CAD
We get this question every day. There are very few new compacts in the market and so many mirrorless cameras, why is that? Well basically because outside of the underwater realm, smartphones are replacing compacts and photo enthusiasts want to have the ability to change lenses.
DSLR’s are not very attractive anymore since they are much bigger. People have gotten used to LCD monitors and they are so detailed and bright these days that it just makes shooting easier, this is ten times more relevant for underwater where a viewfinder is not at all convenient.
So DSLR’s not attractive, compacts replaced by smartphones and we are not left with mirrorless.
Now back to our question. If you are just diving once or twice a year and photographing for fun, just like you would do with your smartphone when you go to a museum, then probably a compact is good for you. If you are in to photography and part of your thrill is to take good photos, you consider it a fun challenge and skill you want to master than I would definitely consider going for mirrorless. Its not all that expensive anymore.
About the Author
Mari Herrarte
Mari has been diving for 15 years and loves spending time in the ocean, surrounded by nature. She is also passionate about photography and capturing the beauty she discovers underwater.
- Cabo Pulmo Diving: A Beginner’s Guide – September 28, 2026
- How to Adjust Underwater Camera Settings as Conditions Change – September 22, 2026
- Why Your Underwater Photos Look Too Dark and How to Fix Them – September 16, 2026