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Komodo National Park is one of the world's premier underwater photography destinations. From manta rays and reef sharks to pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs, the variety of subjects is extraordinary. Here is what to consider bringing.
| Level | Camera Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | GoPro or action camera in waterproof housing | Compact, easy to use, affordable | Limited zoom, small sensor for low light |
| Intermediate | Compact camera in underwater housing (e.g., Olympus TG-7, Sony RX100) | Excellent macro, good video, portable | Limited wide-angle without wet lenses |
| Advanced | Mirrorless camera in dedicated housing (e.g., Sony A7 series, Nikon Z series) | Professional image quality, interchangeable lenses | Expensive, bulky, requires significant experience |
| Professional | Full DSLR/mirrorless rig with strobes and focus lights | Maximum creative control and image quality | Heavy, complex, requires dedicated packing |
Underwater strobes dramatically improve image quality, especially below 10 metres where colours fade. A single strobe is adequate for macro; two strobes are recommended for wide-angle reef and pelagic photography. Video shooters should bring continuous LED lights rated to at least 30 metres depth.
Rental options: Some dive centres in Labuan Bajo rent GoPro cameras for approximately IDR 200,000 to 350,000 per day. For anything more advanced, bring your own or hire an underwater photographer to join your trip.