From the "Wish I'd thought of that" file, an integrated camera/dive light (Mera from Tovatec)

[Rollin Bonz]

This seems like a brilliant idea for the casual gopro user, but depending on how well it performs, it may be dead in the water...

Tovatec MERA Integrated Light + Camera (500 - 1,000 Lumen)

here's a Youtube video of the Mera in action...

 

[stuartv]

If there is any particulate in the water at all, a light that can be well to the side of the camera will give vastly better results.

In other words, personally I would much rather have an inexpensive SJCam action cam and a separate inexpensive video light (or 2) on an inexpensive tray. Could probably do it all for less than what this MERA costs, too.

But, if you're only diving where the water is always really clear, then the convenience of the MERA might win.

 

[Rollin Bonz]

If there is any particulate in the water at all, a light that can be well to the side of the camera will give vastly better results.

In other words, personally I would much rather have an inexpensive SJCam action cam and a separate inexpensive video light (or 2) on an inexpensive tray. Could probably do it all for less than what this MERA costs, too.

But, if you're only diving where the water is always really clear, then the convenience of the MERA might win.

All true. Hadn't considered the particulate issue. And it probably needs a lower price point to make worth a shot.

 

[diversteve]

Besides the backscatter issue posted above it will probably be shaky video since you're only using one hand. Next time you night dive - see how much your dive light bounces around. Even the gopro's get better results when used with a tray.

1000 lumens is not a lot except for night use. My buddy shoots with 5000 lumens and could use more.

It seems like a solution in search of a problem.

 

[DDiverDarrick]

Got to try this out camera/light the other day over at Catalina Island during a few day dives. I am by no means a pro when it come to taking video but I was really happy with the quality of the video. For the average diver just starting out with doing underwater photo or video I would suggest this set-up for them. Can't wait to try this on my next night dive.

 

[Rollin Bonz]

Got to try this out camera/light the other day over at Catalina Island during a few day dives. I am by no means a pro when it come to taking video but I was really happy with the quality of the video. For the average diver just starting out with doing underwater photo or video I would suggest this set-up for them. Can't wait to try this on my next night dive.

Cool! Ease of use seems to be a definite plus.

 

[KathyV]

Got to try this out camera/light the other day over at Catalina Island during a few day dives. I am by no means a pro when it come to taking video but I was really happy with the quality of the video. For the average diver just starting out with doing underwater photo or video I would suggest this set-up for them. Can't wait to try this on my next night dive.

I am so happy to hear you say that @DDiverDarrick! I've just purchased the Tovatec Mera as a Christmas gift for my husband.

I have been trying to figure out what accessories to buy for it and I would appreciate your input, see the link below:

Buying Xmas Present for my Husband and I Have a Few Questions

 

[KathyV]

Besides the backscatter issue posted above it will probably be shaky video since you're only using one hand. Next time you night dive - see how much your dive light bounces around. Even the gopro's get better results when used with a tray.

1000 lumens is not a lot except for night use. My buddy shoots with 5000 lumens and could use more.

It seems like a solution in search of a problem.

The camera includes "ESI anti-shake" technology, see the link below. I am not familiar with that technology, do you know if it usually works okay to help steady a video camera?

Tovatec Mera Light + Camera 1000 Lumen Torch

 

[KathyV]

Here is a video demonstrating everything that comes with the Tovatec Mera dive light camera; it looks pretty straightforward: