I've got an upcoming trip to the Port Hardy area in northern Vancouver Island (often referred to as God's Pocket due to the eponymous resort, though I'm not diving with them). I was trying to decide what wet lenses to bring with me. I have a dual-flip adapter, so I'm realistically probably only going to bring 2 out of the MFO-1, MFO-3, and SMC-3 with me on a dive. Assuming the MFO-3 is always coming with me, the decision is between the MFO-1 and SMC-3 as the second lens. As such, I was wondering if there were any notable subjects small enough to warrant needing the 2.3x magnification of the SMC-3, or if the 1.2x magnification of the MFO-1 would be preferred.

15 minutes ago, Kamaros said:

I've got an upcoming trip to the Port Hardy area in northern Vancouver Island (often referred to as God's Pocket due to the eponymous resort, though I'm not diving with them). I was trying to decide what wet lenses to bring with me. I have a dual-flip adapter, so I'm realistically probably only going to bring 2 out of the MFO-1, MFO-3, and SMC-3 with me on a dive. Assuming the MFO-3 is always coming with me, the decision is between the MFO-1 and SMC-3 as the second lens. As such, I was wondering if there were any notable subjects small enough to warrant needing the 2.3x magnification of the SMC-3, or if the 1.2x magnification of the MFO-1 would be preferred.

The second part of the question is if you have a guide who can find tiny subjects for you. I know I'm not the best at finding tiny subjects.

Last time at God's pocket there were lots of nudibranchs but they in general were much bigger than the ones here in SoCal. There are a bunch of little ladybug type things that would be ideal for the SMC 3. Take a look at the God's Pocket video on

www.blueviews.net under the trip reports videos.

Bill

Last time I was there, I didn't see much that warranted the additional magnification, I would think a good macro and MFO-1/MFO-3 would work just fine. On the other side, the 8-15mm and small dome came in handy at various times.

From my last trip to God's Pocket and Browning Pass in OCT '24 and at the time, I didn't yet have the MFO-3: Jim Piavis - Browning Pass (God's Pocket).

I suggest wide angle on most dives, perhaps shoot macro on the third dive of the day when the sun is low. The MFO-1 is great for most macro subjects, and the SMC-3 will depend on your preferences. There is always something cool and tiny if you look hard enough.

There are no dive guides at God's Pocket, so critter spotting is your job.