Camera users of Nauticam and Isotta brands can now enjoy TTL (Through-The-Lens) functionality when using Ikelite equipment!

Camera users of Nauticam and Isotta brands can now enjoy TTL (Through-The-Lens) functionality when using Ikelite equipment!

Underwater photography enthusiasts can now enjoy a more streamlined and accurate flash photography experience with the Ikelite TTL (Through The Lens) system. This innovative technology allows automatic flash exposure control when using Ikelite underwater strobes, greatly simplifying underwater flash photography.

To set up TTL with Ikelite strobes using an M14 or M16 bulkhead adapter and a TTL converter, you'll need a few key components. First, an M14 or M16 bulkhead adapter, which fits into your Ikelite underwater housing, providing a watertight connection point for your strobe sync cords. The M14 and M16 sizes refer to the thread diameter, matching your housing and strobe cable ports.

Next, a TTL converter is essential. This electronic device connects between your camera’s hot shoe (or fiber optic port, depending on your setup) and the strobe via the bulkhead adapter cable. The TTL converter interprets the camera’s TTL signals and converts them into commands that control the power output of the Ikelite strobe.

To connect the setup, attach the M14 or M16 bulkhead adapter to the appropriate port on your Ikelite housing. Use a compatible sync cord to connect the bulkhead adapter to the TTL converter. Mount the TTL converter onto the camera’s hot shoe or connect it to the camera’s TTL output system. Connect your Ikelite strobe to the bulkhead adapter cables, then turn on your camera and strobe system; the TTL converter will now communicate exposure info between camera and strobe to automatically adjust flash output.

When using TTL mode, it's important to ensure both the strobe and camera are in TTL or "fill-in flash" mode, and metering is set to "spot" metering. This setup enables you to enjoy the benefits of TTL lighting control underwater, ensuring better exposure and ease of use without manual strobe power adjustments.

For the most accurate and detailed instructions, Ikelite’s official documentation and support articles provide step-by-step guides and testing procedures tailored to their systems. The Ikelite B16/B14 ICS-5 Bulkhead adapter even allows attachment of Ikelite hotshoes inside a Nauticam or Isotta housing.

The cost of the Ikelite strobes is not specified, but the Ikelite TTL converters themselves range from approximately $350-425, depending on the model. The Ikelite Sync Cord (dual or single) costs approximately $100-190.

Ikelite often utilizes fiber optic systems for manual or TTL control, which can be an alternative or complement to bulkhead and cord systems depending on your camera and strobe model. The recommended Ikelite strobes for wide angle photography include the DS 51 II (for compact shooters), DS 160 II, or DS 230 (for professional and full frame shooters). APS-C shooters can choose either. The best results with Ikelite TTL converters are with the DS 160 II and DS 230 for wide angle.

To get started with Ikelite TTL, contact Bluewater Photo at [email protected] or call 310-633-5052. Ikelite TTL converters, when used with Ikelite DS 161 strobes, can produce perfect exposures, as demonstrated in a photoworkshop in Socorro, Mexico.

1. Underwater photography enthusiasts can benefit from the Ikelite TTL system, simplifying underwater flash photography with automatic flash exposure control using Ikelite underwater strobes.
2. To set up TTL with Ikelite strobes, you'll need an M14 or M16 bulkhead adapter, a TTL converter, compatible sync cords, and a suitable Ikelite underwater housing.
3. The TTL converter, connecting between the camera and strobe, converts TTL signals sent by the camera into commands controlling the power output of the Ikelite strobe.
4. When using TTL mode, ensure both strobe and camera are in TTL or 'fill-in flash' mode, and metering is set to 'spot' metering for better exposure and ease of use.
5. For detailed setup instructions, refer to Ikelite's official documentation, including testing procedures and compatibility with Nauticam or Isotta housings.
6. Ikelite TTL converters, when used with Ikelite DS 161 strobes, can result in perfect exposures, as demonstrated in a photoworkshop in Socorro, Mexico, showcasing the power of Ikelite's gadgets and technology in underwater photography.

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