Capturing the mesmerizing world beneath the waves is no easy feat. Underwater photography demands a blend of technical skill, creativity, and, most importantly, the right equipment. The lens you choose can make the difference between a hazy snapshot and a breathtaking image that captures the vibrant beauty of coral reefs, the fluid grace of marine life, or the ethereal light of the deep.

But with so many options available, finding the perfect lens for your underwater adventures can feel overwhelming. Do you go wide to encompass a sweeping seascape? Or macro to highlight the intricate details of marine critters?

In this guide, we’ll explore the top lenses for underwater photography, breaking down their features, strengths, and ideal use cases to help you find your perfect match. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your underwater photography journey, we’ve got you covered.

Getting Started with Underwater Photography

As an underwater photographer, the type of lens that you choose is very important as it directly affects the quality and style of the images you will take. Different lenses offer different fields of view, image clarity, and composition styles.

When you are selecting a lens to purchase or take on your next dive, you must think about the subject matter that you’re planning to photograph. Big subjects like ocean-scapes or large fish require a wide-angle lens as these allow you to capture the largest amount of subject matter within a single frame - check out my ocean photography here.

Smaller subjects such as nudibranchs and tiny marine life benefit from macro lenses. These lenses are designed to magnify a subject and bring out intricate details that would otherwise be missed.

Specific image compositions have their own requirements. For example, split shots where half of the image is above the waterline and the other half often require dome ports combined with wide lenses to achieve this unique perspective. The dive environment also influences lens choice as clear waters allow more flexibility in lens selection, while murkier conditions may demand lenses that enhance contrast and brightness.

The last thing to take into consideration is cost. High-quality lenses can be expensive, but investing in the right equipment can result in stunning images and a rewarding photography experience. Additional costs come in the form of essential equipment including waterproof housing and strobes to ensure proper lighting. Each individual lens may require its own housing so divers new to the field should take some time to consider where their interests lie.

Types of Lenses

Different lenses play unique roles in underwater photography. Choosing the right one depends on the subject and environment.

Wide-Angle (Rectilinear) Lenses - These lenses are perfect for capturing broad scenes like reefs and wrecks as they maintain straight lines which minimizes distortion. 

Examples: 

• Sony 28-60mm

• Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G

• Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L

Fisheye Lenses - When seeking dramatic compositions and close-focus wide-angle shots, fisheye lenses are the go-to choice. They provide extreme wide-angle capture with pronounced curvature. 

Examples: 

• Tokina 10-17mm Fisheye

• Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L

• Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye

Macro Lenses - Macro lenses excel in capturing small, intricate subjects such as nudibranchs and shrimps in stunning detail. They offer a close-up view, emphasizing texture and color. 

Examples: 

• Canon 100mm f/2.8L Macro

• Sony 90mm

Each lens category offers something unique, catering to different photographic needs beneath the waves. This diversity allows photographers to creatively document underwater life.

Factors to Consider

Compatibility
Ensuring the lens is compatible with both the camera and underwater housing is crucial. This compatibility affects the ease of use and functionality. Different camera models may require specific lenses or mount adapters.

Field of View
A wide field of view is essential for capturing expansive underwater scenes. This feature enables photographers to include more of the environment in each shot. Wide-angle lenses are commonly preferred for this purpose.

Focal Length
Focal length significantly impacts the distance from which photographers can capture subjects. Shorter focal lengths allow closer proximity and are useful for capturing detailed shots of marine life. 

This can be particularly advantageous for close-up photography.

Aperture
The aperture setting impacts performance in low-light conditions and controls depth of field. A larger aperture (smaller f-stop number) allows more light to reach the sensor, which is beneficial underwater where lighting can be limited. 

It also provides control over the sharpness and focus range.

Popular Lens Brands and Models

When exploring underwater photography, selecting the right lens brand and model is crucial. There are many brands offering a variety of lenses and, understandably, it can be confusing to choose between them.

Canon is a giant in the camera industry and they offer high-quality lenses renowned for their advanced optics and build quality. Models such as the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L allow photographers to capture vivid, clear underwater scenes. 

• Pros: Outstanding image quality and robust design

• Cons: Higher price point compared to other brands

Nikon provides durable lenses with excellent performance in demanding environments. The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED stands out for underwater photography for its exceptional sharpness and wide aperture. 

• Pros: Excellent sharpness and color accuracy

• Cons: Can be bulky and heavy for travel

Sony is known for its innovative lens technology, delivering compact and light options which are ideal for travelling to dive locations. The Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM is popular among underwater photographers for its superior resolution. 

• Pros: Lightweight and compact

• Cons: Limited third-party housing options

Third-party manufacturers, such as Tokina and Sigma, offer competitive options for divers who are looking for value. Tokina's AT-X 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5 DX is a great options that offers a fisheye perspective that many underwater enthusiasts favor. 

• Pros: Unique perspectives and relatively affordable

• Cons: May require adapters for some camera bodies

Sigma lenses, like the Sigma 15mm f/2.8 EX DG Diagonal Fisheye, provide exceptional creative possibilities with a distinct fish-eye effect. 

• Pros: Great creative flexibility and often less expensive than other brands 

• Cons: May not match proprietary lenses in speed and precision

Choosing the right lens involves considering budget, shooting style, and specific photography needs, allowing for capturing the underwater world in stunning detail.

Maintenance and Care

After investing money into your lenses, it’s obviously important to know how to look after them so that you can continue to use them for many dives to come. Keeping lenses in prime condition is very important for underwater photography as it ensures that your photographs are as good as they can possibly be.

If your lenses are exposed to saltwater, they should be thoroughly cleaned to remove it after each dive. Salt can corrode metal parts so this step is essential. A soft, microfibre cloth should be used to pat your lenses dry and remove any water spots.

You can avoid scratches to your lenses by using lens caps whenever the camera is not in use. Always inspect the lens for any sand or debris after each dive as these can scratch the glass if not removed properly. You can use a gentle brush to remove loose particles and follow this with a lens cleaning solution and soft cloth to remove smudges. 

When it comes to storage, keep your lenses in a dry, dust-free case. You can use silica packs to control humidity and prevent mold. It’s always a good idea to make sure that your gear is properly dried before storing it to avoid moisture damage. Investing in a good, padded camera bag is also recommended, especially for those of you who regularly travel for your dives. 

Wet lenses offer added versatility for underwater photography. These lenses can be attached or detached while underwater, allowing for quick adaptation to different shooting requirements. They also require careful maintenance, just like standard lenses, to maintain their functionality and clarity.

By investing a little time in maintenance and care, photographers can ensure their lenses remain reliable and effective for capturing stunning underwater scenes.