Mixing and matching lights. arms, and trays?

[RJP]

Just started looking into putting together a video setup, and could use some guidance on how to mix/match lights and arms. It's unclear as to whether you can use certain arm types and lights together.

For instance, if I wanted to use BigBlue lights such as the VL2800p...

...what are my options for "flex" arms?

And does that impact my choice of trays?

Looking to put together a flexible all-purpose GoPro two-lightset up... do I need to dial in lights first and then back into arms and then tray?

 

[avigulf]

If you want to combine wide angle macro to make quick changes go for plastic flexarms. I have alu. arms and they are not so quick to change lightangles on. Snakeriver Prototyping has a nice setup. Make sure the arms are long enough to awoid backscatter on wide.

sent from mobile unit

 

[snowdog61]

ball mount diameters and flex-arm (Loc-Line) diameters differ and are not interchangeable. Ball mounts are great for heavier light heads. Loc Line holds at any position you want while under water but tends to be a tad floppy once out of the water if you use bigger strobes (D2000, Z240 etc) - they also squeak when repositioning and can pop out of socket if flexed too far. if you're using what is pictured, the 3/4" will be more than enough - may be able to use the 1/2" if it's lightweight. sourcing adapters can be a challenge but most are available with a small effort.

 

[kwinter]

My experience with flex arms like Loc Line is that they become floppy as you get longer. I need them fairly long with my GoPro or stills camera in order to avoid massive backscatter. The true ball mounts are a much better option, but a lot more money.

 

[dmoore19]

If you already have the lights, you might consider this.

Backscatter GoPro Double Handle & Tray with Tripod Adapter

If not, this is what I have. My still camera fits in between the arms and I mount the GoPro with a cold shoe adapter.

GoBe+ Action Camera Kit - Light & Motion

 

[RJP]

If you already have the lights, you might consider this.

Backscatter GoPro Double Handle & Tray with Tripod Adapter

If not, this is what I have. My still camera fits in between the arms and I mount the GoPro with a cold shoe adapter.

GoBe+ Action Camera Kit - Light & Motion

Do you find that two 700's give enough width of coverage with a GoPro?

 

[dmoore19]

Yes, I think they supply enough light. I wish I could post a video from my last trip. Alas, the portable drive I had the videos stored on crashed and I haven't been able to recover them.

 

[H20doctor]

My experience with flex arms like Loc Line is that they become floppy as you get longer. I need them fairly long with my GoPro or stills camera in order to avoid massive backscatter. The true ball mounts are a much better option, but a lot more money.

untrue , i use Loc Line for my video arms and they are stiff and rigid ... my light arms are 8 years old, and they are great... I can mount my rig to my scooter and they arms dont bend when im going through the gears





i make my own light trays for video and Photo... Loc Line

 

[RJP]

Yes, I think they supply enough light. I wish I could post a video from my last trip. Alas, the portable drive I had the videos stored on crashed and I haven't been able to recover them.

Note my "Like This Post" above was for the info about the coverage... not for your hard drive crash.

 

[dmoore19]

The wide has a 60 degree beam, with the 2 of them it seems to cover well.

I also bought the spot head. It works great as a backup light for night diving.

There is a nightsea head that you can get for flourescence, I might have to try that one some time.