Which of the following is NOT considered essential scuba diving equipment?

In scuba diving, essential equipment is necessary for ensuring safety, comfort, and the ability to dive effectively. A mask, snorkel, and fins are fundamental components of a diver's gear. The mask allows divers to see clearly underwater, the snorkel enables breathing at the surface without lifting the face from the water, and fins provide propulsion and maneuverability while swimming.

A camera, while a popular accessory for capturing underwater experiences, is not considered essential diving equipment. It does not contribute to the basic requirements needed for a safe and effective dive. Therefore, opting for the camera as the non-essential item aligns with the understanding of what is necessary for scuba diving.