As a photographer, I’m always on the lookout for the best camera equipment that can deliver high-quality photos and videos. One model that has caught my attention is the Canon G7X, a compact camera that has been praised for its excellent imaging capabilities.
But one question that keeps popping up is whether the Canon G7X can go underwater.
In this article, I will explore the underwater capabilities of the Canon G7X and help you decide if it’s the right camera for your underwater photography needs.
The Canon G7X is a popular choice for photographers who want a compact camera that can deliver high-quality photos and videos. However, it’s not a waterproof camera, which means that you can’t just take it underwater without any protection.
To use it underwater, you need to use an underwater housing or casing that can protect it from water damage.
There are several brands that offer underwater housing for the Canon G7X, such as Fantasea, Ikelite, and Nauticam, which can make it waterproof and allow you to take it diving or snorkeling.
So, can the Canon G7X go underwater? The answer is yes, but only with the right equipment. In the following sections, we will explore the underwater capabilities of the Canon G7X, its shooting modes and controls, imaging and video quality, lens and zoom features, lighting and exposure, accessory compatibility, and practical considerations. We will also answer some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision about using the Canon G7X underwater.
Overview of the Canon G7X
As a compact camera, the Canon G7X is a popular choice for photographers who need a small and lightweight camera that still delivers high-quality images. The camera features a 20-megapixel 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor, which provides excellent resolution and image quality.
The Canon G7X Mark II and Mark III are updated versions of the original G7X, with the Mark III being the most recent release. Both cameras feature a DIGIC 8 image processor, which provides faster performance and improved image quality over the original G7X.
The Canon G7X is a versatile camera that is well-suited for a variety of shooting situations. It has a wide range of specifications, including a maximum aperture of f/1.8-2.8, a 4.2x optical zoom lens, and a 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD display.
Underwater Capabilities
As an avid underwater photographer, I was curious about the Canon G7X’s ability to capture stunning images in aquatic environments. After conducting some research, I discovered that the camera has several features that make it suitable for underwater photography.
Waterproof Features
The Canon G7X is not waterproof, but it does have some waterproof features. It has a weather-sealed body that can withstand splashes and light rain. However, it is not designed to be submerged in water without additional protection.
Depth Rating
To take the Canon G7X underwater, you will need to invest in an underwater housing. The depth rating of the housing will determine how deep you can take your camera.
There are several underwater housings available for the Canon G7X, each with different depth ratings. The Fantasea underwater housing, for example, can take your camera up to 60 meters or 200 feet deep.
Underwater Housing Options
When it comes to underwater housings for the Canon G7X, there are several options available. Some of the most popular brands include Nauticam, Ikelite, and Fantasea.
Each brand has its own unique features and specifications, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.
The Fantasea underwater housing is a popular choice among underwater photographers. It is compact, durable, and can withstand depths of up to 60 meters. The housing also has double o-ring protection for a watertight seal.
Another popular option is the Recsea underwater housing, which is designed specifically for the Canon G7X. It has a depth rating of 100 meters and is made from high-quality materials.
Shooting Modes and Controls
As a photographer, I know that having control over the camera settings is important to capture the perfect shot. The Canon G7X Mark II offers several shooting modes and controls that allow me to customize my settings according to my preferences.
Manual Mode and Controls
The Canon G7X Mark II has a manual mode that enables me to have complete control over the camera settings. I can adjust the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to capture the perfect shot.
The camera also features a control ring that can be customized to adjust different settings such as exposure compensation, zoom, and focus.
Autofocus and Continuous AF
The Canon G7X Mark II features both contrast-detection autofocus and dual pixel autofocus, making it easy to capture sharp and clear images.
The camera also has a continuous autofocus mode that tracks moving subjects, making it ideal for capturing action shots.
Custom White Balance and ISO Settings
The Canon G7X Mark II offers custom white balance settings, which allow me to adjust the color temperature according to the lighting conditions. This feature helps me to capture accurate colors in my images.
Additionally, the camera has a wide range of ISO settings, which enables me to capture images in low-light conditions without compromising on image quality.
Imaging and Video Quality
When it comes to imaging and video quality, the Canon G7X is an impressive compact camera that can deliver stunning results. Let’s take a closer look at some of the camera’s key features.
RAW Image Format
One of the standout features of the Canon G7X is its ability to shoot in RAW format. This allows for greater control over the final image, as RAW files contain all of the data captured by the camera’s sensor.
This means that you can adjust things like exposure, white balance, and color temperature in post-processing without losing any image quality.
4K Video Capability
The Canon G7X is also capable of shooting 4K video, which is four times the resolution of standard 1080p HD video. This means that you can capture incredibly detailed footage that looks great on large screens.
In addition, the camera’s 4K video capability allows for greater flexibility in post-processing, as you can crop and zoom in on footage without losing resolution.
High-Resolution Photography
In addition to its impressive video capabilities, the Canon G7X is also a great camera for high-resolution photography.
It features a 20.2-megapixel sensor that can capture incredibly detailed images with great color accuracy. This makes it a great choice for landscape, portrait, and street photography.
Lens and Zoom Features
As an underwater photographer, I always look for a camera that has a great lens and zoom features.
The Canon G7X is equipped with a 24-100mm optical zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.8-2.8. This lens is perfect for underwater photography as it allows me to capture both wide-angle shots and close-up macro shots.
Macro Photography
One of the best features of the Canon G7X for underwater photography is its macro capabilities. The camera has a minimum focusing distance of just 5cm, which allows me to get up close and personal with my subjects.
The camera’s macro mode is easy to access and provides excellent image quality, even in low light conditions.
Wide Angle and Zoom Range
The Canon G7X’s wide-angle capabilities are also impressive. The camera has a 24mm wide-angle lens that is perfect for capturing wide shots of reefs, schools of fish, and other underwater scenes.
The camera’s optical zoom lens allows me to zoom in on my subject without losing image quality. The 4.2x optical zoom range is perfect for capturing both wide-angle and close-up shots.
Lighting and Exposure
When it comes to underwater photography with the Canon G7X, lighting and exposure are crucial factors that can make or break your shots. In this section, I will discuss the built-in flash and external strobe compatibility, as well as the aperture and shutter speed settings.
Built-In Flash and External Strobe Compatibility
The Canon G7X comes with a built-in flash that can be used to illuminate your subjects underwater. However, the range of the built-in flash is limited, and it may not be powerful enough to light up larger subjects or scenes.
If you want to take your underwater photography to the next level, you should consider using an external strobe.
External strobes are more powerful than the built-in flash and can provide a wider and more even coverage of light. They also allow you to adjust the intensity and direction of the light, which can help you create more dynamic and creative shots.
The Canon G7X is compatible with a wide range of underwater strobes, including TTL strobes, which can automatically adjust the flash output based on the camera’s settings.
Aperture and Shutter Speed Settings
The aperture and shutter speed settings are also important factors that can affect the exposure and lighting of your underwater shots.
The aperture controls the amount of light that enters the camera, while the shutter speed determines how long the camera’s sensor is exposed to light.
When shooting underwater, it is recommended to use a smaller aperture (higher f-number) to increase the depth of field and ensure that your subjects are in focus.
However, using a smaller aperture also means less light enters the camera, so you may need to compensate by using a slower shutter speed or a higher ISO.
It is also important to use a fast enough shutter speed to avoid motion blur and freeze the movement of your subjects.
A good rule of thumb is to use a shutter speed that is at least twice the focal length of your lens. For example, if you are using a 50mm lens, you should use a shutter speed of at least 1/100s.
Accessory Compatibility
As the Canon G7X Mark II is not waterproof, it requires additional equipment to be used underwater. In this section, I will discuss the accessory compatibility of the Canon G7X Mark II for underwater photography.
External Lenses and Filters
The Canon G7X Mark II has a built-in lens with a focal length of 8.8-36.8mm (35mm film equivalent: 24-100mm).
However, underwater photography often requires wider angles or macro capabilities. External lenses and filters can be attached to the camera to achieve these effects.
There are various external lenses and filters compatible with the Canon G7X Mark II. Popular brands include Fantasea, Nauticam, and Ikelite.
These brands offer a range of lenses and filters that can be attached to the camera. For example, the Fantasea UWL-09F wide-angle lens and the Nauticam CMC-1 macro lens are both compatible with the Canon G7X Mark II.
Additional Underwater Equipment
In addition to external lenses and filters, additional underwater equipment is required to use the Canon G7X Mark II underwater. This equipment includes a housing or casing to protect the camera from water damage.
Fantasea, Nauticam, and Ikelite offer underwater housings for the Canon G7X Mark II.
The Fantasea FG7X II housing and the Nauticam NA-G7X II housing are both compatible with the Canon G7X Mark II. These housings are designed to be waterproof and protect the camera from water damage.
Recsea is another brand that offers underwater housings for the Canon G7X Mark II. The Recsea WHG-G7X II housing is compatible with the camera and is made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and protection.
Practical Considerations
When considering taking the Canon G7X underwater, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind. These include battery life and power options, handling and ergonomics, and maintenance and care.
Battery Life and Power Options
As with any camera, battery life is an important consideration when taking the Canon G7X underwater.
It is recommended to bring extra batteries and a charger with you on your dive to ensure that you don’t run out of power.
Additionally, it is important to note that the Canon G7X can be charged via USB, making it easy to charge on the go.
Handling and Ergonomics
The Canon G7X is a compact camera, which can make it easier to handle underwater. However, the camera does not come with a handle or grip attached.
Adding a handle or grip can help improve handling and ergonomics underwater, making it easier to hold the camera steady and capture clear images.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance and care are crucial when taking any camera underwater, and the Canon G7X is no exception.
It is important to rinse the camera with fresh water after each dive to remove any salt or sand that may have accumulated on the camera.
Additionally, it is recommended to store the camera in a dry place and to regularly check the O-ring seals to ensure that they are in good condition.
Related Reading: Canon G7X Waterproof Capabilities
Scuba Diver Info – Canon G7x underwater – Discover how the Canon G7X stands out in underwater photography, offering unmatched capabilities where lesser cameras fall short.
Canon G7X Mark III Review – Underwater Photography Guide – A deep dive into the Canon G7X Mark III’s performance underwater, highlighting its advanced features for exceptional underwater shots.
Canon G7X Mark II Underwater Camera for Divers – Explore the Canon G7X Mark II’s suitability for divers, including a review with sample underwater shots for a comprehensive overview.
Canon G7X Review – Gear Reviews – Underwaterclicks.com – A comprehensive review of the Canon G7X, including an evaluation of the WP-DC54 underwater housing for protection.
First Look Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III Underwater Housing – Ikelite – An overview of the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III’s underwater housing by Ikelite, detailing its features and compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions – Canon G7X Go Underwater
What type of underwater housing is recommended for the Canon G7X?
To take the Canon G7X underwater, it is recommended to use an underwater housing.
There are several brands that offer underwater housings for the Canon G7X, such as Fantasea, Ikelite, and Nauticam.
It is important to choose a housing that is specifically designed for the Canon G7X, as this will ensure the best fit and protection for your camera.
How does one adjust the Canon G7X settings for optimal underwater photography?
To achieve optimal results for underwater photography with the Canon G7X, it is recommended to adjust the camera settings manually.
This includes adjusting the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to suit the lighting conditions and the desired effect.
It is also important to use a color-correcting filter to compensate for the loss of colors at depth.
What is the maximum depth the Canon G7X can handle with proper underwater housing?
The maximum depth that the Canon G7X can handle with proper underwater housing depends on the specific housing model.
However, most housings are rated for depths of up to 60 meters (200 feet).
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and maintenance to ensure the housing remains watertight and safe to use at all times.
Are there any waterproof or weather-sealed versions of the Canon G7X series?
No, there are no waterproof or weather-sealed versions of the Canon G7X series.
However, the Canon G7X Mark III features improved dust and moisture resistance compared to earlier models, which makes it more durable and reliable in challenging conditions.
What makes the Canon G7X series a popular choice for underwater photography?
The Canon G7X series is a popular choice for underwater photography due to its compact size, high image quality, and versatility.
The camera features a fast lens, a large sensor, and manual controls, which allows for creative control and high-quality results.
Additionally, the camera’s small size makes it easy to travel with and use in challenging underwater environments.
How does the Canon G7X Mark III perform compared to earlier models for underwater shooting?
The Canon G7X Mark III features several improvements over earlier models for underwater shooting. These include improved autofocus performance, faster burst shooting, and 4K video recording.
The camera also features improved dust and moisture resistance, which makes it more durable and reliable in challenging conditions. Overall, the Canon G7X Mark III is a great option for underwater photographers looking for a compact and versatile camera.
