Taking over/under shots with a compact camera

[grouchyturtle]

In my experience...and from all of the articles and posts that I've read, in order to take good over/under shots, the bigger the dome port you have the better. So, does anyone have any suggestions (techniques or equipment) on how to take better over/unders with a compact camera? Has anyone tried modifying a dome port to fit on a compact camera housing? Would this even work?

I'm really looking to trade in the dSLR for one of the new advanced compact. As much as I like the dSLR I really want something that's smaller, easier, more portable. I think for 99% of situations the compact would fit my needs...and I'd probably start shooting more. The inability to take over/under shots in anything short of a swimming pool is the one thing I'd really miss, though.

 

[underH2Oman]

It is difficult because the lens is so small but I have had some luck with over under using a compact.

I set the camera to take multiple pictures when I depress the button. then get the lens as centered on the the waterline as possible and shoot.
As so little movement can change the waterline using the multiple picture option often captures a good shot.

 

[AlMitch]

If you are downsizing but still want the versatility you will definitely need to buy macro and WA wet lenses for the compact. Taking under/over shots with the compact camera alone will nearly impossible but if you get the Inon WA with the dome this at least gives you a small dome to work with and with a bit of patience and calm water I'm sure you can get some really acceptable shots.

Here is one I took with the Sony RX100 + Nauticam housing + Inon UWL-H100 with dome. It's not the greatest shot and I need a lot more practice but as you can see it is at least possible.

 

[Interceptor121]

As with a compact camera you get wet lenses you have very limited options as water comes through the back of the lens on the port

Doing it with the bare port is almost impossible as that would be too small and narrow

 

[mjh]

You do need a WA Wet lens or Dome, but still pretty compact.

RX100, Nauticam, Inon H100/100 Degree WA Lens


RX100, Nauticam, Inon H100 with Dome, 144Degrees

 

[grouchyturtle]

Good enough for me! Thanks for the sample shots. I'm going to miss my big dome port...but I'm really going to like having something that's much smaller and easier to handle.