Taking pictures in complete darkness

[Diver Dennis]

The modelling light is used WITH the strobes Catherine. I have one but rarely use it because it's a PITA. I use the modeling light on the strobe though.

[havnmonkey]

If you want to focus on something there must be light...Otherwise your cam is literally aiming in the dark. I used one (Princeton Tec LED) on my night dive in Roatan and it really helped turn the red focus box into a green one-- by the way there was no moonlight at this time of the month. It also really helped me aim my strobe; and I got a few good shots on my very first night dive with a camera (2nd night dive ever).

I just bunjee'd it on to my DS-50.

Also, I think he meant more along the lines of illuminating the scene during a wreck penetration. Silohuette shots are still my fav. for outside a wreck.

[Nocturnal Lights]

The little LEDs will work but they will not work as well as a light that is made for the purpose of auto-focusing/modeling. Even if you use your camera above water you can see the difference in how quickly your camera finds the focus point in areas of no-light, low-light, and full brightness.