Some DS125 Question

Yesterday my D125 with a TTL Sensor (couldn't get the Manual Sensor in Time) for my Canon S40 arrived.

My first surface testshots seemed to be pretty good.

But now i have some Questions:

1) How much power is drained by the modeling light? I want to keep it on allways for the first couple of dives to lear the positioning better.

2) When is it good to not use the diffuser or should I keep it on allways?

3) Do I have to adjust the exposer setting +1 when i use the Diffuser?

4) Can I use the same lubricant I use for my Canon Housing for the 3 lubricateble o-rings (bulkhead, synccord, battery compartment at sensor) because teh IKE lube came in a non recloseable packaging wich is awful for traveling?

5) I will travel with the strobe in my carry-on-luggage. Should I keep the battery pack attached or should I fly with them seperated?

6) Is it nessecary to shield the Camera flash. If yes: What is the better way: The Aluminium foil in the housing or James exposed slide trick?

7) Can someone give my some basic guidlines to start with, how to aim the strobe for macro and how for wideangle

Thanks in advance.

Simon

1. modeling light can easily last one dive...........not sure about 2............I only use it at night for focusing.........I think daytime use will cause you to "over aim" the strobe..........I wouldn't use it for that

2. I always use the diffuser

3. no.........if using TTL.........probably no on manual also

4. don't take the chance........put it in a baggie

5. I keep mine separate, but it probably doesn't matter as that is how Ikelite ships them

6. not familiar with S40

7. I usually try to error on aiming away from the subject instead of directly at it........I pretty much keep the strobe parallel with the camera with dual strobes and aimed behind the subject with one strobe........I set the strobe wide from the camera on wide angles shots and 10 to 12 inches from camera for macro

...with regard to your question about the lubricant for your strobe...if I remember right Ikelite tells you NOT to lube the main o-ring between the battery and the strobe. Check the booklet but I am pretty sure that is what it said.

I turn the modeling light off and on several times during a dive but basically use it for all pics, and I have never come close to running out of battery life for any two dives.

hope this helps....

Jed

p.s. dont make the beginner mistake I made and point the strobe AT the subject...that strobe is so damn strong you will overexpose, even with TTL...in my VERY limited experience.

good luck

I always use the diffuser. The TTL system will allow for it. Don't worry. Only use Ikelite silicon grease for Ikelite O rings. Not all silicon greases are compatible. You don't lubritcate the O ring tween the battery and the main strobe. Just make sure it's clean. Types that have been through UW tech programs tell me that o rings that don't move don't get lubricated. Remember to use only a little grease on the o rings. Just enough to keep the o rings supple.

7) Can someone give my some basic guidlines to start with, how to aim the strobe for macro and how for wideangle

 

Thanks in advance.

See this for a little more info:

Aiming a Strobe