[Coral-List] Digital Photo-monitoring

[G.P. Schmahl]

We have a long term monitoring program of coral communities at Stetson 
Bank in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico where we have photographed 
permanently marked locations annually since 1993.  Historically we used 
a Nikonos camera with 15mm lens at a distance of one meter from the 
substrate.  We are now trying to replicate the same field of view using 
a lightweight digital camera.  Has anyone had this or a similar issue, 
and can advise on appropriate equipment?

The use of a housed digital SLR is problematic due to the large size and 
weight.  (The camera is attached to a framer bar, dual strobes and 
camera mount, which is quite clumsy to swim with.)  I would prefer a 
housed high quality point and shoot camera. 

We have tested a Nikon Coolpix P5000 in an Ikelite housing with the 
wide-angle adapter.  The photos come close to matching the Nikonos field 
of view (if you move it 20 cm farther away from the substrate), but 
there is noticeable edge distortion.  I can send a sample photo 
comparison if anyone is interested.

Can anyone recommend a digital system that will replicate a Nikonos 
w/15mm lens?  I would be interested in digital SLR/lens combinations as 
well if anyone has worked that out.  Thanks.  GP
-- 

George (G.P.) Schmahl

Sanctuary Superintendent

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration


Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary

4700 Avenue U, Building 216

Galveston, TX  77551


(409) 621-5151 ext. 102

(409) 621-1316 (fax)

george.schmahl at noaa.gov

http://flowergarden.noaa.gov