underwater Photo Course :: (2) Equipment Guide :: Underwater Camera Housings :: Digital Underwater Cameras :: Viewfinder Optics

It is a big advantage if your DSLRDigital Single Lens Reflex Camera. A camera that uses a mirror to redirect the image projected onto the film into the viewfinder. The mirror flips out of the way when the button is pressed to take the picture. housing allows you to see the viewfinder properly.

with and without a viewfinder optic

The problem with DSLR camera viewfinders is that they are designed for land use with the eye against it. Underwater, your eye is forced back from the viewfinder by your diving mask - thus making it impossible to see properly.

In order to see the viewfinder image and display information many of the leading manufacturers incorporate a device called a viewfinder optic built in to the rear of the housingA casing or box with waterproof seals designed to contain a camera or other equipment in such a way that it can be used underwater..

There are some SLR cameras that will accept a larger finder (Nikon F3 and F4 for example). This is often called a sportsfinder and greatly improves viewing. There are also one or two manufacturers now making an accessory finder for their housings that magnifies a smaller finder to sportsfinder size!