Budget Video Light

[deco_martini]

Alright, now that I decided to spend money on a case for my ikelite housing and sony handycam, I figure I might as well get a light. I noticed there seem to be some lights for budget conscious non-pros like me in the Nocturnal SL50 and the Equinox. You know, a light for a diver who happens to have a video camera versus a lighting system for a guy whose camera is an extension of his underwater persona.

Any thoughts on the sweet spot for this portion of the lighting market?

 

[ronscuba]

In my opinion, you should get the Ikelite Pro Lite 3. For budget conscious UW video, it is hard to beat halogen lights and you won't find a system that better integrates to your Ikelite housing.

I believe Robint is about to get these lights to go with her Ikelite housing. She has a trip coming up soon so if you can wait, I'm sure she'll post a report and some video.

 

[Mr.X]

I am using a Salvo system now. I use a "Y" connector and power two HID's off the canister. When I am finished I can use one of the HD lights (with a standard) Goodman handle and reflector to do other things - cave, wreck etc. It's a versatile system, plus it consistently works when I need it to vs. many other video lights which I have had in the past which do odd things.... Light and Motion HIDs, Niterider etc.


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[ronscuba]

I also use a canister light with a wet Y connector. Halogen lamps and the canister mounts on the belt of my Transpac at my hip perfectly. It works great for me. Like you said, it's a very versatile system, but wearing a canister on the belt is not an option for some.

Looking at all the lighing options out there can be confusing. How the lights and batteries integrate to the housing is easily overlooked, but important. The buoyancy specs of the housing, lamps and battery should all be considered and how they will work together.

Negative lamps are difficult to handle when extended on an arm and if the whole system is overly negative, it will throw off your dive position trim.

"a guy whose camera is an extension of his underwater persona." LOL ! Whatta ya mean ???

 

[Mr.X]

I also use a canister light with a wet Y connector. Halogen lamps and the canister mounts on the belt of my Transpac at my hip perfectly. It works great for me. Like you said, it's a very versatile system, but wearing a canister on the belt is not an option for some.

Looking at all the lighing options out there can be confusing. How the lights and batteries integrate to the housing is easily overlooked, but important. The buoyancy specs of the housing, lamps and battery should all be considered and how they will work together.

Negative lamps are difficult to handle when extended on an arm and if the whole system is overly negative, it will throw off your dive position trim.

"a guy whose camera is an extension of his underwater persona." LOL ! Whatta ya mean ???

Sage advice above. BTW - Martini...had a cursory look at the Nocturnals. They are pretty long, and as as mentioned balance underwater is something to consider. Also, halogens tend to be yellow vs. HID' which are white. For 700 bucks you could go almost manage a nice used HID & reflector head.

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[Nocturnal Lights]

We have a value conscious setup, the SL50 video light package, which is on sale right now. If you guys have any questions feel free to contact us, we'll be able to assist you regarding getting you the right setup at the right prices.

Rechargeable video lights for major underwater housings