Canon Underwater Camera Cases
How To Prepare And Mantain Your Canon Underwater Camera Case
If your using your camera for underwater photography, then arguably the most essential component of your camera gear is your waterproof underwater camera case. If your batteries, flash or memory card fail, then you you'll get either lousy or no photos from that days session. If, however, your underwater case fails, you'll not only lose any pictures you may have captured, but will likely lose your camera as well. If you have flood insurance, that's fine, but if you don't it's going to be a very expensive day.
Its therefore essential, to take care to prep your case before and after every dive. Here are a few good practices to get into.
The O-ring is the most critical and susceptible link in waterproofing your camera. A solid and clean seal will prevent water from reaching your camera. This is especially true, as water pressure builds the deeper you dive.
Before each dive, the O-ring should be gently removed from the camera and inspected. Gentle is the key word here, as any undue stretching or pulling on your part can damage the ring. You want to run your fingers over the ring several times, looking for defects, tears, nicks, dirt, sand, hair or any foreign particles that could interfere with the normal operation of the ring.
Every Canon case comes with a supply of waterproof lubricant or grease. This needs to be applied smoothly and evenly to the ring prior to each dive. Only use the grease that comes with your case, or a make specifically recommended by Canon. Other manufacturer greases may not be as effective, and could actually damage your Canon O-ring.
Once your sure the O-ring is clean and well lubricated, you can return it to it's position. Your now ready to seal the case and test it's water resistance. I always prefer doing the first test without a camera inside the case. Ideally, you'll want to leave the case submerged for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight. Upon opening the case, check for any signs of leakage within. If things seem good, then place your Canon inside the case and do another 2 or 3 minute check. Again reinspect the case and camera before making your actual dive. If things look good and dry, you should be good to go.
Post Dive Maintenance
After diving, there are a few steps that will insure the longevity of your case, and improve your odds for subsequent successful dry camera dives. Saltwater, sand, grit, and other underwater particles should not be left on the case or O-ring when it is stored. Be sure to rinse your case and ring off thoroughly in fresh water after diving. Work the case controls and buttons, to ensure there is no friction caused by abrasive materials that have worked their way into tight spaces. If you find any, be sure to remove them. A clean camera case will leave you well prepared for your next underwater studio session.
O-rings should probably be replaced annually. If you can't remember the last time you replaced your ring, then just replace it again. They're relatively cheap . . . at the very least significantly cheaper then a new camera. Having a few spares on hand is a good idea as well. Store spare rings in their original packaging or another air tight seal to prevent them from drying out.
Good preparation, and diligent maintenance, will ensure that your underwater housing stays effective for years to come, and your camera stays dry for equally as long. Good luck, and have fun getting the fish to smile . . . cheese.
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