Canon SD500 + External Light/HID Question

[BrianV]

I have a Canon SD500 and the WP-DC70. This is my second Canon + UW housing and I've been impressed thus far.

This is my 5th Canon digital camera and I really like the cameras, but the built-in flash just isn't cutting it. It either doesn't work far enough, provides too much light or makes too much glare.

I want to go with a strobe or perhaps a dedicated HID light that I can leave on when I'm shooting (like the UK HID). My question is regarding attachment. I know there's the tripod threading at the bottom, but does anyone make arms/lights that are compatible? I read some threads on here and didn't understand some of the lingo people were using regarding attachments, trays, etc.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

 

[havnmonkey]

ULCS, Sea&Sea, Ikelite, TLC, all make various arms for strobes and most have adapters to fit on different housings and strobes.

I usually search bhphotovideo.com for my product research.

A strobe would be better than an HID light.

 

[BrianV]

Any particular strobe you recommend with this camera?

 

[CompuDude]

All depends on your budget and aspirations. You can get by with a cheapie for as low as $250 or so (See the Bonica strobes), or spend thousands.

FWIW, the ones I see recommended most often are the Ikelite DS50 (low end of the "good spectrum") and the INON D2000 (a bit higher end, but more $) strobes.

Check the strobe comparison guide at: http://www.digitaldiver.net/strobes.php

 

[BrianV]

All depends on your budget and aspirations. You can get by with a cheapie for as low as $250 or so (See the Bonica strobes), or spend thousands.

FWIW, the ones I see recommended most often are the Ikelite DS50 (low end of the "good spectrum") and the INON D2000 (a bit higher end, but more $) strobes.

Check the strobe comparison guide at: http://www.digitaldiver.net/strobes.php

Those are within the budget. How would you recommend I attach it to the housing? Would I use cable-fire or some sort of flash detection system?

 

[CompuDude]

Those are within the budget. How would you recommend I attach it to the housing? Would I use cable-fire or some sort of flash detection system?

Each strobe is different. Your camera does not have TTL cables (nor do most P&S cameras) so it usually is optically triggered. The Ikelite flash needs the manual controller. You can get a kit with the armature, manual controller and strobe all in one... see the Ike website, B&H Photo, Reef Photo, possibly ScubaToys... most places that carry UW photo stuff will know what you need. The Inon has an optical sensor right on it, included, if memory serves, but you'll definitely need a separate tray and armature. I recommend ultra light control systems (ULCS).

No idea what the Bonica does to detect the flash, but it has a tray and arm built in, tho it's a very low-rent setup.

 

[BrianV]

Thanks CompuDude. I think I'll just bring my camera + housing to Scubatoys next time I'm in the DFW area and get their advice. You're speeking Greek to me (haha). I appreciate the advice!