Hi everyone, I'm new here and new to UW digital. I used to shoot Nikonos, but haven't in many years and have only been shooting film and digital topside for the past 5 years. My question is this! This fall I will be doing a trip to Guadalupe to shoot the Great Whites that reside their. I will most likely be shooting with a Nikon D200 and Ikelite housing but may use a D2x with aquatica housing, Haven't decided on how much cash I can stomach parting with yet. The lens will most likely be something in the 12-24mm range with a 2.8 aperture or faster. I'm more concerned with having a fast aperture than I am with a having a Dx lens. I plan on mainly using the available light since the vis is 80+ feet and shallow. Now to the point! I would like to have a single strobe with me for fill light if needed. There's nothing like blowing the shots of a lifetime because you were not prepared. I'm looking at the Ikelite DS-125 and DS-200. Does anyone have any opinions on which one as far as wide angle and adequate fill for large fish. Recycle time is also very important.
Sorry for such a long post, but felt you all could respond more appropriately if you had all the facts. I would greatly appreciate any advice, recommendations, etc......
Matt
Hi Chewie,
I've used both of these strobes. I just got back from a trip where I used the new DS200.
For Guadalupe, I think you can get by with one DS125. It's smaller and easier to manage in a cage and has good fill-power and a wide enough beam for the lens you will be using.. It'll give you literally HUNDREDS of 1/2 power pops on a dive but still bring multiple battery packs.
The only big difference is the DS200 is a bit more powerful and wider. It doesn't recycle as fast from a full dump but is still darned fast. Both give very pleasing warm light.
Cheers
James
Just thought I'd point out the irony of someone named Chewie headed out to dive with Great Whites.......
Thanks for the input James, I like that idea. With money I'll save by going smaller, I can purchase an arm, extra battery and maybe even a rapid charger.
Hey UWnewbie, It is kind of ironic isn't it. Maybe I should take out some more insurance.
BTW, what are you all talking about with the cage thingy. I got a great deal on this trip. 3 days of freediving for only $100.
