December 21, 2011 by matt
A gear review published in my recent newsletter. If you havent checked it out yet, click here.
When I found out that I’d be heading out to the Seychelles, I knew I would have to make an upgrade in gear. My immediate need was a new camera body. Up until this trip, I had shot all my photography with one camera – a Canon 30D. It’s a great camera, but it was time beef up the body. After much debate between a Canon 7D and 5D, I decided to purchase the 7D. Other than the price, the feature that influenced my purchase was the AF system in the 7D. It’s a smarter system than that of a 5D, which I prefer for shooting underwater images.
A GOPRO mounts perfectly on the top of this housing to capture a cool point view.
With the types of underwater images I shoot, it’s rare that I’m able to look through the viewfinder. Not only do I have to know the lens I’m shooting, but I must heavily rely on the AF system to do it’s job. With the 7D’s advanced AF system, particularly zone selection, I can trust that I’ll have a higher quantity of sharp images. An issue I’ve always fought is the camera’s tendency to focus on the waterline in split shots. Often times in this situation, the subject in the lower portion of the image is out of focus. I found that the zone selection really assisted in solving this problem. Another convenient feature I love is the quick control (Q) option. With one push of a button, I’ve got access to virtually all camera functions other than shooting mode. This makes it incredibly simple to make changes on the fly. Overall, I’m very happy with the decision I made and I look forward to the future I have with this body.
With intentions of shooting underwater images with my 7D, I had to replace my old housing, which was specifically designed for a 30D. My Ikelite housing was a great piece of equipment, but honestly a bit of an overkill for what I do. It’s a housing designed for diving, which meant HEAVY. It was a complete beating to carry around. In comes Aquatech. They’ve pioneered underwater housings catered specifically for the action sport photographer. What you have to realize is that these are not designed for divers, which is why it’s depth rating is only 33ft. With the CO-7 model, I equipped it with a 50mm extension ring for my Canon 10-22mm lens, as well as their LP-3 8” dome.
After installing my camera (so easy), the most exciting feature was it’s overall weight. The housing alone is a slim 3lbs. Next, is the large handle. While marching out to the reefs on St. Francois, this handle was a life-saver! All around, it’s construction is incredible. The housing design is simple and ergonomic, making it super easy to handle while shooting. It’s simplicity allows for quick assembly and easy cleaning. Both the extension ring and LP-3 dome are constructed of high quality, super lightweight aluminum. The threading is machined to perfection so you can count on a snug fit every time, ensuring a safely enclosed camera. After putting this housing to the ultimate test, I can’t say there is a single flaw. I commend and thank Aquatech for offering such a great and high quality product. The only regret I have is not purchasing one of their great sport shields! For more info on these great housing, please visit www.aquatech.net
