5 Reasons an Underwater Camera is the Best All-Around Camera

When you hear the term "underwater camera," do you immediately picture scuba divers taking photos deep under the sea?

If so, then you haven't seen today's new waterproof models that are made not just for use in the water, but are great for everyday picture taking on dry land.

Here are 5 reasons you should consider an underwater model when you're in the market for a new camera.

Just a few years ago, the idea of jumping in a swimming pool, the ocean or a lake with your camera was unthinkable unless you were willing to pay for an expensive underwater housing to protect it. Now, however, camera manufacturers are developing new waterproof, shockproof digital cameras that can not only go in the water, but are great for taking photos just about anywhere. Here's why.

1- Underwater Cameras Are Versatile
Today's new rugged waterproof cameras are designed to be used both in water and on land, so you can use them just almost everywhere you go. And because they're designed with outdoor adventure in mind, they usually have wide angle lenses that are great for capturing all the action or just shooting landscapes. Zoom features allow you to get just the shot you want, and many come with special modes to shoot action, portraits, night shots, and even panoramic views.

2 – Underwater Cameras Shoot Video, Too
If you really want an all-in-one camera that does virtually everything, today's new waterproof cameras often come with video capabilities, too. The less expensive models may offer VGA quality video, while top-of-the-line models such as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3 offer full HD video.

3 – Underwater Cameras are Compact
Because they're designed with adventure in mind, most of today's underwater cameras are light and compact, making them great to stick in a pocket, a backpack or a suitcase. This is perfect if you're going on vacation and don't want to have a lot of bulky items to lug around from place to place.

4 – Underwater Cameras are Rugged
The best new waterproof cameras are shockproof, dustproof and freezeproof, too. So you can take them swimming, snowmobiling, or off-road four-wheeling without worrying about the components getting damaged by water, snow, dirt or dust. They'll even survive if your kids accidentally knock them off the kitchen table.

5 – Underwater Cameras are Budget-Friendly
You can get excellent quality waterproof cameras for no more than you'd pay for any other compact model. But if you choose a good underwater camera as your primary one, you won't need to spend extra money when you want to take pictures on your snorkeling trip to Hawaii or want to shoot underwater video of the kids in the pool. And because they're built to withstand the elements, you won't have to worry about your camera getting ruined by the elements and forcing you to spend more money on a new one.

If you're interested in a waterproof camera, check out some underwater digital camera reviews to find the best camera for you. With all the options available, you're sure to find one that's right for your needs.