Underwater photography is a thrilling and challenging field. As someone who has been diving and capturing underwater worlds for years, I know how important it is to have the right gear. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the best camera store for underwater photography equipment is crucial. Over time, I’ve visited several stores across the U.S., and I’ve learned a lot about the best options available. Let me take you through some of the top camera stores that cater to underwater photography enthusiasts like us.
1. B&H Photo Video: The One-Stop Shop for Underwater Photography
B&H Photo Video in New York City is one of the largest and most trusted names in photography gear. What sets them apart is their extensive selection of underwater photography gear. I visited their flagship store, and I was blown away by the variety of underwater cameras, housings, and accessories they offer. They carry products from leading brands like Sea & Sea, Nauticam, and Aquatica, ensuring you have access to the latest and best equipment.
Not only do they offer an amazing range of underwater photography equipment, but their knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist. The best part? They have an easy-to-navigate online store that allows you to shop for specialized gear with just a few clicks. Whether you’re buying your first underwater camera or upgrading to a professional setup, B&H Photo is a solid choice for any diver photographer.
2. Backscatter Underwater Photography: Experts in the Field
Backscatter Underwater Photography, located in Monterey, California, is a name that almost every underwater photographer will recognize. I had the opportunity to visit their store while in California, and their specialization in underwater imaging gear blew me away. They carry a huge selection of cameras, lighting systems, and housings, all specifically designed for underwater use.
What makes Backscatter unique is their level of expertise. The staff, many of whom are avid underwater photographers themselves, know the ins and outs of every product they sell. If you’re new to underwater photography, they offer excellent advice on what gear will suit your needs, whether you're shooting in cold water or tropical reefs. They also offer demo sessions and rental equipment, which is perfect if you want to test gear before making a purchase.
3. Reef Photo & Video: A Dive Shop with a Focus on Photography
Reef Photo & Video, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is another fantastic store for underwater photography gear. Their focus is solely on underwater photography, which makes them stand out. When I visited Reef, I found that they carried a broad selection of digital cameras, underwater housings, and lenses. The staff at Reef are true underwater photography enthusiasts, which means they understand the challenges of capturing perfect shots underwater.
What I love about Reef is their personalized service. They take the time to understand your specific needs and help you choose the best gear for your photography style. Additionally, they offer a wealth of online resources, including product reviews and tutorials, making it easier for you to stay informed and educated about your gear.
4. Camera House: The Affordable Option for Underwater Enthusiasts
When it comes to budget-friendly underwater photography gear, Camera House in Los Angeles is a hidden gem. I stumbled upon this store while looking for a good deal on an entry-level underwater camera system. Camera House offers affordable underwater cameras and housings, making it an ideal place for those just getting started in the field.
They also offer a range of accessories, such as underwater lights, macro lenses, and filters. Despite their lower prices, the staff at Camera House are knowledgeable and dedicated to helping you find the right equipment. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for your first camera setup, Camera House is worth checking out.
5. Adorama: The Convenient Online Shopping Experience
Although I prefer visiting physical stores to get a feel for the gear, Adorama’s online shopping experience for underwater photography gear is hard to beat. Their New York-based store offers an impressive selection of underwater camera gear, and their website makes it easy to compare products, read reviews, and find detailed specifications.
Adorama offers competitive prices on brands like GoPro, Canon, and Olympus. Their online customer service is top-notch, and they ship across the U.S., making it a convenient option for anyone who doesn’t have a specialized store nearby. If you’re looking to shop from the comfort of your home, Adorama is a great option for your underwater photography needs.
6. Local Dive Shops: Don’t Forget About Your Local Stores
While large camera stores like B&H and Backscatter are fantastic, I always recommend checking out your local dive shops. Many of these shops have great partnerships with camera brands and can offer you specialized underwater photography equipment, sometimes at a lower price than big-name stores.
Local dive shops also provide invaluable insights into the local diving scene. Whether you're diving in cold, temperate, or tropical waters, your local dive shop will often have recommendations for the best gear for your specific diving environment. Plus, you get to support small businesses and build relationships with knowledgeable experts who can guide you in your photography journey.
7. The Importance of Renting Before You Buy
When I first started underwater photography, I made the mistake of purchasing gear without testing it. I later realized that the gear didn’t suit my needs, and I ended up having to upgrade sooner than I anticipated. One valuable lesson I learned was the importance of renting gear before making a purchase.
Many stores, like Backscatter and Reef Photo, offer rental options for underwater camera gear. Renting allows you to test the equipment in real-world diving conditions before committing to a purchase. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to figure out which camera system works best for you. Remember, underwater photography is all about the perfect combination of camera, housing, lighting, and lenses. Renting gives you a chance to experiment and make a more informed decision.
8. The Future of Underwater Photography Gear
As technology evolves, so does underwater photography. With the rise of mirrorless cameras, 360-degree cameras, and advancements in lighting systems, the options available to underwater photographers are growing. I’m excited to see where the future takes us, as there are more innovations that will continue to improve the quality and accessibility of underwater photography.
If you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your equipment, it’s a great time to dive into the world of underwater photography. The stores I’ve mentioned above are excellent resources, and with the right gear, you’ll be capturing stunning underwater images in no time!
