Taking Underwater Photos with an iPhone

Take tantalizing underwater photos and make your Instagram account the envy of many! You don’t even have to invest in a hefty sum for a waterproof camera or phone – just use your trusty iPhone.

Battling the Tides

The first thing you have to do is to protect your iPhone, so you have to buy a sturdy waterproof case. You should also a lifejacket case, so it won’t sink just in case you drop it.

Touchscreen Trouble

Your touchscreen will not work underwater even if just slightly submerged, since the water will exert pressure all over the screen. Rather, you should use the volume buttons on the sides of your phone.

Focus

Since you can’t use your touchscreen underwater, you won’t be able to set it to focus on your subject. Instead, change your camera settings to auto-focus and auto-exposure.

Practice

Don’t go into the ocean immediately if this is your first time taking underwater photos. Instead, practice in a pool first, or any other controlled environment. Only after you’re used to the craft should you take a crack at the ocean.

Taking underwater photos with your iPhone is a fun and engaging activity and all it takes is a little practice. Soon enough, you can post plenty of stunning images that you can share with friends and family.

Comfy Hydration Packs Are a Runner’s Must-have

These days, more and more people take part in various running activities or marathon races, particularly those organized for a cause. This resulted in the increasing need for handy running paraphernalia, and the thriving of the running shoes and accessories industry. If you are looking for running accessories that will help you improve your performance, hydration packs will surely come in handy.

Hydration waist packs or backpacks are actually a necessity, specifically for ultra-running or when aiming for long adventure races. Hydration systems or those with portable water reservoir (bladders) were first introduced to cyclists, and are now becoming a must-have for enthusiasts of marathons and various outdoor recreational activities like hiking, trekking, skiing, and fishing.

A hydration pack with camelback design, also used for military maneuvers, is ideal for those prone to backaches and neck pains. Custom and high quality camelback hydration packs are light, comfortable, and easily accessible. For a hassle-and-distraction-free running routine and outdoor adventure, choose a pack with appropriate chest pocket options.

You can confidently extend your running time and mileage even on hot weather if you have a stylish, durable, and comfy hydration system. Hydration packs that feature climate control allow proper airflow and insulation so you get to perform your best even while carrying a backpack. Go for light-weight hydration backpacks with easily adjustable straps for custom fit and maximum support.

What to Do When a Smart Phone Takes a Swim

Smart phones have become a necessity in modern life. The features of these smart phones are so attractive and useful for an extremely active person that sales during the second quarter of 2013 have increased compared to the previous year.

These phones, however, are still not safe from damage. Water damage is one of the worst damages that can happen to a smart phone as it can destroy the inner circuits and parts. Unfortunate accidents, like dropping a smart phone into a pool, are unavoidable, so it is necessary to take these steps after the phone gets in contact with water:

1. Turn the phone off.Trying to keep the phone on when water might have seeped into the phone is the same as giving the phone a final kiss of death. Turn the phone off in order to prevent further damage.

2. Check the water damage sensors. For iPhones, the water damage sensor is located on different places, depending on the make. A red water damage sensor means that water has penetrated the phone.

3. Get help. It is best that the owner of the damaged phone does not do any DIY repairs, especially if he has no idea how to fix it. Contact a professional who has experience fixing smart phones.

These are some of the things one can do when his phone gets damaged. Prevention is better than cure, however, and waterproof cases can prevent these problems from happening.

The Most Common Types of Hydration Packs

Hydration packs are the better choice for outdoor sports like hiking and mountain biking. Aside from being convenient and more durable, they are also able to hold more water than a water bottle. So if you want to purchase one, it is best to know the different options available.

Dedicated Hydration Packs

This is the smallest and the least bulky of all types, and designed to carry a hydration bladder. They come in different sizes, but it is smaller than other types. Dedicated hydration packs can also be used to carry small items like a spare shirt or sunblock, and are excellent for day hikes that don’t require carrying a lot of items. They are the best option for those who like to travel as light as possible.

Backpacks with Built-in Hydration

For those who are planning an overnight trip, backpacks with a built-in hydration are the best choice, especially when the trip requires a lot of equipment. Backpacks designed for outdoor sports usually have a built-in sleeve where the hydration bladder can be placed.

Wearable Hydration Packs

One of the newest trends, however, are built-in hydration bladder storage. Some companies designed garments for athletes that have built-in bladders. They are made to keep the hydration bladder closer to the body in order to prevent freezing and to make it more comfortable for the athlete.