This section of the articles library will cover the topic of cameras. Which cameras are ideal for photographing aquariums? What is the difference between various forms of cameras and why are some cameras much more expensive than others? Which features should I look for in a camera that I want to use when photographing my aquarium? How should I handle my camera in order to get the most out of it? A lot of the guidelines provided in this section will not only be useful when you photograph your aquarium, they will help you to take great pictures of other pets, your family, wild sceneries etcetera as well. A camera that is suitable for photographing aquariums will usually also be great for shooting other types of pictures.
A fine camera is a good beginning when you want to take beautiful pictures of your aquarium and its inhabitants. A good camera is naturally not the only thing that will affect the quality of you photographs, but is a very good base and taking the time to select the best camera possible within your spending limit is therefore advisable. Do not simply pick the first camera that you see in the shop or buy one just because your friend has one. Researching the different options before you pick one will reward you in the future when you begin to use your camera.
Many aquarists only photograph their aquariums from outside the tank glass, but some like to be able to submerge their camera into the water and take pictures without having to worry about the glass and possible reflections, residues etcetera. A lot of fish keepers are also found of observing aquatic life in the wild and want to have a camera that they can bring along when snorkeling and scuba diving. A submergible camera will of course require some type of water proof protection. For most camera models you will be able to find water proof housing. There are also underwater cameras where the housing is an integrated part of the camera, but these cameras are usually only single-use cameras and the quality of the pictures will not be supreme. This type of camera will typically only withstand the pressure of 5-10 meters of water and if you want to go deeper you can not bring it along. Purchasing a single-use water proof camera can however be a good idea if you want to try underwater photography and see how you like it. Purchasing a high-quality camera house can be expensive, and the single-use water proof camera will allow you to try underwater photography before you decide if you want to spend that money. If your pictures come back blurred and unfocused, you should bear in mind that it might be due to the low quality of the camera and you might very well be much more successful with a normal camera in a camera house.
Video cameras can also be used to document your aquarium. If you want to bring video cameras along when snorkeling or scuba diving this is also possible, but such cameras are usually very expensive. For most aquarist, it is more feasible to rent an underwater video camera. Underwater video cameras can for instance be rented from scuba diving shops, organizations and scuba diving schools.
Camera Articles
How to Buy a Digital Camera - Gudie to buying a digital camera that suits your needs.
Aquarium Photo articles:
Let There Be Light - An article on the importence of the right lighting.
Techniques for Aquarium Photography - Technics to improve your skills as a fish photographer