Top Picks for Submerged Imagery Snapshotting
Exploring the Best Lenses for Underwater Photography
Underwater photography requires specific equipment to capture the vibrant colours and unique details of the marine world. One essential component is the choice of lens, and in this article, we'll explore some of the top options for compact rugged cameras and DSLRs.
Compact Rugged Cameras
For compact rugged cameras, such as the Olympus TG series, the Backscatter M52 Underwater 81° Wide Air Lens is one of the best underwater wet lenses available. This lens is engineered to counteract underwater refraction, restoring about an 81° field of view. It works well with Olympus Tough cameras and their underwater housings, maintaining sharp corners and no vignetting. 1
DSLRs
For DSLRs from Olympus, Nikon, and Canon, wet lenses and dome ports from specialist underwater brands like Sea & Sea, Inon, and Nauticam integrated with specific housings offer the best performance, tailored per camera model and shoot style. 2
Best Lenses for Underwater Photography
When it comes to wide-angle underwater photography, the Tokina 10-17mm Fisheye lens is the best choice for both cropped and full-frame cameras in the 15mm to 17mm focal length range. This lens is sharp and focuses very close. 3
For full-frame shooters, the Sigma 8mm lens is a new rectilinear wide-angle lens, a good choice if you want a single lens for topside and underwater use. The Canon 17-40mm f/4 is another good mid-range choice for underwater photography. 4
Macro Lenses
For macro photography, the Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro IS USM is a highly recommended lens for both cropped sensor and full-frame shooters, with several different versions available at different price points, all with excellent optics. 5
The Nikon 105mm Macro lens is another excellent choice for macro photography, as it does 1:1, and has a longer working distance than the 60mm. 6
Fisheye Lenses
Fisheye lenses usually work better behind dome ports underwater than other wide-angle lenses. The Nikon 10.5mm Fisheye Lens is a great choice for wide-angle photography, while the Sigma 15mm Fisheye is a good choice for full-frame shooters, with a closer focusing distance than the Canon 15mm Fisheye. 7
Specialist Lenses
For specific wide-angle subjects, pros often use the Canon 24mmL f/1.4 lens on full-frame cameras. The Canon 16-35mm f/2.8 Lens II is an excellent quality lens, although it may be too expensive for some. 8
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Many photographers have been frustrated trying to get sharp corners on wide-angle rectilinear lenses underwater, especially in the 10-20mm focal length range. To avoid this problem, consider using fisheye lenses or specific underwater wet lenses designed for your camera model. 9
Recommended Lenses for Underwater Photography
The recommended options for underwater lenses include the Tokina 10-17mm Fisheye Lens, Nikon 10.5mm Fisheye Lens, Sigma 8mm lens, and the Canon 15mm lens. The Nikon 10-24mm and Sigma 10-20mm are the best suited for underwater photography because of their close-focus distance. 10
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right lens is crucial for capturing stunning underwater images. Whether you're a compact rugged camera or DSLR user, there are numerous options available to suit your needs. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and enhance your underwater photography experience.
Footnotes
- Backscatter M52 Underwater 81° Wide Air Lens
- Sea & Sea, Inon, Nauticam, Inon, Nauticam
- Tokina 10-17mm Fisheye Lens
- Canon 17-40mm f/4 Lens, Sigma 8mm Lens
- Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro IS USM Lens
- Nikon 105mm Macro Lens
- Sigma 15mm Fisheye Lens, Canon 15mm Fisheye Lens
- Canon 24mmL f/1.4 Lens, Canon 16-35mm f/2.8 Lens II
- Nikon Underwater Lens Chart
- Recommended Underwater Lenses
11 A diopter, such as the Kraken Kraaken Hydra+ Dual Diopter, is essential for macro photography, helping to compensate for camera-to-subject distance and provide closer focus.
12 For those interested in underwater photography tutorials, consider guides like the 'Underwater Photography Guide' by Martin Edge and the 'ShotKam Underwater Tutorial'.
13 Capturing sharks and other large marine species often requires a faster lens, such as the Tamron SP 150-600mm G2, a sports lens that offers great optical performance and a long focal length.
14 When photographing wrecks and kelp-covered reefs, a compact yet powerful strobe, like the Inon Z-240 or Sea & Sea YS-D1, will provide optimal illumination.
15 Don't forget about the importance of color correction in underwater photography. Consider using color correction filters like the ReefNet Red Filter, Silver Alault Purple Filter, or Red 27A filter depending on the water conditions and desired hues.
16 One unique underwater critter that can be captivating in macro photography is the nudibranch, easily visible with the adequate lens and lighting.
17 When using a DSLR and a dedicated underwater housing, it's essential to invest in a compact and lightweight tripod, like the AquaTech Sea Pod, for stable shooting in shallow waters.
18 To capture the vibrancy of bluewater and famous dive sites like Palau, the Maldives, or the Great Barrier Reef, consider the use of a Snell nose lens, such as the Subsee +4 or +5, to further reduce refraction and sharpen image details.
19 For those seeking a balance between compactness and superior image quality, consider a mirrorless camera system, such as the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, paired with underwater-specific lenses like the Olympus 7-14mm or 45mm macro.
20 Remember, underwater photography is about storytelling, so focus on finding unique perspectives, capturing candid moments, and seeking out colorful critters like the various types of sharks, nudibranchs, and schools of fish.
21 Embrace the challenges of the deep blue sea and use your chosen gear, from wide-angle to macro lenses, strobes, filters, and other equipment, to create stunning and captivating underwater images.
