Underwater camera setup

Architeuthis wrote:

Hi safaribob,

Generally you can do both macro and wideangle with all setups. All options are better than the handy in a plastic bag...

#1.: GoPro and actioncams are videocentric. If you prefer video over stills this is the way to go (I am not sure whether macro is an option for actioncams).

I have footage from a GoPro and I find the output a bit lacking. I think I will get an action cam anyway though, for convenience and redundancy, but it depends a bit how much total spend is. It's unclear to me whether it would be better to get the Akoso or the Gopro, and what the total package would require (camera, underwater housing, + stick?)

#2.: Simple stills oriented camera for snorkeling (even good for scubadiving) is Olympus TG-5 or 6. Great for macro, but also WA with wetlens.

I can consider this as an alternative to action camera. My skepticism is that it is also a 1/2.5" sensor. And they seem to cost around 300 usd used, + an underwater housing if I want to dive with it.

#3.: When housing your FF camera, you are in the Champions League of UW photographers.

Hehe, ok, so what would be the college football level?

Excellent IQ and all options from Super-Makro to circular fisheye images. Bear in mind you are going to spend many thousands of $$$ and, when travelling, most of your baggage will be camera gear...

Let's say the budget is 1000, how is it best spent?

Difficult to give advise, too many options and people have different preferences. I would reecommend option #2 when main purpose are photos and #1 when videos are desired (but you can make both phtos and videos with both options). Not too much money spent and after a year you know yourself best what you want...

...so after 4 years, I still don't know what I want.

Maybe you want to read this: https://www.backscatter.com/reviews/post/Backscatter-Best-Underwater-Compact-Cameras

Will do!

Wolfgang