At Pinpoint Pix, we know that diving into underwater photography for the first time can feel like navigating uncharted waters. That’s why we’re here to help. With over 15 years of scuba diving and underwater imaging experience, we guide you towards the best equipment for your needs — no stress, no guesswork. Whether you're picking up your first point-and-shoot or exploring video options, we’ll help you make smart, beginner-friendly choices so you can focus on capturing the magic beneath the surface.

Learning to Scuba dive and then going diving can be stressful. There's so much to focus and concentrate on. You don't need your camera equipment to add to the stress but when you're below the water you want to create and capture those memories. I know I do. But choosing what equipment offers you the best value for your money can be hard work and stressful. I have been using my Canon S100 for around 10 years with some very good results but have recently migrated to an action video camera. I always found the controls of the S100 to be tricky, but the video camera makes life so much easier. Doing the research for that was time consuming and stressful and brought back memories of trying to work out which camera to go for all those years ago. So I've put together a my thoughts, findings and the results of all that effort to save you the headache. Below you'll find the pros and cons of the various systems out there and a pick of the best value products from the different formats so you can save time, effort and get the best value equipment for you.

 

Where Should You Start?

Remember KISS? Keep it stupidly simple!! For any scuba diver that is great advice, especially if you are new to the sport or inexperienced. The more simple your kit is the less there is to worry or stress about and the less there is to go wrong. Your camera is a part of your kit so simplyfying that makes sense too.

One of the first decisions you'll face is whether to go with a basic waterproof camera or invest in a higher-quality camera with a dedicated underwater housing. Here's what to consider:

• Entry-Level Waterproof Cameras: These are compact, easy to use, and great for snorkelling or shallow dives. Popular models like the Olympus Tough TG-6 or GoPro HERO12 offer solid image quality and built-in waterproofing — perfect for beginners who want simplicity and reliability.
• Advanced Cameras with Housings: If you're aiming for professional-level photos or deeper dives, a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a waterproof housing offers superior image quality and manual control. However, choosing the right housing is key — compatibility, depth rating, and ease of use all matter.

However.........

What About Underwater Video?

I have recently moved over to an action camera. Specifically the Dji Action 5 Pro. This has given me much more flexibility with what I film and photograph. I can take videos and when shot at the higher frame rate it allows me to use editing software to pull photos from the video, taking the stress of the photography out of the dive. It's a lot easier to edit something when sat at home. That also means I get multiple chances of capturing the perfect shot!. With a decent clamp I've fastened it to my torch so I also have a convenient light source, bringing to life the vibrant underwater colours you wouldn't otherwise see. That also means I can keep my scuba kit as simple as possible,

If you're interested in capturing underwater video, look for gear with:

• High frame rates (60fps or more) for smooth footage
• 4k Resolution  for higher quality videos and stills
• Stabilization features to reduce shake
• Wide-angle lenses to capture expansive reef scenes
• External lighting options to enhance clarity and colour
• Action & Video Cameras (with Accessories)

Modern action cameras and compact video rigs offer a versatile solution for both video and stills. With the right accessories, they can deliver stunning underwater footage and extract high-res stills from video.

Pros:

• High-resolution video (4K and beyond)
• Excellent stabilization and wide-angle lenses
• Compact and mountable on masks, trays, or handles
• Stills can be pulled from video using software
• Accessories like cases and mounts are widely available

Cons:

• Most models are not waterproof without a case
• May require additional gear (housing, mounts, lights)
• Some models can be pricey (e.g., GoPro Hero)

Why the Dji Action 5 Pro?

The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a powerful action camera designed for adventurers, creatives, and anyone looking to capture high-quality footage in challenging environments, such as underwater. Packed with cutting-edge features such as the next gen sensor, excellent stabilisation and low light capabilities along with a great rear screen and versatile design, this camera sets a new standard for action cameras with its advanced imaging capabilities, robust performance, and user-friendly features.

Take your videos and then connect to the software on your phone to download, edit or capture screenshot photographs. You could do that on your surface interval!

While GoPro is a better known name and has the bigger advertising budget, options like the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro  with it's better 4k/60fps frame rate, Hassleblad lens, wide field of view, lighter weight, equivalent sensor and better price make a much better choice as an allrounder for taking video underwater. Also, with it's depth rating to 20m, the maximum depth for new divers, there's no need to buy the underwater housing, although I would recommend it as an extra layer of insurance and protection.

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 also offers excellent value with comparable or better features for less money, thus offering much better value. Both of these cameras offer better results than the GoPro!

In conclusion:

For me, the Dji Action 5 Pro offers the best all round capabilities for the price. It offers the best value for money, and has the better capabilities as a camera. It keeps your kit as simple as possible and takes the stress out of capturing those special moments.

Feature	Insta360 Ace Pro 2	DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro	GoPro Hero 13 Black
Release Date	October 2024	September 2024	September 2024
Sensor	1/1.3" CMOS, 50MP	1/1.3" CMOS, 40MP	1/1.9" CMOS, 27MP
Max Video Resolution	8K at 30fps	4K at 120fps	5.3K at 60fps
Slow Motion	4K at 120fps, FHD at 240fps	1080p at 240fps	2.7K at 240fps, 720p at 400fps
Lens Aperture	f/2.6	f/2.8	f/2.8
Field of View	13mm equivalent	12.7mm equivalent	12mm equivalent
Screen	2.27" Tilting Touchscreen	2.5" Rear + 1.46" Front Touchscreens	2.27" Fixed Rear Touchscreen
Battery	Not specified	4 hours at 1080p	1900mAh Enduro Battery
Waterproofing	Weather-sealed	20m (60m with case)	10m (60m with case)
Stabilization	FlowState 2.0	RockSteady + AI Tracking	HyperSmooth 6.0
Special Features	Leica lens, AI chip, PureVideo mode	SuperNight mode, built-in 64GB storage	Interchangeable HB-Series lens mods
Weight	180g	146g	154g
Price (MSRP)	$399	$349	$499