We know that finding the right underwater camera system can be difficult.
After all, Snorkeling is a very streamlined activity, and therefore cameras for snorkeling must remain small and compact, unlike many camera systems for scuba diving.
But we also know that there are some avid snorkelers and surf photographers out there who demand the best of the best in terms of image quality and performance.
So we put our heads together to find the best underwater camera systems for the shallow water explorers out there.
What to look for in an underwater camera?
When looking for an underwater camera, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, make sure the camera is waterproof. This means it can be submerged in water without damage.
Second, make sure the camera is capable of capturing photos and videos in low-light conditions.
Third, make sure the camera is durable and can withstand being dropped or knocked around. And finally, make sure the camera has a good zoom lens to capture those distant underwater creatures.
And finally, make sure the camera has a good zoom lens to capture those distant underwater creatures.
Once you have chosen the perfect underwater camera for your needs, it is time to start taking some amazing photos and videos!
The best underwater cameras for snorkeling
If you are looking for the best underwater cameras for snorkeling, you have come to the right place!
We have compiled a list of our favorite underwater cameras for snorkeling.
These cameras are designed to be small and compact, so they are easy to take with you on your next adventure.
We have selected cameras from a variety of brands, so you can find the perfect camera for your needs.
What are the 10 best underwater cameras for snorkeling
Olympus Tough TG-6
The Olympus TG series has the best underwater cameras for snorkeling sterling reputation among the tough camera market, not only for being sufficiently specced to handle tough conditions but also equipped with impressive imaging and video tech.
The Raw-shooting, 4K-capable TG-6, is a fairly minor upgrade on the previous TG-5 but adds some nifty new features like improved LCD resolution and a new Underwater Microscope mode for getting in close.
Producing 4K video at 30fps and offering the option to shoot Full HD video at 120fps for super-slow-motion, the TG-6 also has a generous 25-100mm optical zoom lens that lets you get closer and closer to the action.
It’s got a chunky handgrip providing a secure hold on the camera, while the internal zoom mechanism means the lens never protrudes from the body, protecting it from knocks and bumps when you’re out and about.
Whether you’re shooting above or below the water, the TG-6 is a great choice for those looking for an underwater camera for snorkeling tough all-rounder.
- Read our full in-depth review Olympus Tough TG-6
Canon G7X Mark III
If you are looking for the best underwater cameras for snorkeling, look no further than the Canon G7X Mark III.
This tiny camera packs a huge punch with its 1-inch, 20 MP sensor, and fast-focusing capabilities.
The camera also features 4K video, slow motion video, a bigger image buffer, a new stacked sensor, a better image processor, and quicker burst shooting over the G7X II.
With all of these features at an affordable price, the Canon G7X Mark III is the best value camera on the market.
In addition, the Canon G7X Mark III has advantages over recent RX100 series cameras like the RX100 VII because you can shoot both wide-angle and macro on the same dive!
So if you are looking for an underwater camera for snorkeling, the Canon G7X Mark III is a perfect choice.
- Read our full in-depth review Canon G7X Mark III
Nikon Coolpix W300
With a deep-water rating of 30m, the Nikon W300 is one of the best underwater cameras on the market.
It comes with a barometer that provides useful data like altitude and depth, as well as an electronic compass.
Bluetooth functionality is also on board, and this pairs well with Nikon’s SnapBridge technology for fast image transfer.
Video shooters will also welcome the addition of 4K video to the W300’s toolkit.
The lack of Raw support is a pity, but if you’re happy to stick with JPEGs you’ll find it to be a superb all-rounder for fearless underwater adventures.
If you’re looking for the best underwater cameras for snorkeling, the Nikon W300 should be at the top of your list.
SeaLife Micro 3.0
If you’re looking for the best underwater cameras for snorkeling, SeaLife cameras are the most serious option.
They’re able to be taken down to depths of 200ft/60m, and they’re also photographically able, thanks to a 16MP Sony-derived sensor and the ability to shoot RAW files.
The camera is permanently sealed to safeguard against any possible leaks and weighs just 329g.
You can buy the camera on its own, but if you’re planning on using it for deep dives, take a look at the various kits that include one or two of SeaLife’s powerful ‘Sea Dragon’ LED lights.
These can output at least 3000 lumens to illuminate murky underwater depths, while still providing the best color rendering index among all LEDs.
With a beam angle of 120°, these lights are also great for night dives or use as a focus light when shooting video.
So if you’re looking for the best underwater camera for both snorkeling and deep diving, SeaLife is the best option.
- Read our full in-depth review SeaLife Micro 3.0
SeaLife RM-4K Ultra Compact Camera
The SeaLife RM-4K Ultra Compact Underwater Camera is a small and easy to use action camera that features the highest quality 14MP photos, videos & snorkel shots.
With its built-in color correction for underwater photography as well as a wide field of view with fish eye lens design, it makes taking great pictures or capturing those perfect moments on film effortless!
The compact size means you can take this powerful device anywhere whether you’re exploring deep waters off coastlines; or scouring coral reefs for exotic creatures living beneath them – all while wearing thick gloves without worrying about handling any sensitive controls because everything has been specially customized by our team at Sealife so users don’t need expert knowledge when using these sophisticated gadgets
Ricoh WG-70
The Ricoh WG series is best known for its tough camera body that can withstand anything from a drop to being submerged in water.
The WG-70 is the latest model in the series and comes with several new features that make it ideal for underwater photography.
For instance, the ring lights around the lens not only function as a torch but also help to illuminate your subjects when taking macro shots.
Additionally, the microscope mode has been improved to offer higher resolution than its predecessor, making it perfect for close-up shots.
And if you’re shooting in low light, the Handheld Night Snap feature will capture several images in quick succession and blend them together to create a clear composite image.
With all these features, plus a durable body that can withstand depths of up to 14m, the Ricoh WG-70 is one of the best underwater cameras for snorkeling.
Panasonic Lumix TS30/FT30
The Panasonic Lumix TS30 is a great underwater camera for snorkeling. It’s slim enough to fit in your pocket, and it has a best-in-class specs.
It’s also pleasingly affordable. The TS30 is a solid and versatile waterproof camera that should prove well-suited to recording your aquatic adventures – in stills form, anyway.
The lower video resolution of 720p means that if you’re a video aficionado, you’re probably better off with one of the other waterproof digital cameras on this list.
But for best-in-class snorkeling, the TS30 is the best camera around.
GoPro Hero10 Black
The best underwater camera for snorkeling is the GoPro Hero10 Black. The GoPro Hero10 Black is a significant upgrade from the previous model, the GoPro Hero9 Black.
The GoPro Hero10 Black is powered by the all-new GP2 processor, which provides a speedy user interface, doubles the frame rates, and provides the best image stabilization technology yet.
The GoPro Hero9 Black can shoot 5.3K video at 60 frames per second and take 23MP photos. It also has the best low-light performance of any GoPro camera.
In addition, the GoPro Hero10 Black comes with a cable that allows you to transfer content from the camera to your phone or tablet quickly and easily.
- Read our full in-depth review GoPro Hero10 Black
DJI Osmo Action
On the surface, the DJI Osmo Action looks like a direct competitor to GoPro’s best underwater cameras.
It’s got a similar form factor, a comparable feature set, and a price point that makes it an attractive alternative for budget-conscious consumers.
But does it live up to the hype? In some ways, yes.
The front-facing screen is a boon, the stabilization is just as silky smooth as the HERO’s, and its wallet-friendly price is nothing to sniff at.
That said, there are a few areas where the Osmo Action falls short.
There are lag issues at high resolutions, the app can be unreliable, and video from the HERO is a touch flatter, which counts in the professional realm when it comes to the grade.
For an affordable alternative to a GoPro camera though, the Osmo Action is a fantastic choice.
GoPro HERO9 Black
The best underwater camera for snorkeling is the GoPro HERO9 Black.
It has a front-facing LCD screen that is useful for vlogging, and it also has 5K video resolution, making it one of the best action cameras on the market.
The camera also has the ability to extract 14.7MP stills from the video, ensuring that you never miss a moment.
The only downside to this camera is that it is a little heavier than previous GoPro models, but it is still one of the best waterproof action cameras on the market.
You can often find discounts on this camera if you shop around online.
- Read our full in-depth review GoPro HERO9 Black
GoPro HERO8 Black
The best underwater camera for snorkeling is the GoPro Hero8 Black.
This model introduced some brilliant features, including fold-out feet that provide a built-in camera mount, as well as the ability to accessorize the Hero8 Black with extras called ‘Mods’.
We especially like the Display Mod because it adds a second monitor that is perfect for vloggers.
There are plenty of other Mods too, including a Media Mod for improving the production value of your videos, and a Light Mod LED light too.
These extra capabilities – and the fact it’s already waterproof down to 10m without a case – make the Hero8 Black a terrific underwater action cam.
Kodak Sport Underwater Camera
If you are looking for an alternative to the Fujifilm Quicksnap Marine, this is it.
The underwater housing also gives users access to a fully waterproof camera that they can take snorkeling with them down as far as 50 feet (15 meters).
It comes preloaded on ISO800 Kodak color print film – which will make your pictures wait just a little bit longer before seeing the light of day!
How to choose the right underwater camera
When choosing the right underwater camera, there are a few factors to consider.
The first is what type of photography you want to do. If you are just looking to capture memories of your trips, a basic point-and-shoot camera will do the job.
However, if you are looking to do more advanced photography, such as capturing surfing or diving shots, you will need a camera that is more capable.
The second factor to consider is budget. Cameras can range from very affordable options to very expensive professional models.
Choose the option that fits your needs and your budget.
The third factor is portability. Underwater cameras come in all shapes and sizes, so choose the one that is best for you based on how you plan to use it.
If you are looking for a camera to take on vacation with you, choose one that is small and compact.
If you are looking for a more durable option that can be used in harsher conditions, choose a model that is more rugged.
Finally, consider the features offered by each camera.
Some models offer built-in screens while others require an external monitor; some have waterproof cases while others do not; some offer high-resolution video while others only offer basic photo capabilities.
Choose the camera that has the features that you need and that will best meet your needs.
Tips for taking great underwater photos and videos
Underwater photography can be a lot of fun, but it can also be challenging. Here are a few tips to help you take great underwater photos and videos:
1. Choose the right camera. As mentioned above, there are a variety of cameras available, so choose the one that is best suited for your needs.
2. Get familiar with the camera before using it underwater. Make sure you know how to use all of the features and how to change the settings.
3. Use a waterproof case if necessary. If your camera is not waterproof, you will need to use a waterproof case to protect it from water damage.
4. Adjust the settings according to the conditions. You may need to adjust the settings depending on the type of environment you are shooting in (e.g., freshwater or saltwater).
5. Take your time and experiment. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques and experiment with different settings to see what works best for you.
6. Make sure you have a good grip on the camera while shooting. This will help prevent accidental drops and keep your shots stable.
7. Get close to your subject for the best results. This will help reduce distortion and give your photos more impact.
8. Shoot in burst mode to increase your chances of getting a great shot. This will allow you to snap multiple photos at once, giving you more options to choose from later on.
9. Use a tripod or monopod for stability when shooting video footage. This will ensure smooth and steady shots every time.
With these tips, you should be well on your way to taking great underwater photos and videos. Happy shooting!
