{"id":363192,"date":"2026-04-27T04:29:56","date_gmt":"2026-04-27T04:29:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fujifilm-x.com\/?post_type=learning-centre&p=363192"},"modified":"2026-04-27T04:29:56","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T04:29:56","slug":"an-introduction-to-underwater-image-making","status":"publish","type":"learning-centre","link":"https:\/\/www.fujifilm-x.com\/en-gb\/learning-centre\/an-introduction-to-underwater-image-making\/","title":{"rendered":"An Introduction to Underwater Image Making"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Coral reefs, kelp forests, shipwrecks \u2013 the underwater world offers image-making opportunities unlike anything found on land. Colours behave differently, light fades quickly and even familiar subjects take on an unfamiliar character once submerged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Underwater photography can feel intimidating at first, but with the right approach and a clear understanding of how water affects both light and camera handling, it will become an incredibly rewarding creative discipline. Let\u2019s dive into the fundamentals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo 2023 \u00a9 Emily Endean | FUJIFILM X-T3 and FUJINON XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R LM OIS, 1\/125 sec at F5, ISO 200<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why underwater photography is different<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Light behaves uniquely underwater. Water absorbs light far more quickly than air, with warmer colours like red and orange disappearing first as distance from the light source increases. As a result, contrast drops, clarity is reduced and scenes take on a cooler, bluer cast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The more water between your lens and the subject, the more colour and detail are lost, which is why underwater photographers are encouraged to get as close as possible. This influences everything from lens choice to handling technique, and it\u2019s one of the biggest adjustments for photographers used to working on land.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo 2024 \u00a9 Zhao Haoqin | FUJIFILM GFX100S II and FUJINON GF35-70mmF4.5-5.6 WR, 1\/160 sec at F5, ISO 640<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Best Fujifilm equipment for underwater photography<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

At the time of writing, no X Series or GFX System cameras or lenses are designed to operate underwater on their own. To take Fujifilm equipment below the surface, a third-party underwater housing or diving enclosure is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Housing compatibility therefore becomes a primary factor when selecting your camera and lens combination, alongside considerations such as handling, quality and performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo 2023 \u00a9 Mads St Clair | FUJIFILM GFX100S and FUJINON GF23mmF4 R LM WR, 1\/200 sec at F4, ISO 3200<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Fujifilm cameras<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ease of control is crucial underwater. Cameras with tactile exposure dials are particularly valuable, as compatible housings allow for quick adjustments even when wearing thick gloves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also difficult to brace a camera effectively in moving water, especially when reaching out to get closer to marine life. For this reason, in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) can make a difference by helping you achieve sharper stills and steadier video.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lightweight, well-balanced bodies such as the FUJIFILM X-S20<\/a> are well suited to underwater use, offering strong stills and video performance alongside a compact form factor and effective IBIS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For photographers prioritising resolution, models like the FUJIFILM X-T5<\/a> and X-H2<\/a> deliver exceptional image quality, while the stacked sensor and rapid readout of the FUJIFILM X-H2S<\/a> make it particularly handy for fast-moving subjects \u2013 including marine wildlife \u2013 and hybrid work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battery life is another consideration. Once a camera is sealed inside an underwater housing, opening it for a battery change is time-consuming and impractical. Cameras using the high-capacity FUJIFILM NP-W235 battery \u2013 which all of the bodies on this list do \u2013 allow for longer sessions between charges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For those seeking the benefits of a larger sensor underwater, the FUJIFILM GFX100 II<\/a> and GFX100S II<\/a> offer large format image quality with impressive stabilisation, delivering outstanding detail and tonal depth when paired with a compatible housing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo 2023 \u00a9 Mads St Clair | FUJIFILM GFX100S and FUJINON GF23mmF4 R LM WR, 1\/100 sec at F4, ISO 1250<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Fujinon lenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Wide-angle lenses are the most common choice for underwater photography, allowing image makers to work close to their subject while fitting more of the scene into the frame. Both wide-angle zooms and primes are popular, with faster apertures offering improved light gathering \u2013 an important consideration in the often-dark surroundings of the open water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Longer focal lengths are generally less effective underwater, as increased subject distance quickly degrades colour and contrast. Macro photography is a far more effective approach, particularly for small marine life and details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As with camera bodies, lens choice will ultimately be influenced by housing compatibility. Underwater housings and domes are typically designed around specific lenses, making it essential to confirm support before committing to a particular optic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo 2023 \u00a9 Mads St Clair | FUJIFILM GFX100S and FUJINON GF23mmF4 R LM WR, 1\/200 sec at F4, ISO 3200<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Suitable X Series lenses include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n