If there’s one thing we can all certainly agree on, it’s that underwater photography isn’t the cheapest pastime. But affordability is relative and there are certainly cheaper ways and more expensive ways to do it. First of all, you’ll want to make your camera waterproof, and if you’ve never researched the price of an underwater case, you’ll quickly realize that there are plenty of options to suit every budget.
In his latest video, Ikelite makes you don’t need to break the bank to put your camera in the underwater case. To illustrate this point, US underwater equipment manufacturer its polycarbonate case for Canon EOS R5 against Nauticam aluminum equivalent. In the video, John Brigham, Vice President and Head of Product Development, Ikelite, talks about the differences between the pods, each set up with a camera R5the RF 14–35mm f/4 . wide-angle zoom lenslarge acrylic archway—Ikelite 8-inch option or Nauticam . standard 8.5 inch dome—with zoom device, plus accessories. According to Ikelite, their system (excluding the camera and lens) costs $2,665, while Nauticam’s will set you back $6,828—a price difference of almost $4,200.
John also compared many other aspects of the two systems: materials (Ikelite’s transparent back compared to opaque aluminum “black box”), size (Ikelite’s slightly smaller), weight (Ikelite’s lightweight), over 2.2 lbs), ergonomics (Ikelite controls do not require relearning) and maintenance (Ikelite “direct drive” controls are simpler and can be serviced in the field) while the annual service is cheaper). And if you’re wondering what you can do with $4,200, John has some suggestions: Buy a pair of flagships Ikelite DS230 Wardrobeand use your $1,000 worth of change for another lens or for your next dive.
There is no doubt that there are stark differences between Ikelite and Nauticam’s systems—between the plastic and aluminum options—and Ikelite’s video suggests that most of us should take the time to compare them carefully first. when you go shopping. Check Guide to underwater photography/video equipment DPG for a comprehensive, up-to-date compilation of the best gear for underwater shooters.
