Ikelite have announced a professional grade, compact waterproof housing for Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 micro four-thirds mirrorless digital cameras; perfect for any application in or around the water, from scuba to surf to pool.

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 is a solid and capable compact interchangeable lens camera. Customizable controls, a TTL flash hotshoe, and in-body 5-axis image stabilization make it a good choice for underwater use. The GX9 features a 20MP CMOS sensor, 4K/UHD video at 24p and 30p, and a 121-point contrast-detect AF system.

True TTL exposure

Proper strobe exposure is the #1 most important contributor to sharp and colorful underwater photos, particularly below 30ft/10m. This is the only housing to include an integrated TTL circuit fine-tuned to the Panasonic GX9 flash exposure protocol for the fastest and most accurate exposure possible. TTL communication by electrical sync cord improves camera battery life and recycle time, meaning you get many times more strobe-lit shots when you need them. The TTL circuit is powered by the strobe for zero maintenance and no batteries to change. Exposure compensation in TTL mode is supported using the camera’s built-in control. At this time, only Ikelite DS strobes are capable of powering the TTL circuitry. Non-Ikelite strobes featuring an electrical bulkhead may be attached by sync cord but must be used in manual exposure modes only.

Built-in Flash

The camera’s built-in flash may be used to trigger external fiber optic strobes. Two fiber optic ports are provided on the top of the housing for attachment of compatible fiber optic cords. The built-in flash is not suitable for lighting a subject underwater.

Extensive Lens Support

High quality yet affordable optics are available for an extensive range of micro four-thirds lenses from wide angle fisheye to macro. Custom optical grade acrylic domes provide the color, clarity, and durability of glass at a fraction of the weight and cost. Glass flat ports are available for macro lenses. The DLM port system is designed to be tough enough for heavy surf and to provide reliability in remote locations. The lens port attaches without twisting, threading, or complex mechanisms. Lens port sold separately. A compatible lens port is required for waterproof use.

Controls and Ergonomics

A trigger-type shutter lever control is designed for optimal sensitivity and a natural motion when shooting underwater. The standard control hugs the side of the housing for comfortable use when hand holding. The lever can be easily extended using the optional Shutter Trigger Extension # 4077.93 for more comfortable reach when using a handle grip. Soft-touch knobs are easy to grip with or without gloves on and provide quick access to important controls including front and rear dials and the mode control. Hard anodized aluminum push buttons are extremely lightweight and resistant to salt build-up and corrosion. The back of the housing features laser engraved control symbols which will never fade or fall off.

Camera Installation

The camera mount is front-loading for easy installation and removal. A small mounting plate attaches to the bottom of the camera and secures in the front of the housing. The camera mounting plate does not need to be removed from the camera for surface use or when changing the battery or memory cards. The mounting plate features a 1/4-20 threaded mount on the bottom so that it can be attached to a tripod on the surface.

Accessory Mounting

Two 1/4-20 threaded mounting points are included on the bottom of the housing for the attachment of a tray and handle grips. Handles provide improved ergonomics underwater and are the foundation for your lighting mounts. If you’re shooting with two strobe or lighting arms, then a top handle can be added to carry to and from the dive site. Top handles are available in a Cable Grip # 4080.07 or Aluminum Top Handle # 4080.08. The rigid aluminum version provides additional mounting points for lighting and accessories.

Sealing and Vacuum Testing 

There is no greater assurance than being able to see your camera and o-ring seal through the back of the housing. Ikelite’s signature open-groove design suspends the rear o-ring in a natural position that is easier to maintain and more reliable than forcing the o-ring into a channel. Once the housing is closed you can see the o-ring form a solid, waterproof seal. A spare 1/2-20 threaded accessory port is provided on the side of the housing for easily installation of the optional Vacuum Kit # 47012. A hand pump with gauge allows you to draw a vacuum on the housing to simulate water pressure and check for leaks prior to entering the water. Every unit is water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m) before it leaves our facility in Indianapolis.

Durability and Corrosion Free Performance

A custom ABS-PC blend housing provides strength and performance, year after year, with minimal maintenance. The ABS-PC material is fundamentally corrosion-proof and considerably lighter than aluminum. The specially formulated color deflects the sun to keep your camera running cooler, longer. Compared to black or clear housings, the light color provides superior contrast for enhanced view of the camera, LCD screen, and o-ring seal.

Made in USA

Ikelite products are designed, built and tested in the USA. The company uses locally sourced, top-grade materials. Their housings are built by hand and individually tested for fit and function. Products are backed with over 50 years of experience and the best reputation for service within the dive industry.

MSRP – $995

Lens port sold separately.

Available to pre-order now for early May release.

For more information visit the Ikelite website by clicking here.

You can purchase Ikelite products from Cameras Underwater here.