OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 Waterproof Camera, Red

Product Information

There's just something about film that brings photos to life. If you're looking for a retro-cool waterproof camera for yourself or an inexpensive model for the kids that won't wear out your wallet, you need the Kodak MAX Water & Sport disposable camera. Use a Rain Cover: Rain covers are a popular choice for keeping your camera dry. They are essentially waterproof bags designed to fit over your camera and lens. Some are made to fit specific camera models, while others are one-size-fits-all. Rain covers usually have a clear window so you can still see the camera controls and they generally allow access to the camera’s buttons and dials. While the OM-1 was technically the first branded OM-System camera, the first model to be launched under the new management was actually this one – the capable little Olympus PEN E-P7. The PEN range is sometimes forgotten about in discussions of the various merits of Micro Four Thirds cameras, but the PEN E-P7 is well worth considering. A ‘one size fits all’ option for holidaymakers, this Agfa branded camera with flip-up plastic ‘sports finder’ can function in the wet as well as the dry – and greatly aids accurate composition underwater.

The DC2000 inner camera and outer case both have controls that are easy to access and use and are fit for either land or sea photography. Dials and buttons are well positioned and provide a somewhat familiar layout. Large-aperture lens: Since light falls off dramatically the farther you dive below the surface of the water (they don’t call them the murky depths for nothing), it helps to have a lens that lets in as much light as possible. For any camera nerds who are wondering, we set a cutoff of f/3.5 or larger as the maximum aperture. This narrowed down the field a lot.

At a Glance

With the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, you’ll need to hunt around on the second-hand market. Credit: Andy Westlake Info, Play, Menu, and a four-way d-pad fill out the rear button scheme. The d-pad supports four additional functions via direction presses—EV, Flash, Drive, and Digital Zoom. The latter is a pain point as I accidentally pressed the left directional button a couple of times when out and about with the camera. The 2x digital zoom left me wondering where my wide-angle coverage went, and the only other clue that it's turned on is a tiny indicator icon near the top of the display. I wish there was a way to turn the feature off or remap the button, but the TG-7's interface isn't configurable at all. We’ve included plenty of all the different options on this list, to give you a sense of which you might prefer. So let’s get into it!

Yes. Panasonic Lumix G cameras are also part of the Micro Four Thirds standard, meaning that Panasonic Lumix G, Olympus and OM-SYSTEM cameras and lenses can all be used interchangeably. However, there’s a reason we’re specifying ‘Lumix G’ there – Panasonic also offers its full-frame line of Lumix S cameras, with Lumix S lenses to match. This system uses the ‘L’ lens mount, which was born part of an alliance between Panasonic, Leica and Sigma. Bear in mind that features like stabilisation are sometimes less effective when you’re mixing and matching brands – if you’re using a stabilised camera and lens from the same maker, they can often work in tandem to deliver a more powerful effect. Lastly, the TG-6's host of close-up features not only allow for capturing subjects 1cm (0.4") away: the 'digital microscope' mode lets you zoom in up to four times more, though with a reduction in image quality. Olympus sells a ring light and flash diffuser to add flexibility to your macro photography. This isn't the model for you if you're looking for 4K. The Lumix only shoots in MP4. It also struggles in low light, both in finding focus and capturing grain-free images. However, if you're like most, and you want a camera to take on vacation, surfing, or for a day of beach fun, the Panasonic LUMIX TS30 will fit your needs and your budget. Investing in a quality product that is as tough and capable as the TG-6, will be well worth it when you see the images and videos it can deliver.

Connectivity, Power, and Accecssories

Olympus offers a huge number of accessories, including an underwater housing that lets the camera go 15 meters (50 feet) deeper, wide-angle and fisheye conversion lenses, the ability to wirelessly fire Olympus's flashes (which need to be in housings too, of course) and much more.

Resolution (ISO-12233):We use a resolution chart based on ISO-12233 from Applied Image inc to indicate the limit of the camera’s vertical resolution at the centre of the frame. The higher the value, the better the detail resolution. The best waterproof camera typically offers automatic and scene modes for general photography, and some models might also offer manual control over shutter speed and aperture. The Olympus Tough TG-6 is an ideal camera for divers or adventure seekers that enjoy getting out and about in nature. The E-M10 Mark IV is one of our favourite small mirrorless cameras, especially given that the MFT system is blessed with a terrific range of portable, high-quality lenses. If you’re looking for a travel-friendly mirrorless camera, it’s one of the best choices you can make. However, as mentioned before, the image quality or versatility may not match that of more conventional cameras like DSLRs or mirrorless systems, mainly due to their fixed lenses and sometimes smaller sensors.

Popular Fittings

The SeaLife Micro 3.0 is built for underwater photography, while the Paralenz Vaquita 4K is constructed especially for scuba diving. The Vaquita has a distinct cylindrical form factor, controls designed for easy use underwater, and numerous features built for serious divers.