Underwater Photography Gear for Beginners
A complete guide to camera systems and housings for underwater portrait photography
How to Choose Underwater Photography Gear
One of the most significant challenges when entering the world of underwater portrait photography is navigating the gear. From selecting the right camera to understanding housing systems, the decisions can feel overwhelming. Questions like "What lens is best for underwater portraits?" or "Do I need a professional housing system to get started?" are common among beginners and seasoned photographers alike.
Fortunately, the growth of the underwater photography market over the past decade has created a wide variety of gear options. Whether you are exploring this field for creative expression or business development, you do not need to spend a fortune to begin. In this guide, we walk you through the most accessible and affordable ways to get started with underwater photography gear, with recommendations tailored for both hobbyists and emerging professionals.
All recommendations are based on personal experience as a full-time underwater portrait photographer and educator. For individual guidance or questions about existing equipment, private mentoring is available and there is an active educational community in the Underwater Creatives Academy.
Getting Started
Affordable Underwater Photography Cameras for Beginners
If you are new to underwater portraiture and do not yet own a camera, there are a few high-value entry-level options that offer impressive quality without a steep price tag. You don't need to invest in "professional" gear instantly—it took many of us years to get to that point, and it certainly isn't about the gear, but how you use it.
Olympus Tough TG-7
At under $500 USD, the Olympus Tough TG-7 is an exceptional starter camera. This compact system is depth-rated to 15 meters, features a fast f/2.0 aperture, and has the ability to shoot in RAW format. Despite its affordability, it performs well in both still photography and short video applications. Many underwater photographers began their careers with this camera or earlier models in the same line.
GoPro HERO13
For photographers and videographers leaning toward video or behind-the-scenes content, the GoPro HERO13 is a solid alternative. With a base price of approximately $429, it is an even more affordable entry point. When paired with a dedicated underwater housing, the GoPro can be taken to depths of 60 meters, making it suitable for freediving or scuba use. Adding a red filter will help correct color balance for deeper dives or blue water conditions.
Already Own A Camera?
Turning Your Existing Camera into an Underwater Photography System
If you already own a camera body and lens that you want to take underwater, your main investment will be in the housing system. Options range in cost and complexity depending on the level of control, durability, and depth rating required.
Budget Option: DiCAPac Waterproof Bag
DiCAPac is one of the most trusted names in flexible waterproof camera bags. These housings provide a highly economical solution (typically under $100 USD) for taking your DSLR or mirrorless camera underwater in shallow settings such as pools. While the manufacturer claims a maximum depth of 5 meters, usage should be limited to about 1.5 meters due to compression and limited control access. Always conduct a submersion test without your camera first to ensure proper sealing.
Mid-Range: Outex Silicone Skins
Outex offers flexible silicone skins with modular glass front and rear elements for camera and lens protection. These housings provide a middle ground between full-rigid systems and basic bags. Kits range between $400 and $1,000, depending on accessories such as dome ports. Many students have had success with Outex systems for shallow work and pool environments. Always test frequently, and understand that these systems are not designed for extreme depth or long-term durability.
Going Professional
Professional Rigid Underwater Photography Housing Systems
Photographers committed to growing a professional underwater portrait business or who need depth-rated systems for freediving or scuba photography should consider upgrading to rigid housings.
Entry-Level Rigid Housing: Ikelite
Ikelite's polycarbonate housings are a solid entry-level choice for professionals. While pricing typically starts in the low thousands, Ikelite systems offer excellent reliability and are built specifically for individual camera and lens models. Be sure to verify compatibility with your existing gear before purchasing. Most accessories are sold separately, so build your total system estimate accordingly. Ikelite housings are ideal for recreational scuba divers or photographers working in deeper natural water environments.
Advanced Professional Housings: Aquatica & Nauticam
For technical divers or committed underwater professionals, high-end aluminum housings are the way to go:
- Aquatica — Canadian-built, rated to 100 meters, and designed for extreme environments. Aquatica offers some of the best value in the aluminum housing category with higher durability and expandability compared to entry-level brands.
- Nauticam — Often regarded as the industry gold standard, Nauticam housings are precision-machined, ergonomically designed, and supported by U.S.-based service centers. They are the most expensive of the major housing brands, but the usability is excellent.
Key Considerations Before You Invest
When evaluating which housing system to purchase, first determine the environments you intend to shoot in. A shallow 5-foot pool requires vastly different equipment than a deep freshwater spring or ice diving expedition.
Also consider whether your current camera and lens combination is ideal for underwater portraiture. Longer focal lengths tend to perform poorly underwater due to distortion and limited space. Crop sensor cameras can also introduce complications in focal length and image quality.
Always test your housing without the camera inside and practice proper assembly and maintenance before every session. Understand how to replace O-rings, inspect seals, and clean ports. Regular maintenance protects your gear investment and ensures client safety and satisfaction.
Finally, strongly consider adding gear insurance to protect your equipment in the event of flooding or accidental damage.
Ready to Get Started?
Starting in underwater portrait photography does not have to mean making an immediate investment in expensive, professional gear. From compact cameras and flexible housings to rigid aluminum systems for technical diving, there is a wide range of equipment available to support you at every stage of your journey. Equip yourself thoughtfully, test your system thoroughly, and never underestimate the power of starting small and scaling up as your skills and business evolve.