Underwater Camera Housings: The Complete Guide from GoPro to DSLR with GDome

Capturing the underwater world requires more than just a waterproof camera. Whether you're a content creator, adventure photographer, or diving enthusiast, understanding the nuances of underwater camera housings is crucial. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the types of underwater housings available, how to choose the right one, and why GDome is a leading solution for everything from action cameras to professional DSLR setups. We'll explore setup tips, real-world use cases, and insider maintenance advice. By the end, you'll know exactly what to look for and how to maximise your underwater content creation.

Understanding Underwater Camera Housings

What is an Underwater Camera Housing?

An underwater camera housing is a specially designed case that protects your camera from water, pressure, and debris. These housings enable photography and videography in aquatic environments—whether you're snorkelling in shallow waters or scuba diving at significant depths.

Importance of Using a Housing for Underwater Photography

Water—even in small amounts—can permanently damage a camera. Housings ensure full protection while allowing you to control the camera. Good housings maintain optical clarity, prevent pressure-related issues, and often provide access to all essential controls.

Types of Underwater Camera Housings

Hard Shell Housings

These are robust, pressure-resistant casings typically made from polycarbonate or aluminium. Ideal for deeper dives, they offer superior durability and precision-fit designs for specific camera models.

Soft Bag Housings

Flexible, lightweight, and usually cheaper, soft housings are good for casual snorkelling or shallow water activities. However, they lack the depth rating and structural support of hard housings.

Universal vs. Camera-Specific Housings

Universal housings, like GDome’s, accommodate a variety of camera models. They are great for users who want versatility. Camera-specific housings offer a tighter fit and more reliable control access, but are often pricier and less adaptable.

Key Features to Consider

Depth Rating

Each housing is rated for a maximum safe depth. Entry-level housings may only be 10-15m, while professional models for DSLR/Mirrorless setups can handle deeper dives.

Material and Build Quality

Look for housings made with corrosion-resistant materials. Polycarbonate is common, but anodised aluminium offers even greater protection. High-quality seals and latches are essential.

Control Accessibility

Ensure the housing allows access to the most critical camera functions. Some models feature mechanical or electronic buttons that mimic camera controls. While some housings will need to be setup before hand, others allow full control of every button.

Port Options for Different Lenses

Your lens choice matters if you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Some housings offer interchangeable ports—dome ports for wide-angle shots, flat ports for macro.

GDome: A Versatile Solution

Overview of GDome Products

GDome offers a wide range of waterproof housings suitable for smartphones, GoPros, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras. Known for innovation and affordability, GDome is popular among creators worldwide.

Compatibility with Various Camera Types

One of GDome’s strengths is its modular design. Whether you’re using an iPhone, a GoPro HERO12, or a Sony A7, there’s a GDome product to fit your workflow.

Unique Features of GDome Housings

• Universal design with high adaptability

• Semi-rigid build with replaceable dome ports

• Rated for up to 5-40m depths, depending on model

• Customisable setups and excellent port options

Choosing the Right Housing for Your Needs

For Action Cameras (e.g., GoPro)

GDome Mobile and GDome XL4 and SuperDives are built specifically with action sports and rugged conditions in mind. These housings offer control even while wearing gloves, a large dome port for improved image clarity and reduced edge distortion, and an intuitive mounting system compatible with standard GoPro accessories.

The GDome SuperDive, for instance, features a hydrophobic dome surface to reduce water droplets sticking to the lens area—critical for surfing, wakeboarding, or diving. Its rigid housing also protects your GoPro during impact or wipeouts, and it’s rated for depths up to 40 meters. 

With its balance of durability, modularity, and ease of use, GDome’s range of solutions are ideal for content creators needing reliable, high-performance underwater housing for GoPro cameras. 

For Smartphones

GDome Mobile V3 is a strong choice for iPhone and Android users wanting to shoot cinematic underwater content without investing in high-end cameras.

For DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras

GDome XL is designed for serious photographers. It supports popular bodies from Canon, Nikon, and Sony with interchangeable lens ports and mounting options.

Setting Up Your Underwater Housing

Pre-Dive Checks

• Inspect O-rings for wear

• Do a water-tight test without the camera first

• Charge batteries and insert memory cards

Installing the Camera Correctly

Align your camera snugly inside the housing. Make sure buttons align and there is no movement. Use the included foam inserts or brackets to stabilise the camera and prevent it from shifting during use. Many housings, including GDome's, offer adjustable mounts that can be repositioned depending on your camera type.

Recommended Setup Steps:

1. Open the housing in a dry, clean environment.

2. Insert the camera with the lens facing forward, ensuring no cables or accessories interfere with the seals.

3. Adjust internal brackets or pads to secure the camera firmly.

4. Check button alignment—confirm shutter, mode, and zoom functions are accessible.

5. Close the housing slowly and check that no debris is caught in the seal.

6. Test the setup with a dry run before entering water.

Tip: Take a few setup photos or videos while dry and compare after submersion to ensure consistent functionality. your camera snugly inside the housing. Make sure buttons align and there is no movement.

Ensuring Seal Integrity

Close the housing in a clean, dry space. Use silicone grease on O-rings to maintain a solid seal.

Maintenance and Care

Post-Dive Cleaning

Rinse with fresh water immediately after use. Salt can corrode even the best housings. Use a gentle stream of water rather than high pressure, which could force water into seals. For stubborn salt buildup, soak the housing in lukewarm fresh water for 15–20 minutes. Use a soft toothbrush or microfiber cloth to clean around control buttons and hinges. Avoid using abrasive cleaners. Some users recommend mild dish soap like Dawn or biodegradable options like SeaSafe. Always rinse thoroughly and allow the housing to air dry in a shaded area. fresh water immediately after use. Salt can corrode even the best housings.

O-Ring Maintenance

Clean and grease O-rings regularly. Store them separately if not using the housing for long periods.

Storage Tips

Store housings in a cool, dry place. Avoid prolonged exposure to UV light, which can weaken plastics.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Preventing Fogging

Use anti-fog inserts or silica gel packs. Keep the inside of the housing dry.

Dealing with Leaks

If a leak occurs, stop diving. Remove and dry the housing immediately. Replace O-rings if needed.

Managing Buoyancy

Add weights if the housing floats too much. Some housings come with buoyancy control kits.

Enhancing Underwater Photography

Lighting Considerations

Natural light diminishes quickly underwater. Use LED lights or strobes for clarity and colour accuracy.

In shallow, sunlit conditions (e.g., snorkelling or pool shoots), compact continuous LED lights like the Lume Cube or GoPro Light Mod work well. In deeper or darker waters, consider more powerful strobes like the Sea & Sea YS-D3 or Ikelite DS161, which offer better colour recovery and flash control.

For best results, mount your lights on adjustable arms to avoid backscatter and to angle the light effectively. Always match your lighting temperature with your camera’s white balance settings for consistent results.

Tip: In murky conditions, red filters or warm diffusers can help restore lost colours and reduce green/blue cast. light diminishes quickly underwater. Use LED lights or strobes for clarity and colour accuracy.

Lens Selection

Wide-angle lenses are best for underwater use. Consider dome ports for distortion-free shots.

Composition Tips

Shoot upward to capture surface light. Get close to your subject to reduce haze.

Budget Considerations

Entry-Level Options

Soft bags and budget cases for phones and compact cameras—good for casual use.

Mid-Range Solutions

GDome’s Mobile and GoPro housings strike a balance between cost and performance.

Professional Setups

DSLR and mirrorless housings with interchangeable ports and lighting rigs. Ideal for commercial work.

User Experiences and Testimonials

Case Studies of Successful Underwater Shoots

Many surf filmmakers and divers report using GDome housings in conditions from Indonesian reefs to Atlantic breaks.

Feedback from GDome Users

Users appreciate GDome’s price-to-performance ratio, ease of setup, and support for a wide range of gear. For instance, Cape Town-based surf photographer Jamie D. notes, "I've taken my GDome XL4 through countless reef breaks and it hasn't failed once—setup is quick and it’s tough as nails." Similarly, travel vlogger Elise R. says, "Being able to use the same housing with both my GoPro and my phone saved me a ton of money and space while backpacking Southeast Asia."

These real-world experiences show that GDome products aren’t just theoretically versatile—they consistently perform in the field under harsh conditions, making them a go-to for serious creators.

Future Trends in Underwater Housings

Technological Advancements

Expect more wireless triggering, built-in lighting, and modular accessories. 3D-printed mounts are also emerging.

Sustainability Considerations

More brands (including GDome) are moving toward recyclable materials and modular systems that reduce e-waste.

Quick Takeaways

• Not all housings are equal—depth, material, and fit matter.

• GDome provides flexible, modular housings for nearly every camera type.

• Setup and maintenance are key to performance and longevity.

• Consider your shooting style before buying: GoPro vs DSLR needs vary.

• Budget doesn’t always mean sacrifice—mid-range options are strong.

Final Thoughts

Underwater photography and videography open doors to new creative possibilities. Whether you’re shooting coral reefs or surf breaks, having the right underwater camera housing is critical. GDome offers solutions for every type of shooter—from smartphone users to professional DSLR cinematographers. By understanding the key considerations, avoiding common mistakes, and choosing the right equipment, you’re set up for success below the surface. Ready to take the plunge? Trust your gear, prep it right, and focus on capturing the shot of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use the same underwater housing for different camera models?
A: Some housings, like GDome’s, support multiple models. Check compatibility charts before purchasing.

Q: How deep can I take my underwater housing?
A: Most GDome housings go up to 5-15m. Always confirm the depth rating before diving.

Q: Do I need additional accessories for underwater photography?
A: For better lighting and control, strobes and anti-fog inserts are recommended.

Q: How do I prevent my housing from fogging up?
A: Use anti-fog inserts, and avoid sealing the housing in humid environments.

Q: What's the difference between dome and flat ports?
A: Dome ports help with wide-angle clarity and reduce edge distortion. Flat ports are best for close-ups.

We’d love to hear your experiences! Have you used GDome or another housing? What camera do you shoot with underwater? Leave a comment below and share this guide with your dive buddies and creator friends!