First UW Camera Setup

[Flotsam]

I'm trying to build a basic budget UW camera system. I previously had a GoPro, but recently bought a Olympus TG-4. On FL east coast, most of my diving is 50-100 ft, so I need housing - either the Oly or Ikelite housing. I like that the Oly housing gives me the option of deeper diving in the future, but thought I had seen posts re leaking issues - is this a problem?

Besides the housing, I guess my initial needs are strobe & tray/handle/arm. My Gobe 500 search spot could be used as a focus light, so that would require a second arm.
I've priced - Ikelite tray w/quick release dual handles $99, Sea & Sea YS 03 + fiber optic cable $288, and would still need flexi or ball arms system.

Packages available, would give me tray, single arm/handle, strobe:
$430 Ikelite AF35 Strobe Package AF35 strobe, flex arm, autoflash sensor, single handle, tray and mounting hardware
$320 Sea & Sea YS-03 strobe & FO cable, Compact flex arm with neoprene sleeve, Compact digital tray

The next addition would be a video light - but would a BigBlue vl2800p video light for $260 be effective as a video light? Or is there another decent, budget option.

I like diving (and hopefully will photograph) everything from Blue Heron Bridge macro to reefs/wrecks, and night/blackwater dives. The housings are $300, so I'd like to keep the strobe & tray system under $500. If anyone can help me as I sort through options, I'd appreciate it! Thanks!

 

[Skeptic14]

I started with a tg-4 and pt-056 housing package that included the ys-03 on the simple tray and flex arm and have been happy with the setup and the results so far.

 

[Flotsam]

Thank you! I like that strobe the best, so I think I'll go with that package as well. I love your photos, looks like it's served you well!

Growing up in Pensacola and vacationing in St. George, and I never knew there was good diving in the area, aside from spearing...

Thanks!

 

[stuartv]

The next addition would be a video light - but would a BigBlue vl2800p video light for $260 be effective as a video light? Or is there another decent, budget option.

Check out the Archon D36V. 5000+ lumens (legit) for < $300.

Archon Diving Video Light D36V 5200 Lumens Scuba Diving Torch 100meters - US | eBay

I don't have this specific light (yet), but the Archon video light I do have (D11V) has been great.

 

[Flotsam]

Thanks, it looks great! The Gobe 500 spot is great for looking in holes, but a bright wide beam would be awesome for a better view during night dives.

 

[Spudlet]

[QUOTE="Skeptic14,
nice pics I just went through Albums