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Underwater Housings: (continued)
in camera equipment.
Now consider what it requires to turn that investment into a
complete underwater system.
Underwater housings are
typically sold piecemeal, and it's this practice that makes
putting together a system so expensive. Here's what's
needed to complete the package as a minimum:
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The Housing.
Each housing is designed for one specific model of camera.
Depending on the manufacturer and the quality of the
materials, the prices ranges between $1,500 (plastic) and
$3,000 and up (metal, or metal and plastic) |
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Ports:
Generally manufacturers provide two types of ports --one for
"standard" lenses, and one for wide-angles. A standard port
is approximately $300, and a wide-angle dome varies from $500 to
$1000. |
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Strobe:
An absolutely essential accessory for underwater
photography. Cost: $400 to $800 |
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Sync Cord:
The
waterproof cord that connects the strobe to the housing.
$100 to $150 |
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Strobe
Mounting Arm:
$100 to $150 |
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Base Plate:
In many cases, the base plate (the bar that connects the
strobe arm to the housing) is not included. $100 |
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Total cost: $3,500 to outfit an
existing $1,000 camera system. This is an extremely
conservative estimate, based on mid-priced components.
For example, a high-power professional underwater strobe with sync
cord realistically retails for $1,500. And a full-fledged
professional housing for a |
