Good lightweight strobe for WA and light macro? Inon S-2000?

[ScubaJill]

I see the Inon S-2000 is recommended for its size and relative power, though the SB comments seem to be split - some are happy with the S-2000 but others say it isn't strong enough for what they want to do and they've subsequently upgraded. I have a mirrorless camera with a WA dome port lens and I won't be taking true macro photos, at least for some time (2-3 years minimum). I like the idea of keeping my rig less bulky as I'll be more likely to not see it as a burden on dives. I typically dive reefs and wrecks, with at least 30+ feet visibility, though more often 50+ feet visibility.

Any particular experience with the S-2000? Is it better for macro? Are there other smaller strobes that still provide good light?

 

[tursiops]

One is fine for macro, but you'll probably want two for WA...just to get the coverage. A really good dome diffuser can provide the coverage from just one, but reduces the small light output ever more. Glowdive Productos Fotosub Fluorescencia submarina

 

[ScubaJill]

One is fine for macro, but you'll probably want two for WA...just to get the coverage. A really good dome diffuser can provide the coverage from just one, but reduces the small light output ever more. Glowdive Productos Fotosub Fluorescencia submarina

Do you own a glow dive dome? Or some other brand?

 

[tursiops]

I own a dome (2) from AquaTerra, for my two YS-D1s. They do not make one for the S-2000.

 

[ScubaJill]

I own a dome (2) from AquaTerra, for my two YS-D1s. They do not make one for the S-2000.

Thanks, tursiops!

 

[snowdog61]

I shoot an older Canon S95 w/ 2 S2000s - wanted a small and light travel rig and not an underwater UFO. That said, the rig has morphed from a single handle fixed mount, to a dual flexarm, and now to dual ball arms (so much for the small & light). WA is really all about lighting and for me, the Inons work BUT.... there are always shots that you wish you had just a bit more light (and a better camera, and of course more skill). Macro & CFWA are great but getting good true WA will be more difficult without some real horsepower - diffusers help spread the flash but also reduce the output. Give the Inons a try - they hold their value pretty well (buy used) and you can always upgrade

 

[ScubaJill]

Thanks, @tursiops and @snowdog61. I went ahead and bought 1 s-2000 strobe. It seems to be a good compromise for me, particularly with the diffuser add-on.

Edited: I purchased from Divervision.com and so far it's been a very positive experience. Purchased yesterday, sent an email to find out about shipping times to possibly receive before my trip next weekend, and owner/manager emailed me back and upgraded my shipping to DHL no charge. Soon after I received a confirmation email from DHL with a delivery date of Monday. Not bad, 4 days from Taiwan to DC.

 

[tamas970]

I've been using my s2000's for a few years now. For macro, absolutely great tools (especially diffuser added), their small size lets you squeeze them into cracks/tight spaces, other strobes have no chance to get in. Never let me down and really travel friendly.

One alternative - if you shoot video: a pair of strong video lights could also serve a macro setup, however the lights that can really substitute 2x s2000's are big and expensive (you'd need 2x5000Lm, CRI90+ quality color).

I see the Inon S-2000 is recommended for its size and relative power, though the SB comments seem to be split - some are happy with the S-2000 but others say it isn't strong enough for what they want to do and they've subsequently upgraded. I have a mirrorless camera with a WA dome port lens and I won't be taking true macro photos, at least for some time (2-3 years minimum). I like the idea of keeping my rig less bulky as I'll be more likely to not see it as a burden on dives. I typically dive reefs and wrecks, with at least 30+ feet visibility, though more often 50+ feet visibility.

Any particular experience with the S-2000? Is it better for macro? Are there other smaller strobes that still provide good light?

 

[coralcruiser]

I have used the Inon s2000 for the past 8 years...shoot mostly macro/super macro and love it. I have been using the diffuser that came with it but may look at the glow dive one.

 

[timz]

have been having the dillema for a while... that's why i have not buy my strobes yet.

love the s2000 size and weight. but might need a little bit more power for wa shot.

A very wellknow photographer from my place told me it's about the subject i wang to illuminate... a small strobe is better than a heavy torch.

have been looking for used one for a while but nobody is selling them. i might just get a new one.

btw, I'm from Malaysia.