Underwater digital video gear

[ODDIVER]

I've been using an MX-10 with a YS-40 strobe for a couple of years and have enjoyed still photography. Now I'm considering underwater digital video. The mini-DV's have gotten quite small and also allow snap shots to digital cards. I'm not about to give up still photography so my dive buddy Laine and I thought we would try both.

The units I've been considering are a Canon ZR25 mini-DV with a Under Seas Video Housing (electronic controls) or possibly a JVC DVL510U which has a compatable Ikelite housing.

Would anyone out there in scuba cyberspace have any experience with these two combinbations, or have tried the snap shot option on digitial camcorders underwater, or have any suggestions on other combinations?

Your input would be appreciated for we're heading for Honduras in November.

Keep Blowing Bubbles,

 

[SubMariner]

We have 2 u/w photo systems:

1) A digital video Canon Optura in an Amphibico housing w lights.

2) a full set of MMII u/w cameras (strobes, lenses, etc.)

We are still using the latter because while the digital video is outstanding, the stills it takes are not nearly as clear as the photos from the MMII. Esp when we use high grade slide film in the still cameras.

The other drawback to our particular camera's stills is that they cannot be dl'd or edited properly. Unlike the video.

Meanwhile we can & do have the slides scanned and are able to edit them using Photoshop.

Hope that helps,

~SubMariner~

 

[Holeywater]

Pass on the Iklite housing unless your prepared to replace it every 2-3 yrs.. THEY DON'T HAVE A GOOD LONG TERM HEAVY USE RECORD. Given where you live and assuming a probable use of mostly cold water diving with random excursions to tropical waters, you need to treat your Ikelite like a member of the family.

I use alloy housings only, they're easier to maintain and are far more reliable. Of course I'm stuck in the dark ages
as I have a Nikon F 35mm in a 25 yeaar old Hydro system housing that I have used for fun, in my classes (I'm a teacher)and for profit (hardly).