Photo / Video News & Reviews
Fantasea introduces new UW lighting range
Fantasea has introduced a selection of new products designed to enhance lighting of underwater images and videos, including LED Strobe Triggers, Fiber Optic Cables and a powerful video light.
Radiant 3000F Video Light
Cat. No. 6052
The Radiant 3000F Video Light is a durable and powerful video light, designed to significantly enhance color and light in underwater videos and still images. It offers a variety of advanced features for creative photographers.
Featuring an ergonomic design and a built-in YS connector, the Radiant 3000F Video Light can be comfortably integrated into any underwater photo system, such as with action cams, amphibious cameras, compact digital housings and more.
The Radiant 3000F offers a variety of operation modes, which make the light suitable to light a wide range of classic and creative compositions. Operation modes include flood light (100 degrees), spot light (15 degrees), red light, Ultra Violet (UV) & Blue light and two flashing modes (constant and SOS) that can serve for signaling / SOS purposes.
The Radiant 3000F makes use of 3 powerful LEDs for red light, 4 LEDs for UV & blue light, one X-PL LED for spot light and a new Cob (chip-on-board) LED array for flood light, which provides an impressively bright, wide and even beam. Color temperature of the beam is warm and assists with producing vivid and colorful videos and still images without having to use any color correction filters.
A battery power indicator light enables easy monitoring of the battery power. In the flashing modes the light can provide up to 8 hours of burn time (assuming the batteries are fully charged).
A user-friendly interface, based on two easily accessible buttons, allows for easy operation of the light. The Mode button allows switching between the various modes of light. The Intensity button allows adjusting power output in most light modes according to various compositions and diving conditions, as well as for extending the burn time of the light (the batteries will provide power for a considerably longer time when the light is set at lower intensity settings). Finally, a “memory” function will return the light to the same setting as previously used before the light was last turned off.
Depth rated to 100 meters/330 feet, the Radiant 3000F Video Light fulfills the needs of both recreational and technical divers.
Specifications
- Depth ratio: 100 meters / 330 feet
- Maximum output: Flood- 3000 lumens, Spot- 1000 lumens
- Beam angle: 100 degrees (Flood, Red, UV & Blue and Flashing) / 15 degrees (Spot)
- Material: Aluminum head, Polycarbonate body
- Mount: YS Connector (interchangeable)
- Battery: 2 x 18650 Li-ion batteries
- Burn time: Flood – 50* minutes at 100% power, Spot: 100* minutes at 100% power
* in optimal conditions - LED Lifespan: 35,000 hours
- Color temperature: 5,000K
- CRI: 90
- Operation modes:
Flood – 100% / 50% / 25% power
Spot – 100% / 50% / 25% power
Red – 100% / 40%
UV & Blue
Flashing
SOS - Battery power indicator:
Green (100%-60% power)
Yellow (59%-30% power)
Red (29%-15% power)
Flashing Red (14%-1% power) - Dimensions: 56 x 122.5 mm / 2.2 x 4.82 inch (diameter x length)
- Weight: 253g (without batteries)
- Included in package: Instruction manual, protective bag, secure string, 4 x 18650 batteries, battery charger, 2 x replacement O-rings, Connector Ball to YS Mount, silicone grease and microfiber cloth
FA-1 LED Strobe Trigger
Cat. No. 6551
The FA-1 LED Strobe Trigger triggers underwater strobes and flashes to fire in sync with the camera using fiber optic cables.
Using the LED Strobe Trigger eliminates the need for the camera built-in flash to fire, thereby extending camera battery life and allowing for longer shooting sessions. Eliminating the camera built-in flash also keeps the camera from heating up, resulting with less condensation in humid conditions. The LED Strobe Trigger’s super quick recycle time allows for rapid shooting and triggering of the strobes without having to wait for the camera built-in flash to charge.
The FA-1 LED Strobe Trigger can be connected to any camera featuring a hot-shoe connection. It can be installed inside any camera housing offering sufficient space, anywhere inside the housing, for the main unit to be placed.
The FA-1 LED Strobe Trigger is capable of triggering most underwater strobes available in the market. Note that when using the LED Strobe Trigger, strobe output is controlled manually only.
Specifications
- LED type: Ultra bright white LED
- LED ports: 2
- Voltage: 3.7 V
- Power consumption: 5 milliwatt
- Battery: 110mAh Lithium Polymer battery
- Charging time: 1.5 hours
- Flash capacity: 10,000 (when fully charged)
- Battery life: Up to 72 hours (when fully charged)
- Auto power-off time: 3 hours
- Dimensions: 40.5 x 45 x 13 mm / 1.6 x 1.77 x 0.51 inch
- Weight: 16.8 g / 0.51 oz
- Included in package: LED Strobe Trigger main unit, LED cable, Hot-shoe cable, Spongy LED trigger ports, Velcro sticker, Rubber band and USB cable
Product Demo Video
FA-2 LED Strobe Trigger
Cat. No. 6552
The FA-2 LED Strobe Trigger triggers underwater strobes and flashes to fire in sync with the camera using fiber optic cables.
Using the LED Strobe Trigger eliminates the need for the camera built-in flash to fire, thereby extending camera battery life and allowing for longer shooting sessions. Eliminating the camera built-in flash also keeps the camera from heating up, resulting with less condensation in humid conditions. The LED Strobe Trigger’s super quick recycle time allows for rapid shooting and triggering of the strobes without having to wait for the camera built-in flash to charge.
The FA-2 LED Strobe Trigger can be connected to any camera featuring a hot-shoe connection. It was designed to be installed inside Fantasea housings, but can also be installed inside other housings featuring sufficient space above the camera hot-shoe.
The FA-2 LED Strobe Trigger is capable of triggering most underwater strobes available in the market. Note that when using the LED Strobe Trigger, strobe output is controlled manually only.
Specifications
- LED type: Ultra bright white LED
- LED ports: 2
- Voltage: 3.7 V
- Power consumption: 5 milliwatt
- Battery: 110mAh Lithium Polymer battery
- Charging time: 1.5 hours
- Flash capacity: 10,000 (when fully charged)
- Battery life: Up to 72 hours (when fully charged)
- Auto power-off time: 3 hours
- Dimensions: 40.5 x 45 x 20.5 mm / 1.6 x 1.77 x 0.8 inch
- Weight: 16.8 g / 0.59 oz
- Included in package: LED Strobe Trigger main unit, LED cable, Spongy LED trigger ports, rubber band and USB cable
See Product Demo Video Above
Fiber Optic Cable A1
Cat. No. 6301
The Fiber Optic Cable A1 connects between the camera housing and a single slave strobe, thus allowing triggering the strobe in sync with the camera. The Fiber Optic Cable A1 is 45.3 cm / 17.8 inch long.
Using the plugs included, one end of the cable attaches to the fiber optic cable port on the camera housing, right against the camera built-in flash or LED Strobe Trigger (if using one), and the other end attaches to the strobe slave sensor. The light emitted by the camera built-in flash or LED Strobe Trigger is transmitted through the fiber optic cable to the strobe slave sensor, thus triggering it to fire in sync with the camera.
The Fiber Optic Cable A1 features a plug on its end which is compatible with Fantasea housings and other housings featuring a similar design of fiber optic cable ports. This plug is also compatible with many popular strobes. In a case of connecting the fiber optic cable to a housing or strobe featuring a different fiber optic cable port design, a compatible adaptor (separately acquired) can be mounted on or instead of the existing plug.
Fiber Optic Cable B2
Cat. No. 6302
The Fiber Optic Cable B2 is a dual fiber optic cable which connects between the camera housing and two slave strobes, thus allowing triggering the strobes in sync with the camera. The Fiber Optic Cable B2 features cables which are 45.3 cm / 17.8 inch long.
Using the plugs included, one end of the dual cable attaches to the fiber optic cable port on the camera housing, right against the camera built-in flash or LED Strobe Trigger (if using one), and the other two ends attach to the strobes slave sensors. The light emitted by the camera built-in flash or LED Strobe Trigger is transmitted through the fiber optic cables to the strobes slave sensors, thus triggering them to fire in sync with the camera.
The Fiber Optic Cable B2 features a plug on each of its ends which is compatible with Fantasea housings and other housings featuring a similar design of fiber optic cable ports. This plug is also compatible with many popular strobes. In a case of connecting the fiber optic cable to a housing or strobe featuring a different fiber optic cable port design, a compatible adaptor (separately acquired) can be mounted on or instead of the existing plug.
Further information can be found shortly on www.fantasea.com.
Distributed in the UK by Blue Orb Distribution.
Blogs
Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Blogs
The Benefits of Underwater Photography Workshops
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!
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
- Improve Your underwater photography
- Learn from professionals
- Learn from other participants
- Expand your photography knowledge and understanding
- Try put new techniques
- Learn how to maximize your camera rig
- Phenomenal travel opportunities
- Memorable experience and new friendships
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.
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 8th ––10th (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:
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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