[Leica] Re: Waterproof Leicas (an oxymoron)

[LRZeitlin@aol.com]

Here are some comments on cameras at sea I wrote for a yachting magazine a 
few years ago. While not strictly directed at canoes, most of the material is 
applicable. Frankly, the Leica is a most unsuitable camera to take to the 
water. It has too many small openings which admit dampness. It is fiddly to 
load in a rocking canoe or kayak. Waterproof cases require too many control 
levers. Plastic bags restrict function. Finally, it is just too damn valuable 
to risk.    

1. Any camera taken aboard a small boat must be considered expendable.  Apart 
from the ever present danger of dropping it overboard is the mechanical and 
electrical deterioration caused by the corrosive effects of dampness and 
salt. Select a camera you would not be heartbroken to lose. If your 
photographic standards permit, the Kodak Fun Saver or Fuji Quick Snap 
disposable cameras are ideal. Professional photographers can deduct camera 
repair costs and loss from their tax returns. The rest of us are not so lucky.

    2. Get a small waterproof box for the camera to live in on deck. I've 
used a surplus ammo box, a Tupperware freezer container, and a cheap plastic 
camera transport case. All protect the camera from spray or the occasional 
wave and can be opened quickly. Don't forget to fasten the box securely or it 
can go overboard along with the camera.

    3. For cameras used in a marine environment, plastic is better than 
metal, mechanical is better than electric, simple is better than complex. 
Forego autofocus, auto film transport, and, if you can, auto exposure. Equip 
the camera with a neck strap or wrist lanyard and use it.

    4. While professionals use slide film for marketing and technical 
reasons, most of us prefer prints. The worldwide photo establishment is set 
up to deal with print film. Both film and processing can be found in any port 
frequented by yachtsmen. Current print film possesses superb quality. It also 
has considerably greater tolerance for exposure error than does slide film, a 
necessity for most point-and-shoot cameras. Use 36 exposure film. The longer 
the roll, the less it costs per exposure and the fewer times you have to open 
the camera.

    5. Finally, for great pictures with the least trouble, buy a Nikonos 
camera. The older manual models are almost indestructible, work to depths 
of160 feet, and have a first quality lens. Plenty are available on the used 
market at less than $200. Try your local dive store.
One camera on deck is worth ten in a footlocker. 

Bon voyage,
LarryZ