دسته: رزولوشن

  • Nominations Open for the Inaugural ADEX 360 BLU Awards

    Nominations Open for the Inaugural ADEX 360 BLU Awards



    If you were one of the nearly 50,000 attendees at the last Asia Dive Expo in Singapore—or any of the 30 previous editions of the hugely popular dive show—you will already know that ADEX is a must-attend event on the dive calendar. But the next one just got even more interesting, with the announcement of the first ADEX 360 BLU Awards.

    Per the press release (below), the ADEX 360 BLU Awards will honor “outstanding individuals and organisations in the field of diving, innovation, ocean conservation, arts, and more,” with some 46 awards being given out during an evening ceremony on the second day of ADEX 32nd Edition in April 2026. The awards fall into four categories—“Sports & Education,” “Ocean Tourism,” “Arts & Science,” and “Individual Excellence”—and you’ll be pleased to know that “Photographer of the Year” is among them.

    The nomination period is from June 1st to October 1st, 2025, with shortlisted nominees put to public vote between October 10th, 2025 and February 10th, 2026. Check out the press release below to find out more or head over to the ADEX website.

     



    PRESS RELEASE

    ADEX 360 BLU AWARDS 2026

    Honouring Excellence: Celebrating the Industry and Community!

    The ADEX 360 BLU Awards 2026 will honour outstanding individuals and organisations in the field of diving, innovation, ocean conservation, arts, and more. The diverse range of traditional and new award categories will recognise everyone who plays a role in this space, ensuring we celebrate contributions from both the industry and the community. We hope to celebrate leadership, sustainability, and creativity, while supporting marine conservation through a high-impact charity auction.

    As part of the ADEX 32nd Edition Singapore Ocean Week, the longest-running and largest dive show in Asia, the ADEX 360 BLU Awards will be held on Saturday, April 11th, 2026, at Suntec Singapore. This ceremony is not only a celebration of excellence but a tribute to the passionate individuals, leaders, and changemakers who are shaping the future of diving and ocean protection.

    Nominations are open to individuals and organisations worldwide and awards will be presented at both Asia and Global levels, with dedicated trophies recognising contributions across the diving world.

    Award categories cover four key pillars, which are:

    • Sports & Education
    • Ocean Tourism
    • Arts & Science
    • Individual Excellence

    Some of the awards include:

    • Diver of the Year – Celebrating a diver whose achievements have significantly advanced diving and marine exploration.
    • Ocean Hero of the Year – Honouring a changemaker whose impact and advocacy have made a real difference for our oceans.
    • Most Certified Dive Centre of the Year – Recognising excellence in dive training and outreach across the region.
    • Photographer of the Year – For imagery that captures the soul of the sea and the urgency to protect it.
    • Best E-Learning Platform of the Year – Acknowledging innovation in accessible, high-quality dive education.
    • Eco-Tourism Dive Resort of the Year – Celebrating leadership in sustainable diving and responsible travel.
    • Lifetime Achievement Award – Awarded to individuals whose lifelong dedication has shaped the global dive community.

    The nomination period is open from June 1 to October 1, 2025. A shortlisting official committee will announce the Top 10 per sub-category by October 9, 2025, with public voting taking place from October 10, 2025 to February 10, 2026. Final winners will be announced live at the ADEX 360 BLU Awards Ceremony in April 2026.

    To view the full list of award categories and descriptions, visit: www.adex.asia/adex-360-blu-awards

    To submit a nomination, visit: www.adex.asia/adex360-blu-awards-form

    Join us as we recognise those who inspire, protect, innovate, and lead in diving and ocean advocacy. The ADEX 360 BLU Awards 2026 are more than just awards, they are a celebration of our global ocean community.

    ADEX 32nd Edition

    The 32nd edition of the Asia Dive Expo, Asia’s largest and longest-running dive expo, will be held from April 10–12, 2026, at Suntec Singapore, during Singapore Ocean Week to celebrate ocean-related industries, culture, and conservation. ADEX 2026 will be dedicated to the Humphead Wrasse, raising awareness for its protection, and the Blue Revolution – Reduce, Innovate, Reuse: a commitment to promoting sustainability in ocean and diving practices. The show will feature diving innovation, ocean culture, sustainability, and community, from the TEK Asia Conference and underwater arts to tourism, tech, conservation, and beyond.

    Media Contact:

    MIHIRI S KORALA

    mihiri@uw360.asia

    +94 77 770 6009

    ADEX – Asia Dive Expo

    www.adex.asia

     





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  • Announcing the Winners of the 12th United Nations World Oceans Day Photo Contest

    Announcing the Winners of the 12th United Nations World Oceans Day Photo Contest



    The winners of the twelfth annual Photo Competition for United Nations World Oceans Day were announced today surrounding the United Nations World Oceans Day celebration in Nice, France. A panel of world-renowned judges selected winners from thousands of global entries made by both amateur and professional photographers. This year’s competition featured the recurring categories “Big and Small Underwater Faces,” “Underwater Seascapes,” and “Above Water Seascapes.” The category “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us” was newly added in celebration of the 2025 UN World Oceans Day theme sharing the same name. The 2025 winning photographers hail from eight different countries: Rachel Moore, Luis Arpa, Steven Lopez (“Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”); Andrey Nosik, Giacomo Marchione, Lars von Ritter Zahony (“Big and Small Underwater Faces”); Dani Escayola, Gerald Rambert, Pedro Carrillo (“Underwater Seascapes”); Leander Nardin, Nur Tucker, Andrey Nosik (“Above Water Seascapes”).

    Historically hosted at the UN Headquarters in New York, this year’s United Nations World Oceans Day moved overseas, taking place ahead of the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), which will also be hosted in Nice, France from June 9–13. The winning photographs will be presented live during the United Nations Ocean Conference, during a panel event on 11 June at the Agora in the La Baleine (Green Zone). The winning images will also be displayed in gallery exhibitions at NEO VogelART LAB (Nice) and at The Explorer’s Club (New York) throughout the week.

    The 2025 photo competition was coordinated in collaboration between the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, DPG, Oceanic Global, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO. Since its inception in 2014, the competition has been curated by underwater and wildlife photographer Ellen Cuylaerts, and judged by a world-renowned panel of judges. Judges for 2025 included: underwater photographer Ipah Uid Lynn (Malaysia), underwater photographer William Tan (Singapore), wildlife photographer Vanessa Mignon (France), and underwater photographer Marcello Di Francesco (Italy).

    The Photo Competition for UN World Oceans Day is a free-and-open public competition that calls on photographers and artists from around the world to communicate the beauty of the ocean and the importance of the respective United Nations World Oceans Day theme each year. All winners and participants in the competition signed a charter of 14 commitments regarding ethics in photography. Winning photos from 2025 as well as from previous years can be viewed via the virtual gallery on www.unworldoceansday.org and on DPG’s World Oceans Day Photo Competition mini-site. (On DPG’s mini-site, you can find extended captions for this year’s winners, which tell the stories behind the images.)

     

    Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us

     

    Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us — Winner by Rachel Moore (USA)

     

    Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us — 2nd Place by Luis Arpa (Spain)

     

    Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us — 3rd Place by Steven Lopez (USA)

     

    Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us — Honorable Mention by Ollie Clarke (UK)

     

    Big and Small Underwater Faces

     

    Big and Small Underwater Faces – Winner by Andrey Nosik (Russia)

     

    Big and Small Underwater Faces — 2nd Place by Giacomo Marchione (Italy)

     

    Big and Small Underwater Faces — 3rd Place by Lars von Ritter Zahony (Germany)

     

    Underwater Seascapes

     

    Underwater Seascapes — Winner by Dani Escayola (Spain)

     

    Underwater Seascapes — 2nd Place by Gerald Rambert (Mauritius)

     

    Underwater Seascapes — 3rd Place by Pedro Carrillo (Spain)

     

    Underwater Seascapes — Honorable Mention by Lars von Ritter Zahony (Germany)

     

    Above Water Seascapes

     

    Above Water Seascapes – Winner by Leander Nardin (Austria)

     

    Above Water Seascapes — 2nd Place by Nur Tucker (UK/Turkey)

     

    Above Water Seascapes — 3rd Place by Andrey Nosik (Russia)

     

    Above Water Seascapes — Honorable Mention by Ken Findlay (South Africa)





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  • Issue 144 of Underwater Photography Magazine Available

    Issue 144 of Underwater Photography Magazine Available



    The latest edition of Underwater Photography magazine—Issue 144—is now available as a free download.

    The issue begins with a handy roundup of industry news and the latest imaging equipment. New gear highlights include the Nauticam housing for the Panasonic Lumix S1RII, Nauticam’s UltraBright Monitors, and the AOI Aura Light System multicolor light. We’re also excited to see Byron Conroy’s review of the new Nauticam Midrange Focus Optimizer (MFO-1)—an intriguing gadget that we hope to have a good play with ourselves one day!

    In other features, Peter Rowlands chats to veteran shooter and Ikelike Ambassador David Fleetham, the Backscatter team expounds the joys of fluoro using their new excitation filter for the Hybrid Flash, Lars Stenholt Kirkegaard goes on a fascinating nudibranch safari at Gulen Dive Resort in Norway, and Colin Munro recounts his search for the planet’s second-largest fish—the basking shark—off the west coast of Scotland and Southwest England.

    Getting your free copy of the latest issue of Underwater Photography magazine is a breeze: Simply sign up with your email to get access. If you’ve already signed up (and you’re logged in), you can download your copy directly here.  





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  • Sony Announces Compact Full-Frame FX2 Cinema Camera

    Sony Announces Compact Full-Frame FX2 Cinema Camera


    Sony has unveiled the latest addition to its Cinema Line—the FX2. The compact full-frame video camera has a similar body design to the four-year-old full-frame FX3 and almost three-year-old cropped-sensor FX30. But where the FX3 borrowed the a7S III’s 12MP sensor and lacked an EVF, the FX2 takes the 33MP sensor from the a7 IV while featuring a video-camera-style 3.68-M-dot EVF, which can be tilted up to 90 degrees. Like the a7 IV, the FX2 supports Dual Base ISO (800 and 4000) when using S-Log3.

    With its a7 IV DNA, the FX2 promises to be a much more useful hybrid camera, offering not just high-end video recording and powerful video-focused tools, but also high-quality still image capture. (In addition, there’s a handy movie/still lever to switch between modes.) The FX2 can record up to 4K/30p and 1080/120p using the full width of the sensor, and supports Log shooting in Cine EI, Cine EI Quick, and Flexible ISO modes. Shooting 4K/60p entails an APS-C crop factor.

    To round things off, the FX2 offers a large dedicated record button, a full-size HDMI port, and an internal cooling fan. The camera has two memory card slots compatible with SD UHS-I/II cards, with one slot also capable of accepting a CFexpress 2 Type A card.

    Available in August, the Sony FX2 will be available for a body-only price of  $2,700.

     



    PRESS RELEASE

    Sony Electronics Introduces the FX2 Compact Camera, Expanding Cinema Line’s Versatility for Creatives

    The new FX2 has the look and operability of Cinema Line cameras with the ability to shoot high-resolution photos and comes equipped with an articulating eyepiece

    Sony Electronics Inc. is proud to announce today the latest addition to its established Cinema Line family, the FX2. The FX2 will offer a seamless entry point into the broader Cinema Line range, giving greater cinematic expression to independent creators or small crews needing a versatile camera.

    “The hybrid cinema camera was created based on user feedback and is engineered with unique features to support filmmaking, a new eyepiece, and enhancements for versatile production needs. The FX2 is intended to continue the Cinema Line’s goal of preserving authentic emotion in every shot and empower creators across all areas of content production,” says Theresa Alesso, President, Imaging Products and Solutions Americas, Sony Electronics Inc.

    FX2 Features: Full-frame Photo and Video Capabilities

    The FX2 comes with a full-frame sensor that delivers stunning imagery and beautiful bokeh effects. Equipped with a 33.0 effective megapixel1 back-illuminated Exmor R™ sensor with up to 15+ stops of wide latitude using S-Log3, it captures impressive detail in both highlights and shadows.

    Designed for versatile shooting environments, the FX2 offers Dual Base ISO at 800 and 4000, ensuring optimal performance in both bright and low-light conditions. Its ISO sensitivity for video can be extended up to 102400, making it ideal for challenging lighting scenarios. The camera supports a wide range of recording formats—including 4:2:2 10-bit All-Intra—and records in high-quality options, such as XAVC S-I DCI 4K at 24.00p, providing professionals with the tools needed for flexible, high-end production workflows.

    The FX2 can also continuously record for up to 13 hours in 4K 60p2 thanks to its internal cooling fan and effective heat dissipation structure. The FX2 offers variable frame rate settings, allowing up to 60 fps in 4K (for a maximum 2.5x slow-motion effect) and up to 120 fps in Full HD (for up to 5x slow motion). It supports Log shooting in Cine EI, Cine EI Quick, and Flexible ISO modes, offering versatile workflows for different production needs. To further the cinematic expression of the camera, creators can import up to 16 user LUTs for on-camera preview, enabling precise color monitoring on set.

    Filmmakers can also easily and quickly create in-camera cinematic looks, with S-Cinetone™ set as the default, along with a range of Picture Profile and Creative Look presets. A de-squeeze display function is available, supporting both 1.3x and 2.0x anamorphic lenses for accurate framing.

    Improved Usability for Comfortable Solo Operation

    The FX2 features the same compact, flat-top design as Sony’s Cinema Line FX3 and FX30 cameras, ensuring familiarity and compatibility across setups. Built-in mounting points (UNC 1/4-20 x3) support a cageless configuration, offering greater flexibility for rigging. An optional top handle (ILME-FX2) enhances mobility and control, especially during handheld or dynamic shooting. Its lightweight, portable build—measuring approximately 5 1/8 x 3 1/8 x 4 1/8 in and weighing approximately 1 lb 8.0 oz—makes it ideal for solo operators or small crew productions.

    The camera offers advanced focus features designed for precision and creativity. Its new Real-time Recognition AF (auto focus) delivers fast and reliable performance with improved accuracy for human subjects, although its intelligent subject recognition extends to animals, birds, vehicles, and insects, with an Auto mode available for effortless detection. For even more control, tools like focus breathing compensation, AF Assist, and customizable autofocus transition speed and sensitivity give creators the flexibility to fine-tune focus for expressive, cinematic imagery. The FX2 comes with Active Mode and Dynamic active Mode, which is new to the Cinema Line, and are both designed to ensure smooth and steady handheld shooting.

    The Auto Framing feature automatically crops and tracks a subject to keep them in a prominent position when the camera is mounted on a tripod, producing footage that looks like it was shot by an experienced operator. The Framing Stabilizer function automatically keeps the subject in the same position within the frame, which can be useful, for example, when the camera operator is moving alongside the subject.

    From a still image perspective, the camera features an additional log shooting option with a newly added ‘Log shooting’ menu. This feature allows creators to shoot high-resolution 33MP stills, optimized for color grading in post-production. The FX2 also offers smooth operation with a MOVIE/STILL mode lever, allowing for a quick switchover between still and movie shooting. Depending on the selected mode, the displayed menu items will automatically adjust. Additionally, mode selection is made easy with a long press of the Fn button, which recalls and changes the shooting mode.

    FX2 Features: Improved but Familiar Hardware Inherited From Sony’s Cinema Cameras

    The FX2 is equipped with a new high-resolution 3.68-million-dot tiltable EVF3 (electronic view finder) designed specifically for video production, offering a wide viewing angle and enhanced immersion thanks to its included deep eyepiece. Complementing the EVF is a 3.0-type vari-angle touchscreen LCD, making it easy to frame shots from virtually any angle. Intuitively arranged controls on the top panel and grip, along with tally lamps for clear recording status, support efficient on-set operation. The camera also introduces a customizable “BIG6” home screen that provides quick access to essential shooting parameters, such as FPS, ISO, shutter speed (angle or speed), Look presets, white balance, iris, and neutral-density (ND) filter settings. Addressing the growing demand for vertical content creation, the FX2 supports vertical menu display during shooting—ideal for social media formats. The handle-equipped model further enhances professional usability with two XLR/TRS terminals and a 3.5mm stereo mic jack, enabling 4-channel, 24-bit digital audio capture.

    The camera offers extensive expandability and connectivity options, including an HDMI Type-A terminal capable of outputting up to 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit video and 16-bit RAW4 for high-end recording and monitoring. For seamless data transfer and remote control, it supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz5) as well as wired LAN via a compatible adapter6. Additionally, the USB Type-C port enables SuperSpeed USB up to 10Gbps data transfers and supports USB Power Delivery (PD)7, while built-in USB and network streaming support enables live broadcasting and remote production workflows.

    Social Responsibility

    Aligned with Sony’s global environment plan, ‘Road to Zero’, this product supports the company’s vision for achieving a zero environmental footprint by 2050. The manufacturing process reflects this commitment through facilities powered entirely by renewable energy sources8.

    The camera system incorporates comprehensive accessibility options, including a Screen Reader function9 and Display Magnification, to support visually impaired users across an expanded range of menu items. Additional intuitive controls enhance usability for all shooters, featuring:

    • Real-time recognition autofocus that reduces manual adjustments
    • Streamlined touch interface operations for direct menu navigation
    • Tactile button design with clear differentiation

    These inclusive design elements ensure professional imaging tools remain accessible to creators of all abilities while maintaining full operational capability

    The FX2 will be available early August for a suggested retail price of $2,699.99 USD and $3,499.99 CAD body only or $3,099.99 USD and $3,999.99 CAD with XLR handle. It will be sold directly through Sony and at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.

    1 For stills. Max. 27.6 megapixels for movie.

    2 Sony internal tests. USB power supply, XAVC S-I (All-I), 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2, 25 deg C (ambient, camera when recording started), Auto power off temperature: High, Cooling fan: Auto. The maximum continuous recording time for a single movie shooting session is approximately 13 hours (a product specification limit) Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, storage, and usage. Batteries are consumable products and their capacity degrades over time as they age. Sony does not guarantee the life span of the battery.

    3 Adjustable from 0° to +90° for flexible shooting angles.

    4 The output image will be in the APS-C size /Super 35mm equivalent angle of view.

    5 The 5 GHz band may not be available in some countries or region

    6 A commercially available USB-LAN adapter is required.

    7 A USB PD compatible external power supply device with 9V/3A or higher output capacity and a USB Type-C cable that can handle 3A or more is required

    8 Further reducing environmental impact, the product utilizes recycled packaging materials that minimize plastic content without compromising protection. These sustainable practices demonstrate our dedication to eco-conscious production while maintaining the highest quality standards.

    9 Download of compatible language file may be necessary. Please refer to the Help Guide for details.





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  • Instagram Now Supports Images with 3:4 Aspect Ratio

    Instagram Now Supports Images with 3:4 Aspect Ratio



    If you’ve really been paying attention to the Instagram profile grid over the last couple of days, you will have spotted that your vertical images that you meticulously cropped to 4:5 aspect ratio are now having the sides trimmed just a little bit. That’s because Instagram has switched to a 3:4 grid ratio on profile pages as it introduces support for images with a 3:4 aspect ratio—i.e., the aspect ratio of the vast majority of smartphone sensors.

    The change comes only four months after Instagram did away with their square profile grid, causing many carefully crafted profile pages to no longer look quite so cool. Presumably, the latest move will result in a new wave of similarly incensed users—who spent the last four months perfectly lining up their 4:5 aspect images—but the support for the 3:4 aspect ratio is an eminently sensible decision given that an overwhelming majority of users are trying to make full use of the available screen real estate by posting vertical images shot on their phone.

    Of course, users of Micro Four Thirds cameras—underwater shooters included—can also pop the champagne, as their days of cropping vertical images are now officially behind them. Meanwhile, everyone else can at least celebrate the little bit extra in our photos we get to show the world. (Instead of a maximum size of 1080 by 1350 pixels, vertical images can now be 1080 by 1440 pixels.) Before you get too excited, though, keep in mind that there’s a very good chance Instagram will not be switching to a 2:3 grid ratio anytime soon, given the ubiquity of the 3:4 smartphone sensor. Still, one can always dream!

     





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  • Underwater Awards Australasia 2025 Open for Submissions

    Underwater Awards Australasia 2025 Open for Submissions



    The Underwater Awards Australasia 2025 is now accepting entries. The premier underwater imaging competition focused on the Australasian region is a three-way collaboration between DPG, Underwater Australasia, and UW Images. This year, entrants are competing for prizes in nine categories, including the contest’s unique “Reels Showcase” video category, with the top image or video among the category winners receiving the distinction of “Best of Show.”

    This year’s prize pool has increased in value by more than 40% compared to last year, to a total of A$70,000! The prizes include dive trips with the world’s top resorts and liveaboards as well as the latest underwater imaging equipment and dive gear—even an underwater photography drone and an underwater scooter with photographic platform. The prestigious judging panel comprises photo judges Tobias Friedrich, Jayne Jenkins, Matty Smith, Tanya Houppermans, Scott Portelli and William Tan; and video judges Philip Hamilton and Ross Long.

    The competition will culminate in an exhibition and awards ceremony at Go Diving Show ANZ in Sydney, in September 2025. The exhibition will feature high-quality metal prints of the finalist entries in the photo categories. Made by the competition’s Printing Partner PhotoMart, the prints will be available for purchase at the show, with the proceeds going to Environmental Partners Australian Marine Conservation Society and Take 3 for the Sea.

    Head over to UnderwaterCompetition.com to find out more about the categories, prizes and judging panel, and make sure to read the rules and guidelines carefully before submitting. Entry fees are US$10 per image or video entered. The competition closes on July 20th, 2025.

     

     





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  • Innovating in Underwater Photography with Martin Broen

    Innovating in Underwater Photography with Martin Broen


    The Underwater Club Event: Innovating in Underwater Photography with Martin Broen


    If you’ve been following DPG Masters over the years (and why wouldn’t you be?), you may know that there was one photographer who bagged the “Best of Show” twice in succession—in 2021 and 2022—for incredible black-and-white photos of Mexican cenotes. But there’s probably a few things you don’t know about Martin Broen. For one thing, he doesn’t only take prize-winning pictures of submerged caves: He’s received 50-plus awards for everything from wrecks and wildlife to macro. For another, he doesn’t just take pictures: He’s the designer of hundreds of innovative products and holds more than 130 innovation patents!

    In other words, Martin is a fantastic person to have a chat with, and that’s exactly what Nicolas Remy, host of The Underwater Club (TUC), will be doing for his next Masterclass event. During the two-hour webinar, Martin will—of course—be talking about his amazing panorama, cave, wreck, and wildlife imagery, but he’ll also be discussing how problem-solving skills help to creatively tackle unique challenges in underwater photography. In addition, Nicolas will be finding out what Martin learned from his first foray into publishing, after the success of his cenote-focused coffee-table book Light in the Underworld.

    As usual, TUC members join for free, while non-members will need to purchase tickets to the event at AU$49 (approx. US$35). Note that this is also the price of monthly membership, so this is the perfect opportunity to join the club and take advantage of all of the membership benefits.

    Here are the event times:

    • May 31st, 2pm Los Angeles time (PDT)
    • May 31st, 4pm Dallas time (CDT)
    • May 31st, 5pm Miami time (EDT)
    • June 1st, 5am Singapore time (SGT)
    • June 1st, 7am Sydney time (AEST)
    • June 1st, 9am Auckland time (NZST)


     





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  • Retra Announces Flash Pro Max II

    Retra Announces Flash Pro Max II



    Retra has announced a new version of its top-of-the-line strobe—the Flash Pro Max II. The fifth-generation strobe—coming two years after the fourth-generation Flash Pro Max, Flash Prime+ and Flash Pure—improves on its predecessor in key areas, according to Retra.

    First, as you might have guessed, it’s significantly more powerful, packing 190 Watt-seconds (Ws) of output, up from the 140Ws of the Pro Max. Retra says that translates to “65% more actual light output” because the new strobe features a redesigned reflector, “optimized” power handling, and a better triggering system, where less energy is lost to heat. According to the company, recycle times have been improved by 25%, and at “low” power settings, it’s possible to shoot continuously at up to 60fps.

    Other aspects have been improved, too: The target light is twice as bright as before (1,000 lumens as opposed to 500 lumens), the power dial now offers 17 positions (instead of 13), and the strobe even starts up faster. As previously, the battery compartment accepts four AA batteries as standard, plus an additional four AAs when the Booster is added, but the strobe, battery cap and Booster all now boast gold-plated contacts. Retra says you’ll get up to 2,000 flashes at 25% power using the 8×AA configuration.

    If all that wasn’t enough, Retra are sweetening the deal for their launch offer: If you pre-order now, you’ll get a Booster and two USB chargers free of charge. Shipping from June 30th, the Retra Flash Pro Max II costs $1,800 with the standard three-year warranty, with the option to extend the warranty to five years for $50 extra.

     



    When purchasing underwater photography equipment like the products mentioned in this article, please support DPG by supporting our retail partner—Backscatter.com.



    PRODUCT INFORMATION

    Introducing the Retra Flash Pro Max II: Maximum Power. Proven Reliability

     


    We’re proud to announce the launch of the Retra Flash Pro Max II, our most advanced professional strobe to date. Built on five generations of innovation and field-proven performance, the Pro Max II redefines what’s possible in underwater lighting—delivering Li-ion-level performance using safe and widely available NiMh batteries.


    Power Meets Efficiency

    With an impressive 190Ws of flash power, the Pro Max II produces 65% more actual light output compared to its predecessor—all while maintaining the same compact size and weight. This significant leap in brightness is achieved through a redesigned reflector, optimized power handling, and an improved triggering system that channels more energy into light rather than heat.

    Whether you’re shooting fast-paced action or intricate macro scenes, you’ll appreciate the 25% faster recycle times and the ability to shoot up to 2000 flashes at 25% power using the 8×AA configuration. It even supports continuous shooting up to 60 frames per second on low power settings.

     

     

    Designed for the Creative Edge

    The 120% brighter pilot light, now outputting 1000 lumens, provides exceptional visibility for precise snooting and creative lighting setups. With 17 power levels available via the control dial, you get fine-tuned control over your light output in any situation.

    We’ve also added several hardware enhancements for reliability and ease of use:

    • Real gold-plated contacts in the strobe and battery cap ensure dependable performance, even in harsh conditions.

    • The startup procedure is now faster, with no waiting required in BATT/TEST mode.


     

    Special Pre-Order Offer

    The Retra Flash Pro Max II is available now for pre-order at a special price of $1799¹, which includes:

    • Retra Flash Pro Max II
    • Booster (free of charge)
    • Dual USB battery chargers (free of charge)

    Every unit comes with a standard 3-year Retra Warranty, with the option to extend to 5 years for just $50¹ per strobe (standard warranty conditions apply). Save $280¹ with this launch offer.

    Shipping starts exactly on 30th June 2025—with no delays.

    If you would like to purchase in EUR (€), please write to us and we’ll be happy to assist.

     

     

    Built for the Long Run

    The Pro Max II is more than just powerful—it’s built for the long haul. We chose NiMh batteries not just for their safety and travel ease, but because we’ve refined our electronics to deliver Li-ion performance without compromise. This means faster recycle times, greater autonomy, and trusted reliability on every dive.

    Whether you’re working on demanding commercial shoots or chasing creative breakthroughs, the Retra Flash Pro Max II is ready to perform.

    1All prices exclude local taxes and shipping costs. Import duties and customs fees are not inclusive. If shipping address is within the EU tax zone, VAT is automatically added during checkout (except for RetraCare+Warranty Extension).

     





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  • New Singapore Oceanarium on Sentosa Opens in July

    New Singapore Oceanarium on Sentosa Opens in July


    By DPG Editorial Staff, May 26, 2025 @ 07:00 AM (EST)
    Source: Straits Times


    Singapore isn’t just home to Asia’s biggest dive show, ADEX. It’s also where—come July 23rd—you’ll find one of Asia’s largest attractions devoted to educating the public about the ocean and its inhabitants. The new Singapore Oceanarium—a rebranding and upgrade of the previous facility, S.E.A. Aquarium—will be about three times larger than its predecessor and will feature 22 zones. The oceanarium is part of Resorts World Sentosa, situated on the island of Sentosa in southern Singapore.

    While the centerpiece of the oceanarium remains the Open Ocean exhibit—an almost five-million-gallon enclosure containing sharks, rays, and thousands of other marine animals, and featuring a 120-foot underwater viewing panel—various new exhibits have been added. Among these is Ocean Wonders, home to one of the world’s largest Kreisel tanks, which is specially designed to house over 5,000 thousand moon jellies. Another is Whale Fall and Sea Mount, a deep-sea zone that uses immersive sights, sounds and live deep-sea habitats to educate visitors about how a whale fall becomes a life-giving oasis.

    “More than just a new name, Singapore Oceanarium represents a bold transformation into a world-class ocean institute that inspires deeper knowledge, love and action for our oceans,” states the Resorts World Sentosa announcement. To serve that goal, the oceanarium aims to “push the boundaries of marine research” through partnerships with top academic institutions, including the National University of Singapore and the Earth Observatory of Singapore at Nanyang Technological University. In addition, a research and learning center, adjacent to the oceanarium, will provide “advanced facilities for scientists and researchers to conduct valuable research work and drive marine science outreach on-site.”

    Resorts World Sentosa will soon be releasing information about forthcoming programs—and ticket prices.

     

     





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  • Keldan Announces Video 4XR and Video 8XR Lights, and RC2 Remote Control

    Keldan Announces Video 4XR and Video 8XR Lights, and RC2 Remote Control


    Known for their high-end—but not especially compact—video lights, Keldan is addressing the demand for travel-friendly gear with the release of three significant products: the RC2, a diminutive version of their RC1 wireless remote control; and two handy remote-controllable lights, the Video 4XR and the Video 8XR.

    Like its bigger sibling, the RC2 works wirelessly underwater but is shorter range: 2–3 meters (6.5–10 feet) as opposed to the 50-meter (165-feet) range of the RC1. As such, it is designed for lights mounted on the camera rig or placed within a short distance from the remote. Like the RC1, the new model has two independent brightness channels, each of which can address any number of lights simultaneously, and works with all lights in Keldan’s “XR” series.

    With the new Video 4XR, Keldan hasn’t just upgraded their popular Video 4X light with a remote receiver; the new version also has a higher lumen output—11,000 lumens rather than 10,000 lumens. While the 4XR replaces the 4X in Keldan’s lineup, the previous version of the 8XR—which boasts a 20,000-lumen output and a color rendering index (CRI) of 86—sits alongside the new 8XR, which has a slightly lower output of 17,000 lumens but a significantly higher CRI of 96. According to Keldan, the high CRI makes the new 8XR the perfect light for shooting macro.

    Available soon from retailers such as Backscatter, the RC2, Video 4XR 11000lm CRI86, and Video 8XR 17000lm CRI96 are priced at $640, $1,970, and $2,650, respectively. There are also now various bundles available, such as dual Video 4XR and RC2 for $4,280, and dual Video 8XR 17000lm CRI96 and RC2 for $5,640.

     



    When purchasing underwater photography equipment like the products mentioned in this article, please support DPG by supporting our retail partner—Backscatter.com.



    PRESS RELEASE

    Remote Control RC2

    Our pioneer Remote Control RC1 has now a little brother, called RC2. The RC2 is smaller, runs on a single button cell and it is designd for short range use (Lights mounted on the camera or in proximity to the camera).

     

    Wireless remote control

    The KELDAN RC2 is a wireless Remote Control based on ultrasonic technology. It is available for Video 4XR / 8XR /18XR / 24XR series lights.

    Outstanding features

    • Range of 2m
    • Control brightness individually on 2 channels
    • Each Channel can address an unlimited number of lights
    • Each Channel has a separate ID to avoid interference when multiple controllers are used at the same dive site
    • Remote Control works with all “XR” series lights
    • Easy mounting with M4 screw holes or with an optional Ball adapter

    Many advantages when using a remote control

    • No more swimming back and forth to adjust lighting
    • Fast and easy control of your lighting
    • Place the lights wherever you want
    • Allows for new and more creative ways of shooting
    • Works around the corner and through walls
    • Saves battery life

    4XR 11000lm CRI86

    The popular Video 4X is now available as a remote controllable Video 4XR 11000lm CRI86. Even more powerful, containing superb 11000lm with an enhanced color rendering index of CRI 86. This is the perfect light for small and handy rigs.

    Ready for wireless Remote Control

    The Video 4XR light is ready for our wireless Remote Control, either the RC1 or RC2.

    USB-C charge adapter

    With the 4XR light we include a very travel friendly, small and lightweight USB-C charge adapater which allows to charge the Li-Ion battery from an USB-C charger with min. 30Watt output. Attention: The light is supplied with the USB-C adapter only but not with the USB-C charger.

    LED technology with outstanding efficiency

    The Video 4XR 11000 lm CRI 86 is equiped with an LED of the latest generation with a color temperature of 5600 Kelvin. The spectral power distibution is very even, resulting a color rendering index of 86 CRI (Ra). A unique feature is the variable power with 9 settings with a brightness range of 1:50.

    Soft 110° beam

    The light has a very soft and speckle free beam of 110° in water (120° in air).

    Self-contained

    The self contained design makes this light very easy to use. There is no need for special mountings for the battery canister. The included bracket with ball mount allows easy mounting on standard arm systems.

    Small and lightweight

    The design is optimized for very small dimensions and light weight. The complete set ads only 0.63kg (0.20kg in water) to your gear.

    Tough Design

    The LED can not break and has almost unlimited lifetime. The integrated overtemperature protection allows safe use of the light in air. The protection circuit controls the housing temperature and the power will be limited to keep the temperature within a safe range.

    Travel Safe Li-Ion Battery

    The battery passed successfully the mandatory UN38.3 safety test as required by IATA and it is therefore certified for air transport. The capacity of this battery is below the maximum allowed capacity of 100Wh. It contains an integrated protection circuit against harmful conditions like over discharge, deep discharge, over current and short circuit. 

    Charge Display

    The green charge level indicator displays the available relative charge. The two digit display shows the remaining time. While the battery is discharging, the display shows the remaining runtime in minutes (e.g.”18” = 18 minutes). When connected to the charger, the display shows the remaining charge time in units of 10 minutes (e.g.”18” = 180 minutes).


    8XR 17000lm CRI96

    We have added a high CRI version to our 8XR series lights. With its outstanding color rendering index of CRI 96, the Video 8XR 17000 Lumen is the perfect light for shooting macro. Of course it is ready for the RC1 and RC2 Remote Control.

    Ready for wireless Remote Control

    The Video 8XR light is ready for our wireless Remote Control RC1 + RC2.

    LED technology with outstanding efficiency

    The Video 8XR 17000 lm CRI 96 is equipped with a LED of the latest generation with a color temperature of 5600 Kelvin. The spectral power distribution is very even, resulting in a color rendering index of 96 CRI (Ra). A unique feature is the variable power with 9 settings with a brightness range of 1:80.

    Soft 110° beam

    The light has a very soft and speckle free beam of 110° in water (120° in air).

     


    Self-contained

    The self contained design makes this light very easy to use. There is no need for special mountings for the battery canister. The included bracket with ball mount allows easy mounting on standard arm systems.

    Small and lightweight

    The design is optimized for very small dimensions and light weight. The complete set ads only 0.87kg (0.30kg in water) to your gear.

    Tough Design

    The LED can not break and has almost unlimited lifetime. The integrated overtemperature protection allows safe use of the light in air. The protection circuit controls the housing temperature and the power will be limited to keep the temperature within a safe range.

    Travel Safe Li-Ion Battery

    The battery passed successfully the mandatory UN38.3 safety test as required by IATA and it is therefore certified for air transport. The capacity of this battery is below the maximum allowed capacity of 100Wh. It contains an integrated protection circuit against harmful conditions like over discharge, deep discharge, over current and short circuit. 

    Charge Display

    The green charge level indicator displays the available relative charge. The two digit display shows the remaining time. While the battery is discharging, the display shows the remaining runtime in minutes (e.g.”18” = 18 minutes). When connected to the charger, the display shows the remaining charge time in units of 10 minutes (e.g.”18” = 180 minutes).


    Bundles with RC2   

    With the 4XR and 8XR series, we are offering bundles including two lights and a RC2 remote control. KELDAN does not promote this bundles on the KELDAN website but they can be ordered from a KELDAN dealer.


    USB-C Charger 16.8V/1A

    Does it sometimes annoy you when you need to pack a whole lot of chargers on a trip? Certainly no more with this one. The travel friendly USB-C Charge adapter is just what you need to travel. It connects to an USB-C charger with 30W or higher. With a weight of only 63 grams, it provides an output of 16.8V/1A and can charge all batteries of the 4 and 8 series.

    Travel friendly, super small and lightweight USB-C charge adapter

    Can be connected to a USB-C charger with minimum 30Watt output. It provides an output of 16.8V/1A. This charger is suitable for the following Li-Ion batteries:

    • Battery4 Li-Ion 49Wh (Art. 1212) used with the Video 4X/4XR series lights, Charge time approx. 4 hours

    • Battery8 Li-Ion 99Wh (Art. 1211) used with the Video 8X/XR series lights, Charge time approx. 8 hours





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