Ikelite has announced the mid-January release of two magnifying viewfinders for their housings. The two models are a straight and a 45° version. The 45° viewfinder has two versions, one with more clearance for housings that have controls that stick out more.

Press Release:

Ikelite Magnified Viewfinders for DSLR and MIL Housings

Announcing two new viewfinders designed to position the viewing window farther away from the housing without changing the viewfinder image size. Enjoy a brighter, larger image with less vignetting (dark shadows in the corners of the image) as compared to the standard Ikelite viewfinder.

Since the viewing angle is consistent with how you use your camera already, the Straight Viewfinder is much easier to grow accustomed to than the 45° Viewfinder. It’s also preferred when shooting over-under shots (half in, half out of the water).

The 45° Viewfinder provides a totally different shooting experience. Since divers are typically in a horizontal position underwater, viewing the frame at an angle reduces arm fatigue and often makes framing easier when the subject is slightly below and/or tucked into the reef. The 45° Viewfinder rotates to any angle, so it’s simple to switch between shooting landscape, portrait, or just about anything in between!

Two versions of the 45º viewfinder are available to provide adequate control clearance. Choice of 45º Type 1 or 2 based on camera model. A compatibility chart is provided on the product webpage.

The included tool makes it easy to remove your housing’s original viewfinder, and both install and remove a Magnified Viewfinder. Since no modification of the housing is necessary, the standard viewfinder may be re-installed and the Magnified Viewfinder will transition to a different Ikelite DSLR housing when upgrading cameras.

These viewfinders are offered specifically for use with Ikelite housings for DSLR and Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens cameras.

Both viewfinders are expected to start shipping in mid-January and are available for order through any Authorized Ikelite Dealer.