Fogging in Underwater Housings: Causes and Solutions

Solutions to Fogging in Underwater Housings

When diving with underwater camera housings, one common issue many photographers encounter is fogging in underwater housings. This problem occurs due to the temperature difference between the housing, which is exposed to sunlight, and the cooler water.

The Science Behind Fogging

Fogging occurs due to basic physics. When the housing is left in the sun, it heats up. Upon entering the cooler water, the sudden drop in temperature causes condensation to form inside the housing. This is because warm air holds more moisture than cool air. As the temperature drops, the moisture in the air inside the housing condenses on the cooler surfaces, including the camera lens, leading to fogging that obstructs the view and ruins your shots.

How to Prevent Fogging

To minimize fogging, it’s crucial to manage the environment around the housing. One of the golden rules is to avoid exposing the housing to direct sunlight before the dive. Always keep it in the shade or cover it with a towel when you’re on the beach. Additionally, it’s important to load your camera into the housing in a dry environment, away from the humid beach air, as moisture trapped inside can exacerbate the fogging problem.

While fogging can occur in all types of housings, acrylic housings are particularly prone to it due to their insulating properties. Aluminum housings perform slightly better, as metal dissipates heat more effectively, but the same principles apply.

Additional Solutions

One of the most effective ways to prevent fogging is to use silica gel packs inside the housing. These small packets absorb moisture from the air, keeping the internal environment dry. Most divers use this solution to ensure their housings remain fog-free throughout the dive.

By taking these precautions, you can prevent fogging and ensure a clearer, more enjoyable underwater photography experience.

Solutions


On Fotografit.eu we offer some easy solutions ⬇️

https://fotografit.eu/products/12-housing-accessories/1297-silica-gel—pack-of-6

https://fotografit.eu/products/84-gopro-accessories/1027-anti-fog-inserts

https://fotografit.eu/products/12-housing-accessories/6186-leak-insurace-xxl-satchets-10pcs


Michael C.
Michael C.

Underwater photographer for 20+ years