ChipBPhoto

Nice work, @atus !

Hi @Apneagraph, That’s a good question. The S220 has proven to be a quite dependable upgrade from the previous S2000. The beam is noticeably wider which I see as a big plus. I see two ways to look at it…. - Adding a Z-330 will provide a bit wider light pattern and a bit more power. (More so the wider pattern) This could be interesting if you use the 2 strobes as a key light and fill light strategy. This yields a more artistic appearance. - Adding a 2nd S220 would still allow the key light/fill light strategy, but would also provide a more even, matched lighting for wider scenes. The smaller size is an attractive plus. Saving a few dollars for a new product vs. pre-owned is nice as well. There will be a variety of opinions shared, but I personally prefer having the option of an even light pattern. As such, I personally would purchase a 2nd S220. Good luck! Let us know what you decide. chip

Nicely done @dhaas !

BOUGHT

Thanks @Abi_Camera - DM sent

Great info - thanks @Chris Ross !

Hi all, Has anyone in the US purchased strobes shipped from Europe? If so, what did you pay for US import duties? Specifically, I am looking at strobes with a value of $2600. I’ve done a good amount of research, but I cannot find anything other than a range from exempt ($0) to 10%. I’m looking for something more specific. Thanks for any info you can share! chip

Try Reef Photo in Ft Lauderdale. They also sell the AOI products.

Rumblings, but nothing verified. Next big announcement opportunity would probably be DEMA in Nov., but no one really knows yet.

Unfinished bottle??? Now that’s just craziness! 😂 Guilty! Fortunately I didn’t bump the red button during the dive; all stayed sealed. Hence the reason I now carry an extra cap in my little bag of o-ring grease and such. 😂

If you want a structured course, check out Kate Jonker’s program. She is quite active on IG and has a one specifically on the TG-6/7. https://courses.underwaterphotocompany.com/tg-underwater-photography-made-easy/learn-more/

No doubt the Retras offer a terrific quality of light. The balance is if the price is the right fit for your budget. I agree about perhaps finding some pre-owned Z-330s. I have been quite happy with mine over the years. I also prefer the flexibility and dependability of AA batteries at this point, although I understand other power cells are the future. Depending on your urgency, you may also want to hold off until DEMA in Nov to see if any new strobe models will be announced. If you do opt for brand new strobes, I would suggest selecting models that are capabilities of HSS, even if your trigger does not now support it. This will help future proof your investment should you want to use that feature at some point. Not being limited by ~1\200th sync speed opens new possibilities.

Just to verify, the trick is to put the wine bottle insert on the vacuum on top of the housing and then put the pump on the top of the insert to make the seal. You could also glue the insert to the pump so you have a solid, single piece, very similar to the Nauticam design.

I found it by going to Amazon US and searching “Vacu Vin.” That is the actual product name. Note it may be different or not available outside the US.

Hi @Apneagraph - good questions. 1 - I have both a 2018 and 2022 M1 11” iPad Pros. I have not seen much of a difference in editing power, even when doing numerous spot removals in LR. The main difference I have seen is when having multiple tabs in Safari. The newer M series processors handle this much better. If it’s in your budget, I’d suggest getting a current iPad as it is the center of your system and it will have a longer future life. 3 - The 13” has more screen space, but I personally prefer the 11” as a best all around solution of carrying and portability. I have never wished I had the larger screen. 4 - If you decide to go with a MacBook, I would highly recommend a Pro vs. and Air model. I have a 2013 MacBook and it never had the power to effectively run LR, even when it was new. The iPad was always a better choice once LR mobile was available. A 14” MacBook Pro will increase your investment cost quite a bit. It depends if you need a full computer vs iPad for other aspects in your life. Hope this helps! chip