I planned a camping trip to a state park where the main attraction is a spring. I wanted to take pictures, but was stuck: I either had to buy multiple disposable cameras or a waterproof bag for my SLR (Nikon D3100). I chose the bag for two reasons: 1) the cost of buying several waterproof cameras plus developing them would tally around the price of this bag, and 2) I found a great review of the product online (capturemyimage.net, search for "dicapac"). Here is my own review of the camera bag.
Let me first say that the product was delivered very quickly (ordered Friday night and received Monday afternoon). The box came with instructions that emphasized testing the product before use. I placed napkins inside the bag, closed it as instructed, and then submerged it in the sink while adding some pressure and movement. The instructions say that if your bag does not pass this test, it can be exchanged for another one. Thankfully, mine was good to go!
The day I was going in the spring, I inserted the camera in the bag and closed it as tightly and meticulously as possible. I read in some other reviews to insert silica gel packs in the bag to absorb any accumulated condensation (I purchased these:
Aquapac 905 Aquapac Desiccant Sachets Pack Of 5
) and placed those in the bag as well. My friends and I were using floaties, so I didn't have to submerge the camera right off the bat. Instead, I took my time and slowly placed the camera in the water, as I felt comfortable. The bag gained my trust and it wasn't long before I freely took shots almost completely underwater. I was able to take some amazing shots with very little difficulty (just placed the camera in auto, no-flash settings). I did have one problem though: When we first went in the spring, it was really hot outside and the water was cold (72 degrees F). After a while the camera froze. I went out of the water, pulled out the battery and put it back in, and it was working fine again. I think this problem might have occurred due to the change in temperature or the temperature inside of the bag (keep it in the shade as much as possible so the bag does not overheat. I walked to the spring out in the sun, so that might have been part of the problem). That only happened on the first day, and for the next two days the bag and camera worked perfectly.
I bought this bag as WATERPROOF protection for my camera, and it did the job perfectly. I do not understand some of the misleading 2- and 3-star reviews complaining that the bag did not have enough flexibility with the camera controls. Although it was a bit bulky, it was not hard to get used to working the camera (though like I said, I just kept it in auto, non-flash settings). I did not completely submerge the camera often mainly due to my paranoia, but I trusted the bag enough to take underwater shots and allowed my friends to use it as well. Rarely any of the shots came out blurry, and the camera did not have much trouble adjusting underwater. Two things to watch out for while using the case: 1) overheating inside of the camera bag (if it gets too hot I would suggest taking the camera out and letting some fresh air inside the bag), and 2) fogginess inside of the bag. At first the fogginess kept appearing, but during my subsequent trips, I placed more silica gel packs inside (5 in total: 2 that came with the bag, and 3 from the pack I purchased) and it didn't happen as often. The only annoying thing in my opinion was the camera's neck strap, which slipped sometimes over the viewfinder, screen, and/or buttons. However, this can be solved by either removing the strap from the camera, tying it with a rubber band, or folding it tightly under the camera (like I did).
I know this review is quite lengthy and redundantly specific at times, but since there are so many mixed reviews I wanted to provide details about the product others might not have included. Here are some pictures from my trip: [flic.kr/ps/R9TkS]. I will try to give updates of the bag in the long-run, hopefully it lasts for a while!
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Reviews with images
DiCAPac WP-S5 IS THE PERFECT FIT FOR THE FUJIFILM X-T2
I am a professional wildlife photographer with experience using Nikon and Fujifilm. This is my review of the DiCAPac WP-S5 after use in Bora Bora.The DiCAPac WP-S5 fits the Fujifilm X-T2 with 18-55 kit lens perfectly. The waterproof case' finger insert for the shutter is placed precisely where it needs to for use on the X-T2. I used this waterproof with no leaks or problem for a week long snorkel in Bora Bora. I am completely satisfied and will use this camera bag again. I attempted to fit the Nikon D850 without the grip by removing one of the foam inserts, meaning leaving one of the two foam inserts that come with the case. I was able to fit the Nikon D850 snuggly inside attached to a Nikkor 20mm 1.8G lens. However, due to the fact that the Nikon D850 shutter button is slopped to the forward side of the body, it does not align with the case insert. This will be the case with several Nikons such as D750, D500, D810 etc. I've owned them all. So this particular WP-S5, although will house the Nikon D850, will not work due to the shutter button placement. If you attempt to put stress on the insert by forcing your finger forward to try to click on the Nikon D850 shutter, that is the type of action that can cause a tear on the case resulting in a leak and damage. Perhaps refer to the larger size DiCAPac for use on a Nikon D850 etc.How I approached this underwater case was to take my time inserting, screwing the cases lens cover and then sealing the bag. If I did not hear the tap sounds as I sealed the DiCAPac zip lock, I would do it again until I heard the sound to ensure it was in fact sealing. My recommendation, based on using this WP-S5 with the Fujinon X-T2, is to proceed and purchase it. I totally recommend it. In my case, I did not test the bag at home. I took it new straight out of the box and securely placed it in my ThinkTank Airport Accelerator bag, handling the DiCAPac carefully as if it was a lens itself.I will admit, due to weight restrictions, I left the waterproof case in Bora Bora to accommodate gifts. For the excellent price, I will buy a new one on my next underwater excursion when needed. The image I posted is captured using the DiCAPac WP-S5, with X-T2 and 18-55 lens inside in the coral reefs of Bora Bora. Never had a problem. Bubble will sometimes appear towards the top, but its due to the air that is captured in the case section that rolls down to velcro into place. Hope this review helps someone out there.
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