Sony Alpha a1. Sony’s Alpha a1 is the heart of this kit. A 50.1 megapixel sensor and internal 8K capture should give you everything you need for most underwater situations. The included Sony NP-FZ100 battery should give you up to 430 shots per charge.

Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM Lens. This Sony ultra-wide zoom boasts a fast autofocus system and an advanced optical formula. Its bright, constant f/2.8 aperture is great for shooting underwater, where it’s often darker than you might imagine. This rental includes the Ikelite DL 37mm Port Extension to accommodate this lens.

Ikelite Underwater Housing for Sony a1. Ikelite’s heavy-duty housings are contoured to the camera, completely corrosion-free and super durable. The transparent backing allows for a clear view of the main o-ring seal, port o-ring seal, and camera controls. We choose to rent Ikelite-branded housings because they give you access to almost every camera control underwater.

Ikelite Base with Dual Quick-Release Handles. This rental includes Ikelite’s Base with Dual Quick-Release Handles, which aids underwater maneuverability, is easy to attach and remove from the housing, and doesn’t interfere with the housing’s operation.

Underwater Housing Assembly Tips. Always assemble the housing first without a camera in it on dry land. Then slowly submerge the empty housing into a bathtub or a bucket, rotate the housing all around, and look for escaping air bubbles. This could be a sign that the housing is not assembled properly and water could be getting into the housing. Only after a few assemblies and dunks with no leaks do we recommend putting the camera in the housing. Again, slowly submerge the housing into a bathtub or a bucket, rotate the housing all around, and look for escaping air bubbles. As a courtesy to our gear-cleaning team, try to give the housing a quick freshwater rinse and dry off before sending it back if possible!

Underwater Shooting Tips. Practice using the camera and housing on dry land to get comfortable with adjusting settings before you get underwater. Get as close as possible to your subjects. Too much water between the lens and your subject reduces contrast and sharpness. Keep your shutter speed high—you’re often moving more than you realize when you’re not standing on the hard ground.