YOUR QUESTIONS: Finding a Port, Packing Your Gear & More!! [VIDEO]

Featuring Denise Pietsch

As our Director of Social Media, Denise Pietsch gets a lot of questions over DM from Ikelite users and people looking for their next underwater camera system. Today she runs through some of the top most asked questions.

If you're more of a reader, scroll down to view the article version of this video.

 

1 | How Do I Find the Right Port For My Lens?

Recently we've had a lot of customers using AI to select their ports. We get it, it’s convenient, but it's just not giving you accurate information. So my biggest recommendation is just reach out to us, give us a call, shoot us an email to ikelite@ikelite.com. We're more than happy to help you walk through all the equipment you need to get great photos! If you want to look yourself, navigate to the product page of your housing and you'll find a Port Chart linked there.

SEE MORE: Lens Port Charts

We support a wide variety of cameras and lenses and we're here to help you find all of the gear you need to start taking pro-level photos underwater - just reach out!

 

2 | What Bag Should I Use For Travel?

We found that the Nanuk 955 is the largest case we can get while staying within the airline weight limits. But if you're looking for something with a little bit more maneuverability, we suggest the Nanuk 938.

We always check our equipment but if you're looking to go strictly carry-on, Ken Kiefer has mastered the art of packing an entire Canon R5 system with strobes into a carry-on bag.

If you're shooting with a more compact system like the OM System TG-7, we suggest the Nanuk N-CUBIK 17S which is also carry-on friendly and can store an entire TG-7 Deluxe Kit.

SEE MORE: Packing Made Easy for the TG-7 Deluxe Kit [VIDEO]

When packing your gear bags for travel we always recommend including a Spare Parts Kit.

 

3 | How Do I Purchase Ikelite Products Outside of the U.S.?

Our products are available worldwide, but we only ship direct within the United States. If you're located outside the US, we recommend using the Store Locator on our website where you'll find a local distributor closest to you that can help you with purchasing gear, ordering spare parts, servicing, all of that great stuff. 

If you don't find a store close to you, please reach out to us so we can help you. 

SEE MORE: Ikelite Store Locator

 

4 | Why Are My Photos All Blue and Washed Out?

The first thing you need to do is get close to your subject. The best advice I ever heard was “get close and then get closer.” You're going to need to be at least within arm's reach of your subject to get a good shot.

Second, add a strobe. Good lighting underwater is going to add color and clarity to your image and is hands down the best investment you can make for underwater photography.

Last but not least, check out the Photo Advice section of our website. We have recommended camera settings for any situation you can find yourself in underwater. And, if you want these recommendations delivered directly to your inbox every Friday morning, make sure you subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

SEE MORE: Why You Need Strobes Underwater

Adding strobes to your underwater system will add color and clarity to your images and is the best investment you can make to improve your images.

5 | How Do I Become an Ikelite Ambassador?

My recommendation here is, of course, shoot with Ikelite equipment and then submit your work to become a featured customer. It's a great way for us to get to know you, and some of our most popular ambassadors started out as featured customers. 

SEE MORE: How to Become an Ikelite Ambassador

 

If I missed your burning question reach out on socials - we're @ikelite on all platforms - or send us an email to ikelite@ikelite.com!

 

Additional Viewing

How to Become an Ikelite Ambassador [VIDEO] 

Ocean Conservation in Action // Be an Environmental Influencer [VIDEO]

How to Pack a Carry-On Bag for Underwater Photographer: Pro Tips from Ken Kiefer [VIDEO]

5 Situations Where You Need a Strobe Underwater [VIDEO]

DO'S and DON'Ts of 200DL and 50DL Underwater Housing Set-up [VIDEO]

 

 

Denise Pietsch (pronounced “Peach”) currently manages Ikelite’s Photo School and social media presence. Denise hails from New Jersey, where she obtained a degree in Dance Therapy. After years teaching dance she migrated into the corporate world and eventually came around to Ikelite via the natural career path of fruit distribution and early childhood development. In the end, her lifelong love of photography and octopuses combined into the work she does now. In addition to sharing her energy and enthusiasm with the underwater community she also manages social media for her dog, collects vinyl records, and spends time in her native wildflower garden.