ChipBPhoto

Too cynical? Nope, I’m just as cynical and agree! In the US we had “Fuel Surcharges” when gas prices went high, but they mysteriously never came off once fuel prices returned to previous levels, or even lower. I fear companies, especially one highly rated brand of housings, will literally price themselves out of business. (Profit per item vs total units sold) On a business level, the current tariff rumors/impacts have uncovered how vulnerable some of these global companies are with only a single manufacturing/distribution strategy. I have been part of companies that had a similar limitation and saw the result. In short, I have put off some accessory purchases, specifically from the referenced housing brand as it’s not a need, and just a want. The “want” has now fallen below my bank account’s interest in saying “yes.” I guess we will see who’s left and what changes beyond price increases they opt to make, if any, to remain a viable option.

I agree with all @Dave_Hicks shared. I too have a WACP and Canon 8-15 behind a 140 dome. I find the WACP is more versatile and my normal go-to for wide, CFWA, and general diving. Its close focus capabilities can make even tiny subjects a possibility. The WACP is also more capable at slightly wider apertures while still maintaining reasonably sharp corners. The 8-15, with or without a TC really shines for ultra wide subjects such as large reefscapes, wrecks, CFWA, etc. I find it to be sharper than the WACP overall, but it does require a smaller aperture for sharpness. Softness at the edges is a possibility, but that really depends on your subject and how critical edge sharpness is in the image desired. In short they are different tools that have some areas of overlap, but they do excel in different areas. It depends on your needs and budget to have both or not. Hope this helps…

I bought a Nauticam 8-15 + 1.4 Zoom Gear from @Drtalks. Good communication and arrived as expected. 5 Stars!

I am frequently in Reef’s store as I live locally to them. Yes, super knowledgeable and patient in solving even unique situations. I would suggest you connect with them prior to give them a heads up on your question/needs so they can get any needed parts if not already in stock.

Wish I had followed my instincts and bought the MFO instead of the SMC-3. I realize they are different tools, but the MFO sounds like it would be more advantages to my personal needs at this time. Thanks for the feedback @Dave_Hicks

@Ar Splujer - Barmaglot explains it above. Pls read the rest of the comments as there is other important info shared.

Fiber is the only way to go! The only reason I used a sync cord was my older Canon required the onboard pop up flash as the trigger. The recycle time was very slow. Now that I have an external trigger with my Sony, fiber is the easiest and most dependable option.

I tried the Retra LSD on the Z-330. While designed for the Inon offset aiming light, it took frequent attempts to get the light correctly positioned. I have not heard of anyone having success snooting with any device other than the Marelux SOFT. The only reason that works is because it is a completely independent design with its own aiming light. Absolutely agree the MF-2 / snoot combo is the best option! Very manageable underwater and small for travel. The aiming design is accurate and easy to use.

I saw the Sony/Nauticam model a few weeks back. NOTE - it uses a rechargeable internal battery. While I personally prefer the individual CR style batteries due to having one less thing to remember to charge, it seems to be well made. The price also seems inline with other smart triggers. If true HSS and/or TTL is desired with the HF-1/MFs and Sony bodies, this will be a needed purchase.

Agreed - the MF-2 is a very solid choice and performs extremely well. Worth the investment.

I purchased a Nauticam viewfinder from @Proteus. Excellent communication, quick ship, and a smooth deal. Arrived exactly as described. Highly recommend!

I gave up waiting on them and picked up a pair of HF-1s. Unless Inon comes up with something substantial to compete with the HF-1 or upcoming Retra Maxis, I fear they will be left behind.

Great question. It really depends on the purpose and target audience. If trying to reach the masses, think of the same rules of a pop song, 2:30 - 3:00 at most. If targeting those who appreciate a more artistic video, then perhaps 7-8 mins, but no longer. A mix may be good. Either way a compelling hook or powerful intro in the first 15 secs is a must to catch attention. Regardless of the length, the quality and story are essential. Good luck! chip

I’d say that was a good move. I prefered paying monthly, but all things considered it’s not a major deal breaker to do the single payment.

The price increase occurs on Jan 15, 2025. That is why the current (old) prices are still showing today. I do not know if it will be a global price increase, but I would not be surprised. As a reminder, the increase only pertains to those who pay monthly. I just switched to a 1-time annual payment which remains at the same as the current price.