SaltyFlippers

I'm considering upgrading from a GoPro setup. I have my eye on the Olympus E-PL10 setup promoted by Backscatter. Its size, features, and price all seem good to me. However, I also want to use the E-PL10 topside while traveling. I've been frustrated in the past by poor autofocus on other cameras. Are people also frustrated with the E-PL10 when using it topside? I'm thinking of its use of CDAF instead of PDAF. I'm also considering a Sony DSC-RX100 VII for use topside. I think the E-PL10 and accessories are better for underwater use though.

My eyes are not good at all. Looks like the GoPro is the choice for me.

Is the display just too small to be useful?

I'm a beginner, and debated on posting here or in the beginner forum. I use a GoPro 7 which was given to me by someone who no longer wanted it. My videos at depth don't look great, probably because I don't use filters. I like the concept behind the Paralenz cameras, which apparently do automatic color correction based on depth. Cool! The Paralenz Vaquita appears to be 2 years old. The model before that was released approx 4 years ago. This makes me think a new version is coming out this year. However, supply chain issues might mess up that timeline. Anyone care to speculate on the likelihood of a new Paralenz model this year?

Ah, yes. Good point. Not much contrast with the background if I went with blue. I'm thinking of underwater portraiture. The goal is to show the diver primarily, and the reef secondarily. Kind of like, "Hey look at me I'm doing something adventurous!" I started thinking about BC colors, etc., after reading that single lens masks make for better portraits than dual lens masks. It seems equipment choices can make for better or worse pictures.

What are good color choices for a model's BC? I dive in Monterey, CA, which is cold water with not-so-great visibility. Let's assume the diver is poorly lit, because I'm an absolute beginner with underwater photography and don't have great gear. I've seen so many photos of divers in all black, and they just look like floating black blobs. Since red and orange get filtered out first at depth, I'm thinking that bright blue might stand out a bit. I'm looking at Halcyon gear and they offer custom colors. Their "Mariner Blue" could be a good choice. Picture attached. They also offer reflective tape, but I'm thinking that would mess up photos. Thoughts?

Hi. New member here. I'm returning to diving after a 20+ year break. I have an Olympus TG that I've been using for shallow work, and look forward to getting gear that will work at depth. I dive in Monterey, CA.