Best still camera for underwater crime scene photography

I am looking for some very specialized advice. I am the lead on a

sheriff's department dive team. We are currently using disposable

underwater point and shoot cameras for our investigations.

 

We need two things: First, a cop proof underwater camera. It needs

to have a detachable flash to help prevent scattering. Second, we

need someone to teach the team members the best techniques in

underwater forensic photography.

 

Thanks in advance for any help you can give.

Kevin

I'd check out something in the Nikonos line, possibly a Nikonos V. Here's a link...

 

http://www.nikonlinks.com/equipment_nikonos.htm

B&H Photo has a pretty good selection of cameras for use in and around water:<p>

 

<a href=http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist.jsp&A=FetchChildren&Q=&ci=11585 >B&H Photo</a>

The Nikonos IVa is one choice. If you check

 

 

 

www.keh.com

 

 

 

you should be able to find at least one.

 

 

 

 

Cop proof camera? That depends....you trust your fellow officers with a weapon but not a camera?

I'd check with the departments in large coastal cities such as San Diego, Los Angeles, etc., and Honolulu, for example. No need to reinvent the wheel.

Nikonos is the industry standard.

 

"best techniques in underwater forensic photography." Forensics is another issue and should be addressed by forensic professionals due severeity of the issues. I would advise calling the FBI for references.

Unfortunately the Nikonos line is discontinued. There are still many of these around on the used market. Like all equipment used in and around salt water they require care. The Nikonos V was the last incarnation (excluding the Nikonos RS SLR). They use a quaint capture medium that comes in little plastic rolls.

 

The Nikonos advantage is water-contact optics. However most of my diving friends seem to use digital cameras in underwater housings. They seem to do a good job. The most critical thing may be lighting.

 

Any way you go this is a serious investment.