The challenge: capturing the ephemeral magic of a sunlit kelp forest on film, tape or microchip. This requires not only the right underwater camera, but also the right gear.

To offset the extra weight and bulk of a camera system, your BC should provide an extra degree of lift, stability and streamlining, and allow for easy one-hand adjustment and operation. And since you never know how long it might take to use up that roll of film or tape, you'll need plenty of thermal protection, but not restricting bulk.

Like many underwater photogs, you'll probably choose a low-volume, black-skirted mask that cuts peripheral light while looking through the viewfinder, and your fins must be equally suited for subtle attitude shifts and fast, efficient swims in pursuit of the ultimate shot.
   

Photo by Bill Doster

1. Sea Life DC250 Go digital with the world's first dedicated underwater digital camera. The Reefmaster DC250 is simple enough for novices, yet can also handle the needs of more experienced photographers, with accessories that include external strobes and wide-angle and macro conversion lenses. $449.95, Strobes $199.95 Wide-angle lens $119.95

2. Sea & Sea Motormarine III, YS-90 strobes With a built-in target light, TTL strobe bracketing, two-point focusing, pushbutton shutter-speed control, a bright LCD display and wet-mount lens changing capability, the Motormarine III is suited to both both novice and experienced photographers. The Motormarine III comes standard with a 20 mm lens; optional lenses include macro lens

3. SCUBAPRO Frameless mask Unique construction makes for high comfort and low volume. Photogs will find it easy to look through the viewfinder, thanks to the nonreflective black skirt and the single lens, which allows for uninterrupted vision. $102.
4. SCUBAPRO MK25 Adjust to changing conditions with a high-performance regulator that lets you take control. The S600 second stage features dual adjustments for inhalation effort and flow, and won't leave you short of breath, no matter what. $522.

5. SCUBAPRO Twin Jet fins An underwater photo session can involve everything from hovering for a delicate macro shot to a swimming race with a big pelagic creature. Keep pace with this split hydrofoil design, which provides more kicking power with less effort. Available in three levels of stiffness. $189.

6. SCUBAPRO Knighthawk BC A back-flotation BC with progressively shaped air cell for optimum swim position. Streamlined, clutter-free front doesn't interfere with handling and hauling of camera gear. Pull-down accessory pocket for spare items. $540/$635 with Air 2. Also available is the Ladyhawk, same design, but tailored specifically for the female torso, $508/$606 with Air 2.

7. SCUBAPRO EverFlex Steamer Warmth plus unparalleled comfort, stretch and mobility, thanks to a revolutionary material known as EverFlex that provides the optimum mix of flexibility and endurance. Soft interior lining, abrasion-resistant outer skin. $322 for 7 mm one-piece