The Wirecutter has teamed up with the ocean site The Scuttlefish and underwater photographer Sterling Zumbrunn to bring you this comprehensive beginner’s guide to underwater photography techniques and gear.

Have you ever wanted to take your camera snorkeling? Wanted to capture images when you’re scuba diving? Are you frustrated by the limitations of your waterproof point-and-shoot and left wondering how pros take those dramatic images in dive magazines? Underwater imaging is an exciting—though complex—pastime, yet it has never been more accessible than it is today thanks to digital cameras. This article seeks to demystify some of the most important concepts behind underwater photography and videography and provide our recommendations on the best cameras (and housings) available today for beginners looking to learn how to shoot underwater.

Everything from housings, to lighting, to filters, to what to do with a GoPro is covered. If you’re just getting into underwater photography, check it out.

Note that this article does not necessarily represent the views of Wetpixel nor our staff.

The full guide can be found here.