IKELITE: Waterproof housing for Lumix GX85, GX80 and GX7 Mark II with TTL
Panasonic is well known for designing straightforward and highly customisable control sets on their cameras. Ikelite extends the Lumix's great freatures for underwater applications, providing larger controls and push buttons which are easy to access even with thick gloves. Whenever possible, controls are located in the same configuration as on the camera to replicate the muscle memory and familiarity you’ve already developed by using your camera on land. Control symbols laser engraved into the back of the housing will never peel off or fade even with years of use. The camera’s large, super-bright LCD screen is viewable edge-to-edge through the back of the housing. Their front-loading camera mounting system makes installation and removal a hassel free proposition. The camera mounting plate allows ready access to the battery and memory card, and features a standard 1/4-20 mounting point for attachment to a tripod topside. But apart from use as a dive housing, I also see this used as a protective housing for everyday use too. Unlike the GX8 that is weatherproof, you can now add that added feature to the older GX7 as well as the GX85 ensuring your investment is protected even on land from the elements.
An integrated TTL circuit is fine-tuned to Panasonic’s latest flash exposure protocol for the most accurate exposure possible. The circuit is powered by the strobe for zero maintenance and no batteries to change. Exposure compensation in TTL mode is supported using the camera’s built-in control. At this time, only Ikelite DS strobes are capable of powering the circuitry. SEA&SEA, INON, and Nikonos strobes attached via electrical sync cord will still enjoy fast recycle times and improved battery life, but must be used in manual exposure modes only.
This housing provides a direct electrical connection to the camera’s external flash hot shoe. Cord attachment is as easy as screwing in a lightbulb. The threaded fit prevents accidental detachment during use. The bulkhead connection has been moved to the top of the housing to keep cords out of your way and reduce strain on the cord ends. A variety of sync cord terminations are available for Ikelite, SEA&SEA, INON, or Nikonos strobes for ultimate versatility.
The camera’s built-in flash is suitable for firing an external strobe, but not for lighting a photo underwater. Two fiber optic ports are built into the front of the housing provide an attachment point for fiber optic cords from most major manufacturers. Use of a fiber optic connector requires the camera’s built-in flash to fire, reducing battery life and bypassing the TTL functionality of the housing. This housing accepts a variety of ports to accommodate all of the most popular zoom, macro, and wide angle lenses. Our custom optical grade acrylic domes components prove the color, clarity, and durability of glass at a fraction of the travel weight and cost but these lens ports are sold separately. Ikelite's new ABS-PC blend provides strength and corrosion free performance year with minimal maintenance. The specially formulated color deflects the sun to keep your camera running cooler, longer. Compared to black or clear housings, the white color provides superior contrast for enhanced view of the camera, LCD screen, and o-ring seal. The unique rear seal design prevents accidental twisting or stretching of the o-ring for simple and confident assembly. Ikelite has eliminated the need for an o-ring groove or channel which can trap sand, dirt, or debris. Two double-passivated stainless steel locking lid snaps are simple to use and virtually unbreakable. The clear back allows you to see the o-ring form a solid, watertight seal as it closes. Ikelite products are designed, built and tested in the USA. Every unit is water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m). The housing is slated for a mid-August release as of this posting.
