One of the problems with a scuba diving vacation or trip is how to save the memories. Regular cameras will not work underwater. Cameras that do work underwater can be very expensive and have to be housed in a waterproof case, which adds to the cost. You also have to consider the physics of taking pictures underwater. Even if the water is very clear, you lose the red and yellow light waves as you go deeper into the water, causing everything to look blue and making it hard to distinguish your subject from the water. This effect is also present the further you are away from your subject.

There are several solutions to these problems. The Sealife SL320 Reef Master mini digital camera is a completely waterproof unit that doesn't need a separate housing. It can be used at depths up to 130 feet, has external flash, and it sells for under $300.00, making it extremely affordable. Other good cameras are the Intova I-C 700, which costs about the same as the Sealife, and the Sea & Sea DX-1G, which sells for $1,000.00. The Intova and the Sea & Sea both need waterproof cases, but you can use different lenses with them.

Underwater photography requires the use of macro or wide-angle lenses, a strong external flash, and clear water. Even with all that equipment, you still need to be very close to your subject to get good color and clarity. The problem with taking pictures while snorkeling is that you are always looking down at your subject. You can get better angles when scuba diving, but you need to be very still when taking the pictures.