Edward Lai Featured in Wetpixel Full Frame

Our own Edward Lai is featured in the current "Full Frame" on Wetpixel.com:

I find using our products in real-world situations, similar to that of our customers, lets us understand more about underwater photography, and the cameras that we house. It also brings the invaluable opportunity of being able to meet many experienced photographers and listen to them. This always enhances our overall knowledge, and brings back lots of inspiration in future product development directions.

For the full story, click here.

Hasselblad H5D-40 in the Nauticam Housing - The Palace, Underwater

Check out this story and video of the Hasselblad at work in the palace-pool-studio using the new Nauticam Hasselblad Housing:

http://www.hasselblad.com/promotions/h5d-40.aspx

The video includes footage of the camera going into the housing. 

Canon S110 - Take it Anywhere!

The Canon S110, in the Nauticam NA-S110 Housing, is the perfect size to take anywhere.... the pool, the beach, the mountains, and on your next dive trip.

The NA-S110 housing is so compact that camera and housing together are smaller than many other cameras alone. In the hand, it feels like a camera. 

This is the perfect beach cam.... small and unobtrusive... yet the S110 is one of the most capable compact cameras available, with RAW image capture, full manual control, and HD video capture with Canon's legendary white balance. 

Shutter lag? While other point&shoot cameras suffer from the dreaded shutter lag, the S110 is comparatively zippy. By shooting in manual exposure mode and with manual focus, action shots like this are a point and click away.

This image was shot with RAW mode on the S110, and was processed using one of Adobe Lightroom's black and white presets. S110 RAW files have significant headroom for post processing, meaning you can add whatever artistic embellishments to make your photos look like you want them to look. 

Why stop at the beach? The NA-S110 is small enough to go into any carry-on luggage or backpack, so you can take it anywhere. 

The NA-S110 can brave the icy waters of this Rocky Mountain stream in February. You might want to bring some neoprene gloves with you. 

Having a camera/housing this small, yet this capable, opens up a lot of possibilities for your photos. 

The NA-S110 shines underwater too. By adding an external strobe, the photographer is able to balance the ambient light with the strobe light to capture an image like this. The S110's TTL combined with an Inon S-2000 or a Sea& Sea YS-01 make it not only possible but easy. 

One key thing for getting quality underwater images is getting close to the subject to reduce the amount of water between subject and camera. By adding a wide angle wet lens like the FIX UWL-28 or the Inon UWL-H100, the shooter can get really, really, close to the subject. Just keep those fingers away from the teeth. 

Inon shared some video from S110 on YouTube. This is shot with the Inon UWL-H100 with the Dome Unit for that lens. Note that this is ambient light video - no additional lighting - made possible by the excellent Canon custom white balance capability.

The S110 excels at macro, especially with an external close up lens like the Inon UCL-165, or the SubSee +5 or +10.

 

Very capable. Very small. The Canon S110 in the Nauticam NA-S110 housing. Take it anywhere!

Announcing Housing for Canon EOS M

Nauticam takes great pleasure in announcing an exceptional new housing for a brand new competitor in the mirrorless interchangeable lens camera market: The NA-EOSM for the Canon EOS M. Once again Nauticam is the first to embrace the latest technology available from a leading camera manufacturer and deliver an aluminum underwater housing of superior quality at an unprecedented speed. The NA-EOSM offers Canon shooters the precision and excellence that underwater photographers have come to expect from the world’s leading aluminum underwater housing manufacturer: Nauticam.

Canon EOS M

Canon may be the most recent manufacturer to enter the mirrorless interchangeable lens camera field, but they certainly bring decades of camera development experience to the game. The stylish EOS M exudes quality and refinement from its magnesium alloy camera body to the solid and comfortable weight of the new EF-M series lenses. The superb image quality will be no surprise to shooters of Canon’s APS-C series of DSLRs. The EOS M borrows features, including the 18 MP sensor, from the recently released Canon T4i, in a much more compact mirrorless body. Along with this new Canon system, two new lenses have debuted: The Canon EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM. Both of these lenses employ Canon’s “stepper motor” that provides near silent auto focus when shooting video. In addition, Canon will be providing an optional Mount Adapter EF-EOS M that will allow the use of existing EF and EFS lenses on the new camera.

 The Canon EOS M is designed to be user friendly for photographers of all levels of capability, but that doesn’t mean Canon held back on the specs. The in addition to the impressive 18 MP Hybrid CMOS sensor, the new Canon sports the latest 14 bit DIGIC5 processor, 4.3 fps, ISO expandable from 100 – 25,600 and a 1040k dot touch sensitive Clear View II LCD screen. An external Speedlite 90EX hot shoe mounted flash utilizes its own AAA power supply to prevent exhausting the camera battery prematurely. The LCD user interface borrows heavily from the Canon T4i/650D and that means it is one of the most useful available on any camera. Other controls are simply arranged and easy to operate.

Video features are expected from Canon and the EOS M does not disappoint with 1080p 30p in the MOV format and a dedicated record button. The new Hybrid CMOS sensor employs integrated phase detection AF pixels to provide some of the best live AF video capability of any interchangeable lens camera. This should open new doors for underwater videographers.

Nauticam NA-EOSM

Nauticam is the premier designer and manufacturer of mirrorless underwater housings and that experience is evident in every aspect of the NA-EOSM. Each new housing from Nauticam represents an evolutionary step in the Nauticam philosophy of excellence: Absolute dependability, superior ergonomics, unrivaled functionality and the most extensive support accessories available. The industry leading features of previous housings are present such as the effortless (but secure) single locking rotary housing latch, rugged machined aluminum case, 100 meter depth rating and the patented port latching system. The rear mounted housing o-ring makes maintenance easier than ever and a re-engineered camera tray with a unique self locking mechanism gives an audible and visual confirmation of proper camera installation. Of course dual fiber optic synch ports are standard and take advantage of the Canon accessory flash. 

Nauticam designed the new NA-EOSM to be as easy as the EOS M itself. The new housing will offer an intuitive upgrade to those moving beyond a compact system with an easy and logical interface. The NA-EOSM is engineered for optimal ergonomics utilizing state-of-the-art technologies. Every control is designed for easy access while maintaining hand position. The EOS M combined 4-way control pad and the control wheel are readily engaged by the right thumb for quick adjustment of aperture, shutter speed, ISO and other key features in a very similar way to other Canon displays. Of course the mode dial on top of the housing offers instant access to camera exposure options and Movie mode capability. Dedicated buttons for Menu, Info, record and playback make video and still photography a pleasure with the NA-EOSM.

Ports for Every Need

Nauticam has the most extensive line of compact ports in the business. Port changes are easy and reliable with the Nauticam patented locking port release system used in all their mirrorless camera housings. Currently both the new EOS M Mount Canon lenses are supported: the EF-M 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 and the EF-M 22mm f/2 pancake lens. Nauticam has also designed a port (p/n 36182) and focus gear (p/n 36192) to utilize the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 EF lens mounted on the EF-EOS M Mount Adapter providing exciting macro possibilities with the NA-EOSM. More ports will be available as new lens options are developed for this dynamic new camera system.

Nauticam Build Quality

Only the finest materials and cutting edge manufacturing processes are used to make Nauticam housings.  The housing body is machined from solid aircraft grade aluminum, then hard anodized making it impervious to salt water and providing an impressive 100 meter depth rating. The large acrylic LCD window is treated with an anti-reflective, scratch resistant coating. 

Optional Rubberized Ergonomic Handles

The optional Nauticam Flexitray provides a lightweight, compact mounting solution for strobe arms and the NA-EOSM housing. Nauticam uses a sophisticated over-mold process to produce extremely comfortable rubberized ergonomic handgrips.  The soft feel and ergonomic design make the housing easy to grip and minimize hand fatigue on long dives.  Both single and double handle configurations are available for complete customization, and each handle can be adjusted laterally allowing the user to dial in perfect fit. A hand strap is also available for those wishing an even smaller profile.

 

Optical Flash Connectors for Inon S-TTL, and Sea & Sea DS-TTL

Reliable automatic flash exposure is available with Nauticam housings and a variety of optically fired flashes.  Inon Z-240, D-2000, S-2000, Sea & Sea YS-110 Alpha, YS-01 and YS-D1 strobes provide automated lighting, precisely reproducing the camera’s onboard flash at a proportionally greater intensity.  This system yields accurate TTL flash performance with no electrical sync cables to flood!  

Strobes can be attached to the housing via optional strobe mounting balls on the handles or a single strobe mounting ball point on the housing. The housing also features a cold-shoe mount for even more mounting options.

Specifications

* Depth Rating:  100m

* Dimensions:  168mm x 97mm 126mm 

* Weight: TBA

Model Number:  17309

Estimated Shipping Date: 20 March, 2013

USA Dealer List:

http://www.nauticamusa.com/nauticam-dealers/

Dealer Inquiries Outside of North & South America:

enquiry@nauticam.com

International Dealer Listing:

http://nauticam.com/dealer.htm

Announcing Housing for Canon G15

Nauticam is proud to introduce the NA-G15 aluminum camera housing for the latest version of Canon’s iconic G series of compact cameras: The Canon Powershot G15. Once again, Nauticam brings the power of professional quality engineering and cutting edge design to those who enjoy the attributes of compact imaging systems. The NA-G15 should prove to be the ultimate housing for fans of Canon’s compact G15 camera. Both camera and housing are loaded with heavyweight features packaged in a lightweight, rugged and easy to operate system.

 

Canon Powershot G15

When Canon introduced the Powershot G series many years ago, it quickly established itself as one of the first compact digital cameras to allow shooting in RAW and to come equipped with fast, high quality zoom lenses. In essence, this line of cameras were designed to be a enthusiast’s camera first and a compact second. The newest G15 is designed that way today and has been greatly improved on several fronts. 

The Canon G15 utilizes the same 12.1mp Canon 1/1.7” CMOS sensor and Digic 5 processor as the hugely popular Canon S110 and is a proven performer. While the zoom lens equivalent focal length of 28-140mm with Intelligent Image Stabilization is the same as on the G 12, what really impresses is the fast variable aperture of f/1.8-2.8. This is fast by any camera standard, but remarkable on a compact camera. These kind of apertures open up interesting possibilities in low light conditions and shallow depth of field close ups. 

The G15 maintains a lot of direct access controls and a very useable ISO range of 80 to 12,800. A 920k dot PureColor II 3.0” G Screen provides easy viewing, while the latest Canon processor serves up impressive burst rates of 10 fps without flash. Video is a proper 1080p @ 24FPS and 720p @30FPS in H.264 format with mini HDMI out on the camera. G series shooters will be thrilled with the addition of a dedicated movie record button on the G15. Aside from the extra fast lens, the other real headline with the Powershot G15 is a substantial jump in autofocus speed and accuracy. 53% faster according to Canon – that makes the G15 the fastest focusing Canon compact ever and should give fans of this venerable model line another reason to celebrate. No wonder these cameras have had such an avid following both above and below the water.

Nauticam NA-G15 for the Canon Powershot G15

Nauticam designs and builds aluminum housings for compact cameras with the same uncompromising attention to detail and ergonomics as its acclaimed DSLR housings. That dedication to excellence shows in every aspect of the NA-G15. The Canon G series represents some of the most popular underwater compact camera systems of all time. Nauticam knew it had to meet the demands of an extremely devoted market segment and is pleased to have exceeded all expectations with this new housing.   

All Nauticam products are constantly evolving and improving. Many of the industry leading features found on previous Nauticam housings are clearly evident on the new NA-G15. The comfortable and secure locking rotational latch, rugged machined aluminum case and 100 meter depth rating are now the base line. The rear mounted housing o-ring adopted from recent Nauticams makes maintenance easy and the progressive shutter release provides the best “feel” in the business. Like every Nauticam, the NA G-15 has controls ergonomically placed and clearly labeled just the way Canon does. The NA-G15 takes advantage of Canon’s excellent control set on the G15 and provides an extremely easy interface – even with gloves on. Programmable front and rear command dials are readily available to forefinger and thumb while never releasing grip. The mode dial is quickly accessed at any moment. Manual aperture and shutter speed adjustment is intuitive and thanks to the G15s unique exposure compensation dial – so is EV control. 

Video functions are more easily engaged than on the G12 because of the new dedicated record button. Nauticam has provided a flash deployment lever and a window to allow for monitoring Canon’s indicator LEDs showing power, ready to shoot, flash activation status and a “cannot focus” warning. This housing is designed and field-tested to capitalize on the considerable potential from both camera and photographer alike.

 

Nauticam includes a 67mm port thread for mounting optional wet lenses as standard and they precisely engineer the optical glass port specifications for optimal wide angle accessory lens compatibility. This critical design criterion allows the NA-G15 to be the first Canon G series housing ever to be truly wide-angle wet lens compatible. The new Inon UWL-S100 ZM80 Wide Conversion Lens Is the perfect wide angle companion for the versatile NA-G15 (Inon adapter required) and will provide approximately 100° FOV when the camera lens is zoomed to an 80mm focal length. Even more exciting is the option to add the Inon Dome Lens Unit II for UWLS100 ZM80 for a stunning 150° FOV. Finally a true fisheye option for Canon G series underwater photographers! 

Of course a good close up wet lens is always popular with compact macro shooters and the use of Nauticam’s new 67mm Flip Lens Holder makes this type of macro work easier than ever on the NA-G15. 

For those underwater photographers who want classic performance, outstanding image quality and world class compact durability: Your housing just arrived – The NA-G15

 

Nauticam Build Quality

Only the finest materials and cutting edge manufacturing processes are used to make Nauticam housings.  The housing body is machined from solid aircraft grade aluminum, then hard anodized making it impervious to salt water and provides an impressive 100 meter depth rating. The large acrylic LCD window is treated with an anti-reflective, scratch resistant coating. 

 

 

Optional Rubberized Ergonomic Handles

The optional Nauticam Flexitray or Easitray provide a lightweight, compact mounting solution for strobe arms and the NA-G15 housing. Nauticam uses a sophisticated over-mold process to produce extremely comfortable rubberized ergonomic handgrips.  The soft feel and comfortable design make the housing easy to grip and minimize hand fatigue on long dives.  Both single and double handle configurations are available for complete customization, and each handle can be adjusted laterally allowing the user to dial in perfect fit. A hand strap is also available for those wishing an even smaller profile.

 

Optical Flash Connectors for Inon S-TTL, and Sea & Sea DS-TTL

Reliable automatic flash exposure is available with the NA-S110 and a variety of optically fired flashes. The Inon Z-240, D-2000, S-2000, Sea & Sea YS-110 Alpha, YS-01 and YS-D1strobes provide automated lighting, precisely reproducing the camera’s onboard flash at a proportionally greater intensity.  This system yields accurate automatic TTL flash performance – even in manual mode - with no electrical sync cables to flood! The NA-G15 comes fiber optic ready and accepts standard Sea & Sea style bushing connections. 

Strobes can be attached to the housing via optional strobe mounting balls secured to the handles of the Nauticam accessory tray systems or a single strobe mounting ball location on the housing. The housing also features a cold-shoe mount for a focus light or other accessory mounting options.

 

Specifications

* Depth Rating:  100m

* Dimensions:  155mm x 110mm x 106mm 

* Weight: .82kg (1.8 lbs.) 

More information is available from Nauticam USA at:

http://www.nauticamusa.com

 

USA Dealer List:

http://www.nauticamusa.com/nauticam-dealers

 

Contact Nauticam USA:

Chris Parsons

Nauticam USA

2303 N. Andrews Ave.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311

Phone: 954-489-8678 

Web: http://www.nauticamusa.com

Email: innovation@nauticamusa.com

 

About Nauticam USA:

Nauticam USA is the exclusive wholesale distributor of Nauticam products in the North American Market.  Nauticam USA’s warehouse and service center is located in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  Our staff of underwater photography experts strives to provide the best customer support and after sale service available.  Dealer inquiries are welcome!

Dealer Inquiries Outside of North & South America:

enquiry@nauticam.com

 

International Dealer Listing:

http://nauticam.com/dealer.htm

 

Interchangeable Lens Camera, Irresistible Value

I have an awesome job. I get to try all of the latest underwater photo gear, and get to travel to some great spots to try it out. (interested in joining this year in Lembeh, Grand Cayman, Bonaire (Digital Shootout or Reef Photo Workshops), Dry Tortugas, or in Anilao next year?. I'm asked just about every day about what kind of camera I'd recommend, what lenses to choose, how to outfit a complete system, and many similar questions. I make it a point to try every camera that Nauticam supports, both shooting on land and underwater. I want to know how the camera operates so I can make a recommendation based on experience.  

I recently decided that I wanted to give an underwater system to someone close to me. I wanted to get her a system that was very capable, that she wouldn't soon outgrow, but was small and easy to use. She's a divemaster and instructor, so having a small rig that won't get in the way of a dive is important. After some thought, I finally settled on a particular setup..... and it dawned on me that I should write up my thought process and share it here in case it would help anyone else in a similar situation. 

The first point I'd like to make about choosing a camera system here in 2013 is the cornucopia of riches when it comes to camera systems that are currently available - and that Nauticam supports. From compact cameras like the Sony RX-100 and Canon S110, to m4/3 interchangeable lens systems from Olympus and Panasonic, to APS-C mirrorless systems from Sony, to the outstanding new SLRs from Nikon and Canon, the current camera offerings are amazing. Nauticam has chosen to make underwater housings for the best of these cameras, and it is impossible to make a bad choice. The cameras we support are all excellent, and all are capable of great images. It is, after all, the shooter, not the camera, that makes beautiful images. That said, however, there are still some differences that are worth considering. 

My criteria for her system included: a system that is relatively small and easy to travel with and dive with, interchangeable lenses to allow her to choose the right lens for the right scene, good lens selection, easy to use automatic flash exposure, and HD video shooting. I also wanted the biggest "bang for the buck", i.e. a good value. After some thought, I narrowed my list down to the Sony NEX-5R and NEX-7, the Olympus E-PL3, Olympus OM-D E-M5, the Panasonic GX1, and the Panasonic GH2. I thought briefly about an SLR like the Nikon D7000 or the Canon T4i, but opted for the smaller size of the others on my list. Choosing between these cameras might seem like a tough task, but I've had a chance to dive with all of them and knew pretty quickly which I wanted - the Panasonic GX1.  

NA-GX1 in Action at the Digital Shootout 2012

The GX1 is a very capable m4/3 camera, with easy to use controls, excellent image quality, 1080p 60i HD video and more, all wrapped up in one of the best value for the money camera packages ever. I was able to buy the camera body with the 14-42mm lens for under $420, and the body alone is now under $320 in places. As I've written about previously, I've been struck at how solid and reliable the GX1 and the Nauticam GX1 housing have been during our demo events. So, the GX1 was my choice of camera. 

Here's how I outfitted it: 

• Panasonic GX1 Camera with 14-42mm kit lens
• Panasonic Lumix 8mm Fisheye lens
• Nauticam NA-GX1 housing (of course!)
• Nauticam Flat Port 72 (for the 14-42mm)
• Nauticam P1442-Z Zoom gear for 14-42mm
• Nauticam 4.33" dome for the 8mm
• Nauticam Easitray with Left Handle
• Nauticam Ball for Easitray
• Nauticam Hand Strap 
• Inon S-2000 Strobe
• Nauticam Fiber Optic Cable (Sea&Sea to Inon)
• Nauticam Ball Adapter for Inon
• Nauticam 5" Arms (2)
• Nauticam Standard Clamps (3)
• 16GB SD Cards (2)
• Slightly Used Camera Backpack(not everything can be new :)

The 14-42mm kit lens will be usable for fish portrait shooting and as a jack-of-all trades type of lens. The 8mm fisheye, though, is the lens that I think will get the most use. It focuses fast, and very close, and is ideal for close-focus-wide-angle. The 8mm is my favorite lens for any mirrorless camera that I have tried to date. 

If she at some point decides she'd like to shoot macro, there are two excellent lenses choices, the Panasonic 45mm and the new Olympus 60mm macro. At that point I'd also add an M10 mounting ball and a focus light. Since she likes to shoot people, I'll also consider getting her the Olympus 9-18mm or the Panasonic 7-14mm at some point. As of now, I've only included one strobe, so a second strobe is probably in the future as well. 

I chose the Inon S-2000 for several reasons, but it's small size and accurate TTL are two keys for me. I chose the Easitray with left handle and a hand strap for the right side - the housing is really meant to be held with the right hand, and the hand strap makes that easier than a right handle, in my opinion. 

It sounds like a lot of gear, but it all fits in the backpack and stows easily in the overhead on an airplane.

Dive Photo Guide - Keri Wilk Looks at Nauticam D600

By Keri Wilk

DPG’s Publisher Matt Weiss and I decided to jump on a plane and head over to Grand Cayman where we were going to stay and dive with Cobalt Coast Resort and Dive Tech. The clear, warm waters off the Cayman’s provide the perfect studio, and Colbalt Coast and Dive Tech are perfectly set up for photographers, making logistics simple.  

Keri Wilk puts the NA-D600 through the paces

Nauticam heard about the project and sent over their new NA-D600 housing for the Nikon D600 camera, and asked for some honest feedback.  As you’ll read below, the results were overwhelmingly positive. 

f/13, 1/125, ISO 1600
Nauticam NA-D600, Zen 230 dome, Sigma 15mm fisheye, 
2 Ikelite DS160s

Check out the entire article here: Dive Photo Guide

Announcing Nauticam NA-NEX6

Nauticam NA-NEX6 

Nauticam is very excited to announce their first new mirrorless housing of 2013: The NA-NEX6 housing for the Sony Alpha NEX-6 Camera. As the acknowledged leader in mirrorless interchangeable lens camera housings, Nauticam continues to bring professional quality engineering and exceptional design to demanding compact camera enthusiasts the world over. With the NA-NEX6, Nauticam offers even more choices to underwater photographers who are jumping in to the rapidly evolving interchangeable lens camera field.

Sony Alpha NEX-6

The NEX series of cameras have been one of the most successful and well reviewed mirrorless camera lines in the world. Sensor size, resolution and image quality are all solidly competitive with DSLRs and the video specs have always been superb. The NEX-6 provides a very interesting combination of excellent features borrowed from the best of the new NEX-5R and some highlights of the top-of-the-line-NEX-7. 

The big news on the NEX-6 is the inclusion of the NEX-7’s excellent OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) – a welcome tool for those used to DSLR shooting. The new NEX also carries much of the NEX-7’s form factor and a bright 3.0” LCD display. Particularly notable is the new exposure mode dial – a first for this line of cameras. The camera also provides a control dial, control wheel and a programmable function button that allows plenty of direct access functionality. The control dials allow instant control of aperture, shutter speed or other functions depending on the camera’s exposure mode - greatly aiding settings adjustment. The function button allows the shooter to select between autofocus modes, white balance, AF/MF, picture effects and can be programmed with numerous other possibilities. Likewise the AEL button can be programmed for many of the same options including MF assist, giving the photographer maximum customizable choices.

Following up on many of the cutting edge features that debuted on the NEX-5R, the NEX-6 serves up a new Fast Hybrid AF: a sophisticated combination of phase detection and contrast detection that promises superior performance when used with compatible lenses. The built in WI-FI and the ability to utilize Sony’s PlayMemories Camera Apps is a tool that is only just starting to be exploited. The growing list of apps includes useful options like “Bracket Pro”, “Time Lapse”. A particularly intriguing app is “Smart Remote Control” that allows a smart phone to function as remote viewfinder and shutter release. 

The new NEX-6 may be the Sony’s most appealing blend of features and technology for many photo and video enthusiasts. 

 

Nauticam NA-NEX6

Nauticam manufactures the most highly regarded aluminum housings for the NEX series in the world. Their engineering and refinement are second to none. Not satisfied with simply being the best, Nauticam continues to evolve the NEX housing design with numerous recent improvements present on the new NA-NEX6. Nauticam designed the new NA-NEX6 to appeal to a broad range of photographers with many different demands. The new housing will offer an intuitive upgrade to those moving beyond an LCD-only compact system with comfortable and logical interface. The video professional or DSLR shooter looking for a smaller rig will find just as much to appreciate in the rugged build quality and superb ergonomics. The new NA-NEX6 is ready to take your imaging capabilities beyond your previous expectations.

All Nauticam housings are designed to get photographers and their cameras underwater as quickly, easily and safely as possible. The industry leading features of previous housings are present such as the effortless (but secure) single locking rotary housing latch, rugged machined aluminum case, 100 meter depth rating and the patented port locking system. A new rear mounted housing o-ring makes maintenance easier than ever, while the simple port lock and lens release button supports lens changes without camera removal. A re-engineered camera tray with a unique self locking mechanism gives an audible and visual confirmation of proper camera installation. Of course dual fiber optic ports are standard and take advantage of the built in Sony flash. The Sony NEX-6 also sports a true ISO hot shoe allowing for an optional electric sync bulkhead if desired. This same port is designed to accept an optional HDMI bulkhead that will support Nauticam’s superb NA-DP4 housing for the Small HD Monitor.

Like every Nauticam, the NA-NEX6 is engineered for optimal ergonomics utilizing state-of-the-art technologies. Every control is designed for easy access while maintaining hand position.

The Sony control wheel and control dial are easily accessed by thumb for DSLR-like control of aperture and shutter settings in manual mode. The new mode dial is readily available on the top of the housing to thethumb as well. The function (Fn) button is immediately adjacent to the patented progressive shutter release to keep it accessible for rapid activation of settings like focus modes and white balance function. The NEX-6 EVF is easily activated by a lever similar to the NA-NEX7 housing and Nauticam will offer an optional LCD window that supports the use of Nauticam’s industry leading enhanced viewfinders. The redesigned playback and record buttons are easy and intuitive. The Sony accessory flash can still be activated and deactivated during a dive with a simple lever, allowing for rapid changes from strobe lit to ambient light photography. Video shooters will appreciate the dedicated ISO button located close to the right thumb. Even subtle details, such as the contouring the surface of key operation buttons for tactile recognition are employed to ensure every command of the photographer rendered as intuitively as possible. Of course, Nauticam provides all this robust functionality in a housing built to the most stringent professional standards. 

The NA-NEX6: Why be good enough when you can be exceptional?

Ports for every Need

Nauticam has the most extensive line of ports for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras in the business. Port changes are easy and reliable with the Nauticam patented locking port release system used in all their mirrorless camera housings. Ports are available for the major Sony lenses that are useful underwater, including the Sony 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6, 30mm f/3.5 macro, 16mm f/2.8 pancake, 16mm f/2.8 pancake + FE adapter, and the 16mm f/2.8 pancake + WA adapter. 

Nauticam is also pleased to announce support for the new Sony 10-18mm f/4 WA zoom with a special 7” dome (part 36128) and zoom gear (part 36173). Another industry first is a new Macro/Zoom Control Port 45 (part 36127) with a focus/zoom knob to support the new Sony 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 retractable zoom. The port will take full advantage of the smooth power zoom operation of the new 16-50mm lens when employing the new 16-50mm power zoom gear (36172). Additionally, this port also supports manual focus for the Sony 30mm macro lens when combined with the new 30mm focus gear (36171). 

Nauticam Build Quality

Only the finest materials and cutting edge manufacturing processes are used to make Nauticam housings.  The housing body is machined from solid aircraft grade aluminum, then hard anodized making it impervious to salt water and providing an impressive 100 meter depth rating. The large acrylic LCD window is treated with an anti-reflective, scratch resistant coating. 

 

Optional Rubberized Ergonomic Handles

The optional Nauticam Flexitray provides a lightweight, compact mounting solution for strobe arms and the NA-NEX6 housing. Nauticam uses a sophisticated over-mold process to produce extremely comfortable rubberized ergonomic handgrips.  The soft feel and ergonomic design make the housing easy to grip and minimize hand fatigue on long dives.  Both single and double handle configurations are available for complete customization, and each handle can be adjusted laterally allowing the user to dial in perfect fit. A hand strap is also available for those wishing an even smaller profile.

Optional Enhanced Viewfinders

By utilizing Nauticam’s optional LCD window (part 17453) with integrated viewfinder mount for the NA-NEX6, photographers can enjoy the benefits of Nauticam’s exceptional enhanced viewfinders. These viewfinders provide the ultimate focusing accessory with in-water diopter adjustment. The LCD window can easily be user-installed or removed as needed with no tools!

Optical Flash Connectors for Inon S-TTL, and Sea & Sea DS-TTL

Reliable automatic flash exposure is available with Nauticam housings and a variety of optically fired flashes.  Inon Z-240, D-2000, S-2000, Sea & Sea YS-110 Alpha, YS-01 and YS-D1 strobes provide automated lighting, precisely reproducing the camera’s onboard flash at a proportionally greater intensity.  This system yields accurate TTL flash performance with no electrical sync cables to flood!  

Strobes can be attached to the housing via optional strobe mounting balls on the handles or a single strobe mounting ball point on the housing. The housing also features a cold-shoe mount for even more mounting options.

Specifications

* Depth Rating:  100m

* Dimensions:  183mm x 133mm x 81mm

* Weight: 0.88 kg (1.9 lbs.)

Model Number: 17407 

USA Retail Price: $1650

Estimated Shipping Date: 15 Feb, 2013

 

More information is available from Nauticam USA at:

http://www.nauticamusa.com

 

USA Dealer List:

http://www.nauticamusa.com/nauticam-dealers

 

Contact Nauticam USA:

Chris Parsons

Nauticam USA

2303 N. Andrews Ave.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311

Phone: 954-489-8678 

Web: http://www.nauticamusa.com

Email: innovation@nauticamusa.com

 

About Nauticam USA:

Nauticam USA is the exclusive wholesale distributor of Nauticam products in the North American Market.  Nauticam USA’s warehouse and service center is located in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  Our staff of underwater photography experts strives to provide the best customer support and after sale service available.  Dealer inquiries are welcome!

 

Dealer Inquiries Outside of North & South America:

enquiry@nauticam.com

 

International Dealer Listing:

http://nauticam.com/dealer.htm

Daniel Botelho - Great White Shark Interview

Dive Photo Guide interviews our friend Daniel Botelho

In life, there are those who stay in the cage and those who are brave enough to swim outside. 

And then there’s underwater photographer Daniel Botelho, who doesn’t even think about going in the cage in the first place. Daniel’s spine-tingling, pulse-pounding images have appeared in publications like National Geographic. Last week his image of a Mola Mola was named in the list of “AOL’s 2012 Most Awe Inspiring Images.”

DPG: Great white sharks—the name says it all. For those of us who haven’t had the opportunity to dive with these amazing animals, what is the experience like?

DB: No words could actually describe the experience of interacting with such a magnificent animal! However, it is also very demanding, especially if you are working as the safety diver for the operation. I compare diving with Great Whites to climbing Mount Everest: It can be very glorious, but if you make the wrong decision, it can also be fatal.

DPG: What was your lens selection for these images?

DB: For this essay I used the Nikkor 16mm fisheye, the Nikkor 14mm and the Nikkor 17-35mm. My camera was a Nikon D4 in a Nauticam housing.

See more images and the rest of the interview on DivePhotoGuide.com.

The Versatile Machine

versatile |ˈvərsətl|

adjective

1 able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities: a versatile sewing machine | he was versatile enough to play either position.

2 archaic: changeable; inconstant.

3 embracing a variety of subjects, fields, or skills; also :turning with ease from one thing to another: the Nauticam Housing for the Olympus OM-D E-M5 camera

Ok, we modified that last entry just a bit.. but the Nauticam NA-EM5 Housing + 12-50mm Port/Gear + Flip Diopter really should be the dictionary standard as the ultimate example of versatility, at least for underwater shooters. There really is no other system that provides this much versatility with excellent image quality and good shooting performance, plus won't break the bank and will fit in carry on luggage. There is a lot of buzz out on the web about this (one of the longer threads on Wetpixel ever); let's break it down and delve into what makes it so compelling.

The Camera

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 is a cool camera. First, it just looks cool, borrowing design elements from the OM camera series of old. More than just good looks though, this camera is very capable, with excellent image quality, and surprisingly fast shooting and focus performance. Belonging to the m4/3 family, the proud owner of this camera enjoys the riches of lens selection available from both Olympus and Panasonic, including the Panasonic 8mm, the Olympus 9-18mm, Pansonic 45mm macro, Olympus 60mm macro, Olympus 12mm and many more.  

 

The Lens

The lens we are focusing on here (sorry, not intending to pun), is the Olympus 12-50mm. This is no ordinary kit lens. The range is excellent (think 24-100mm on full frame) for all kinds of shooting both terrestrial and underwater. Unlike many other lenses in it's range, the lens does not extend while zooming or focusing, which is an advantage for those who want to wrap an aluminum and glass box around it. Speaking of zooming, this is a power zoom lens, meaning nice smooth zooming for video shooting. The 12-50mm has one more trick up it's sleeve though, and it is ideal for underwater shooters: with a flick of the switch, the lens changes into a 43mm macro lens, capable of serious macro magnification. 

The Housing

The Nauticam NA-EM5 housing is the best selling housing for the EM-5, worldwide. There simply is not a better housing made for the camera. Every control is well thought out; every move the shooter might make is considered in the ergonomic design. This rugged housing is milled from solid aluminum, and rated to 100m (330 feet). Changing ports is a snap with Nauticam's patented port locking system, and the housing inherits much from the rest of Nauticam's award winning designs. Nauticam even offers an optional upgrade to take advantage of the camera's built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) - unmatched by any other housing.

 

The Port and Gear Set

The 12-50mm lens presents a challenge to anyone designing a way to control it underwater, being first a power zoom and second, having the macro switch. The Nauticam design team came up with a port and gear set that is unmatched by any other manufacturer - not even the Olympus housing can operate the macro switch on this lens. What this means to the underwater shooter is the ability to shoot at 12mm one minute, shoot mid-range the next, and then quickly switch to macro mode. What this means, more simply, is that when the pod of dolphins swims by as you are shooting pygmy seahorses, you'll get both shots. Try that with any other system. 

The Flip Diopter

When the macro from the 12-50mm isn't quite close enough - you can still get even closer. With the Nauticam flip diopter, you can simply flip your closeup lens (also called a diopter lens) into place and get into the world of super macro. 

The Bottom Line  

As an underwater photographer, what aspects of camera performance are important to you? If versatility is a high priority, along with with very image quality and shooting performance, this system, the Nauticam NA-EM5 with 12-50 port/gear kit and flip diopter, may be just what you are looking for. 

The photos for this article are from Phil Rudin who took the NA-EM5 and 12-50mm to Philippines with us last month. All of these shots are from that trip. Thank you Phil.