Since the appearance of the first water-resistant iPhones, some adventurers have not hesitated to use their phones to take photos underwater. But can you really use your Apple smartphone in the aquatic environment? What are the risks ? Here are some tips for taking great photos underwater with an iPhone..
What is the real water resistance of the iPhone?
Apple like many other manufacturers offer iPhones certified IP68 and IP67 offering resistance to water and dust. However, it would be wrong to believe that you will be able to immortalize your underwater trips armed with your iPhone.
Apple devices offer good water resistance, but they cannot be considered as completely waterproof smartphones. It is important to understand the intricacies of certification standards..
- IP67: it offers protection against dust, splashing water and temporary immersion. IP67 smartphones support immersion up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes. You should also be aware that this protection may decrease over time.
- IP68: this certification means that the devices can survive an aquatic accident up to 2 meters deep for 30 minutes.
Keep in mind, however, that these standards are assigned using tests carried out in laboratories (fresh water) that do not correspond to actual use. Clearly, even if your iPhone has a certification you will not be able to use it to immortalize your swimming at the pool or at sea.
Which iPhones offer the greatest resistance to water?
Not all Apple phones offer the same resistance to water and dust. Some fear liquids more than others. It is therefore better to inquire before bringing your iPhone with you to the swimming pool or on the beach..
The table below summarizes the level of water and dust resistance of the different iPhone models. Note that the iPhone 6S, 6S Plus and older versions do not have any waterproof certification. They therefore do not resist water. So it's best not to drop them in the pool.
- The iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max have an IP68 certification and support dives up to 4 meters deep for 30 minutes.
- The iPhone 11, XS and XS Max (IP68) can be submerged up to 2 meters deep 30 minutes maximum
- The iPhone 8, 8 Plus, X, XR, 7 and 7 have an IP67 protection rating (depth of one meter for 30 minutes)
Even with the highest certification, IP68, you will have to be careful. An accidental fall in the water will not damage your phone but it is totally inadvisable to take it swimming with you.
Apple recalls that damage caused by contact with water is not covered by the warranty. When the iPhone's humidity sensors turn red, the Apple Stores refuse to pay for repairs free of charge.
How to take underwater photos with an iPhone?
Despite their greater resistance to external aggressions, iPhones are still not waterproof. However, if you equip it with a waterproof shell or case, nothing will prevent you from taking it with you to photograph the seabed.
For more security, we advise you to choose a shell specially designed for taking underwater photos. These perfectly waterproof cases protect iPhones up to 40 meters deep. Considering the price of Apple phones it is better to invest in quality hardware.
Do not forget to turn on your iPhone before sliding it into the waterproof case. Because once inside it cannot be re-lit underwater. Also remember to carry out this operation in an air-conditioned room. This will prevent the formation of mist inside the protective case.
Here are some tips to follow to take underwater photos
Underwater photography requires special skills and a little preparation. Equipment, preparation of material, here are some essential tips to know before you get into the deep water.
You should know that water forms a natural filter attenuating contrast and colors. To avoid too dark photos, it is recommended to start your photo sessions in the early afternoon, where the sun is at its zenith. It is usually during these hours that the light conditions are best.
You can also provide additional light. The iPhone flash will light up subjects at close range. Using a dive light or torch will help you bring out the colors and significantly increase the quality of your images.
Also make sure to get as close as possible to the subjects to be immortalized. At more than a meter your shot may be blurred and without contrast. The details will not be visible and the rendering will be dull. Here is a very useful tip for shooting a photo taken with an iPhone.
The waterproof cases protect smartphones but do not always offer access to all controls. You should also know that the touch does not work very well underwater. It is best to use the volume + button on the side of the device to take a photo.
Finally, to avoid a possible diving accident, consider equipping your case with a strap or a small float. Buying this type of accessory will be much cheaper than buying a new iPhone.