GoPro Hero 4 Video/Lighting Rig

[Satto95]

Hello everyone!

I have some questions regarding a GoPro Hero 4 setup. I'm really into underwater videography, but this will be my first real "rig". This looks like a really good deal:
http://www.backscatter.com/sku/bs-s...sop=AND&sf=Price&so=Descending&ftn=youbetcha&

The lights are obviously really good for underwater videography. I have been told they wouldn't be good for macro because they are flood lights.

This is my second option:

http://www.backscatter.com/sku/bs-g...sop=AND&sf=Price&so=Descending&ftn=youbetcha&

Would these be better for macro? It seems like I would need to purchase separate "spot" heads for these, making them more spendy.

I can't seem to find the perfect setup for myself . I am also aware I will need to purchase the Macromate Mini for good macro, which isn't an issue. Anyone have any ideas for a good build for macro videography?

NOTE: I also liked the Sola 2000's because they would be good for larger subjects/pelagic/scenery.

Thank you all!

 

[mselenaous]

I recently got a #sola 2000 video light from #backscatter. I love the light and as always super customer service from backscatter.

Why don't you call them for advise. They are always happy to give you a good contrast & compare, pros & cons. They will ask you what your imaging goals are & environment you are shooting in and give you good advise without overselling.

 

[Satto95]

I recently got a #sola 2000 video light from #backscatter. I love the light and as always super customer service from backscatter.

Why don't you call them for advise. They are always happy to give you a good contrast & compare, pros & cons. They will ask you what your imaging goals are & environment you are shooting in and give you good advise without overselling.

Thanks for the insight. Do you shoot any macro?

 

[tbone1004]

Keep in mind with the solas that the battery is not replaceable, so if you do multiple dives a day, you are bound by their charge time.
http://www.caveadventurers.com/explorer-back-up-lights.html
These are cheap and work quite well for video, read any reviews on the Hog Morph 1000 and it applies, it's the same light. It's not a "lot" of light, so isn't going to do much for you in the day time at the large scale. The beam pattern is sufficient for macro level, it's not too wide, and you can make adjustments with the arms, that you can choose on your own.
http://www.zgearinc.com/build-a-bcd-dive-light-mount.html
These work quite well as far as the clamps for grabbing these lights, and they use standard locline that you can attach to any tray system out there.

 

[Satto95]

http://www.backscatter.com/sku/bs-s...sop=AND&sf=Price&so=Descending&ftn=youbetcha&
Maybe I can use this as a macro light!

 

[tbone1004]

too expensive, not enough lumen output.... waste of money imho

 

[Satto95]

I recently got a #sola 2000 video light from #backscatter. I love the light and as always super customer service from backscatter.

Why don't you call them for advise. They are always happy to give you a good contrast & compare, pros & cons. They will ask you what your imaging goals are & environment you are shooting in and give you good advise without overselling.

So, I called them and I was able to create a package with 2 Sola 1200's/tray/filters for a REALLY GOOD price. Thank you for the best advice ever!

 

[Satto95]

too expensive, not enough lumen output.... waste of money imho

Buying 2 Sola 1200's with tray/arms/handles/filters for a good price! Thanks for the tips!

 

[RJP]

That's my preferred set up... augmented with two Mako 890's.

 

[timz]

This is my set up.
Polarpor 2.0 macro + red
2 X ARCHON D11V