Thread: Old 35mm Underwater Camera?

Not sure where to ask this ... so thought here would be as good a place as any ....


I have an OLD 35mm Underwater Camera. It does have the "auto-focus" and was a very good one in its day. It always took great pictures... but, for years, I've been using the underwater disposables. I'd like to give it another try on an upcoming cruise.

Problem: I can't remember what speed film I use to buy?

Originally Posted by LuLu

Not sure where to ask this ... so thought here would be as good a place as any ....


I have an OLD 35mm Underwater Camera. It does have the "auto-focus" and was a very good one in its day. It always took great pictures... but, for years, I've been using the underwater disposables. I'd like to give it another try on an upcoming cruise.

Problem: I can't remember what speed film I use to buy?

OK Lulu,

Now, I posted your question to Twitter and got some immediate responses.

The consensus seems to be at least ASA 400, but most recommend 800, 1000 or higher. One caveat: the higher you go, the more light will be let in, but the grainier the film will be. The limitation comes in print size...the larger the print size: the less resolution.

Do those sound like decent responses? Post some of your pics upon your return! I'm interested to see how they turn out.

Thanks so much, Tim! HUGE Help!

Probably, I'll go with the ASA 400. If I remember correctly, the higher the ASA ... the steadier the hand needs to be. Having a steady hand is not easy for me underwater!

Also, I'll only be using a swim mask while taking pictures so should have fairly decent light since I won't be down very deep.

Originally Posted by LuLu

Thanks so much, Tim! HUGE Help!

Probably, I'll go with the ASA 400. If I remember correctly, the higher the ASA ... the steadier the hand needs to be. Having a steady hand is not easy for me underwater!

Also, I'll only be using a swim mask while taking pictures so should have fairly decent light since I won't be down very deep.

Hey Lulu,
I know very little about photography...but I wanted to pass along some additional information I received....most folks seems to suggest the ASA 800. I wouldn't want you to run out and buy a bunch of film that is too slow.

However, based upon your depth and light conditions, I bet you could get away with the ASA 400. Is it very expensive?

Remember, Lulu that the light rapidly diminishes even in shallow depths. The eye is not aware of the difference since it is automatically compensating but film sure does. I would push the film a bit.

Good Point, Neal.

Wonder what ASA the disposable underwater cameras use? We've actually been able to take some good pictures with them ....

It will depend on whether you're using a flash or not. I would suggest the 400 because it will give you the best overall picture.

Most of the disposable types have 400, but you can buy some that are 800. But the bad thing about disposables is the dept limitation since most are only good down to about 50' or so. If you plan to do any deeper dives, then stick with your regular camera.

If you take alot of pictures of still items (coral, plants, etc.) and slow-moving fish, the 400 is better. If you take alot of pictures of fast moving fish, then 800 is better. We took pictures of sea lions on one dive and while the 400 was better quality, the 800 caught the action better as they move rather quickly.

I do like the new underwater digital cameras - expensive, but very nice.

Pete

Thanks, Pete ....

The 400 will probably be best for me. I'm not going down very deep at all. If the fish don't swim to me and say "Cheese", they're not going to get their pictures taken!

We rented a housing for our video camera when we were in the Florida Keys and I actually have video of me petting a sand shark as it swam by. Now that's a picture worth a thousand words!! I know why they're called 'sand' shark, because they feel just like rough sand paper on the top.

Pete

Originally Posted by LuLu

Thanks, Pete ....

The 400 will probably be best for me. I'm not going down very deep at all. If the fish don't swim to me and say "Cheese", they're not going to get their pictures taken!

that sounds just like me... 'cheese!'