Video + scuba mask could equal danger (CES 2009 show new product)
Here’s an idea: take your scuba mask glue on bunch of hook thingies so you have a better chance of snagging your self on a ghost net. Then paint the sides of your mask to limit peripheral vision. Then add some other bits to make it harder to get a seal or clear a flooded mask. Why? So you do not have to hold your video camera in your hand. Of course, instead of the octopus grabbing your camera he can now surround your whole head and remove your mask.
Gizmodo, one of the premier tech gadet blog (click for full article), calls Liquid Image’s new Scuba Series HD320 “DUMBTASTIC.” Just reading the specs this model sounds like a great leap in technology over last years toy-like snokeling version. This one is good to 115 feet, does HD video and 5 megapixel photos. But there is often miles between “sounds good” and is a great idea.
I had to spend a bit of ROTFL time when I saw they hyped the reduced visability as a feature: “A darker silicon skirt helps to shield the peripheral vision from distraction.” Then there are those photos that only work when you stick the camera into a hole that will not fit your head or at angle beyond neck range. What do you do, remove your mask to get the shot? I would not be surpised to see them add a heads up display legal disclaimer when you turn the unit on. “Blink twice if you agree not to sue us if you run out of air with your head hoplessly entangled in giant kelp.”
If you are shooting for Nat Geo or IMAX, a helmut came makes sense. But, we see a much safer choice in compact hand-held HD video cameras like the Bonica Snapper HD. If you have what it takes to test this contraption, let us know what you think.