I recently wrote about the $10,000 Nikon
D2X/Seacam camera combination. In an effort to balance our postings, I
thought I’d mention that SeaLife has
a new digital underwater camera on the market. The good news is that the MSRP
of the SeaLife DC500 is $549, which includes a docking station, international
plugs, a photo editing program, a rechargeable lithium battery, and a carrying case.
The bad news is…well…I don’t really know what the bad news is. It's not "cute"?
The DC500 is depth-rated to 200 feet and features a “Shark
Mode” for snapping faster and sharper pictures of moving objects underwater. (The
website says “Shark Mode” promises “virtually no shutter lag.”) Moreover, the “Land
& Sea Exposure Modes” improve colors underwater, particularly in low-light
conditions with an external (read: not included) flash. The DC500 also features
a 2" LCD, full rubber armoring, ergonomic button designs, and a new auto
focus system able to focus as close as two inches.
If you’re thinking about getting into u/w photography, but you don’t want to spend a year’s salary, or you don't want to lug around a bulky camera and tons of accessories, the DC500 might be a worthy camera to consider.
1. On Engadget's site a former Canon user thought this camera was a great buy and said they"would not advise anyone who is serious about diving to buy a Canon" (and they might be right)but would you advise anyone serious about photography AND diving to buy the Sealife DC500? I am a land photog being pulled to underwater photography. The DC500 is tempting because I don't necessarily have the cash to buy the $4000 underwater housing for my Nikon D1x (not to mention strobes, etc.). I am a serious photographer and while I don't mind spending the money for good equipment, I don't want to waste money by not getting the right gear first off.
A purist in the photo field I switched to digital this year by purchasing my Nikon D1x. I have even thought of purchasing the Nikon D70--the body is cheaper, the Ikelite housing is cheaper, I can use the same lenses and then I have a backup body for the same price as the D1x housing (ok so minus the strobes, plus if the housing floods, I haven't lost my livelyhood.
Currently when I dive I have been renting a Nikonos V, but I want to commit to my own gear.......would love some advice on these options I am pursuing. With 5 megapixels the DC500 might not be a bad idea for my underwater pursuits for the price, but I know down the road....heck after my third time in the water I will wish I had more lense options or more control......urrrrghhhhhh......
http://www.jenniferbrowningphotography.com
Posted at 11:08PM on Jul 29th 2005 by deco chic