Hey guys! Ever dreamed of capturing the vibrant underwater world with your Olympus TG-series camera? The Olympus PT-059 underwater housing makes that dream a reality. This guide is your ultimate companion to mastering the PT-059, from its initial setup to advanced usage and, of course, keeping it in tip-top shape. We'll dive deep into everything you need to know, so you can explore the ocean's depths with confidence and capture stunning photos and videos.

Unveiling the Olympus PT-059: Your Underwater Gateway

So, what exactly is the Olympus PT-059? Simply put, it's a high-quality, durable underwater housing specifically designed for the Olympus TG-series of rugged cameras – think TG-6, TG-7, and similar models. This housing acts as a protective shield, allowing you to take your camera down to depths of up to 45 meters (that's about 147 feet!), far beyond what the camera itself can handle. The PT-059 isn't just a waterproof box; it's a sophisticated piece of equipment engineered to maintain optimal image quality and control underwater. It features meticulously placed buttons and dials that mirror the camera's controls, allowing you to adjust settings, zoom, and even use the flash with ease. The clear, high-quality polycarbonate construction ensures you get crystal-clear images, free from distortion. With the Olympus PT-059, you're not just taking pictures underwater; you're opening up a whole new world of creative possibilities. The housing is designed for ease of use, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced underwater photographers. It's built to withstand the pressures of the deep sea and the rigors of frequent use. The design also incorporates features to prevent fogging, ensuring your images stay sharp and clear. Beyond the basic functionality, the PT-059 offers opportunities to expand your setup with additional accessories, such as external strobes and wide-angle lenses, to take your underwater photography to the next level. This housing is an investment in capturing memories that will last a lifetime. Imagine capturing the vibrant colors of coral reefs, the playful antics of marine life, or the mysterious beauty of shipwrecks, all in stunning detail. That is the power of the Olympus PT-059.

Setting Up Your Olympus PT-059: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let's get you set up and ready to go! Setting up your Olympus PT-059 is crucial for ensuring a watertight seal and preventing any unwanted water damage to your camera. The process is straightforward, but it's essential to follow these steps carefully.

First, you'll want to give your camera and the housing a good once-over. Make sure both are clean and free of any debris, sand, or lint. A speck of dust can compromise the seal, so take your time. Then, open the housing by releasing the locking mechanism. This usually involves twisting a dial or pressing a lever, depending on the model. Gently remove the back plate. Next, insert your Olympus TG-series camera into the housing. Ensure it sits snugly and aligns with the control buttons. Be careful not to force anything; it should fit smoothly. Pay close attention to the alignment of the camera's lens with the housing's lens port. This ensures your images will be clear. Once the camera is in place, double-check that the camera's power switch and other important controls are accessible and functional through the housing's buttons.

Before closing the housing, carefully inspect the O-ring seal. This is the rubber ring that creates the watertight seal. Make sure it's clean, properly seated in its groove, and free of any damage. If the O-ring is dry, apply a small amount of the silicone grease provided with the housing. This helps maintain the seal and prevents the O-ring from sticking. Gently replace the back plate, ensuring the O-ring remains in place. Close the locking mechanism, making sure it clicks securely. Do not force the locking mechanism. It should close smoothly. Perform a pre-dive check. Before entering the water, it's always a good idea to perform a quick test to ensure the housing is sealed properly. You can do this by submerging the closed housing in a sink or tub of water. Observe for any signs of leakage. If you spot any bubbles or water intrusion, do not use the housing in the ocean. Re-check the seal and repeat the process until the housing is watertight. Finally, familiarize yourself with the housing's controls. Practice using the buttons and dials above the water to ensure you can operate your camera effectively underwater. Knowing the controls by feel will make it much easier to adjust settings while diving. Following these steps carefully will ensure your camera stays safe and dry on your underwater adventures. Remember, the PT-059 is a precision instrument, so treat it with care, and it will reward you with years of fantastic underwater photos and videos.

Mastering Underwater Photography with the PT-059

Now that your Olympus PT-059 is set up and ready to go, let's talk about how to get the best results underwater. Underwater photography presents unique challenges, primarily due to the absorption of light and the presence of particulate matter in the water. But don't worry, here are some tips to help you capture stunning images.

Light and Color

One of the biggest hurdles in underwater photography is the loss of color and light as you descend. Water absorbs light, especially red and orange, meaning your images will appear increasingly blue or green at greater depths. To combat this, consider the following:

• Use a Red Filter: A red filter attached to the front of your housing can help restore some of the lost red and orange colors, particularly in shallow waters. The filter acts to balance out the dominant blue/green hues.
• External Strobes: External strobes (underwater flashes) are your best friends. They provide artificial light that illuminates your subjects with accurate colors, bringing back the vibrancy of the underwater world. Position your strobes to minimize backscatter (light reflecting off particles in the water).
• Shoot Close to Your Subject: The closer you are to your subject, the less water your light has to travel through, resulting in better colors and sharper images. Get as close as possible without disturbing the marine life.

Camera Settings

Fine-tuning your camera settings is critical for achieving great results:

• White Balance: Set your white balance to underwater mode or custom white balance to compensate for the blue/green cast. This helps to accurately represent the colors of your subject.
• ISO: Keep your ISO as low as possible to minimize noise (graininess) in your images. Use a higher ISO only when necessary, such as in low-light conditions or when shooting fast-moving subjects.
• Aperture: Experiment with different aperture settings (f-numbers) to control the depth of field. A wider aperture (smaller f-number) will create a shallow depth of field, ideal for isolating a subject.
• Focus: Use autofocus and consider focusing on the closest point to the camera to ensure sharp images. You can often use single-point autofocus and center-weighted metering modes for the best results.

Composition and Technique

Don't forget the fundamentals of photography:

• Composition: Pay attention to the rule of thirds, leading lines, and other compositional techniques to create visually appealing images.
• Buoyancy Control: Neutral buoyancy is essential. Being able to hover in the water without touching anything allows for better control and stability.
• Patience: Take your time. Underwater photography often requires patience. Wait for the right moment, and be prepared to take multiple shots. \n### Understanding Backscatter

Backscatter is the term for those annoying little white dots or streaks that can appear in your photos. These are caused by your strobe light reflecting off of particulate matter in the water (sand, plankton, etc.). To minimize backscatter:

• Position Strobes: Angle your strobes outwards and away from your camera lens.
• Shoot Downward: When possible, shoot at a downward angle to avoid shooting directly into the particles.
• Clean Water: Seek clear water if possible. The clearer the water, the less backscatter you'll encounter.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to capturing stunning underwater photographs with your Olympus PT-059.

Maintaining Your Olympus PT-059: Keeping It in Peak Condition

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your Olympus PT-059 remains in top working condition for years to come. Properly caring for your housing not only extends its lifespan but also ensures it provides reliable protection for your camera. Here's a comprehensive guide to keeping your housing in peak condition.

Post-Dive Care

• Rinse Thoroughly: After each dive, immediately rinse the housing with fresh water. Make sure to remove any salt, sand, or other debris, as these can cause corrosion or damage to the O-rings and other components. Use lukewarm water; avoid hot water, which can damage the housing.
• Dry Completely: Thoroughly dry the housing, inside and out. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber towel. Pay special attention to the O-ring seals, buttons, and other moving parts. Air drying is a good idea to ensure all moisture is gone.
• Inspect and Lubricate O-Rings: After rinsing and drying, inspect the O-rings for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or debris. Clean the O-rings and the grooves they sit in. Apply a small amount of silicone grease (provided with the housing) to the O-rings to keep them supple and help maintain a watertight seal. Do not use petroleum-based lubricants, as these can damage the O-rings.
• Storage: Store the housing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing it with the locking mechanisms closed, as this can compress the seals for extended periods. The ideal storage temperature is between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F).

O-Ring Maintenance

The O-rings are the heart of the watertight seal, so proper care is critical:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the O-rings after each dive with fresh water and a soft cloth.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect the O-rings for cracks, tears, or wear and tear. Replace any damaged O-rings immediately. Olympus provides replacement O-rings, and it's a good idea to have a spare set on hand.
• Lubrication: Lubricate the O-rings with silicone grease. Apply a thin, even layer; avoid over-lubricating.
• Replacement: Replace the O-rings periodically, even if they appear undamaged. The frequency depends on use but consider replacing them every year or two or when they show signs of wear.

Preventative Measures

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the housing, as they can damage the plastic and O-rings.
• Protect from Sun: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can damage the housing and cause discoloration. Store it out of direct sunlight when not in use.
• Check the Buttons and Dials: Regularly test the buttons and dials to ensure they function smoothly. Clean any salt buildup or debris that may interfere with their operation. You can use a cotton swab lightly dampened with fresh water to clean these areas.
• Professional Servicing: Consider having your Olympus PT-059 professionally serviced every few years, especially if you dive frequently. A professional can inspect the housing for wear and tear and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the PT-059

Even with the best care, you might encounter a few hiccups with your Olympus PT-059 housing. Here's a look at some common issues and how to address them.

• Leakage: The most concerning issue is leakage. If you notice any water inside the housing, immediately stop diving and inspect the O-rings, the locking mechanism, and the lens port. Check for any debris that might be preventing a proper seal. Replace any damaged O-rings. If the leak persists, consider having the housing professionally inspected.
• Fogging: Fogging inside the housing can be a problem, especially in colder water. This is caused by condensation. To prevent fogging, you can use anti-fog inserts or apply a small amount of anti-fog solution to the inside of the lens port. Another option is to keep the camera and housing in an air-conditioned environment before entering the water.
• Button Malfunction: If the buttons or dials become difficult to operate or stop working altogether, there might be salt or debris buildup. Rinse the housing thoroughly and try cleaning the affected buttons and dials with fresh water and a cotton swab. If the problem persists, the housing might need professional servicing.
• Lens Port Issues: Check the lens port for scratches or damage. A scratched lens port can affect image quality. Replace the lens port if it's severely damaged. Make sure the lens port is securely attached and properly sealed.
• Buoyancy: Your housing might be negatively buoyant, meaning it sinks. You can add float arms or use a buoyancy compensator to achieve neutral buoyancy. This makes it easier to handle the camera underwater.

Conclusion: Dive into the Underwater World

There you have it, guys! The Olympus PT-059 underwater housing is a fantastic tool for capturing the beauty of the underwater world. By understanding its features, following the setup and maintenance guidelines, and practicing the techniques outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to create stunning underwater photos and videos. So, grab your camera, your PT-059, and dive in. The ocean is waiting. Happy diving and happy shooting!