Discl: this post includes an Amazon affiliate link.
I met Kristin at AdventureCon back in June. At the time she was blogging for Huffington Post and Fandango’s Family Movie Room, but she recently started her own blog, In Deep H2O. After our fun blogger conference weekend at SeaWorld, we exchanged info and became friends on Facebook. Just a few days later, she shared a cool underwater photo and a quick status update about how much she loved her underwater camera. I was immediately intrigued. In preparation for my upcoming beach trip, I’d been toying with the idea of looking for an underwater camera but I hadn’t started researching yet.
After leaving Kristin a comment asking about her camera, she told me it was a Nikon COOLPIX AW100.
It’s a waterproof digital camera that also offers full HD 1080p video. I searched for it on Amazon and read the particulars pretty quickly (it’s waterproof up to 33 feet deep and shockproof up to 5 feet). The reviews were favorable. And, OK, the fact that it was orange swayed me a bit. Orange! In a bit of a self-admitted impulse purchase, I splurged and ordered the $300 camera on Amazon right then and there, less than an hour after Kristin told me about it.
It’s just another reminder of the power of social media, power that often extends beyond our blogs and ads and Twitter accounts and Pinterest pins (although, those are great avenues in which to wield social influence too). In a world overwhelmed with social media options, it’s easy to forget the power of personal relationships and how they impact our purchasing decisions. Kristin didn’t write a sponsored post about this camera. She just did what all of us do every day: she shared about something she loves with her friends. And she influenced (at least) one of them.
Did I make a good decision by taking Kristin’s word for it and buying the Nikon Coolpix AW100? See for yourself. My kids and I had a blast playing with the AW100 at the pool today. They’d never before seen themselves underwater! And, the best part of all? I spent ZERO time worrying about getting my camera wet. It’s so cool to dunk a digital camera.
I can’t wait to take my Nikon Coolpix AW100 to the Virgin Islands to capture our snorkeling adventures. Check back soon to see what I see in the sea. 😉
I bought a waterproof camera a few years ago (mine is pink!), and I think it’s one of the best camera for kids. Because it can be dropped and it’s waterproof, I never worry about what the kids are up to with it. Plus, my kids feel like they’re using a real camera and not a toy. I love it!
That’s a great point. Once we get back from our trip I should let my kids play with it. I bet they’ll get really creative with their underwater shots. 😉
Now I’m very jealous of you and Kristin! I loved her camera at AdventureCon and want to get one of these for myself very soon! I’m so glad you are enjoying your new waterproof camera! It has to be cool to dunk it!! : )
Rachel, I’m really impressed with the quality of photos this camera takes, both in and out of the water. Check it out when you’re in the market for one.
Great pictures, Colleen! Looks like you’re putting it to good use.
We have an underwater camera with a bright green case. The kids love to use it. It’s fun to be able to take pictures on a swimming playdate, too!
Thanks, Inga!
What great pictures! Now you have to differentiate between camera that you can dunk in water and those you can’t!! LOL 🙂
I should do a side-by-side comparison, right, Kelly? Fun!
I am so happy you got an underwater camera! I love mine and I love your fun photos. Such an awesome purchase really. i hope you have more fun with your new camera
Alvina, I bet you could share some great tips with me for using it. Your photos are always great!
Not a bad looking camera!
Thanks, Matt!
I LOVE it! We have had so much fun with our waterproof camera. Make sure you have a floating strap for when you snorkel or go to a waterpark, that way it doesn’t get lost.
That camera takes some pretty good pictures! I can’t wait to see the pictures you bring back from the Virgin Islands! (HAVE FUN!!)
Great post! Waterproof digital cameras are excellent tools for the family and makes for some incredible and creative shots. The Nikon Coolpix is definitely one of the best camera models out there. Its excellent to take on vacations.