برچسب: AOI

  • AOI Announces Protective Silicone Sleeves for Q1-Series Strobes

    AOI Announces Protective Silicone Sleeves for Q1-Series Strobes



    Alongside the launch of its latest strobe—the UCS-Q1i—AOI has announced a set of protective silicone sleeves designed for strobes in the Q1 series, including the UCS-Q1i, UCS-Q1RC, and UCS-Q1. Engineered to offer a snug, secure fit, these durable silicone sleeves provide protection against scratches, abrasions, and minor impacts, extending the life of the strobe while allowing users to add a personal splash of color to their underwater setup.

    Sold in pairs, the sleeves are available in six vibrant colours: neon pink, orange, yellow, lime green, aqua blue, and graphite gray. The sleeves are designed for easy installation and removal, making them a versatile and stylish addition to any Q1-series strobe.

    Available now, the protective silicone sleeves will retail for USD25.

     



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





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  • AOI Announces Protective Silicone Sleeves for Q1-Series Strobes

    AOI Announces Protective Silicone Sleeves for Q1-Series Strobes



    Alongside the launch of its latest strobe—the UCS-Q1i—AOI has announced a set of protective silicone sleeves designed for strobes in the Q1 series, including the UCS-Q1i, UCS-Q1RC, and UCS-Q1. Engineered to offer a snug, secure fit, these durable silicone sleeves provide protection against scratches, abrasions, and minor impacts, extending the life of the strobe while allowing users to add a personal splash of color to their underwater setup.

    Sold in pairs, the sleeves are available in six vibrant colours: neon pink, orange, yellow, lime green, aqua blue, and graphite gray. The sleeves are designed for easy installation and removal, making them a versatile and stylish addition to any Q1-series strobe.

    Available now, the protective silicone sleeves will retail for USD25.

     



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





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  • AOI Announces UIS-P1 Strobe

    AOI Announces UIS-P1 Strobe


    AOI is now shipping its latest strobe—the UIS-P1. Boasting a guide number (GN) of 22, the new “midrange” flash features an aluminum, polycarbonate and fiberglass build, a ring-shaped flash tube, and fiber-optic connectivity. The strobe is powered by two 21700 rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and comes with a 1-inch ball adapter. There’s manual control on offer via a 10-step power knob with intermediate stops, while a self-orienting LCD display shows either remaining shots based on power selection in manual mode or power output in InTeLi mode—AOI’s proprietary TTL mode found on their UCS-Q1RC model.

    InTeLi mode offers OM System RC TTL, Sony TTL, i-Macro, TTL HSS and M-HSS functionalities. The i-Macro (Intelligent Macro) function is designed to offer precise exposure for macro shooting; it was initially available for OM System cameras only, but now Sony cameras are also supported. Wide-angle photographers shooting TTL will also appreciate the InTeLi mode’s new “out of range” warning feature.

    A diffuser comes as a standard accessory, while a reflector ring (“reduces beam angle and improves light output by +1 f-stop”) and a reducer ring (“narrows beam angle, limits light leaks, and reduces backscatter”) are offered as optional accessories. The strobe also features a 3,000-lumen LED continuous light with three power levels, offering a 90-degree beam angle and a color rendering index (CRI) of 90.

    Available now from retailers such as Backscatter, the AOI UIS-P1 is priced at $900.

     



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



    PRESS RELEASE

    Amazing Intelligence in the New AOI UIS-P1

    AOI has unveiled its latest underwater strobe, the UIS-P1, targeting the mid-range market. Building on the success of the AOI UCS-Q1RC, which introduced RC Flash compatibility and broke conventions in underwater photography, AOI continues to set new standards. Managing Director Victor Tsui stated, “Despite competitors introducing products with similar form factors, designs, or capabilities, the UCS-Q1RC and UCS-Q1 remain best-sellers in AOI’s lineup.”

    An “Intelligent Advantage”

    The new AOI UIS-P1 leverages a beloved feature of the UCS-Q1RC: the AOI InTeLi™ mode. Widely recognized as one of the most consistent and accurate TTL modes in the underwater strobe market, it revolutionized underwater macro photography. Its standout feature, the Intelligent Macro (i-Macro™) function, offers precise exposure for macro shots and has become a game-changer, particularly when paired with the best-selling OM System Tough TG series.

    What is the AOI InTeLi™ Mode?

    The AOI InTeLi™ Mode represents the next generation of TTL flash compatibility, optimized specifically for underwater use. Calibrated to manufacturer’s specifications, it ensures consistently accurate exposures, surpassing previous generation of TTL. Underwater macro photography is further enhanced by i-Macro™, which was initially available for OM System cameras. Now, the AOI InTeLi™ Mode also supports Sony cameras, offering Sony TTL, i-Macro, TTL HSS, and M-HSS functionalities.

    Bridging Technology and Creativity

    Contrary to popular belief, research shows that underwater photographers readily embrace technological advancements to enhance their art. With the UIS-P1, AOI integrates the full suite of AOI InTeLi™ features, a bright ring-shaped flash tube, an intuitive user interface, and innovative functions, making it a standout performer in the mid-range segment. One new feature specifically benefiting wide-angle fans is the “out of range” warning when in TTL mode.

     


    Keeping in mind that underwater photographers are multidimensional, AOI has designed three additional product add-ons that will allow the strobe to be more utilitarian:

    1. Diffuser – Softens light output and evens out light coverage (Offered as standard accessory).

    2. Reflector Ring – Reduced beam angle and improves light output by +1 F-stop (Offered as optional accessory).

    3. Reducer Ring – Narrows beam angle, limit light leaks, and reduces backscatter (Offered as optional accessory).

    Specifications & Features

    AOI InTeLi™ Mode:

    Full Manual Mode:

    High Performance:

    User-Friendly Features:

    • Self-orienting TFT LCD display screen


      • Displays remaining frames based on power selection

      • Displays power output in InTeLi™ Mode

      • Provides access to settings menu

    • Colored indicator for strobe operation status

    • Tactile and Intuitive Knob and Button Controls

    Durable Build:

    • Materials: Marine Grade Aluminum alloy, Polycarbonate with Fiberglass

    • Depth-rated to 100m

    • Sealed battery chamber to isolate electrical components from water damage should flooding occur.

    Battery and Performance:

    The new AOI UIS-P1 is set to light up the underwater photography scene for the mid-range segment with its InTeLi™ mode—offering ‘intelligent’ performance, user-centric design, and an affordable price point.





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  • AOI Unveils Housing for the Sony A7 Mark IV

    AOI Unveils Housing for the Sony A7 Mark IV


    AOI has announced its new housing for the Sony a7 Mark IV—the latest version of the Japanese company’s entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera. The Mark IV is built around a 33MP BSI-CMOS sensor and the Bionz XR processing engine, offering 10fps continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking and 4K/30p 10-bit 4:2:2 video with no crop. The UH-A7IV housing represents exciting new territory for AOI, which has previously only supported Micro Four Thirds cameras from Olympus and OM System, and makes sense given the newly released UIS-P1 strobe offering compatibility with Sony TTL.

    The new housing is clearly designed to offer a compelling alternative to sophisticated but pricey aluminum housings or polycarbonate housings with only basic functionality. Controls are ergonomically positioned around integrated handles, there’s a built-in vacuum check and moisture detection system, and the non-proprietary AX port system means that ports and extensions for a variety of lenses are readily available. The housing features two fiber-optic ports and ships with an LED flash trigger supporting manual mode and Sony TTL (TTL, HSS TTL) with AOI’s UIS-P1 strobe as well as Backscatter’s Hybrid Flash.

    A unique feature that sets the housing apart is the “Smart Multi Control Device,” which allows the user to switch between manual and TTL flash modes and features a miniature display that offers useful at-a-glance information about the flash modes and from the water depth monitor and the Vacuum Analyzation and Wet Detection System (VWS). The device uses a built-in rechargeable lithium polymer battery that takes 90 minutes to charge and allows for 18 hours of continuous operation.

    Available now from retailers such as Backscatter, the AOI UH-A7IV is priced at $1,400.

     



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



    PRESS RELEASE

    New AOI UH-A7IV, Harnessing the Alpha Advantage Filling the Gap

    For many users, the biggest hurdle in underwater photography is the extravagant cost of underwater housings for high-performance cameras, often priced at two to three times the cost of the cameras themselves. On the other hand, affordable housings available in the market frequently lack the reliability and features that inspire confidence. This leaves users with difficult choices: delay their plans, compromise on their ideal setups, or settle for less-than-optimal systems.

    AOI has successfully carved a niche by offering high-performance underwater housings that combine user-friendly design, full functionality, and affordability for OM System cameras. Now, AOI aims to bring the same excitement and value to Sony camera users.

    The Sony A7IV, though a few years old, remains a smart choice for many photographers. Known for its versatility, the camera boasts a high-resolution sensor, fast and reliable autofocus, and excellent dynamic range—all at a reasonable price in the full frame mirrorless segment. These qualities made it one of the most popular full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market, and it continues to hold its own against newer competitors.

    Introducing the NEW AOI UH-A7IV Underwater Housing

    The new AOI UH-A7IV underwater housing bridges the gap in the market for Sony A7IV users who find current options either too expensive, too basic, or both.

    Accessing the Alpha Advantage

    Camera manufacturers invest heavily in innovation, crafting modern cameras to meet diverse user needs. AOI’s design philosophy complements this vision by ensuring that its underwater housings are more than just waterproof enclosures—they are extensions of the cameras themselves.

    The 3C’s of AOI’s design philosophy—Creative, Compatible, and Consumer-Centric—shine in the UH-A7IV.

    Creative

    • Rechargeable Smart Multi Control Device with Mini Display: Clear instructions and status updates for various operations, including flash modes (manual and TTL), depth mode, VWS mode, alerts, control device battery status and depth indicator. To improve reliability and connectivity between the camera’s hot shoe and the housing’s Control Device, AOI has upgraded a cable-less connector.

    • Sony TTL and HSS Compatibility: Seamless integration with the AOI UIS-P1 strobe and Backscatter’s Hybrid Flash.

    • Improved VWS: The Vacuum Analyzation and Wet Detection System now incorporates an over-ride mechanism, to ensure proper vacuum sealing is conducted to prevent errors.

    • Built-in Ergonomic Handles: Easy access to buttons and effortless handling.

    Compatibility

    • Non-Proprietary Port System: By utilizing a popular port system, a wide range of ports and extensions for different lenses are readily available.

    • Standardized Mounts: Compatible with aftermarket and AOI accessories including plug type ports for fiber optic connectivity.

    • Service-Friendly Design: Uniform buttons and O-rings simplify maintenance.

    Consumer-Centric

    • Full Camera Functionality: Provides access to all key camera features.

    • Affordable Pricing: Lowers the barrier to entry for underwater photography for a full frame mirrorless camera.

    • User-Focused Engineering: Lightweight, travel-friendly, and easy to maintain.

    Crafting an underwater housing is both an art and a science. AOI’s UH-A7IV embodies this harmony, balancing the capabilities of the Sony A7IV with the practical needs of photographers. The result is one of the most complete and user-friendly housings AOI has ever produced.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     





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  • AOI Unveils Aura Light System Underwater Multicolor Light

    AOI Unveils Aura Light System Underwater Multicolor Light


    AOI is now shipping an innovative new product called the Aura Light System (ALS-01), an advanced LED torch and optical snoot designed to allow underwater photographers to “paint” with light of any desired color. The second addition to AOI’s “Signature Series,” the light was developed in collaboration with award-winning underwater photographer Ace Wu. (The first product in the “Signature Series,” the UH-GPx housing for GoPro, was a collaboration with underwater videographer Kay Burn Lim.)

    The tech at the center of the Aura Light System (ALS-01) is a multicolor LED capable of producing a palette of 16.7 million colors—and here’s the ingenious bit—controllable wirelessly via your smartphone running AOI’s dedicated app. The software allows you to create 10 preset colors, which can then be recalled at the push of a button on the device. The light comes with an optical snoot, flipped into position when needed, which changes the beam angle from 90° to 7°. Power is via a single 18650 Li-ion rechargeable battery, giving the light a 2.5-hour runtime at maximum brightness.

    The Aura Light System is available as a single light (ALS-01) finished in black, with snoot and clamp, priced at $530; and as the “Signature Series” package (ALS-01S), which bundles four lights finished in white, with snoots, clamps, and other accessories. Pricing of the Aura Light System “Signature Series” is not yet available.

     



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



    PRESS RELEASE

    Signature Series 2025 Edition: The AOI Aura Light System with Ace Wu

    The Collaboration Continues

    The inaugural Signature Series was officially introduced at the DRT Show Hong Kong 2023 with the intention of capturing the spirit of collaboration and pushing the boundaries of underwater imaging. The first instalment of the Series featured a collaboration between award-winning videographer Kay Burn Lim and AOI. The result was an underwater housing for the GoPro that redefined the possibilities for the device.

    The Signature Series 2025 Edition marks a new collaboration, this time between AOI and award-winning underwater photographer Ace Wu. “Underwater photography is a reflection of art and mirrors my inner state of thought,” says Ace Wu.

    At the heart of artistic expression lies the drive to push limits and break boundaries. In underwater photography, the challenges and constraints are plentiful.

    Ace Wu is among the few accomplished practitioners of ‘painting’ underwater photos. “Colors add emotions, create a feeling, and are more than just elements in my images,” explains Wu. Currently, equipment used to ‘paint’ underwater images relies on colored filters placed in front of lights. However, the range of colors is often limited by the number of filters available, typically just a few. This limitation sparked the idea behind the Signature Series 2025 Edition: How could every imaginable color be made accessible?

    No strangers to daunting challenges, the AOI design team explored a host of ideas, ranging from the unconventional to the traditional. The final product exceeded all expectations, earning its place in the Signature Series lineup.

     

    The Aura Light System: Painting with Every Possible Color

    The Aura Light System is a revolutionary departure from conventional underwater lighting. At its core is a custom-designed mobile app that allows users to select from a palette of 16.7 million colors. The app communicates with an advanced LED torch capable of reproducing the selected color.

    This LED torch is equipped with an optical condenser that enhances the brightness of the colored beam. It can store up to 10 preset colors, while the app supports simultaneous operation with multiple LED torches. The result is an unparalleled ability to ‘paint’ underwater images with virtually unlimited color options. The Aura Light System also includes an optical snoot that is both compact and powerful.

    The Aura Light System is a clear departure from typical thinking employed by many manufacturers, bringing software engineering and user interaction to the forefront of underwater lighting and photography.

     

    The Aura Light System – Signature Series will consists of 4 LED torch complete with color coordinated mounts and optical snoots in white. The entire collection will be housed in a protective carrying case for convenience and security when traveling.

    The Aura Light System can also be purchased individually, the standard version is in black and will include the matching optical snoot and mount.

    The AOI-UW app is available for download at Apple’s App Store. The Android version will be available later.

    Don’t limit your artistic expression to the tools available, be free to ‘paint’ with the colours you feel.

     





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