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Nauticam Announce New Housing For The Sony A7 II

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Nauticam have announced the NA-A7II, the newest entry in it’s mid-range series of underwater camera housings. The NA-A7II is an incremental improvement over the NA-A7 housing.


The Sony A7 II Camera

The new Sony A7II (officially called Sony Alpha 7 II) follows hot on the heals of the  A7, adding some significant improvements, including a 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization. The A7II, features a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor, and focus is improved with a Hybrid AF system utilizing on-sensor phase-detect points. From a design perspective, other improvements in this model include more rugged build quality, a beefier grip, more and better laid out custom buttons, and a more ergonomically placed shutter release button. Other features include a 3-inch tilting LCD, XGA OLED electronic viewfinder, Multi-interface (hot) shoe, Wi-Fi with NFC, and 1080/60p video recording – now with XAVC S and a flat ‘S-Log2’ picture profile.

The A7II features the same full-frame 24MP CMOS sensor that was found on the original A7. It uses a hybrid autofocus system, which has 25 contrast detect and 117 phase detect points spread across its sensor. Sony engineers claim that autofocus performance has improved by 30% and tracking by 50% compared to the A7. Autofocus and now auto exposure can be used while tracking a moving subject during burst shooting (at 5 fps).

Shot with Sony A7II using FE 16-35mm lens. 1/125 at f/7.1 ISO 200. Zen DP-200 port.

Ergonomically, the A7II is improved over the A7, and the difference is obvious when picking up the camera. It feels more substantial in the hand, and the shutter button in particular is more comfortable. The grip is larger and significantly more substantial which keeps the hand in a more relaxed position when gripping the camera. The A7II uses more magnesium alloy and less plastic than the A7, allowing the overall build quality to seem more solid with only a minor increase in weight.

Like previous models, the A7II supports WiFi, NFC, and a number of apps making sharing very easy, while opening up the camera’s capabilities.

The NA-A7II Housing

The NA-A7II looks quite similar to the NA-A7, and the housings are approximately the same dimensions. The NA-A7II ships with built-in, yet adjustable handles, featuring Nauticam’s contoured rubberized grip. The “AF/MF/AEL” button is given special treatment on the right side of the housing with a direct access lever immediately reachable by the right thumb. This allows the button to be programmed for AF-ON meaning easy functionality for “thumb focus” fans. The shutter release can be accessed at the same time, offering quick focus-to-shoot finger action. Like many Nauticam housings, the play button is brought up to the left thumb, and the three command dials (think shutter speed, aperture and exposure compensation) can be adjusted quickly with minimal reach. The ISO button is within short reach of the right thumb, important for video shooters. Speaking of video, the record button is on the top right, thus eliminating camera shake during video start/stop.

 


The Function Menu button opens up common camera settings to a quick menu, and this button is a short reach with the right thumb. The programmable C3 button is a very easy reach and can be programmed for any of several functions. The housing features a switch to change between the EVF and the LCD providing rapid and secure transition between viewing modes, and supports Nauticam’s viewfinders.

Installing a lens with a gear attached is made easy by the new pull-out zoom/focus dial.

A Nauticam Mini Flash Trigger made specifically for Sony is an available option, allowing the camera to shoot rapid fire with flood free optical cables. The housing includes an M16 bulkhead port for optional HDMI out, Nikonos style sync cable or other external accessory.

The NA-A7II accommodates for the larger than expected grip of the camera. Nauticam say that rather than compromise on image quality, their designers chose to create ports than take into account this difference, hence a separate entry in the port chart for this housing.

Lens Matters

The original A7 and A7R cameras from Sony sparked a huge interest in going full frame for mirrorless. For the underwater photographer, this enthusiasm was quickly diminished by the fairly limited lens selection. Underwater image makers rely on very wide angle lenses and macro lenses, and they were nowhere to be found.

However, the recently released 16-35mm is a game changer. This is a lens from the Sony Zeiss partnership, quaintly dubbed the Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm F4 ZA OSS. It’s a rectilinear wide angle zoom that focuses close and demonstrates very good sharpness all around with medium to large sized dome ports. The Nauticam 180mm dome is an ideal choice for this lens.

For macro lovers, Sony recently announced a 90mm macro beauty (Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS), and this lens will be supported as soon as possible after it is shipped (slated for July). Also just announced is a new 28mm f/2 lens with a fisheye adapter, similar to what Sony did with the fisheye and wide angle adapter on the 16mm lens for the NEX series. This is an appealing way to get fisheye, as it allows multiple configurations with a single lens. Look for more info about Nauticam support for this lens when it ships (slated for May).

Owners of Canon full frame lenses like the EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM, EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, or the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lenses will apreciate the ability to use these fine optics with the A7 series. This is made possible with a Metabones adapter (Canon EF Lens to Sony NEX Smart Adapter (Mark III or Mark IV)). These lenses work well on the A7 series, providing both aperture and autofocus control from the camera.

NA-A7II set up with the Nauticam 180mm dome for the Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm F4 ZA OSS, with manual focus and zoom controls. 

Speaking of Lenses

Nikonos “water contact” lenses are the stuff of legend, but too many of them are sitting in a box in a closet. Time to dust them off! The full frame A7II is a great way to bring those lenses back to action. With the full frame sensor, this Sea&Sea 12mm or the famous Nikonos 15mm behave like they were intended to.

Standard 0.66x viewfinder, standard on NA-A7II. 

Viewfinder Options

The NA-A7II ships with a standard 0.66x viewfinder. This standard optical glass viewfinder is travel friendly and suitable for image makers that care to use the LCD for most framing. Many photographers prefer the ease of a magnified viewfinder with adjustable diopter to take advantage of the EVF in this camera.

Nauticam 180º Enhanced Viewfinder Installed on NA-A7II. 

Nauticam produces a “straight” 180º enlarging viewfinder and a 45º angled enlarging viewfinder to enhance the ease of close quarters work often associated with macro shooting. Both viewfinders have high quality optics, and allow bright viewing of the entire image. A patented external dioptric adjustment allows personal adjustment to a sharp-as-a-tack standard underwater and viewfinder changes can be executed in less than 30 seconds without using tools. Exceptional composition and focus accuracy have never been more accessible.

Nauticam 45º Enhanced Viewfinder Installed on NA-A7II. 

NA-A7II Feature Checklist

  • Ergonomically placed controls with size, shape, and color differentiation
  • Access to all key camera controls
  • All controls clearly labeled
  • Patented two stage shutter release system, allowing precise feel over half press and full press
  • Patented Port Locking System
  • Patent pending Multi Controller pad
  • Lens release button
  • Easy to operate locking housing latches
  • Rubberized ergonomic grips on adjustable handles
  • Laser-cut steel handle brackets
  • Quick release camera mounting plate
  • Optical strobe connectors for fiber optic flash triggering
  • Mini Flash Trigger
  • M16 accessory hole for electrical bulkhead, HDMI or hydrophone installation
  • M14 accessory hole for vacuum valve installation
  • Integrated vacuum monitoring and leak detection circuit (valve optional)
  • Dual 1″ (25mm) strobe mounting balls included as standard equipment
  • 1/4-20 tripod mounting holes
  • Dual M5/M10 threaded accessory mounting points
  • 100m Depth Rating


Integrated Vacuum Check and Leak Detection System

The Nauticam vacuum check and leak detection system is available with NA-A7II as standard equipment.  Combined with an optional vacuum valve, this monitoring system provides constant updates on the water tight and safe to dive status of the housing.  A simple coded LED lighting system lets the user know that the vacuum is solid, or that the housing is losing vacuum. Leak detection is built into the same circuit, so if there is water intrusion, an audible and visual indication will occur. The housing ships with a rear bulkhead port specifically for installing optional vacuum valves, leaving the other bulkhead port available for HDMI, sync cables and other accessories.

Recommended Accessories

  • 180º Enhancing Viewfinder (32201)
  • 45º Enhancing Viewfinder (32203)
  • Mini Optical Flash Trigger (26302)
  • Patent Pending Super Macro Converter (81201)
  • M14 Vacuum Valve (25611)
  • Complete line of flat/dome ports for all major lenses, available in acrylic and glass
  • Monitor/Recorder Housing for Atomos Ninja2 (17902)
  • Monitor Housing for SmallHD DP4 Monitor (17901)
  • Fiber optic cables for Inon (26211) and Sea&Sea (26212)
  • Full line of mounting accessories for lighting, including mount balls, strobe adapters, arms, clamps, and specialty items
  • Multiple styles of lanyards
  • Lens holders, including flip-up

Details and Specifications

  • Depth Rating: 100m
  • Weight: 2.35 kg (with handles & 1″ ball adaptors mounted)
  • Dimensions (with handles mounted): 335 (W) x 165 (H) x 110 (D)

Model Number (w/ Nikonos Bulkhead): 17414
USA Retail Price: $2850
Model Number (no Bulkhead): 17414NB
USA Retail Price: $2750

Shipping: Now

More information is available from Nauticam USA at: www.nauticamusa.com

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Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba

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underwater videography course

Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces

NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.

Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking

Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:

“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.

A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”

About NovoScuba

Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.

With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.

Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!

Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.

EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba

NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!

The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.

NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.

underwater videography course

A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission

NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.

NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.

Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration

NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.

Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.

underwater videography course

NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.

Quality Training at a Great Price

NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.

Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity

At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.

Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success

NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.

underwater videography course

Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload

Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.

Crossover Made Easy

For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.

Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership

NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:

  • Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
  • Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.

underwater videography course

Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement

NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.

Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth

At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.

underwater videography course

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.

Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution

Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.

For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.

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The Benefits of Underwater Photography Workshops

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underwater photography workshop

Are you just getting started out in underwater photography or are you a seasoned shooter who wants to take their images to the next level? Whatever you experience or ability, here’s an overview of underwater photography workshops.

What is an Underwater Photography Workshop?

The first thing to note is that this is not ‘school’! There are no compulsory classes and at workshops you are free to pick and choose what you take part in, or otherwise.

A huge part of learning and developing your skills is through experimentation, trial and error, responding to feedback, and honing your technique. Underwater photography workshops provide you with the perfect platform for practice and improvement.

There is no better alternative to hands on experience in an environment that is 100% dedicated to your development. Reading informative articles and watching videos on YouTube can never replace the value of one on one time with your camera rig, underwater!

Underwater photography workshops are generally structured around core components, namely: presentations, underwater practice, feedback and critique sessions, troubleshooting/one-on-one sessions, and technical support.

Other components of a workshop include dining, relaxing, and time for socializing too!

underwater photography workshop

What Topics do Underwater Photography Workshops Cover?

Depending on the pro, the type of workshop and regional diving highlights, a wide range of topics may be covered from composition and lighting through to shooting techniques and editing.

Benefits of an Underwater Photography Workshop

  1. Improve Your underwater photography
  2. Learn from professionals
  • Learn from other participants
  1. Expand your photography knowledge and understanding
  2. Try put new techniques
  3. Learn how to maximize your camera rig
  • Phenomenal travel opportunities
  • Memorable experience and new friendships

underwater photography workshop

Underwater Photography Workshops in the Lembeh Strait, Indonesia

When it comes to underwater photography workshops that focus on shooting macro, muck diving, and unusual marine species, there can be no better destination on the planet than the Lembeh Strait.

The Critter Capital of the World, a Muck Diving Mecca, and the Twilight Zone are just a few of the names that have been given to this stretch of water over the years due to its high density, and diversity, of rare and unusual marine life.

Some of Lembeh’s most iconic species include the hairy frogfish, Pontohi pygmy seahorse, the Lembeh sea dragon, Mandarin fish, Bobbit worms, Rhinopias scorpionfish, flamboyant cuttlefish, tiger and harlequin shrimps, ornate ghost pipefish, harlequin crabs, and where do we start with octopus? Here’s just a few… wunderpus, mimic, blue ring, hairy, long arm, starry night, and coconut… and the list goes on!

Dive conditions in the Lembeh Strait can be extremely favourable for underwater photographers. There is little to no current making both moving around and remaining stationary a breeze. The comfortably warm water temperatures reduce the cold that can also set in when not on the move.

Lembeh Resort and Underwater Photography Workshops

Lembeh Resort not only offers luxury accommodation in the Lembeh Strait but it is also offers a complete suite of facilities for underwater photographers and enthusiasts. Here is a ‘snapshot’ of the camera and imaging services that are on offer at Lembeh Resort – inside and outside of underwater photography workshops:

Photography Facilities

Lembeh Resort offers a suite of facilities for underwater photographers, including:

  • The only Backscatter Authorized Photo Center in Asia
  • Photo Center offering camera, housing, lights and accessory rentals and purchases, onsite repairs, onsite 3D printing of small components, professional support and assistance, full workshop support
  • Full time onsite Photo Pro
  • Full time onsite Marine Biologists
  • Marine biology and underwater photography trained Dive Guides
  • Spacious camera room with individual work spaces, lights, and power points
  • Varied diving options including single dives in the Lembeh Strait, two or three tank dive trips, day trips to Bangka, east coast Lembeh trips, blackwater, bonfire, night, and Mandarin fish dives.

underwater photography workshop

Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop 2025

The renowned Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop is back in January 2025 for the 12th year running!! This unique workshop is hosted by not one but three worldclass photo professionals. The 2025 workshop features: Ron Watkins (USA), Paul Duxfield (UK), and Renee Capozzola (USA). The week-long workshop promises to be packed with incredible diving, Pro presentations, and one-on-one instruction and feedback.

2025 Workshop Schedule and Dates:

  • Pre-Workshop: January 8th10th (time to relax and unwind after traveling and enjoy some of Lembeh’s famous dive sites.)
  • Workshop: January 11th – 17th (Capturing Critters in Lembeh 12th Annual Workshop)
  • Workshop Extension: January 18th – 19th (Additional Day Workshop Extension)
  • Post-Workshop: January 20th – 21st (Stay additional nights and enjoy extra diving days or some time to relax and explore more of North Sulawesi)

Find Out More:

Meet the pros and find out more about the Capturing Critters in Lembeh 2025 underwater photography workshop, including prices and workshop inclusions, here:

https://www.lembehresort.com/featured/capturing-critters-in-lembeh-underwater-photography-workshop-2025/

If you are ready to book your place on the January 2025 Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop – contact Lembeh Resort at: reservations@LembehResort.com.

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