Underwater photography is an important tool used by scientists and marine researchers to understand the life forms that exist in our oceans and seas. Another important utility of marine photography is to study the details of underwater features like a coastal reef or an underwater cave. These photographs are also of immense utility in preparing detailed coastal maps that can be used to manage the movements of seafaring ships and yachts. All the scientific studies that make use of deep sea photography enable us to harness the wealth of the oceans to meet our economic needs.

Underwater cameras are distinct from the ones that are used for photographing objects on the land. For instance, an underwater photographer uses a camera that looks like an upside down periscope to take pictures of underwater creatures and fishes. A photographer is able to capture photos of even dangerous creatures which have stinging tentacles that are poisonous to the touch by using protective gear and wide angle zoom lenses adapted to conditions under the water. Computerized automatic cameras that have autofocus features and set their own controls are also used in underwater locations inaccessible to humans such as the ocean floor and the underwater trench.