Underwater Photography
Underwater Photography Jan/Feb 2020
Issue 112
U w P
U w P
AZ6/7 Housing for the Nikon Z6 & Z7
Aquatica A5HD monitor
AZ6/7 Housing A5HD Monitor
“The Aquatica monitor expands my creativity, Stainless steel self-centering Full HD 1920x1080
giving me clear vision to shoot a variety of controls, just close and shoot! 1400:1 Contrast Ratio
low angles and imaginative shots that are Supports new Z-mount lenses 5.7” IPS LED-Backlit Display
and FTZ adapter
otherwise done blind.” - Jill Heinerth Ergonomic controls Accepts 4K HDMI Input
Up to 4 hours running time*
Deep down you want Aquatica Full access to camera controls Peaking focus & false color tools
Machined 6061 T6 aluminum
Available in black or red
www.aquatica.ca Retail: $2,995 USD Retail: $2,195 USD
Includes surveyor valve & pump
*Battery and charger not included
hotography
Underwater P
Contents Underwater Photography
4 Editorial A web magazine UwP112 Jan/Feb 2020
Smartphones, Featured Product,
Flashguns, Is it Photography?
5 News Travel & Events 35 DiveVolk SeaTouch 3 Pro 44 Backscatter MiniFlash MF-1 64 Raja Ampat
14 New Products by Christian Baki by Phil Rudin by Albert Kok
49 Chasing Dory 69 Uncommissionable
by Peter Rowlands by Pete Atkinson
39 Smartphone housings
by Peter Rowlands
26 Featured Product
by Peter Rowlands
52 Rokinon/Samyang 14mm 74 Dreamland or Homeland?
by Phil Rudin
41 FIX Under Warmer Vest by Lorenzo Buccio
by Peter Rowlands
28 Aquatica A7r1V pro
by Phil Rudin
57 Papua New Guinea 81 Parting Shot
by David Fleetham
by Mike Bartick
Underwater Photography 2001 - 2020
© PR Productions
Cover shot by Publisher/Editor Peter Rowlands
Phil Rudin www.pr-productions.co.uk
[email protected]
Issue 112/3 www.uwpmag.com
Is it photography any Editorial Killer iPhone Featured Product
more?
I decided in this issue to highlight
Despite coming into an already
Flashguns developed market in 2007 the a product which I think is different.
My research into smartphone
iPhone has become the most popular This issue on page 26 it is the Kraken
housings got me thinking. On land the I was delighted to read Phil smartphone but it has killed a lot of Ball to Ball arm QD adaptor which
vast majority of us take pictures with Rudin’s review of the Backscatter products in it’s path. allows you to Quick Disconnect a ball
our phones; all we do is press a virtual
Mini Flash MF-1 and it’s SN-1 Snoot. Calculators, sat navs, compasses, joint arm.
button and we get an image. In the Not because it was an excellent review voice recorders, the list can go on I am always on the lookout for
main we don’t think about apertures
(which Phil’s always are) but because and does, to a certain extent, include products that improve life and the
and shutter speeds and, even in most the powers that be at Backscatter have cameras; but not, to any significant Kraken adaptor certainly does that but
scenarios, focus. We just ‘take a shot’. called it a flash rather than a strobe. extent, underwater cameras. Why? if you think a certain product makes
Then there’s the fact that there
They say the English and the Well I think it’s because most of a difference please let me know and I
are now cameras which allow you Americans are divided by a common the housings are not controlling the will highlight it.
to refocus an image after it has been
language but not when it comes to functions which would make it an Ideally it should do something
taken not to mention phone apps sidewalks and pavements, boots underwater camera killer. that nothing else does (until it is
and computer software which will and trunks, fannies and fannies and On land, for photography the copied!) so thinking caps on and I
transform your image with another
comparatively recently flashguns and iPhone sucks ergonomically, but if look forward to hearing from you.
touch of the virtual button. strobes! you housed it with handles and a good
They allow us to do things
Sure we can have different words shutter release you’d be part way there
that photographically were either for the same thing but not the wrong but for reasons which I think Apple Peter Rowlands
impossible or certainly only possible word. You see, a flashgun creates a are to blame, nearly all housings [email protected]
after a lot of time consuming work.
single pulse of light and a strobe emits do not control the Pano or SloMo
Colour correction, unsharp masking multiple pulses as in stroboscopic. functions on the camera and to my
and solarisation are three that spring to
When underwater photography mind those two functions could well
mind but there are dozens of others. evolved from disposable flash bulbs become an underwater camera killer.
So my point is the photography to the wonders of an electronic
part of image creation has changed Wide angle vistas without the need for
flash that’s what we continued to a wide angle lens? 1080p HD video at
beyond all recognition. Fortunately the call them. But somewhere down 240fps? Perfect.
photographer’s eye is still important
the line I think it’s fair for me to Just as the iPhone entered an
in terms of composition but there are accuse the Americans of calling them already developed market so too could
apps which will warn you that the strobes (which is actually short for an underwater housing manufacturer
horizon’s not straight and I’m sure it
stroboscopes!) by providing something which
won’t be long before they’ll be able to So I say good on you Backscatter. exploited all of the amazing functions
flag up a composition warning.
I hope you’ve started something which which the iPhone camera is capable
At that stage, will it be will catch on with other manufacturers of.
photography anymore?
:-)
Issue 112/4 www.uwpmag.com
News, Travel & Events
Houston Underwater Film Festival
April 18 and 19, 2020
The first annual
Houston Underwater
Film Festival (HUFF)
is now open for
submissions of original
underwater videos.
Anyone can enter and
there are no entry fees!
HUFF aims to
promote underwater film
making and appreciation
of the beauty and
diversity of all things
underwater as well as
encouraging the art of Ikelite Ambassador Elena Kalis
underwater film making. Underwater the film, add titles, music, etc.
videographers from around the Fixed Lens (up to 2 minutes) Ikelite Ambassador Elena Kalis “For more than a decade I
world are invited to submit entries Films shot with cameras without picked up underwater photography have been creating underwater
for consideration for screening. The interchangeable lenses. (Go Pro, as a way to extend her traditional art photographic images that have drawn
deadline for entries is January 10, SeaLife, etc.) background. Using her Bahamian enthusiastic response from around the
2020 and the festival will take place Short Video (up to 2 minutes) “backyard” as the backdrop and world.
April 18-19, 2020 at the 14 Pews Feature Length (2-5 minutes) her young daughter as a model, she With my daughter, who has
Theater in Houston, Texas. Made in Texas - Films made by started creating. been appointed the first ambassador
5 Categories: underwater videographers living in The resulting Alice in Waterland for the Bahamas National Trust, we
Novice (up 2 minutes) - Open to Texas series went viral on the web and are bringing attention to the Trust’s
new filmmakers who seek assistance garnered the attention of thousands conservation work and management
in post processing. Each film will www.hups.org of fans around the world. Now in of over two million acres of National
be assigned to an experienced addition to her art exhibitions and Marine Parks.
videographer from the Houston commercial work, she devotes much www.ikelite.com
Underwater Photographic Society of her underwater energy to promoting www.elenakalisphoto.com
who will help edit and color correct environmental conservation efforts.
Issue 112/5 www.uwpmag.com
Tiger shark & Great Hammerhead Diving
Photography Adventures 9 Day Live Aboard
Baja, Mexico
Striped Marlin
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Whale Sharks Underwater at Tiger Beach platform, and a large galley with
Magalena Bay, La Paz, and Cabo Pulmo Park Bahamas several large tiger sharks plenty of deck and upper deck space.
July 2020 cruise in a pattern while lemon sharks It holds 10 guests plus crew and
November 2020
mingle with graceful Caribbean reef is very stable and comfortable to ride
shark. At nearby Bimini, migrating through the Caribbean waters. Divers
great hammerheads arrive to snack on must be experienced: these are long
stingrays while bull sharks lurk in the and multiple dives with no cages and
Photography Adventures same waters. filled with the consuming action of
Diving without a cage among sharks swirling around you.
Tiger Shark & Hammerhead these large sharks allows you to get Photographers will enjoy the
Diving Adventure up close and personal for a thrilling clear water and bright sand bottom
adventure full of action. Seeing and taking images of sharks over
this many species of sharks is an the green sea grass or reefs. The
opportunity to appreciate and value hammerheads and tigers come close
their role in our oceans. to divers creating opportunities for
February and March is prime beautifully detailed video or stills.
shark season. Choosing a charter that Underwater photographer host
departs from/returns to West Palm, Gregory Sweeney is your host and is
Beach Florida makes for easy flight available to offer photography help
www.TigerSharkDive.com Feb & March 2020 connections to any southeast Florida and tips during the trip and while
airport whether by train or car.. preparing for travel.
Our boat is the MV Dolphin
Tiger Beach & Bimini Is. , Bahamas Dream, a 86’ expedition charter www.TigerSharkDive.com
yacht with 5 shared cabins, diving
Issue 112/6 www.uwpmag.com
Baja Mexico Dive Safari November 2020
Join us on a real marine
adventure for photographers
as we dive with sharks,
dive a pristine reef with
a chance for humpbacks,
join a moonlight ballet with
mobula rays, then chase bait
balls with stripped marlin
PHOTO and other predators: we will
PHOTO
be in the action with fast and
WORKSHOP elusive predators
WORKSHOP
PHILIPPINES Trip Overview:
PHILIPPINES
The adventure starts in
Cabo Pulmo National Park
where protected marine
habitat and pristine coral
draws an enormous amount
of tropical fish, seals,
turtles, and more. Large
schools of jacks are an
DAVID FLEETHAM ERIK LUKAS awesome sight as the formation pulses Magdalena Bay is host to the largest Includes:
DAVID FLEETHAM
ERIK LUKAS
and morphs before us. We do dives stripped marlin migration in the world. 9 nights accommodation in
specifically for bull sharks who lurk We will be on our own boat from 7am Single Room (discount for Sharing)
and patrol on the scattered remains of to 4pm looking for sea birds who will All transfers between Cabo
ship wrecks. point us to the epic hunting action airport, Cabo Pulmo, La Paz, Port San
After 2 days of diving, we going on underwater. The marlins hunt Carlos, back to La Paz airport
transfer to La Paz where we do a dive the sardines as do the sharks and seals. 2 days of 2 tank diving in Cabo
unique to La Paz: a night dive with Under the surface will be a frenzy of Pulmo, 1 night dive with Mobula ray
Mobula Rays. Plankton are drawn action as marlin hunt in cooperation in La Paz
like a magnet to our lights and schools containing and maneuvering the 4 full days on boat for striped
of rays come swooping in to dive bait balls. One by one they attack marlin
down to feed in the sand. It is non- the sardines and take their meal. To
WWW.INFINITILIVEABOARD.COM stop swirling action at night. conclude the trip we transfer back to
EMAIL US AT: [email protected] www.GregorySweeney.com
On to Port San Carlos where La Paz for our return travels.
Issue 112/7 www.uwpmag.com
Basking Shark Weeks
With just under
a third of spaces left
for summer 2020 and
our busy booking time
www.bunakenoasis.com coming up then we
[email protected] suggest booking spaces
as soon as possible.
Our week tours are
the best length of tour
as gives enough time
to encounters good
conditions, with the
variables of the exposed
Atlantic coast and shark
food movements.
Tours run Sat-Sat
from the Inner Hebrides
of Scotland. Also
chances to see seals,
whales, dolphins, eagles, seabirds Orca & Humpbacks!
including the enigmatic puffin! We had a really great time in
November past having moved our
Underwater Photography Week base much further north. We lost
Set in the world-famous Bunaken National Marine Park, Bunaken Oasis offers a truly coast of the numerous humpback
luxurious diving experience. We’re running our scuba based encounters and the week ended with
underwater photography week again
Exceptional air-conditioned cottages with sea-view balconies. Chill-out bar, and gourmet this spring. 5 days diving around a dramatic carousel feeding event!
panoramic restaurant. We really love our new lodge location
Custom-built spa with qualified therapists. Oban and the Inner Hebrides, a mix in the fjords, which provided a great
of animal encounter, stunning scenic
Panoramic freshwater infinity pool diving, wrecks and hopefully some backdrop for northern lights with the
added bonus of a bbq hut! November
From water-makers, with UV encounters with basking and spurdog 2020 we’re running two weeks with
treatment, to black water treatment, Oasis was sharks!
designed to minimise any impact on the environment. spaces already been taken. Come join
us for an epic arctic adventure!
5* PADI-affiliated dive centre, designed for photographers, and dive boats that are
second to none, with freshwater www.baskingsharkscotland.co.uk
deck showers, toilets and, above all, space.
Issue 112/8 www.uwpmag.com
Land And Sea Photography Shootout With Scott Portelli
11th - 18th April 2020
$3,950.00
Photos © Adam Thompson
Land and Sea Photography
Shootout with Scott Portelli is proudly Olympus camera equipment available
sponsored by Olympus. for use amongst the group
WIN Amazing Prizes! Dinner on arrival
Package prices include: Gala Dinner to announce the winners
Return flights departing from Sydney and celebrate the event
with QantasLink Categories (Maximum 25
7 nights accommodation at Leanda Photos)
Lei Apartments Creative
Return island airport transfers Landscape / Seascape
Airport taxes Wildlife/Birds
10 dives for divers, and 2 half day Surf (Above and Underwater)
boat trips for non divers as either a Macro Underwater
snorkeler or passenger Wide Underwater
Practical workshops with Scott Portrait Underwater
Portelli Split shots (Over / Under)
Dive and snorkel gear Black and white Underwater
Dive and snorkel leaders Portfolio (6 photos)
www.prodivelordhoweisland.com.au/products/shootout
Issue 112/9 www.uwpmag.com
Frame And Focus On Saba
September 26 - October 3, 2020
Underwater workshops are
perhaps the fastest way to make
dramatic improvements in your
underwater photography. Join
Ikelite Ambassador Andrew
Raak for a week of photography
workshops, presentation, and one-
on-one interaction.
Saba is the Unspoiled Queen
of the Caribbean: beloved for
its old world charm and barely
touched landscape. 28 miles
southwest of St. Maarten, Saba is
officially part of the Kingdom of
the Netherlands. The Saba Marine
Park protects 30 dive sites around
the perimeter of the island.
This trip includes lodging
in the charming Juliana’s Hotel
and diving with Sea Saba. Also
included:
7 nights, 5 days of diving, 11 dives
(includes 1 free afternoon dive)
Afternoon Photography Workshops, Welcome drink at opening night
presentation
and Evening Photography
Presentations by Andrew Raak Hotel Amenities: Pool Access,
DVD, Hair Dryer, Wifi, Pool and Dive
Tanks and Weights include (Nitrox
Additional Add-On Fee) Towel, Shampoos/Soaps, Flat Screen
Includes airport/ferry transfers from TV with satellite, Ironing Facilities,
Coffee Marker, Mini Fridge
Saba AirPort/Fort Bay Harbor www.mantafest.com
Daily transport to and from harbor Starting at only $1,419 based on
double occupancy.
Daily breakfast
Wine at happy hour (except Mondays)
Two dinners and one to go lunch www.RaakBottomImaging.com
Issue 112/10 www.uwpmag.com
Photography with Fotografit & Lars Kirkegaard
Egypt Nov 2020
Lars Kirkegaard is one of
Scandinavia’s most experienced
underwater photo/video teachers
doing several talks and workshops
every year and judging numerous
photo contests. He has now teamed up
with Kingfish Dive & Travel to offer
a fantastic photo safari heading to the
Deep South & St. Johns in the Red
Sea.
The trip is for people with special The whole trip is based on
interest in photo- or videography “having good time” and to get the best
and is aimed at anyone interested in pictures and our experience is, that
seriously improving their underwater being this many people together with
photography in an informal, friendly the same purpose will make sure you
and non-competitive environment. do “just that”.
Lars will be on hand each day Along the trip there will be an
throughout the trip and there will be a opportunity to try out a selection of
team of Lars´ staff along on the trip. Nauticam wetlenses and iDivesite
The level of knowledge is high, and lights that Lars will bring.
the trip is aimed at anyone who wish Lars has been taking pictures
to learn and dive at the same time. underwater for more than 25
Should you only have a GoPro or an years and he owns the online
old video camera it does not matter - shop FOTOGRAFIT.eu and sells
the team cares more about the person underwater photo equipment all over
behind the camera! Europe.
www.kingfish.dk/egypt-photography-liveaboard-fall-0
Issue 112/11 www.uwpmag.com
Snorkeling with Sperm Whales in Dominica 2020
March 7 – 13
March 12 – 18
Our past experience has until they abruptly stop, waiting for us
observed Dominica’s west coast to catch up. Each encounter offers a
hosting approximately five sperm different opportunity, one more
whale families, each with five to nine exciting than the next.
cetaceans. Females and their calves Professional Nikon Photographer
comprise the majority of these groups, specializing in underwater imagery.
although we occasionally encounter As an avid scuba diver and ocean
males, who are 45 to 55 feet long; enthusiast, Amanda’s goal is to
thirty percent larger than the females. help the general public embrace the
Families frequently socialize by beauty below the waves, in hopes that
playing in the water. Other times, they with awareness comes concern. The
may remain stationary in a vertical conservation and preservation of this
position. ecosystem is of the highest priority to
Sometimes the pod swims slowly Amanda.
allowing us to fin with them, while
other times their speed picks up. We www.biganimals.com
always follow them at a safe distance
Issue 112/12 www.uwpmag.com
New Products
Backscatter Mini Flash MF-1 & Optical Snoot OS-1
D-200
Guide Number 20
220 lumen Focus Light
Underwater 110 degree coverage
The Backscatter Mini Flash for a great all-around streamlined
MF-1 is the perfect light + snoot strobe solution. It’s also the perfect
combination for any serious solution for Advanced mirrorless
underwater macro photographer. Its and SLR shooters looking to reduce
tiny size can get into the tightest spots their footprint and simplify their
and the companion Optical Snoot lighting and lighten their rig for easier
OS-1 makes it the perfect macro shooting.
strobe to give you the creativity We designed the Mini Flash
you’ve been missing. and Optical Snoot together with the
If you’ve ever used a larger purpose of making shooting with a
strobe made for wide angle, you snoot as easy as possible.
know it can be hard to get in tight With bright LED lights that
spots, especially with dual strobes and project the same beam pattern as the
managing a separate focus light as flash through the snoot, you can easily The Optical Snoot OS-1 is easy
well. see the exact placement of the snoot to mount, with a simple click on/click
The small size of the Backscatter beam on your subject when framing off. The Optical Snoot OS-1 is small
Mini Flash MF-1 makes it easy to a shot and know you are hitting your enough to keep in a pocket, allowing
maneuver and get into tight spaces. target. Have a critter that doesn’t like for a quick and easy switch from wide
With powerful LED focus lights a constant light on all the time? Use to macro.
built-in, there’s no need for a separate our short duration modeling flash to The base price is $399. Battery &
focus light to manage on your rig. check your snoot placement without charger are not included. INON
It makes a perfect companion for continuously disturbing a light Made in Japan
compact camera shooters looking sensitive critter. www.backscatter.com
Issue 112/14 www.uwpmag.com
CineBags Underwater releases 2020 CB70 Square Grouper
4K UNDERWATER DRONE WITH 100M CABLE
After a successful introduction of Main features include:
the CineBags CB70 Square Grouper Saltwater resistant YKK zippers
at the 2016 DEMA , we are now Cargo Lops
excited to release the latest version of Reflective fabric
your housings best friend. Mesh cargo pouches
New features include an updated Padded shoulder strap
shoulder strap, zipped pouches in the Center carry strap
flap, updated traction material on the Detachable shoulder strap
underside, and a heat welded bottom Heavy duty tarpaulin fabric
insert. Collapsible design
The CineBags CB70 Square Mesh pouches in inside flap
Grouper is designed to be a compact water tight to be used as a rinse tank
and collapsible home base for your
camera rig to and from the dive boat. The CB70 Square Grouper
With the Grouper, there is no need is available immediately through
to share a rinse bucket with your CineBags’ network of professional
fellow divers. Knowing that your rig underwater imaging dealers.
is protected, you can focus on the
adventure. www.cinebagsunderwater.com
Issue 112/15 www.uwpmag.com
NIKON
Z 7 Nauticam Wet Wide Lens For Compact Cameras
(WWL-C)
FULL FRAME
MIRRORLESS
The next evolution of the WWL-
1 is coming soon! As the versatility
and capability of compact cameras
increases, Nauticam has developed
a smaller and lighter water contact
wide angle lens tailored specifically to
the compact camera user. Designed
from the ground up to match the
compact camera’s form factor without
sacrificing optical quality, the WWL-C
is a powerful addition to not only
Nauticam compact housings but
also, via an optional adapter, to those sides
from other manufacturers such as Dome Coating Multi-layer Broad-band
the Olympus TG-6 and their PT-059 Antireflective Coating
housing. Focal Range Front Element to Infinity
Technical Specifications Maximum Field of View (underwater)
UNDERWATER Dimensions Dia. 146mm x 79mm 130º for 24mm equivalent lens
Weight in Air 1.05kg
Mounting System Bayonet Mount
Weight in Water 0.25kg Depth Rating 100m
CAMERA REVIEW Lens Construction 4 elements
Lens Coatings Anti-reflective on both www.nauticam.com
Issue 112/16 www.uwpmag.com
NA-A7RIV Ikelite 200DLM/A Underwater Housing for
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Sony A7RIV Camera
The third in the series E-M5
cameras is not just a name change,
but a redesigned camera body which
is actually several millimeters smaller
than its predecessor. The camera
features the same 20 megapixel
Super Macro Convertor-2 set up
micro four-thirds sensor as the more
expensive and highly respected E-M1
Mark II camera. The camera is quite
capable with a 121-point hybrid
autofocus system and 5-axis in-body
image stabilization system. For * Corrosion-proof ABS-PC
videophiles, the E-M5 II can capture construction
4K 30p and 24p, plus high speed * Clear view back with laser engraved
1080/120p. control markings
200DLM/A Underwater Housing * Ergonomic, field serviceable direct-
Features drive controls
* 200 ft (60m) depth rating * Accessory port for optional vacuum
* Extendable shutter release lever system
* Extendable AE-L/AF-L button * Optional DL3 DS Link Olympus
thumb lever for back button focus TTL Converter for the fastest, most
Wide Angle Conversion Port-1 set up accurate strobe exposure
* Interchangeable Dry Lock Micro
port system including flat ports, 6”
For more information about set ups and port chart, please visit our website_ www.nauticam.com
dome ports, and 8” dome ports www.ikelite.com
Issue 112/17 www.uwpmag.com
Isotta Housing for Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III
Europe’s Nr. 1 Nauticam expert
Certiied Service Center Super fast delivery Repairs and overhauls
Professional workshop with pressure We stock all popular Your partner in Europe for
tank and Nauticam trained engineers Nauticam products in-store full overhauls and repairs
ISOTECNIC SRL is pleased the camera.
to announce the launch of its new The back housing features a large
underwater camera housing for the window of coated, scratch-resistant
powerful Canon PowerShot G7X glass for the camera display. Different
Mark III - 100% crafted and made in to compact housings of other brands
Italy. the entire back housing is detachable
The durable, corrosion-resistant from the front body making it
anodized aluminum body in its convenient for the user to access the
signature red colour weighs only camera. The housing comes with two
770 grams. It’s designed to give solid feet providing stable footing
photographers use of all buttons and on the camera table and avoiding
/"65*$". /"ű" '*#&34/005 130 %6"- "-6.*/6. 5ű)064*/( funcionalites of the Canon PowerShot scratching.
'03 40/: " */0/ *LFMJUF 4FB 4FB '03 (0130 )&30
"MVNJOVN QFSGFDU FSHPOPNJDT )JHIMJHIU TQFDJöD QBSUT JO ZPVS QIPUP "MVNJOVN NFUFST EFFQ EJWF G7X Mark III. Another unique feature of Isotta
The compact Isotta housing housings are the double O-rings on
offers an ergonomic interface with all all buttons, dials and removable parts
aluminum controls placed within easy that are the best possible guarantee for
reach of the user’s hand. To make a watertight seal. Just in case there’s
the interface even more convenient a red LED moisture alarm inside
all functon icons are laser engraved the housing which is powered by a
into the housing and the buCons so replacable battery. Working depth of
photographers always know which this housing is 100 metres.
#"$,4$"55&3 .'ű 8&&'*/& 5(ű )064*/( "/(-&3'*4) .0/*503 functons they are using – a unique The housing will carry a retail
'-"4) 4/005 '03 0-:.164 5( w '6-- , feature of Isotta housings. Also unique price of 950.00 including VAT.
'PS UIF NPTU CFBVGUJGVM NBDSP QIPUPT "VUPNBUJD WBDVVN TZTUFN NFUFST )% , JOQVU VOEFSXBUFS öFME NPOJUPS
for Isotta is its single handed opening
mechanism making it easy to access www.isotecnic.com
Issue 112/18
NEON 25 4751XA OUD GASTEL THE NETHERLANDS +31165553944 WWW.UWCAMERASTORE.COM www.uwpmag.com
/&0/ 9" 06% ("45&- 5)& /&5)&3-"/%4 ű 888 68$".&3"4503& $0.
BACKSCATTER UW Camera Store Maintenance, repairs and
pressure tests
OLYMPUS TG-6
PACKAGES maintenance, repairs and pressure
Our technical department for
tests is located at our shop in Oud
Gastel. Besides that we also do custom
projects for, for example, underwater
inspections or special recordings 150 METER WATERPROOF
by film companies. We have two
pressure tanks to test your housing for THOUSING
watertightness.
Maintenance 250 M WATERPROOF ALUMINUM
Behind the various (push) HOUSING FOR GOPRO HERO 8 BLACK
buttons, controls and connections Pressure tests
of an underwater housing or strobe NEW!!!!
Do you doubt the waterproofness HERO 8 VERSION
are also o-rings that ensure the of your underwater housing?
watertightness. These o-rings should We have two pressure tanks
be checked and maintained regulary. to test your housing. We use these FOR HERO 5/6/7
Please contact our technical service for after the maintenance of a housing or
service of your underwater housing or ACTIONPRO ALUMINUM
strobe, but it is also possible to test
strobe. Prices and descriptions of the your housing. We can do the tests from HOUSING FOR GOPRO
different services can be found below. Monday till Friday. On Saturdays it is
Repairs often too busy.
Please contact us during or after Damage report for (travel) THE THOUSING IS DESIGNED TO USE
the warranty period if the products YOUR GOPRO CAMERA WITH THE FRONT
insurance LENS INSTALLED. THE GOPRO CAMERA
you have purchased are defective. Damage to your camera, lens, ITSELF REMAINS WATERPROOF IN THE
Our technical service can repair a underwater house or flash etc? If you HOUSING. DOUBLE PROTECTION !
lot by themselves. We are an offical need a damage report for insurance
PACKAGES service center for brands like INON coverage, please contact us. For a
and Nauticam. If we can’t solve
damage report it is necessary that we
FOR ALL the problem ourselves then we will have the ability to evaluate the product
send the product to the supplier /
ourselves.
manufacturer. Our technical service
SKILL LEVELS is located at our showroom in Oud www.uwcamerastore.com
Gastel.
Issue 112/19 www.uwpmag.com
SeaFrogs Universal UMI UMI UU-TG6 housing for
Vacuum System TG-6 and TG-5 cameras BLACKM AGIC
UU-TG6 housing is compatible
with TG-6 and TG-5 camera. It is
ergonomically designed such as thumb BM PCCII
rest, finger hook, etc. Brought trigger
type shutter lever, you can feel the
shutter from the housing shutter lever 4K / 6K
easily. And all the control buttons are
easy to operate. Material ABS Resin
You can enjoy macro shooting Depth Rate 60m (196ft) Nauticam NA-BMPCCII goes beyond
with the ring diffuser (included). If Size (W)165x(H)119x(D)99mm just housing the Pocket Cinema Camera
4K & 6K. It includes additional batteries
you would like to use wide angle Weight Approximately 690g / capability, portable SSD slot and the
use of external monitors or recorders.
conversion lens with the housing, just 24.3 oz (Housing body only) For more information, please visit our
website_
remove the ring diffuser and attach
the wide-angle conversion lens (sold www.umiumi.jp www.nauticam.com
separately).
UNDERWATER HOUSING
TRANSPORT & RINSE TANK
Brilliant little vacuum system
made for small housings, iphone
housings and semi large systems.
All included valve that has build-
* SHOWN WITH
in battery and red/green indicator. NAUTICAM 1DX
Delivered in a box all-inclusive HOUSING
ULCS ARMS
with M14/M16/Seafrogs thream SEA&SEA STROBES
FOR SIZE
mount adaptor and pump. REFERENCE
REFERENCE
123,75 EUR (incl. VAT) ONLY
www. fotografit.eu
FOLDED FOR TRANSPORT
Issue 112/20 www.uwpmag.com
Isotta RED64 Strobe
YS-D2 STROBE SONY
RX100VI
of 130° degrees is achieved with its
parabolic aluminum dish, spreading
light without a diffusor and avoiding
backscatter. The strobe has a two
Over 30 years after its first color target light (white and red) from
breakthrough flash, the Isomat which to choose depending on the
33, Isotta has returned to its roots photographer’s needs.
with this brand new and powerful Different to all other high-
underwater strobe. Isotta is proud power strobes in the market the UNDERWATER
to announce the Isotta RED64 with batteries section allows photographers
guide number 64 in its signature red to use their own 8 Ni-MH-AA CAMERA
anodized aluminum finish and double rechargeable high quality batteries, in
O-rings. from electronics. This not only allows REVIEW
a compartment sealed and separated
Isotta’s RED64 was designed
and produced in Italy as a result of 4 for flexibility at location but also a big
years of research and development cost saving.
in reverse engineering. It’s TTL The strobe can be controlled both
protocol has been tested on all Nikon automatically and manually: RED64
DSLR and an extensive test series can be operated with an optical fiber
on functionality and endurance and cable working in TTL mode and as
will soon be completed for all other well in Manual. Alternatively it can
relevant camera brands. be used with sync cables through a S6
Isotta’s RED64 features a guide bulkhead or Nikonos V or in even in
number n.22 in water (at 1 meter of slave mode to work without cables.
distance, 100 ISO) allowing for a It is also neutrally buoyant
www.sea-sea.com great power underwater and ideal to in water and waterproof up to 100
01803 663012 - [email protected] shoot against the sunlight and with meters.
big or distant subjects. Its beam angle www.isotecnic.it
Issue 112/21 www.uwpmag.com
Navatics MITO
Nauticam NA-RX100VII
for Sony DSC-RX100 VII
ANGLERFISH
UNDERWATER FIELD MONITOR
5.7“ FULL 4K HIGH RESOLUTION
Navatics MITO is a recreational to manage new levels of underwater “The Pocket A9”
underwater drone that can be used for video shooting steadiness previously
explorations. thought impossible in such a small The Sony RX100 VII is the
newest iteration of the
At only 7.6 lbs., Navatics MITO underwater drone. popular compact rx100 series.
Powered by Senseplay’s wireless
NEW !!!! is designed to fit airline specification communication solution, all visuals sensor created with the idea
It has a new stacked CMOS
for carry-on luggage.
Navatics MITO can record captured by Navatics MITO can be of faster, more accurate
underwater video at a 4K resolution live-streamed at 1080p resolution autofocus and high speed
ESPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR UNDERWATER at up to 30 fps and shoot 12 MP still up to 500m directly to the Navatics’ photographing without any
PHOTOGRAPHERS AND VIDEOGRAPHERS. blackout that, before now,
images. smartphone app. was only oered on their
5.7” IPS SCREEN ULTRA THIN DESIGN It is equipped with two 1000 With an easy-to-use wireless high-end mirrorless cameras.
HIGH CONTRAST 1400:1 VIEWING ANGLE 85° , WIDE 170°
HD 1920X1080 & 4K INPUT REC. 709HD COLOR STANDARD lumen LED lights to bring back controller and smartphone app, it The NA-RX100VII has an
HIGH BRIGHTNESS 550 CD/M2 CUSTOMIZABLE MENU COLORS interchangeable m50 port
colorful images, diving at up to 130 ft. brings a refined user experience
deep. to diving, fishing, underwater system that provides the
ability to utilize the
Leveraging an advanced active photography and videography lovers. RX100 VII’s full 24-200mm
stabilization algorithm developed Users can even use the zoom range with the standard
by Navatics team, Navatics MITO smartphone app for color correction port and various m67
can hover even in a strong 1.5 m/s and to share images and videos accessories with the N50
current and keep its orientation and directly to social media. short port.
focus regardless of the complex www.reefphoto.com
environment underwater, allowing it www.fourseas.com
Issue 112/22 www.uwpmag.com
Ikelite Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III Compatibility
After a long three year wait, the angle and macro accessories
Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III was * ABS-PC construction is
announced in July 2019 and came to corrosion-proof and lighter than
market in the US in late August. The aluminum
Canon G7 X series has been a long * Clear view removable back
favorite for underwater photographers with laser engraved control markings
due to its compact size, fast lens, and * Ergonomic, field serviceable
manual exposure modes. direct-drive controls with premium
The new Underwater Housing soft-touch knobs
for Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III * Dual fiber optic ports for strobe
# 6146.09 started shipping in early triggering
September 2019. Changes in the * 1/2-20 accessory port for
physical design of the camera prevent optional vacuum valve
the new camera from being used in or * Made in the USA
adapted to housings for older Canon There is a slight dimensional
G7 X series cameras. difference which affects the ability to
Underwater Housing Features use the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark
* 200ft (60m) depth rating III camera
* Extendable shutter release lever
* Glass lens port with 67mm www.ikelite.com
threads for direct attachment of wide
Issue 112/23 www.uwpmag.com
Ikelite DL3 DS Link Sea & Sea MDXL-α7IV housing for Sony α7RIV
Panasonic / Olympus
TTL Converter Ikelite
PT2 Hotshoe Kit
TTL strobe exposure opens
up a whole new world of creative
possibilities for both wide angle and
macro photographer. Let your camera Revised ergonomic design, eyesight use the housing.
control the strobe output so that you improved safety features and eye- All controls have luminescence
can devote your attention to adjusting catching exterior. The new MDX-L stickers which glow in dark
your camera’s settings, composing the series housings are now upgraded environment.
shot, and focusing on your subject. with more standard features to ensure Equipped with the Optical
Key Advantages better handling and greater protection Viewfinder 0.5x as standard. Other
Faster, more accurate, and more for your camera. optional viewfinders such as the
reliable than fiber optic TTL triggers The Port Lock prevents the port VF180 1.2x, VF45 1.2x and Optical
Always ready when you are - no from turning or loosening and the Viewfinder 0.66x, 0.8x can be used.
batteries required Port Lock lever is specifically located Sync Cord 2-pin Connector
Switch between TTL and manual to avoid being unlocked accidentally. enables use of conventional hardwired
exposure with the press of a button The housing is equipped with a Sync cable (Manual mode only).
Supports flash exposure (EV) lens-lock release button which makes Equipped with two sacrificial
compensation set in the camera it possible to change lenses easily, zinc diodes to prevent electrolysis
Supports rear curtain sync without opening the housing. damage.
Improves strobe battery life and Pulling out the Focus/Zoom Built-in leak sensor immediately
recycle time Dial gives sufficient room inside the alerts you to water ingress.
One TTL converter supports a wide housing to easily accommodate larger Tripod screw mount is located on
selection of camera models diameter lenses. the centre underside of the housing.
Independently waterproof sealed The camera’s diopter adjustment Equipped with under guard to
dial can be operated from outside the protect from scrach.
www.ikelite.com housing. This feature is useful when
two or more people with different www.seaandsea.jp
Issue 112/24 www.uwpmag.com
Anglerfish 4K monitor DJI Osmo housing
The AFCL-57 is a most advanced underwater video
monitor designed specifically for underwater video and
photographer. MSRP $1350 USD. Price includes slim design
4K monitor, custom underwater HDMI cable with 8K signal
capacity (2mm thk TPU jacket, Kevlar reinforcement and
solid core, cut resistance and pull strength of 1000kg), M14x1
custom design bulkhead (200 bar rating), and custom bulkhead
adaptor to fit any housing port size. The Waterproof Case is water
Bulkhead is designed with underwater videographer resistant at depths of up to 60 m.
in mind, designed so you can remove cable without getting The precise fit inside the case
water droplets on the connector. Also cable and connector are keeps Osmo Pocket
secure while avoiding
designed for fatigue and cyclic use without failure. You can
remove cable while the camera is vacuum sealed. unwanted movements.
This monitor design addresses a The Waterproof Case
lot of reliability problem with other also includes two
monitor manufacturers. It’s an integral mounting brackets that
allow you to attach the
type monitor only used for underwater
application so it’s thinner and lighter. case to other equipment.
And designed for underwater. You can’t Two buttons on the
remove the monitor from the housing. outside grant precise
You can only change the battery and the control of Osmo Pocket.
The anti-fog inserts effectively
battery compartment is completely sealed
from the rest of the housing. So even prevents the case from fogging up.
if the battery floods the monitor is still Highlights
protected. Supports water resistance at
Monitor can work for 6.5hrs on a depths of up to 60 m.
Includes two mounting brackets
single battery charge. More information
including features are shown in the for additional accessories.
product info sheet. Shipped from Canada.
Please contact us to preorder. www.dji.com
www.uwcamerastore.com
Issue 112/25 www.uwpmag.com
Featured Product of the Month MIRRORLESS
Kraken Ball to Ball arm QD adaptor MIRRORLESS
Like it or lump it, 1” ball arms
are the design of choice for most ON THE WALL
manufacturers and therefore most
underwater photographers have no
choice but to use them.
True, they combine great
positioning flexibility with strength
and provide almost limitless
configuration possibilities but when it
comes to assembly and disassembly
they aren’t perfect because you have
to hold both sides as you undo the
centre clamping knob and on one side but the Kraken Ball to Ball arm QD
might be a heavy strobe or video light. adaptor has a very strong internal
Enter the Kraken Ball to Ball spring which eliminates any slight
arm QD adaptor. movement (which gets exaggerated
Now I’m not suggesting you the longer the ball arm) and provides
replace all your ball arms overnight as secure a fitting as the solid ball arm
but just consider the base section so itself.
that your strobe or video light arm
system can be removed very easily Ball Ball QD Arm - $42 MSRP
with the turn of a bayonet. Ball YS QD Arm - $42 MSRP
I have used other quick release
adaptors in the past but they had an www.krakensports.ca
annoying ‘wobble’ once assembled
Do you have a product which you think deserves a mention in this section? WHO HAS THE LARGEST SELECTION
Something that makes life simpler, something which no one else makes or
something that solves a problem? It can be big or small, expensive or cheap and OF THEM ALL?
even come from out of the underwater photography world i.e. Costco, Aldi, Lidl
etc. If you have such a thing, let me know at:
Peter Rowlands � e�1.t.� THATS WHO .
[email protected]
..- CAMERAS .COM
Issue 112/26 www.uwpmag.com
Sony Alpha A7R MKIV &
Aquatica A7rIV Pro Housing
by Phil Rudin
The Sony A7R IV was named download. I have copied into this
DP Review’s 2019 Product of the article the features of the Sony A7R
year and High End Interchangeable IV that I have found most useful for
Lens Camera of the year. The Sony underwater photography.
was also named the best camera The A7R IV has a new imaging
of 2019 for landscape and portrait processor and autofocus algorithms
photography and is one of the top which include realtime tracking in
full frame cameras for underwater AF-C. This auto focus system works
photography. so well that I have abandoned back
In November the DEMA show button focusing and AF-S relying
was held in Orlando, Florida, USA. instead on the Lock-on AF Expanded
DEMA is the largest business to Flexible Spot AF in the AF-C mode.
business dive trade show in the world This combination allows me to lock
and the imaging section is one of focus with a half press of the shutter
the largest areas of the DEMA show. and then drag the focus point around
During this year’s show housing and the frame while maintaining the
accessories for the Sony A7R IV were original focus area. This means I can
featured from every major housing focus on an animal’s eye in the center
manufacturer in the world. of the frame then drag the eye around
the frame for the best composition
Sony Alpha A7R MKIV without losing the tack sharp focus on
camera the eye.
Lock-on expanded flexible spot
also allows you to adjust the speed
In the last issue #111 of
that you drag the focused point
UWPMAG.com I reviewed the A7R
IV so rather than repeat that rather around the frame. I have changed the
extensive portion in this review I factory default setting and sped up the Split Shot, Ginnie Springs, Florida-Aquatica A7rIV Pro housing, Sony A7R IV,
movement to meet my needs. Another
would refer you to my article which Sony 12-24mm F/4 zoom at 12mm, Two Inon Z330 strobes, ISO320, F/13,1/100th
is in the back issues as a free PDF subtle but very useful update in the sec
Issue 112/27 www.uwpmag.com
A7R IV is that the focus area box can of a 135mm macro lens extending
be reduced or enlarged in size to fit my lens range. I have already found
the user’s needs. The box can also this to be quite useful with the Sony
be set to white or red which makes FE 90mm and FE 50mm macro
it much easer to see compared to the lenses. I am aware that I can just crop
original gray box in older Sony A7/ the FF image to achieve APS-C or
A7R versions. other format sizes. However what
Many readers have asked me I see in the viewfinder in APS-C
about the new implementation of mode is exactly what I get giving me
animal eye autofocus in the A7R two cameras in one with all of the
IV and A7R III firmware update. additional features of the A7R IV
With limited testing I have found the system.
animal eye AF is at best hit and miss
underwater while human eye-AF has Aquatica A7rIV Pro Housing
worked well with models. and Ports
The most endlessly discussed
feature of the new A7R IV in forums
Aquatica is a Montreal based
and chat rooms is its 61MP full frame
Canadian company founded in 1982
sensor. Who is it for, why does anyone as Aqua Vision Systems and later
need so much resolution, will I need a
renamed Aquatica. Aquatica is the
new computer to handle the file sizes leading manufacturer of quality
and on and on. The 61MP A7R IV
aluminum underwater housings in
provides exceptional image quality
North America.
with plenty of dynamic range and an Every Aquatica housing is for Nikon F-3 film camera back in been well documented for decades.
ability to do large crops. In the APS-C the mid 1990s before moving to a The Aquatica Pro A7rIV housing
machined in-house from a single
mode the image and focus points aluminum block on a highly Nikonos RS. I sold one of the F-3 is the third generation of Aquatica
cover the entire frame and produce housings to a Professor now living housings for the Sony A7R line of full
specialized five-axis machine. The
an excellent 26.2MP image which in California who contacted me frame mirrorless cameras. This is my
housing is then anodized to military
is larger than most current APS-C specifications and powder-coated about two years ago looking for first Aquatica digital housing review
cameras. This matters to me because I recommendations on moving to for UWPMAG.com and when the test
with a special environmental-resistant
get a faster work flow and additional paint. The finished product is durable digital. housing arrived one of the first things
options when shooting, especially in After a brief conversation I I noticed was the excellent finish on
and the craftsmanship is first rate.
macro. asked about the Aquatica F-3 housing the housing.
The housing has excellent
The Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 macro ergonomics, which are user friendly and the Professor advised he was The housing ships with the
lens is a must-have for underwater still shooting with the F-3 housing Surveyor Vacuum system, valve,
and the control layout is simple even
macro shooters and a one push toggle for those wearing heavy gloves. on a regular basis. The quality and sensor and pump included as
to APS-C gives an AOV equivalent durability of the Aquatica line has standard equipment. The housing
I owned two Aquatica housings
Issue 112/28 www.uwpmag.com
sells with three different bulkhead
configurations, twin Nikonos sync
cord connectors, one Ikelite connector
or dual optical connectors. My
test housing used the dual optical
connectors which support a verity
of strobes from Backscatter, Inon,
OneUW, Retra, Sea & Sea and more.
For this review I used two Inon
Z-330 strobes or two Backscatter
Mini Flash OS-1’s both with fiber
optic cords. The housing also supports
the HDMI large 23.75mm bulkhead
opening for the optional monitor
cables and the Aquatica 5HD monitor.
The A7rIV Pro housing uses
aerospace grade 6061 T6 aluminum
with T304 stainless steel push buttons.
All of the camera’s function buttons while wearing gloves. The rear of Little Devil Springs, Florida-Aquatica A7rIV Pro housing, Sony A7R IV, Sony 12-
and dials are accessible including the housing has two sets of up/down 24mm F/4 zoom at 20mm, Two Inon Z330 strobes, ISO400, F/16, 1/125th sec
support for back button auto focus right/left OK button arrays. The set
with the AF-On control using the right on the top right of the housing can be
thumb and triggering with the right used to scroll over the more than 500 on/off and moved it onto the mode take full advantage of the outstanding
forefinger. auto focus points on the sensor. The dial to avoid accidental recording EVF.
I have programmed the left lower right set controls control the while shooting stills. The back half of the housing
C3 button on the A7R IV to toggle display, ISO, drive mode and more. To record video I select the also contains the vacuum system
between EVF and LCD, I also The control buttons and dials can also video mode on the mode dial and electronics which have a user
programmed the right AEL button to be reprogrammed to satisfy just about use the shutter lever to start and stop replaceable 3V CR 2032 battery.
toggle between full frame and APS-C. any need. recording. Two stainless pins at the bottom of
Both of these controls have larger than Levers on the right side of the The back half of the housing the back align with the front of the
normal push buttons that fall directly housing control back button AF and has a pickup viewfinder which housing to assist in a proper seal. Two
under my thumbs so finding these Video on/off with a second lever works well with the spectacular locking buckles secure the front and
buttons without looking away from controlling focus area while the left 5.76M dot electronic viewfinder. rear of the housing.
the viewfinder is a breeze. hand thumb lever controls image My recommendation for the A7rIV The housing comes with an
All of the other buttons and dials review. Again these camera functions Pro housing would be to add one of excellent camera tray that attaches to
on the rear of the housing can easily can be reprogrammed for just about Aquatica’s excellent 45 or 180 degree the bottom of the camera using the
be controlled with your thumbs even any need. I reprogrammed the video Aqua View accessory viewfinders to tripod thread mount. The tray includes
Issue 112/29 www.uwpmag.com
the lens release control and a positive For this review Aquatica sent
locking device. Once mounted on the me ports, gears and port extensions to
tray the camera will not shift at all support several FE lenses. The ports
keeping it perfectly aligned. To install and extensions are the same as those
the camera pull up the mode control used for Aquatica DSLR housings
wheel and slide the tray onto the two making it a bit more cost effective for
stainless rods in the front half of the DSLR owners making the move to
housing. Once the tray locks into place Sony full frame.
the camera will not move or fall out of
the housing even if held upside-down Field Testing the Aquatica
and the controls align perfectly. Pro A7rIV Housing System
To change camera batteries the
camera needs to be removed from
Let me start by saying that Sony
the housing but the tray can remain has definitely arrived and that the
in place. Both flash cards can be
A7RIV system is no longer a work
removed and reinstalled while the in progress. While the A7RIV is a
camera is locked into the front half
huge improvement over the A7R
of the housing. Once the camera is
III I reviewed in 2017 Sony is still
installed in the housing it is easy to filling in its lens lineup which is Phil Rudin field testing the Aquatica Pro A7rIV housing. Photo by Christian Baki.
mount the Aquatica flash trigger for
incomplete compared to Canon and
Sony on the camera hot shoe. The Nikon DSLR’s but much improved
flash trigger is for manual flash control
since the 2017 review. Sony has
(not TTL) using two fiber optic cords.
been concentrating on the full frame
The flash trigger is powered by two premium lenses line and each new
3V CR 2450 batteries that slide into
release has been very well received.
the sides of the trigger. A small switch For this review I selected the
on the left rear of the flash trigger
Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 macro G OSS
turns on the trigger test, firing the two
lens which easily handles the larger
small LED lights. A green LED on the A7RIV 61MP sensor and is without
rear of the trigger also lights to show
question the best macro lens I have
the trigger is activated and then turns
off to conserve battery power. While
field testing the housing system the Caribbean Spiny Lobster, Blue Heron
flash trigger worked flawlessly. The Bridge, Florida, Aquatica A7rIV Pro
housing also has plenty of room for an housing, Sony A7R IV, SonyFE 90mm
after market Sony TTL flash trigger if F/2.8 macro, Two Backscatter MF-1
that is one’s preference. strobes ISO100, F/16, 1/125th sec
Issue 112/30 www.uwpmag.com
ever used with any camera. The 90macro was paired
with the Aquatica 1840 macro port and 28.5mm
port extension 48453. Aquatica also provided the
ACU10 +10 close-up lens (19353) and the ACU
19355 single flip adapter. The flip adapter and
closeup lenses is perfect for shooting in full frame
or APS-C formats.
For wide angle I used the super wide (12-
84 AOV) rectilinear Sony FE 12-24mm F/4 G
zoom. This lens was paired with the 200mm (8
inch) acrylic dome port with removable shade
blades (18405), 63.5mm port extension 48458
and zoom gear 49107. This combination works
well at high (F/13 and above) F-numbers but I
would recommend the Aquatica 230mm (9.25 inch
#18407) glass dome for best corner sharpness.
I also used the 200mm port with 28.5mm port
extension 48453 for the 114 degree AOV Rokinon
AF 14mm F/2.8 FE for Sony which is not listed on
Aquatica’s port chart. Again I would recommend
the 230mm (9.25 inch #18407) glass dome for best
corner sharpness.
Sony has not yet released any FE fisheye
lenses so I have been using the Canon 8-15mm
F/4L Fisheye with a Metabones IV lens adapter. The
Canon Fisheye was also used with the 200mm dome
port with shade blades removed for circular Fisheye
and 39.5mm port extension 48462. All four of the Diver Silhouette, Devil’s Ear Springs, Florida, Christian Baki at Devil’s Eye Springs, Florida-
Aquatica’s dome ports including the small 152mm Aquatica A7rIV Pro housing, Sony A7R IV, Sony 12- Aquatica A7rIV Pro housing, Sony A7R IV, Sony
(6 inch) acrylic can be used with the Canon fisheye 24mm F/4 zoom at 12mm, Two Inon Z330 strobes, 12-24mm F/4 zoom at 24mm, Two Inon Z330 strobes,
zoom. ISO640, F/8, 1/125th sec ISO400, F/13, 1/125th sec
Be aware that like all 200mm acrylic ports
buoyancy is an issue compared to Aquatica’s attaching counter weights to help resolve this issue. everything from life size, 1:1 to about 1:10 in focus.
230mm and 200mm glass ports. The acrylic ports I configure the 90mm macro lens with the I find that most of the macro/closeup subjects I want
have a tendency to turn port up putting a strain on focus limiter set from 1:1 to infinity in auto focus. to photograph fall well within that shooting range.
your right wrist while holding the housing for long On past Sony A7 cameras I always set the focus As I have said in past reviews it takes a few
periods. The Aquatica dome shade is drilled for limiter from 1:1 to 0.5 meters which renders dives to get the hang of shooting within this rather
Issue 112/31 www.uwpmag.com
Ginnie Springs Ballroom Entrance, Aquatica A7rIV Pro housing, Sony A7R IV, Sharptail Eel, Blue Heron Bridge, Florida, Aquatica A7rIV Pro housing, Sony
Sony 12-24mm F/4 zoom at 12mm, Two Inon Z330 strobes, ISO640, F/16, 1/30th A7R IV, SonyFE 90mm F/2.8 macro, Two Backscatter MF-1 strobes ISO100,
sec F/16, 1/125th sec
short focusing range. By using the Once I have a subject in focus need for any added buoyancy. smoothly and auto focus is excellent
focus limiter I find that the lens is at 1:1 I can flip the ACU+10 into The Aquatica zoom gear for the all the way to the dome port. Best
less likely to hunt and that the lens place and just move the port closer Sony FE 12mm to 24mm F/4 is 3D results for depth of field and corner
acquires focus more quickly than to the subject to regain focus in the printed and just slides over the lens sharpness are at F/13 or higher. Most
when it is set from 1:1 to infinity. viewfinder. I used the ACU+10 close- being held in place by thin rubber photographers will be more than
With the A7R IV set to AF-C up lens in AF for this review but some tubing on the inside of the gear. I happy in the F/8 to F/16 range but for
with tracking flexible spot the camera subjects are easier to acquire using found that this simple system worked best corner sharpness F/13 or greater
does not hunt like it did with prior manual focus. I use the same F/13 very well and that the gear remained renders the best results. The F/13 and
versions set to infinity. Aquatica also starting point and shoot at ISO-64 in place once mounted in the housing. above aperture setting is my standard
offers a manual focus gear for the to ISO-200 for most macro work. I The camera and FE 12-24mm zoom starting point across all full frame
90mm macro allowing you to switch set shutter speed at 1/250th sec. and can be mounted from the rear of the DSLR or mirrorless cameras with
from AF to manual in the super menu. tweak for best background results. housing or the front before the port like AOV lenses not just the Sony
This allows me to rack the lens out to With the recommended Aquatica and extension are mounted over the cameras.
1:1 and leave it there while using the macro port configuration the housing lens. The very last thing I do before
ACU+10 for greatest magnification. was very well balanced without the Once installed the lens zooms heading out for a dive is turn on
Issue 112/32 www.uwpmag.com
the flash trigger, test fire the strobes port and strobes at all times when not
then seal the housing and draw the in use.
vacuum. To draw the vacuum you The Aquatica A7rIV housing
must turn on the system before closing retails in the US with any of the
the housing using the on/off switch bulkhead configurations for $2949.00.
on the electronics. Once the housing The eight inch acrylic port is around
buckles are secure the plug is removed $580.00, the 9.25 inch optical glass
from the vacuum valve and the pump port is $1760.00 and the Macro port is
is attached. Use the pump to draw $419.00. Extensions with lock begin
the vacuum until the green LED on at around $250.00.
the left rear of the housing remains a If you are seeking the very best
steady green, DO NOT OVER PUMP. in image quality and a full frame
The green light will then remain on camera with quality lenses is within
throughout the dive until the vacuum your budget the Sony Alpha A7R
is released by opening the port of the IV and Aquatica Pro A7rIV housing
pump. Don’t forget to replace the plug should be on your short list for
(which is secured to the valve by a consideration.
chain) in the vacuum valve. The pump moving from a sub-full frame system not find myself having to look away Thanks to Aquatica.ca for
supplied with my test housing was to a full frame system remember the from the viewfinder to change any providing the equipment for my
a bit flimsy and not up to Aquatica’s reduced depth of field at any given F/ of my camera settings. The bayonet review and to Pura Vida Divers
high standards. stop over sub-full frame can present mounted ports and extensions were (puravidadivers.com) for assistance
For my review I shot stills using a few issues. The shallower DOF easy to change in the field and I often during some diving operations.
four Delta 3 Technical Lighting associated with full frame cameras did lens changes from the front of the
Control eight inch strobe arms with requires more critical focus so housing without needing to remove Phil Rudin
TLC clamps. Technical Lighting taking a machine-gun approach to the camera. The extension rings for www.aquatica.ca
Control is an Aquatica owned lighting shooting may result in high numbers the type 4 port system have a unique
support company that offers arms, of poorly focused images. Also high lock on the outside of the extension
clamps, ball heads and other support megapixel cameras like the Sony which is very easy to use.
equipment. These arms integrate A7R III and especially the A7R IV This housing is compact and very
easily with the one inch ball heads on tend to highlight the flaws associated easy to carry. The housing grips are
the two Inon Z-330 strobes and two with many lenses of inferior quality, removable making the housing simple
Backscatter Mini Flash OS-1’s I used I recommend choosing wisely when to pack for carry-on or shipping. The
for this review. I really like the TLC making lens purchases. ACU flip adapter held the ACU +10
arms and clamps; they are smooth and In the water the Aquatica A7rIV close-up lens out of the way of the
very easy to move yet never droop or Pro housing is well balanced and easy
collapse while in the water. to use. All of the controls fall at your
For those of you thinking about finger tips and after a few dives I did www.instagram.com/philrudinphotography
Issue 112/33 www.uwpmag.com
Small Ads
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Issue 112/34 www.uwpmag.com
DiveVolk SeaTouch 3 Pro with
Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max
By Christian Baki
Having recently upgraded my SeaGrip handle uses their patented
mobile device to the latest iPhone pressure supply system which is
offering, I entered the 42nd 2019 embedded in the handle. The inside
(DEMA) Diving Equipment and and outside pressure are balanced up
Marketing Association show with to 40m / 131 ft ensuring operational
a special goal in mind which was sensitivity within recreational depths.
to deep dive all the various mobile Having big hands or gloves on this
housing options. makes one handed operation much the housing with the
The annual DEMA Show more comfortable. optional Housing Clamp
which started in 1977, is the largest In addition to the amazing for tools expansion with
trade-only event in the world for underwater touch focus, wireless the DiveVolk Color
hundreds of companies doing business charging makes it even easier to Correction Filter.
in the scuba diving, ocean water charge without having to open the It is worth noting
sports, underwater photography and housing on the way to your dive that this clamp has a cold
adventure/dive travel industries. It is site, surface interval, or post if your shoe mount and two screw
also my impression that DEMA brings smartphone supports this type of mounts for another add-
out the hard-core dive professionals as charging. on such as an underwater
compared to the consumer shows. With a depth rating of 80 m / 262 macro light.
DiveVolk, formed in 2016, is ft and touch rating of 40m / 131ft, the The bottom of the
a dedicated housing manufacturer housing is secured by a small opening clamp has 3 screw points
and their dive housing weighs with a triple o-ring design with to allow for a tripod
approximately 310 g / 11 Oz and locking thumbscrews. or camera tray system.
the material of the housing body is The assembly was very simple There is a place to attach a
constructed with a PC + ABS plastic and straight forward and having a bolt snap with cave line or
material, the metal component is 316 bright white o-ring makes it simple the included hand strap.
stainless steel. to identify and remove sand, salt, The following DiveVolk Color Correction Filter
By using an insulating liquid hairs, etc. to prevent flooding. Also, accessories are currently available for Expansion Clamp
in between the membranes (screen), with the lack of buttons, you reduce this housing are: Wireless Charger
this allows for touch feedback to your the potential areas for flooding Underwater Wide-angle Lens Underwater Flexible Macro-Light
mobile device while underwater. The your housing. I am also testing Underwater Macro-Lens Underwater Tripod
Issue 112/35 www.uwpmag.com
Triple O ring seals
Pano mode – iPhone 11 pro max back camera 4.25mm f1/8 ISO 125 @ 26mm
out in front of you with both hands for stability. could also perform underwater as well as it’s done
One handed action is possible and requires a little on the land. Having side conversations with my
practice to line your finger with the shutter button colleagues, we all came to a similar conclusion
on the screen. Having pockets on my wetsuit, which was that we desired to use our mobile devices
made it easy to stow the housing while traveling to natively with any app as we do on land.
The iPhone 11 Pro Max has a bright 6.5” screen another section of the reef. The DiveVolk SeaTouch 3 Pro appeared to
In the water I was able to select JPEG or be just the device which boasts a real underwater
The product manual advises that the end user RAW image formats by using the different IOS touchscreen, and a button free design to name
should remove the protective phone screen cover to applications. This really makes it easy to post just a few features. It is also worth noting that
perform underwater and I found this to be true. On directly from your device to your social media the housing supports both IOS and Android based
my surface interval, I removed the cover from my platform of choice or your photo gallery. mobile devices by utilizing a custom insert for your
phone, and I was able to use the housing with my While testing the housing, I was challenged device.
mobile phone as expected. when diving in a dry suit, and there is a necessity to Starting with the native Apple Camera
I really liked the sturdy feeling of the housing operate the Sea Touch 3 underwater while using dry application, I snapped a few still images, followed
in my hands while diving and was taking shots right gloves with cotton finger cots. It took a little more by a video. Moving to time-lapse mode I framed
away while not being worried I had that I might effort to engage the shutter button, but once you the scene and left the SeaTouch 3 Pro running while
damage it. find the correct finger position you are good to go. I I joined the other divers in the angle of view and
It takes a little to get used to using the touch, would like to thank the customer obsessed DiveVolk could think of endless possibilities for adding clips
but after a while it became second nature. tech support team for troubleshooting this problem to your dive video. Finally, I selected panorama
I was really impressed at how bright and vivid with me over a couple of days. mode and set the device into a portrait orientation
the display was easy to see what you were framing The Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max has three and selected a diver as my focal point.
in your shot or video. The size is perfect to hold very capable cameras, and I was curious to see if After a wide pass the iPhone flawlessly
Issue 112/36 www.uwpmag.com
ProCamera
More Modes e.g. Portrait,
Video, Photo, HDR,
Lowlight, and more
A secondary shutter button
which waits for the camera to become
stable before taking the shot
TIFF (RAW)
Image editor built in
Lightroom Mobile
The familiar Lr mobile
interface with advanced
editing features
Hyperlapse
4K Video Screen grab. H.264 codec. External video light
Functionality for adjusting
stitched the moving divers into an movement of the camera is more the images and videos I captured with the time-lapse speed prior to
underwater panorama! Boosting stable for instance. the iPhone and I was really impressed saving
the display to full brightness before Taking videos are a breeze, but at at how easy it was to adjust the white Easy to use underwater
starting your dive makes viewing and a deeper depth you get the usual bluish balance with on click. The free
reviewing underwater like using the haze without using white balancing version will add a Dive+ watermark Dive+
device on land. red filters. I enabled the video light along with the name you signed in One touch photo or video
Camera+ and ProCamera bring on my iPhone and was greeted with with on your images or you can pay white balance adjustment
more advanced control to your images backscatter bliss thanks to the location to have their watermark removed.
and offer manual mode adjustments of the light in relation to the camera This application is great for all levels The DiveVolk SeaTouch
to achieve your desired results. In diving in Salt water VIS around 4.5 of users and makes it quick and easy 3 Pro is an extremely capable
addition, these programs allow the end m. Next, I used my dive torch as off to send on to family, friends or even underwater still, video, time-lapse,
user to save the image in a hires TIF camera lighting and once I found the social media. panorama, etc camera solution. I
file compared to just JPEG format. proper angle, the quality had improved I also tried the following IOS could imagine using this camera in
Camera+ brings a grid, level, dramatically. Another configuration, applications: several ways, and even in addition to
zoom, focus peaking, and clipping to I added a cold shoe ball mount along my full frame camera set up as it fits
aid, and I found these to be extremely with an off-camera video light. Camera+ 2 easily into the dive pockets on my
useful when composing the image. This yielded the best look and I The level was really helpful wetsuit.
ProCamera brings more shooting was able to position the video light to Focus peaking Thinking back to diving in
modes and a feature to allow the reduce the backscatter in silty areas. TIFF (RAW) image files Bali earlier this year, my full frame
camera to take an image once the I employed Dive+ to edit some of Full manual mode camera was configured for super
Issue 112/37 www.uwpmag.com
THE SOURCE
If you’re online,
click this link to
watch a short video
shot on the iPhone
11 in the DiveVolk
housing in waters
off Seattle and
Florida
macro, and ended the dive with a mobile device even further.
giant fish bait ball at the end of my Lastly, if you have a long Deco
dive. I could have easily pulled out stop, you can entertain yourself with
the SeaTouch and taken stills and/ or games, books, music, or videos, so
video. I also found it easier to create please be mindful of other divers who
a folder in the center on the screen, may not be interested in rocking out
which has the best touch sensitivity, with you on their dive.
to allow for easier switching between To learn more about the
applications. DiveVolk SeaTouch 3 Pro please head
Another feature is the ability to over to their website, and you can find
type a message to your dive buddy, the DiveVolk the current housings for
which is much easier to read than sale on here and www.amazon.com in
using a slate or wet notes for instance. the next month.
I do have lousy penmanship, so I am DiveVolk SeaTouch 3 can also
sure my dive buddies appreciate this. house HUAWEI P10 Plus, P20, P20
I was able to receive a text message PRO, P30, P30 PRO, MATE 10,
near the surface of the water, but no MATE 10 PRO, MATE 20, MATE 20
need to worry about your boss using PRO, SAMSUNG support frame:, ,
this feature with you. S10, S10+, S10E, S9, S9+, S8, S8+,
If you have a cell signal, you iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11
could also contact emergency services Pro Max.
or let your love ones know you are Christian Baki
on the surface again. I would even ©
consider using this housing while www.divingmecrazy.com A d
kayaking or poolside to protect your www.divevolkdiving.com a
m
H
a
n
Issue 112/38 o l www.uwpmag.com
n
Smartphone housings
round up
by Peter Rowlands
Back in Issue UwP103 Jul/Aug However the iPhone is a
2018 I wrote a Parting Shot about great camera with several modes,
the amazing capability of the iPhone some of which could almost have
Pano function and I illustrated it with been developed with underwater housing which ticks all the boxes.
a straight out of the camera, far from photography in mind so I’m going Some tick most and some only a few
perfect, image of a diver in British to try and persuade you to consider so it has become a ‘that’s the best you
waters. buying a used iPhone and thinking of can get’ result.
The housing I used was a LenzO it as a camera. Let me start by listing my main
from Canada for my iPhone 6s which, As I banged on in UwP103 criteria. In order of priority - the
at the time, was a great improvement I think that the Pano capability of ability to shoot Panos, the availability
camera-wise over the 5. Fast forward the iPhone is a greatly underused of a vacuum leak detection system
and the 6 became 7 then 8, they technique underwater and one of the and finally the ability to turn the also has a dome port which would be
missed out 9 followed by X and main reasons for it’s lack of use is ‘camera’ on and off. The ultimate very useful if they make an iPhone
now 11. In addition each model had that the big majority of housings do dream would be to fully control the 11 housing with it’s extra wide angle
at least two screen sizes to suit all not offer control over this capability. camera functions, have a vacuum and lens. Dual colour filters and an On/
requirements. The reason, as far as I can gather, on/off facility. Off button complete an impressive
I jumped from 6 to X but is because Apple won’t release In no particular order I’ll go package. Unfortunately there is no
decided that Apple’s miserly part the ‘code’ to allow developers to through each housing and start with vacuum system available.
ex offer wasn’t worth it as the old 6 build it into their ‘apps’ which are the LenzO because that was the first
would be ideal as a housed ‘camera’. invariably used to control the iPhone one I used. Pulux X
And I think that is one of the main in a housing and that, as far as I’m
reasons we haven’t seen many serious concerned, is short sighted. LenzO 6s
shooters using their iPhones; they So keen was I to be able to The LenzO housing I have is for
don’t want to risk their current iPhone use the Pano function that I thought the iPhone 6s but they do make newer
because, if there was a flood, they’d I’d do some research and ‘invest’ housings for models up to the X and
lose all of their data etc etc. True we in a selection of housings which XS. They are at the top end of the
should all have back ups in the clouds are, compared to higher end metal price range at $550 but, albeit rather
or on our desktops but the loss of housings, surprisingly inexpensive. awkwardly, they do allow full control This basic housing uses physical
one’s current iPhone would be just What I have found is that, for of all the camera functions by using push buttons and can control all of
too bad to contemplate. my particular desires, there is no one physical push buttons and levers. It the camera functions together with
Issue 112/39 www.uwpmag.com
an on/off control. Unfortunately Kraken Universal Seafrogs 6/7/8/X & Xr
it has no vacuum system which is
important because this housing failed
the pressure test without the camera
and until I can establish the cause of
the problem I’m not going to trust
my iPhone 10 which is a real shame
because it works really well. review I am keen to put this housing
Price approx $80 through it’s paces in the future. There
To my mind this has the most is also a range of accessory wide and
Diveroid As the name implies this will potential as it has an optional vacuum macro lenses and/or filters.
take several models of smartphone system, dome port, dual filters and This housing offers the best
and is the only aluminium housing so zoom in and out capability as well as user experience with total control of
it scores highly on robustness. It can being able to take several models of not just the camera function but also
also take external wide and macro iPhone with removable inserts. Whilst control of any other apps you have
lenses and/or filters. the app does not control the Pano on your phone. The other significant
The controlling app is the very function I did stumble across the fact advantage of this housing is that you
impressive Dive+ with the added that if you set the iPhone to Camera can open previously shot images full
bonus of a dive computer and vacuum mode and Pano, it will. Bingo! You screen and that’s something none of
This is a universal housing with system. The app allows an impressive obviously can’t switch underwater the other housings will allow.
an app which is under development zoom in and out function. but I’m happy with that so this makes Price approx $200
but I’m told that should be finalised The housing is the only housing this my first choice. The only slight
by February. What is being promised which is powered by 2xAAA batteries downside is that there is no On/Off This round up is very much a
is but unfortunately there is no On/Off control. work in progress and, as UwP owns
1. Real time color correction switch so you have to remove the Base price approx €170 all of these housings, we will have an
2. Free diving mode batteries after a dive otherwise they opportunity to continue using them
3. Power saving improvement will most likely be flat next time you DiveVolk during the coming dive season and
4. High resolution video(4k) want to use it. This is the most interesting produce a return review later in the
5. Multi lens support (ultra wide/ If this housing could only allow housing which has been thoroughly year.
wide/zoom) control of the Pano function it would reviewed by Christian Baki in this
6. Dive information tagged top my list. issue of UwP. It is unique in that it has Peter Rowlands
picture sharing Base price approx $325
a touch sensitive membrane panel so [email protected]
There is the added bonus of the you can use it just as you would on
Diveroid Mini dive computer but land. There are no through housing O
unfortunately no vacuum system.
ring controls and there is a very clever
Price TBA pressure compensation device in the
handgrip. Having read Christian’s
Issue 112/40 www.uwpmag.com
FIX Under Warmer Vest
by Peter Rowlands
Keen UwP readers will remember we included away this vest can double your dives in winter
details of the FIX Under Warmer Vest in the New because, speaking personally, one full dive was
Products Section of UwP111 and I have been enough ‘in the old unheated days’. Turn the power
fortunate enough to be given one to review. down a notch and you’ll still be warm but with even
As an all year round UK diver I have to admit more burn time to spare.
that as life progresses the winter water temperatures Fully charging empty batteries takes just over
do dampen the enthusiasm somewhat and certainly 7 hours so it is obviously being done at a sensible
limit dive times. Fingers become uncooperatively rate which ensures long healthy battery life. The
numb and feet chill as the body naturally withdraws Type 5200 batteries weigh just over half a kilo
heat to it’s core to preserve vital functions. Winter each so you will need to lighten your weight belt
water temperatures in the UK can dip to 8°C (46F) accordingly. Speaking of weight belts I have always
with fresh water lakes even more consistently used a shoulder harness design which alleviates the
colder. need to have the waste belt tight as all of the weight
And so it was a welcome task to review this is on the shoulders. As a 5’ 6” person I think using a
vest and I was again fortunate to have the top of the conventional weigh belt would take a bit of getting
range version to try. used to to get the right level above the hips yet out again for three. Almost immediately the heat starts
There are three models all rated to 100 metres of the way of the batteries. and as a sensation it is second only to the other one
- SD, DX and PRO. The SD is for wetsuits only Donning the vest is via the side entry zip which I won’t mention (but I hope you’ll get my
with a wired controller, the DX has a back heating which is very simple and a zip in extension panel drift) and it really is a very close second! Heat as we
element while the Pro has elements front and back is available to make it more comfortable for ‘the know is guttural and to be warm is bliss.
and both are wirelessly controlled. fuller figure’. Needless to say I found the extension It’s human nature to turn up the volume to
There are two battery versions available - very useful! If you are in the market for one of these start with but I recommend starting your dive at the
2.6ah (Type 2600) and 5.2ah (Type 5200). All three I would recommend taking time to chose the right base setting and you can always turn it up if you
models have three power settings - Low, Medium size for you as the weight of the batteries needs to feel a chill starting. That’s much more pleasant than
and High providing 45, 50 and 55°C respectively be firmly supported for maximum comfort. starting at full power and having nothing in reserve
and the Type 2600 battery, for example, gives 5.2, The primary battery pockets are at the front if you do feel a chill.
3.2 and 2.6 hours respectively at those settings. sides but there are also two at the rear which There are so many obvious benefits which
Times for the Type 5200 battery are twice as long. may suit you more but you would need to buy an the FIX Under Warmer Vest provides; more
The PRO version with its two heated panels can extension cable for this. comfort, longer dive times and all year round
only be used with Type 5200 batteries. It’s difficult to put into words the ‘glow’ diving not to mention the safety aspect of hands
Such burn times make it entirely possible to do which this vest creates. Press the large button on which remain agile and a brain that can still think.
two full 1 hour dives and still have some heat left the remote wrist controller and a physical buzz From an underwater photographer’s point of view
before needing to recharge the batteries. So straight indicates ‘lift off’. Press it again for two buzzes and there are even more; the ability to stay still and
Issue 112/41 www.uwpmag.com
alert that lets you know when the vest
is on, and which power-level you’ve
set and was not dulled by all that
neoprene.
So what about the vest? Well;
I’ve not used a heated vest in a wetsuit
before, and I’d liken the experience
to the first time you sit in a car with
heated seats. Initially it feels a little
odd and, how do I say this politely...,
like you’ve just lost control of your
bladder! But once your brain realises
what is really happening, this vest is
keeping me warm in the cool winter
amazing. With two large heat-panels
months when temperatures here go as (the bib-style design means it spans
low as 7-8 degrees.
The vest comes with a couple your entire chest & back) it gives an
enormous amount of additional heat
of extension cables that allows the
concentrate on macro subjects in is an avid wet suit guy but who has and with the ease of changing settings
two batteries to be kept in your BCD
comfort, eliminating shivering helps succumbed to a dry suit for the winter during your immersion you can easily
longer hand held exposures if needed months. I hired a local unheated pool pocket - this means that you can use control how that warmth is delivered
and, most important of all, a warm (12·C) and invited him along to try the the vest under a tight-fitting wetsuit throughout your dive.
without discomfort. At this point I
body means a warm brain which can vest and here are his thoughts: This vest should also appeal to
concentrate better, and for longer, Despite diving the UK’s should point out that I wear a Cressi snorkellers/freedivers who like to
7mm two-piece spearfishing suit, so
on composition, camera settings and temperate waters all year round, I’ve brave the cool winter months, with
lighting; all of which makes for better, only taken to using a drysuit during that means that the cables first have the long extension cables the two
more consistent images. the winter months in the past 3 years. to run from my waist to my neck (at batteries would easily fit into a ‘vest’
the top of my ‘farmer john’ bottoms)
The final possibility which I I much prefer to use a well cut, snug style weight-harness and the heat
won’t be able to try until later in the fitting wetsuit - but I do appreciate and then over the top and down to my provided will extend your time in the
waist again when I put my no-zip,
diving season is that this vest could that diving in water temperatures water by hours if you wanted it to - I
get me back into a semi dry suit less than 10 degrees Celsius in a integrated-hood wetsuit-top on. That’s was stunned to learn that at full heat it
in the summer months with all the wetsuit is a little bit on the daft side a lot of cable under a tight-fitting suit, would last for over 2.5 hours.
but actually I didn’t notice it at all,
added benefit of less weights, ease of and not something many folks would The bottom line from me..? I
movement and that special feeling of countenance. and there was still enough reach left love this heated vest, and if you’re a
so I could easily have one battery in
being in the environment rather than So when Peter asked if I would cool-water diver/snorkeller like me, I
next to it in a drysuit. be willing to try the new FIX Under each BCD pocket. think you should give it some serious
With that thought in mind I lent Warmer Vest I was very interested The wrist-mounted remote consideration.”
control was easy to use even with
my vest to my buddy Dan Bolt who to see if it would be up to the job of So that’s Dan’s summary and
thick gloves on, and the vibrating
Issue 112/42 www.uwpmag.com
here’s mine: temperate waters divers because once
Go for the top spec vest. A local they’d experienced the benefits of ‘the
dive contact of mine bought another heat’ they would almost certainly get
brand without a remote controller and a sale. Just like the saying goes about
has lived to regret it ever since. the National Lottery - “You’ve got
And the final, final suggestion is: to be in it to win it” the same is true
If you are put off by the price about this vest - “Try it and I’ll you’ll
then why not think about buying buy it”.
one between you and your local dive Finally, and please don’t tell FIX
buddy? Think about it. That would this, if they’d have just loaned me a
make a lot of sense. vest, I would have definitely bought it
If you are a cold or temperate after I’d discovered all of the benefits
water diver I cannot recommend detailed in this review.
the FIX Under Warmer Vest highly The FIX Under Warmer Vest
enough. “Sure” I hear you say. “That’s starts at $399 and goes up to $649
easy for you to say when you were plus accessories.
given one for free” and you’d be right
but my reply would be “Dive shops Peter Rowlands
should invest in one of these to loan to
[email protected]
Issue 112/43 www.uwpmag.com
Backscatter Mini Flash MF-1
and Optical Snoot OS-1
By Phil Rudin
Every year dive industry community since its first issue in
professionals from around the world August 2001 and attending DEMA is
make their way to the US for DEMA, a given for the UWPMAG staff.
the Diving Equipment and Marketing As Senior Reviewer for UWP
Association business to business trade I spend a lot of my time on the
show. DEMA show floor networking with
DEMA is the largest trade-only professionals from the underwater
dive industry show in the world and photography industry and seeking out
since 1977 underwater photography the latest new photography products.
has been a feature of the DEMA show. I always leave the show with at least
Every November DEMA draws one new product which has grabbed
a large media core to cover all the my interest and that I am keen to sells and services a large selection as the ultimate compact strobe for
equipment and events related to the review. The November 2019 DEMA of UW Photography equipment for compact cameras shooting both macro
water sports industry. When I attended show was no exception and for me compact, mirrorless, DSLR, GoPro, and close focus wide angle scenes.
my first DEMA show in the early this was the year of the strobe. Nearly pro video, lighting, hardware, and The MF-1 has a narrow beam angle
80s the underwater photography every established strobe manufacturer more, also providing photography which is particularly well suited to
community was a somewhat had a new or revamped strobe model trips and training classes. fish portraits and macro with any
regionalized group of individuals and several new manufacturers have housing system.
who were mainly acquainted through entered into the strobe market. Backscatter Mini Flash MF-1 The first thing I noticed about
dive businesses and photography The biggest surprise this year the MF-1 is how small and compact
clubs like SFUPS.org my local south for me was Backscatter’s debate as The new Backscatter strobe the strobe is measuring just 65 mm
Florida club. With the explosion a manufacturer in the strobe market. which premiered at DEMA is called in diameter (2.56 inches) by 184 mm
of the internet sharing U/W photo Backscatter Underwater Video & the Backscatter Mini Flash 1 or MF-1 (7.24 inches). The strobe is machined
information and training has given rise Photo is a Monterey, California and Optical Snoot 1 or OS-1. The from anodized aluminum and weights
to a truly international community of based USA company with a second MF-1 strobe retails for $399.00 and just 275 grams (9.70 once) in air.
like minded underwater photography showroom in Derry, Hampshire USA. the OS-1 snoot retails for $149.00 or The MF-1 ships with a one
professionals & enthusiasts. For over twenty years Backscatter a combo package is available with inch ball head, a Sea & Sea type ball
Underwater Photography has been providing excellent retail strobe and snoot retailing for $499.00 mounting clamp, an Allen wrench
magazine uwpmag.com has helped sales and service to underwater saving $50.00 over buying separately. to install the ball mounts, two extra
unite the international UWPhoto photography community. Backscatter Backscatter designed the MF-1 O-rings with lube and a clip on white
Issue 112/44 www.uwpmag.com
Shrimp, Aquatica A7rIV Pro Housing, Sony A7R IV, point for the ball head attachment
Two Backscatter MF-1 strobes, Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 and a standard fiber optic cord
Macro with ACU+10 Closeup Lens, with Aquatica socket. I used the strobe with
Macro Port, ISO100, F/18, 1/160th sec a fiber optic cord which has 90
degree port sockets with a small
retention O-rings. During my
several test dives the cord never
dislodged from the port socket.
The top of the flash has
a round red power level dial
and behind the dial is a round
stainless power on switch, both
can easily be used while wearing
heavy drysuit gloves. The power
dial has a standby setting and six
levels of power with number six
of the strobe and has an excellent double O-ring seal being the brightest.
design. If the battery compartment should flood the To turn the strobe on chose
rear of the compartment has a pressure relief valve one of the six power settings and then rapidly press
to release any gas buildup. Just unscrew the battery down the power on switch five times. A blue light
compartment, drop in a charged battery with the under the on switch will indicate that the power is
positive end facing up and reinstall. on. To check the power level just turn the power dial
The only battery recommended by Backscatter to the standby setting and the light will blink green,
for the MF-1 strobe is the Nitecore NL1835HP yellow or red to indicate the level of remaining
3500 mAh 8A 3.5v 12.6 Wh Li-Ion battery. My power. When you return the power dial to any of the
plastic strobe defuser with a retention lanyard. The two test strobes came with four of these batteries, six settings the blue light will return.
recommended battery and battery charger are not two Nitecore dual battery chargers and two water With the power dial set at any of the six levels
included in the price of the MF-1 strobe. proof plastic battery boxes. I was cautioned by you can press and hold the power switch to activate
The strobe is depth rated to 100m/330ft and is Backscatter staff to be extremely careful when a continuous flashing light for a duration of about
built and assembled in China. The single straight charging the batteries in light of recent fires three-seconds. This can be used to locate a subject
flash tube is in the center of the strobe face and has a associated with battery charging. A warning on which may shy away from the continuous LED
polished chrome reflector. The strobe has two LED the battery compartment also advises not to travel lights.
aiming lights which are located directly above and with a battery installed in the flash and to only use To activate the twin LED’s just press the power
below the flash tube. The LED lights can be left off approved batteries. button and the LED’s turn on at the lowest power
or set to three increasing levels of light intensity Battery life is excellent with up to 1400 flashes level. Press again to increase the power level and on
depending on the users needs. or one hour of continuous LED run time. The the fourth press the LED’s will turn off.
The battery compartment threads into the rear bottom of the MF-1 strobe has a threaded mounting Turn the MF-1 off by setting the power dial to
Issue 112/45 www.uwpmag.com
standby and then rapidly depress the power button
five times.
The MF-1 is compatible with a wide verity
of cameras from compact to DSLR using onboard
camera flash or LED flash triggers. To pair the MF-1
with your camera simply connect the fiber cord and
trigger the camera flash while the strobe is turned
on. This will program the MF-1 with the camera’s
pre-flash cycle and allow proper manual flash
triggering within your cameras flash sync range.
While Backscatter is calling MF-1 the ultimate
strobe for compact cameras I would say it is the
ultimate strobe for macro photographers because Scorpionfish Eye, Aquatica A7rIV Pro Housing, Sony
of its size and flexibility. The strobe has a narrower A7R IV, Two Backscatter MF-1 strobes with OS-1
beam angle to keep light from straying over onto light shaping element. The OS-1 snoot has a rubber snoot, Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro, with Aquatica
dark backgrounds making it ideal for macro work. collar that slides over the front of the strobe to Macro Port, ISO100, F/16, 1/125th sec
The small strobes can be placed extremely hold it securely in place. It can easily be installed
close to the macro port for reaching into tight or removed underwater. I keep the snoot in my you will get. When the strobe is fired the LED lights
spaces. The dual LED’s eliminate the need for a wetsuit pocket when I enter the water and then turn off during exposure and then turn back on so
focusing light and are exactly the same angle of mount it when I find an appropriate sized subject to that you won’t lose sight of the subject.
coverage as the strobe beam making it easy to photograph. Backscatter claims that the MF-1 strobe and
properly aim the strobes. The strobes are also very The snoot can be rotated to adjust the shape OS-1 snoot combination have the most powerful
powerful for their size and when properly positioned of the light beam when using an oval aperture card. light of any strobe/snoot combination currently
allow excellent exposures with any macro lens in a The snoot ships with two aperture cards one with on the market. The snoot can also be used with
range as high as ISO-50 at F/32. four circular shaped holes and one with four oval optional color filters for additional creative lighting
shaped holes. The holes produce a beam as small as opportunities.
Backscatter Optical Snoot OS-1 6 mm to as large as a dinner plate covering a wide
range of macro, super macro and closeup subjects. Field testing the MF-1 Strobe and
The OS-1 optical snoot was designed in The aperture cards slide through the center of OS-1 Snoot
conjunction with the MF-1 to be the most powerful the snoot and have spring loaded stops to hold the
macro strobe and snoot combination in todays cards in place at any of the four hole sizes. With the I had an opportunity to test the strobe with and
market. oval aperture card rotating the snoot can adjust the without the snoot using strobe arms from Aquatica
The snoot is 18cm X 6.5cm (7.09 X 2.56 beam angle from round too elongated covering a and Nauticam. I also mounted the strobe on a small
inches) and weights about 300 grams (10.58 oz) wide verity of macro subject shapes and sizes. tripod and used it off camera with the snoot.
with an aperture card inserted. With the LCD lights turned on, the beam angle With the strobe defuser attached you loose
Inside the snoot is a frosted filter to soften the of the light from the snoot is the same as the beam about one stop of light but have plenty of power for
light and at the front end of the snoot is an optical coverage from the MF-1 so what you see is what close focus and close focus wide angle shots with
Issue 112/46 www.uwpmag.com
lenses as wide as a fisheye.
For my field test I used two
MF-1 strobes with Aquatica and
Nauticam housings. At times I was
only using one MF-1 with the OS-1
snoot mounted on and off the housing.
Because of the compact size of
the MF-1s moving through the water
with the system was as easy as it gets
with a full frame camera housing. I
was shooting macro with the Sony
A7R IV and Sony FE 90mm F/2.8
macro lens using the Aquatica ACU10
and Nauticam SMC-1 closeup lenses
for super macro.
All of the Nauticam images are
from night dives where the focus
lights were all the lighting I used for
the entire dive. Even at night on 2 1/2 Bandtail Puffer, Aquatica A7rIV Pro Housing, Sony A7R IV, Backscatter MF-1
to 3 hour dives in shallow water all I strobe with OS-1 snoot, Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro, with Aquatica Macro Port,
needed were the focus lights on the Common Octopus Eye Detail, ISO100, F/16, 1/125th sec
lowest or mid power. Nauticam NA-A7RIV housing, Sony
The narrow beam angle of the A7R IV, Sony FE 90mm Macro, two composition especially when shooting With the +10 closeup lenses the
MF-1 with and without snoots allows Backscatter MF-1 Strobes, Night Dive, full frame cameras. settings remain about the same but the
you to separate the subject from the ISO100, F/18, 1/250th sec With the 90mm macro I shoot lens to subject distance is reduced by
background making the colors pop most of the time at ISO-100, F/13 about 50% because of the C/U lens.
while maintaining a dark background. camera increases the possibilities with to F/22 at 1/250th sec. With both With the white plastic strobe defusers
For blue water backgrounds the both a single light or combination of housings I used eight inch arms light is a bit softer at the expense of
narrow beam reduces backscatter in lights. I use a small stainless RGBlue without any flotation. I was able to about one stop, so one power level
the ambient light areas. The MF-1 is tripod for extreme side and back get proper exposures at ISO50 at higher for the same exposure range.
extremely easy to move around the lighting. F/18-F/22 using power levels 4 or 5. After diving I rinse the strobes
macro port on the housing allowing I noticed that at the highest At F/2.8 for shallow DOF at ISO-50 I and snoots before removing the
a wide verity of multiple lighting power levels the MF-1s are a bit was getting proper exposures at power batteries then dry for storage.
combinations like overhead lighting, slower recycling than my Inon level 1. This is shooting in a range Doing 2 1/2 hour macro dives
extreme side lighting, back lighting, Z-330s. This is not an issue for me from about 10 to 18 inches from lens shooting stills with the focus lights
inward lighting and much more. when shooting macro because I try to to subject with the strobes about flush on low power I never reached the
Placing the light on a tripod off take my time with critical focus and with the front of the port. RED low power level. Recycle times
Issue 112/47 www.uwpmag.com
Juvenile Scorpionfish Nauticam NA- thing because if I can’t figure out
A7RIV housing, Sony A7R IV, Sony how to use the equipment without the
FE 90mm Macro, Two Backscatter manual it will likely be complicated
MF-1 Strobes, Night Dive, ISO100, underwater.
F/18, 1/250th sec The MF-1 is extremely simple
to setup and use for anyone familiar
remain the same at any given power with shooting strobes using manual
level through the entire dive as well. power settings. While I have tried to
Shooting the strobe on a small warm up to shooting macro with TTL
tripod off camera is best done with an strobes I still find the simplicity of
extra long fiber optic cord or remote selecting lighting ratios in manual to
flash trigger. This allows you to place be easer for my workflow.
the strobe behind or side lighting a I would once again like to
subject. The strobes could also be thank the staff at backscatter.com for
used for wide angle shots like wreck loaning me these superb little MF-1
interiors where you want to back light strobes for this review, they have
a feature of the wreck or a person. landed at the top of my wish list going
The possibilities with the small into 2020.
Backscatter MF-1 strobes does not
end with macro and I am sure we will Phil Rudin
be seeing some killer examples with
these little strobes when they get out
into consumers hands. I would also
mention that color filters are coming
for the MF-1 so backlighting with
colors or creating colorful bokeh
balls will be much easer with these
strobes.
Like most of the equipment I
review the Backscatter MF-1 strobes
and snoot were pre production
models that did not include
instruction manuals. As I have stated
in past reviews I consider having
no instruction manual to be a good
www.instagram.com/philrudinphotography
Issue 112/48 www.uwpmag.com
Chasing Dory review
By Peter Rowlands
Chasing-Innovation, a Chinese company to be sent to me and all I can say is that it performs
started in 2016, and I go back quite a while now nearly as well as the Gladius Mini but is much
for I have long been a fan of their small ROVs and easier to set up and so is really fun to use.
back in 2017 I pledged on Indiegogo for their first Being fun to use might imply that, like so
product - The Gladius Submersible Drone (GSD). many ‘toys’, they end up in a cupboard once the
I reviewed it in Issue UwP99 Nov/Dec and it has initial excitement has worn off but the Chasing
proved a most useful and reliable vehicle. Dory is much more than a play thing if you want it
In my review I congratulated them for having to be. In fact it performs nearly all the tasks which
made such a good product right from the start. It it’s big brother can do just within a more limited
provided the capability of ROVs costing several depth range.
times more and was extremely easy to deploy and Initially I thought the 15 metre umbilical
operate. would limit it’s capabilities but that’s far from the
In early 2019 when I heard that they had case and the sheer portability and ease of use mean
developed the GSD into the Gladius Mini it can be considered for many other purposes than
Submersible Drone my original purchase was just filming the kids in the backyard pool (which it
‘Ebayed’ and now resides in Turkey with a marine is very good at by the way!).
surveyor! A marine engineer friend of mine has used it
The Gladius Mini has proved to be a significant to provide visual evidence of boat engine and hull
improvement; one of the most important being condition for a client and so saved them several
the ability to tilt and hold it’s angle which makes hundreds of pounds not having to have the boat
searching for anything on the seabed so much more craned out for inspection. Another contact in the
productive. In addition the ability to hold depth and aquarium world sees a very valuable use inspecting
stabilise makes the Mini perfect for filming steady tank and coral conditions which would otherwise
footage and stills. The wide angle 4k lens produces involve a physical diver with all of the health and
excellent image quality so the whole package is very safety implications, not to mention the cost.
productive. As with so many devices today Chasing Dory
Before I had had time to write an in depth is controlled by a smartphone or tablet screen
review, at the DEMA Show in Orlando I met Craig swiping app rather than a joystick games console Chasing Dory is very portable, extremely simple to set
Glover, Market Development Manager at Chasing and this makes operation incredibly easy; No wires
up and very easy to control via a smartphone or tablet
Technology and he urged me to review their latest and just a wifi link to the floating buoy so you app.
offspring - Chasing Dory; a much smaller ROV can operate from almost anywhere to suit your
aimed at the leisure market at a much lower price. requirements.
Within days Craig had organised a review unit In terms of use I think the bigger the screen the
Issue 112/49 www.uwpmag.com
The onboard batteries provide an hour of use and
there are two very useful LED lights for use when the The onboard motors must be very quiet underwater because on my first sea dive to ten metres I was able to find
water is clear. and get very close to firstly a cuttlefish and secondly this octopus. Neither seemed spooked by Chasing Dory and
I was able to get some pleasing footage although British sea conditions in winter are notoriously poor in terms
of clarity as the above left shot shows but corrected in the excellent Dive+ app the image is really brought to life.
in memory for later downloading. awaiting orders while you gather your thoughts and
Anyone who has flown a drone will be at decide what to do next. It really couldn’t be simpler.
home right away for there is a choice of Japanese The onboard batteries provide an hour of use
or American controls as well as the ability to fully and there are two very useful LED lights but it
customise the controls to your own individual should be realised that in turbid conditions these
tastes. The other two decisions to make are how fast could be counter productive.
you want to go and what angle to set the viewing I know myself well enough to know that the
tilt. Even if you haven’t flown a drone there is a likelihood of me sending the review unit back
logic to the controls which is almost intuitive and was pretty slim so I now own and have paid for a
Chasing Dory is extremely stable and produces five minutes in a swimming pool will make you feel Chasing Dory AND a Gladius Mini because they
excellent stills and 1080p video.
very much in control. both have their purposes and I am sure will provide
better it is. I started with my 6” iPhone which was From a learning point of view it makes sense many hours of productive pleasure. One thing’s for
fine but things got so much easier when I used my to start on the slower of the two speed settings certain neither will end up in a cupboard :-)
iPad Mini and then even more so with my full size until you get a sense of how it reacts to your screen
iPad. swipes but if you’re anything like me the higher Peter Rowlands
The app has some very useful image control speed setting is when the real fun starts. [email protected]
functions and the 1080p video camera and still As with most aerial drones, if you take
images are smooth and recorded onto the 16gb built your hands off, Chasing Dory will just stay there
Issue 112/50 www.uwpmag.com
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