Underwater cameras can be a little intimidating, especially with the risk of flooding. Proper predive prep and postdive care will go a long way in ensuring your underwater camera and housing will last.

UNDERWATER CAMERA CARE— BEFORE YOU DIVE
• Check the buttons and controls on the housing to make sure they are clean and work smoothly
• Carefully inspect the housing O-ring; it should be spotlessly clean and undamaged, and there should be only a very thin coating of lubricant on it to allow it to slide into its groove without sticking
• Put a couple of desiccant bags inside the housing, making sure they won’t block any of the controls; these will absorb moisture and help prevent fogging
• Once the housing is closed, keep it out of the sun or cover it with a damp towel to prevent fogging
• If possible, enter the water without your camera and have it handed to you; this will help prevent damage during your entry

UNDERWATER CAMERA CARE— AFTER YOU DIVE
• Thoroughly rinse your camera rig in clean, fresh water as soon as possible; if your rinse is delayed, keep it wet even in salt water to prevent it from drying and forming salt crystals
• While your camera is rinsing, operate all of the buttons and controls to free any salt or debris that’s accumulated
• If your camera has a tray, arms or lights, it’s a good idea to frequently disassemble the parts to prevent debris or corrosion from collecting at the connection points
• Dry your camera thoroughly before opening your housing to prevent water from entering