The DM kleiner Perlentaucher underwater camera is an underwater camera manufactured by dm-drogerie markt and designed for the 35 mm format. The camera is built in a factory in China.
The camera lens is fixed. It is not possible to change the focus settings on this camera. Manual focussing on the subject is therefore not possible. The close focusing distance of the lens is 100 to 200 cm. This minimum distance should be maintained for sharp images.
There is no built-in light meter in the 35 mm camera, so it is necessary to measure the exposure externally. Shutter speed and aperture are fixed. The values will probably be around f/8 for the aperture and 1/100 second for the shutter speed.
No batteries are required for photography. The camera does not have a built-in flash. It is recommended that you only use the underwater camera in sunny and slightly cloudy conditions. In less light, underexposure can occur.
There is a hand strap so that you do not lose the camera in the water. It can be used up to a depth of 3 metres. This makes it a good companion for snorkelling. Of course, it can also be used for taking pictures out of the water. The waterproof housing makes it ideal for taking pictures on the beach, as you don’t have to worry about sand and the risk of theft is also significantly lower than with an expensive digital camera.
Film format and development
According to the instructions, the DM small pearl diver underwater camera is designed for the 35 mm format. The negatives of the underwater camera have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. A typical 35 mm film of this size holds 27 images. It is necessary for the user to advance the film manually after each photo, as the camera has no automatic function for this.
The colour film must be developed using the C-41 process. This process is offered by most professional photo labs. You can hand in your film at most drugstore chains in Germany, for example. The costs for developing are not included in the sales price of the camera.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Underwater camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Rotary knob |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | - |
| Widest aperture | - |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Company name of the brand | dm-drogerie markt GmbH + Co. KG |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the DM kleiner Perlentaucher Unterwasserkamera
What is the closest focusing distance for this underwater camera?
The minimum focusing distance is between 100 and 200 centimeters. To ensure sharp images, it's crucial to maintain this minimum distance from your subject.
Does the dm-drogerie markt underwater camera have an integrated light meter or flash?
No, it lacks both a built-in light meter and a flash. External light metering is necessary, and using it in bright sunlight or light cloud cover is recommended.
What film format does this disposable underwater camera use, and how many shots can you take?
It uses standard 35mm film (24x36mm). A typical roll of film allows for 24 to 27 shots, with manual film advancement after each picture.
How deep can you safely take this waterproof camera?
The camera is waterproof up to a depth of 3 meters, making it suitable for snorkeling. It can also be used on land, providing protection against sand and theft.
What type of film processing is required for the images taken with the compact camera?
The film needs to be developed using the C-41 process, a standard color film developing method readily available at most photo labs and drugstores.