Snorkel Camera Guide
Reusable Underwater Film Cameras

The next step up from the disposable snorkel camera is the reusable film camera in a housing.

There are less and less of these becoming available as digital takes over, but below I mention a couple. Some come with built in flashes, but most have fixed focal lengths (no zoom). They can be better than the disposable ones because of better lenses, the fact that you are able to select your own film with a lower ISO than the disposables, and with more exposures. I would recommend trying ISO 400 speed film for bright sunny conditions near the surface, and 36 exposure rolls.

With these cameras you will spend a tiny bit more money than the disposable, and get better pictures. Sealife was making a popular one, but it is discontinued. But you can still get it on Amazon. Sealife SL545 SportDiver II.

But you can spend much less and still get the option to reuse/reload the camera with more film. The Snap Sights SS01 is pretty darn good, with a 28mm lens and flash for less than $20. Keep in mind that these cameras are not meant to last a long time.

Here is how to get the best results with this camera.

1. After getting the camera open it up and throw away the film it comes with (it is not very good).
2. Buy yourself a multi pack of Fuji ISO 400 or 800 film (800 for lower light) 37 exposure rolls (you will need more then one roll - figure one roll per snorkeling spot).
3. Carefully read the instruction about the focusing distance of the camera, and get as close as you can, but not so close the camera won't focus on your subject.
4. Absolutely get it processed by Kodak Sea Processing. You will notice a huge difference in picture quality.

The next best thing is to stop using film and get a digital camera. There are many advantages to digital underwater cameras over film you can learn about here.

Go to the next page in the Snorkel Camera Guide

Or check out my Snorkeling Cameras Buying Guide