Waterproof Help for a Camera?

[katredd]

Hello all -- We are headed to Alaska next August and I'd like to get some kind of waterproof type protection for dh's camera as a Christmas gift. He's got a Nikon D70 (digital SLR) and he is an avid photographer. I can see issues with it when we are on whale watches or other activiites where it could get wet. I am wondering if any of you have a good suggestion on a case -- am looking to order the Ewa-Marine U-AZ that will accomodate a telephoto lense... it is pricey. Anyone have any experience with these or others they'd suggest? Many thanks as always!

[msmoger]

I basically have the same question. I just purchased a Panasonic DMC-FZ8 (based on recommendations from these threads and a lot of research) and I'm also wondering if I should be concerned about it getting wet. My binoculars are waterproof but what about my camera? I have a case, but I wouldn't consider it waterproof and of course that's not going to help when I'm actually using the camera. Is this simply a case of being careful (and judicious use of an umbrella)? :rolleyes:

 

Thanks for any advice.

[photodoodle]

You are not likely to get splashed on a whale watching excursion, but it is often rain/drizzling in Alaska.

 

I took the Kata Rain Cover:

http://www.kata-bags.com/Item.asp?pid=229&cid=61&perentId=4&ProdLine=4

on my Alaska cruise this summer. It looks pretty goofy, but I was able to shoot in drizzle and a light/medium rain. I probably could have shot in a heavier rain, but I didn't try.

[mitaxi]

You are not likely to get splashed on a whale watching excursion, but it is often rain/drizzling in Alaska.

 

I took the Kata Rain Cover:

http://www.kata-bags.com/Item.asp?pid=229&cid=61&perentId=4&ProdLine=4

on my Alaska cruise this summer. It looks pretty goofy, but I was able to shoot in drizzle and a light/medium rain. I probably could have shot in a heavier rain, but I didn't try.

 

Thanks for this posting...I had a constant drizzle when I went on the whale watching in September..could have used this, will get one for next trip...

[Yukon]

There are 3 different protection devices posted at http://www.youralaskacruise.com/shop.html - from $6 up.

[msmoger]

There are 3 different protection devices posted at http://www.youralaskacruise.com/shop.html - from $6 up.

 

 

Thanks, it looks like the cheapest option might work out best :D

[STcruzr]

I use a 2 gallon ZipLock storage bag. Simply cut a hole in one corner large enough for your lens to fit and then you have the regular opening for access to the controls etc.. I always keep a few in my camera bag for unexpected rain. Works great and doesn't take up a lot of room. I use it with 300mm zoom lens with no problem.

[msmoger]

I use a 2 gallon ZipLock storage bag. Simply cut a hole in one corner large enough for your lens to fit and then you have the regular opening for access to the controls etc.. I always keep a few in my camera bag for unexpected rain. Works great and doesn't take up a lot of room. I use it with 300mm zoom lens with no problem.

 

 

Wow!! That's an even cheaper option :p. I think I might just give that a try before buying anything.

 

Thanks,

[msmoger]

I found this web page while poking around:

 

http://www.thewaterproofstore.com/camera.html

[Dsnyluvr]

I use a 2 gallon ZipLock storage bag. Simply cut a hole in one corner large enough for your lens to fit and then you have the regular opening for access to the controls etc.. I always keep a few in my camera bag for unexpected rain. Works great and doesn't take up a lot of room. I use it with 300mm zoom lens with no problem.

 

 

I know this works for Splash Mountain. :p

[plenox]

I use a 2 gallon ZipLock storage bag. Simply cut a hole in one corner large enough for your lens to fit and then you have the regular opening for access to the controls etc.. I always keep a few in my camera bag for unexpected rain. Works great and doesn't take up a lot of room. I use it with 300mm zoom lens with no problem.

 

Will rain seep through the center openning and get into your camera? I am hoping for some more details. But it may not as complicated as I had imagined. :)

[STcruzr]

I have never had a problem with the camera getting wet even in some fairly heavy rain. I sometimes partially zip the bag closed to minimize the opening in extreme conditions. I find that I have adequate access to the controls, etc. even with the bag partially zipped closed. I use an Olympus eVolt e500 DSLR. Try and find a comfortable and workable solution for yourself prior to actually having to use it in a wet environment to bring up your comfort level.

 

Chuck

[STcruzr]

Forgot to mention that the opening will be on the side with the solid part of the bag on the top. Basically you will be holding the bag on its' side.

 

Chuck

[dhmom99]

Olympus has some waterproof cameras that can be used underwater. Are they any good? Does anyone have any experience with it?

[mi3stooges]

Here is another inexpensive option...

 

http://coolcameracases.com/

[PennyAgain]

I use a 2 gallon ZipLock storage bag. Simply cut a hole in one corner large enough for your lens to fit and then you have the regular opening for access to the controls etc.. I always keep a few in my camera bag for unexpected rain. Works great and doesn't take up a lot of room. I use it with 300mm zoom lens with no problem.

 

Even if you buy an expensive waterproof case, be sure to have your supply of Zip-Loc bags along. I don't cut holes in them until the time of use in case I need them for something else along the way.

 

If all else fails, a cheap shower cap works as well. I've gotten really soaked in Alaska (many, many trips there) but the closest I came to damaging a camera was when I slipped crossing a stream and nearly dunked one. Be sure to use a neck strap!