOS sensor which works best under the lowest of lighting conditions. Dive into 33 feet of water or climb to a chilling altitude of 15 degrees Fahrenheit and still get the most amazing, high-quality, high definition shots any time. 

With the Action Control feature, it allows you to adjust its settings when wearing gloves, capture high-impact photos and preview it through its 3.0-inch TFT-LCD anti-reflective display. Create action-packed movies and connect it to your laptop, desktop or HDTV to share your most thrilling adventures with friends and family, in stereo sound. Built for adventure, the Nikon AW100 26290 COOLPIX Digital Camera has a GPS tracking software and an electronic compass to guide you through unfamiliar route. Take steady shots and never miss the action with the Nikon AW100 262 What's In The Box: EH-62F AC Adapter EN-EL 12 Rechargeable Battery UC-E6 USB Cable EG-CP16 Audio Video Cable MH-65 Battery Charger UR-E23 Filter Attachment.

Ready for extreme adventures

Water-proof, shock-proof and freeze-proof

The AW100 can handle all that Mother Nature can throw at it. Take it diving to depths of up to 33-feet. Shoot at temperatures as cold as 14° F. And don't sweat drops of up to 5-feet. Whether it's in your hand, mounted to a surfboard, clipped on a backpack or attached to a scuba tank, every twist, splash, dive and crash can be recorded in both still and Full HD (1080p) movie. Plus, Nikon's new Action Control brings fast and easy operation to gloved hands. The AW100 lets you capture every thrilling moment from inside the action—not the sidelines.

Shoot in extreme low light

16.0-MP CMOS sensor

Adventure doesn't always happen during perfect photo-taking conditions. Imagine sharp images produced 33-feet underwater, photos and movies captured while you explore a dark cave or get in one last run as the sun is setting. What does it take to get these and more? A 16.0-MP CMOS sensor that blazes through low light, fast action and challenging shooting conditions to capture high-impact photos with exceptional image quality and low noise. Shoot 3 shots in about one second, plus one-touch control for Full HD (1080p) movies combine to ensure not a single moment of your action-packed lifestyle is missed.

Star in your own viral movies

Full HD (1080p) movies with stereo sound

Don't just share some photos with friends, put them inside the action with you. Imagine reliving the downhill snowboarding rush, the incredible view as you hang glide down a 4,000-foot peak or showing your friends exactly what you experienced "shooting the tube" in Hawaii. Attach the AW100 to your gear, and with a single touch of the control you're creating an in-the-action Full HD (1080p) movie with stereo sound. You'll capture all of life's adventures from a whole new perspective—your own.

See where you’re going, mark where you’ve been

Built-in GPS, mapping and e-Compass

Imagine you and a friend are white water rafting down an unfamiliar route. The AW100's rugged waterproof build can take the pounding action while you record photos and movies of this incredible adventure, and it's built-in GPS can track your progress with Nikon View NX2 software, Nikon's mypicturetown photo sharing site or Google Earth™. Its built-in maps let you view your path, and its electronic compass is an extra safety measure that can even help you ascertain which branch to take if there's a fork in the stream. Your GPS travelogue will give you bragging rights as you share the adventure with your friends.

Creative control even in gloves

A handy Action Control feature

More creativity at your fingertips—even if your fingertips are enclosed in ski gloves! The AW100's handy Action Control feature makes it easy to adjust specific camera settings. Wrapped up in the action with no time to adjust? The AW100 automatically adjusts camera settings. And if you're looking to add creativity, select in-camera effects such as black and white, or selective color. There's even an underwater mode to keep images colorful and properly exposed.

Product features

  • Water-proof, Shock-proof, Freeze-proof: ruggedly built for reliable and comfortable outdoor operation. Water-proof to a depth of 33 feet.
  • Shockproof if dropped from 5 ft, operating temperature down to 14 degrees F
  • 16 effective megapixel CMOS sensor ideal for low light shooting and fast operation
  • GPS and e-Compass functions
  • Points of Interest (locations, landmarks, etc.) and location information (latitude and longitude) can be added to your photos