2 replies to this topic

[mattfranke]

Hello to all!
With all of the improvements in LED lighting Im wondering if we are going to start moving away from strobes?
Now that DSLRs are making major motion pictures and shoot both fantastic still and motion shots, studio lighting is moving more toward constant light sources. In the under water world things like the new Ikelite 2800, im wondering if I should still haul my strobe around?

[Balrog]

From my perspective still photography will remain primarily strobe. It is an efficient use of a limited portable power source and has the advantage of freezing the action.

Those wanting a rig that will take wide angle stills and motion in the same dive are stuck with available light, high ISO or lugging large batteries for the foreseeable.

2c

Tim

[sngdesign]

I think the new Ikelite led 2800 is heading to change that. I foresee the next couple generation will for sure take that to the next step. Just like DSLR doing video and stills one day. Im sure there will still be a top 10%ers will stick with the specifics but most user will head to that direction. Don't forget digital sensors are getting more and more sensitive. Just like my S95 already blown all of my previous equipments including canon 20d, sony 3ccd 900 camcorder. For me, I like to be able to do both. Led 2800 could take me closer to that point for average UW photographers before heading to the next level.

So far, it is really wide and strong without a strong hot spots. Battery is not that big and heavy. I just need to add a couple floats to balance the buoyancy. It lasted longer than 2 full dives. I just test drove it in Cozumel last month. It is good for stills in most situations. I'm planning to buy another lamp because the battery has two outlets. I think it will give me plenty to give me better exposure for stills. I'm really happy with it so far. I'll do more test on stills in the future. I just need to be a better photographer.