For those passionate about capturing the beauty of the underwater world, having the right housing for your camera is vital. The Ikelite 5D Mark III housing has established itself as a leading option for Canon 5D Mark III users who seek a reliable, durable, and budget-friendly solution for underwater photography. With nearly nine months of usage across various diving environments, including beach trips and even challenging surf conditions in California, this review delves into the performance and usability of the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing. Whether you are photographing macro subjects, venturing into wide-angle shots, or capturing split images between the sea and sky, this housing promises an exceptional underwater experience.
Durability and Functionality: A Housing Built for Every Adventure
The design of the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing is one of its standout features. Known for its robust construction, it provides photographers with a housing that is not only durable but also easy to use in various underwater environments. One of the most appealing aspects of this housing is the user-friendly interface, which allows seamless camera adjustments while submerged. Although it is easier to manipulate the controls with bare hands, the housing’s design ensures that even those wearing gloves will not have difficulty accessing the essential functions of the camera. The large, easy-to-grip knobs are surprisingly responsive even when using thicker gloves, such as 3.2 or 5.4 mil varieties. While some adjustment may be needed for thicker gloves, once you get accustomed to the process, it becomes second nature.
The ease of operation is particularly evident when switching between different settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. The housing's intuitive design makes these adjustments smooth and straightforward, which is essential when capturing fast-moving marine life or transitioning between wide-angle and macro shots. Thanks to its thoughtful construction, the Ikelite housing allows for quick access to all the controls that underwater photographers rely on, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Ease of Setup and Security: Simple, Reliable, and Hassle-Free
Setting up the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing is a straightforward task, making it accessible for both beginner and experienced divers alike. Attaching the Canon 5D Mark III to the housing is as simple as using a screw mechanism that connects to the camera’s tripod socket. This method, paired with the ease of tightening using flathead screwdrivers, coins, or even keys, ensures that divers can securely attach their camera to the housing without hassle. The simple but effective latch system makes it incredibly reliable, even in challenging environments where sand, saltwater, and rough conditions may otherwise interfere with equipment performance.
Another impressive feature of the Ikelite housing is its clear polycarbonate construction. This transparent material provides divers with the ability to visually inspect the o-rings before embarking on a dive, ensuring that they are free from dirt or damage. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially for those diving in more remote locations where equipment malfunctions can be problematic. The polycarbonate design also offers a clear view of the camera inside the housing, making it easier to check settings and make necessary adjustments.
When it comes to reliability and peace of mind, the Ikelite housing stands out. Its construction and sealing mechanism are designed with careful attention to detail, making it a dependable choice for underwater photographers who rely on their equipment to perform in the most demanding conditions.
Seamless Functionality: Navigating Underwater with Ease
While every underwater housing presents unique challenges, the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing shines in its ability to keep things simple and intuitive, especially when maneuvering underwater. Though wearing gloves can complicate the operation of underwater controls, the housing's layout ensures that divers can still make adjustments with minimal effort. The large, ergonomically placed controls allow for a fluid, responsive experience even when working in tight spaces or under stressful conditions, such as in surf or while dealing with strong currents.
One of the more complex tasks in underwater photography involves switching lenses and ports. However, with the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing, this process is made remarkably easy. The four-clasp system securely holds the ports in place, ensuring they remain steady during a dive. Whether switching between wide-angle lenses or macro setups, divers can make quick changes without worry. The secure fit of the port system has proven reliable in a variety of scenarios, from navigating through rocky beaches to managing challenging surf entries.
Moreover, this secure setup is a game-changer for underwater photographers who often find themselves working in tough conditions. The ease of switching ports underwater ensures that you won’t miss out on a perfect shot, even when your dive requires a quick change from macro to wide-angle lenses. This combination of security and ease of use allows photographers to focus on their subject, rather than worrying about technicalities.
The Ideal Housing for All Types of Underwater Photography
Ikelite’s 5D Mark III housing isn’t just a toolit’s a vital extension of your camera that elevates your underwater photography experience. Whether you’re diving in crystal-clear waters to capture marine life or shooting in more challenging environments like kelp forests or murky waters, the Ikelite housing is designed to withstand the rigors of these adventures. The camera's accessibility to all necessary functions ensures that divers can make real-time adjustments while under the surface, enabling them to stay focused on their subject.
From macro photography to wide-angle shots, the Ikelite housing provides versatile options for capturing the essence of underwater ecosystems. The design accommodates a variety of lenses and ports, allowing photographers to tailor their setup to the demands of each dive. Whether you’re capturing the smallest creatures on the reef or the expansive beauty of the ocean, the Ikelite housing adapts to your needs.
The housing’s affordability also plays a key role in its appeal. While many underwater camera housings come with a hefty price tag, the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing offers a cost-effective solution for those who are serious about underwater photography but don’t want to break the bank. This accessibility allows more divers and photographers to enter the world of underwater imaging without compromising on quality or durability.
Why Ikelite Housing Is a Top Choice for Underwater Photographers
For underwater photographers who seek reliable performance, ease of use, and a durable solution for their Canon 5D Mark III, the Ikelite housing is a clear contender. With its solid construction, intuitive controls, and ease of use, it’s no wonder that many divers turn to Ikelite for their underwater housing needs. The company has created a housing that doesn’t just meet the basic requirements of keeping the camera dry but also enhances the overall shooting experience. From its simple setup to its secure port system and ergonomic controls, the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing is designed to be both practical and effective, whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your underwater photography journey.
What truly sets the Ikelite housing apart is the meticulous attention to detail in its design. For underwater photographers, the ability to quickly access critical controls while submerged is of paramount importance. Ikelite understands this need and ensures that all key features of the Canon 5D Mark III, from focus adjustments to aperture control, are easily accessible. This means you can make quick, intuitive changes to your settings without losing sight of the action in front of you, which is crucial when working in dynamic underwater environments.
Another significant advantage of the Ikelite housing is its remarkable depth rating. Designed to withstand the pressures of deep dives, this housing allows photographers to take their Canon 5D Mark III to depths of up to 200 feet (60 meters). This makes it an excellent choice for those who venture into deeper parts of the ocean or want to capture unique marine life that thrives at those depths. The housing’s build quality ensures it will endure these challenges, offering both durability and peace of mind that your camera equipment is well-protected from the harsh underwater environment.
The Ikelite 5D Mark III housing also boasts an incredibly versatile port system, which allows photographers to easily switch between different lenses. This adaptability is essential when shooting in varying underwater conditions, where you may need a wide-angle lens for capturing sweeping coral reefs or a macro lens for photographing tiny marine creatures. Whether you’re photographing expansive ocean scenes or getting up close with the details of a seahorse, the Ikelite system has you covered with the flexibility to accommodate various lenses without compromising image quality.
Ergonomics play a significant role in any underwater setup, and the Ikelite housing delivers in this regard. The controls are designed to fit comfortably in the hands, allowing for extended shooting sessions without discomfort. This thoughtful design is particularly important for underwater photographers, who may need to hold the camera steady for extended periods while framing a shot or tracking a moving subject. The housing’s well-balanced weight distribution ensures that the camera feels stable and easy to handle, even in challenging water conditions.
Ease of setup is another key benefit of the Ikelite housing. Many photographers, particularly those who are new to underwater imaging, may feel overwhelmed by complex setups or complicated gear. The Ikelite housing simplifies the process with an intuitive design that minimizes the need for adjustments and complicated instructions. This ease of use allows photographers to spend more time focusing on their craft rather than dealing with technical challenges, which is crucial when underwater, where time and light are often limited.
One feature that stands out is the housing’s innovative moisture detection system. Water intrusion is one of the biggest concerns for underwater photographers, and Ikelite addresses this risk by including a moisture detector that alerts users if water enters the housing. This simple yet effective feature provides added peace of mind, allowing photographers to focus on capturing their images rather than worrying about potential leaks. The detector offers both a visual and an audible alert, ensuring that you’re aware of any issues before they escalate.
In addition to its performance and functionality, the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing also offers excellent value for its price. While there are numerous options for underwater camera housings, Ikelite manages to strike a balance between quality and affordability, making it a popular choice for those who don’t want to break the bank while still getting a reliable and durable housing solution.
Ultimately, the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing offers photographers the reliability and confidence they need to capture stunning underwater images without worrying about their gear. Its user-friendly design, durable construction, and versatile functionality make it a valuable tool for anyone interested in pursuing underwater photography, from the tranquil depths of the sea to the challenging surf zones on the shore. With Ikelite, you can dive in and focus on what matters mostcapturing the beauty of the underwater world, whether it's the vibrant hues of coral reefs, the graceful movements of fish, or the quiet solitude of the ocean’s depths. This housing doesn’t just protect your camera; it enhances your ability to immerse yourself in the experience, creating a seamless connection between photographer, camera, and environment. With its solid reputation and trusted performance, Ikelite continues to be a brand that divers and photographers rely on for both their beginner and professional underwater photography needs.
Functionality and Control of the Ikelite 5D Mark III Housing
The Ikelite 5D Mark III housing offers an extensive range of features designed to enhance the experience of underwater photographers, making it an ideal choice for those who require precision and reliability in demanding environments. A key highlight of this housing is its seamless integration with TTL (through-the-lens) exposure compensation when using Ikelite strobes. This feature allows photographers to gain full control over their lighting, ensuring more accurate and consistent results. Accessible through a set of dedicated buttons on the back of the housing, TTL exposure compensation plays a vital role in achieving perfectly balanced lighting underwater, an often unpredictable challenge. With the added benefit of maintaining natural-looking lighting, this function allows photographers to focus more on composition and less on manual adjustments.
The housing's design has also been thoughtfully crafted to improve the user experience, especially during extended underwater photo sessions. The inclusion of rubber grips ensures a firm and comfortable hold, which is crucial when handling the camera in challenging conditions. These ergonomic grips allow the photographer to maintain a secure and natural hand position, reducing hand strain over long periods. While the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing is bulkier than some higher-end alternatives, it still feels intuitive and easy to maneuver underwater. Its user-friendly design allows for quick and effective control, even in turbulent waters. This attention to ergonomics significantly enhances the overall comfort, minimizing fatigue and improving the user's ability to stay focused on capturing perfect images.
Moreover, the control layout of the housing has been designed with practicality in mind. It ensures that essential camera functions are readily accessible, allowing photographers to adjust settings like aperture, ISO, and shutter speed with minimal effort. This thoughtful control placement ensures a smooth experience, particularly when working in environments that demand quick decisions. While the overall size of the housing may seem a bit bulkier in comparison to high-end competitors, the tradeoff in comfort and accessibility is well worth it for many photographers.
The Ergonomics of the Ikelite 5D Mark III Housing
One of the key aspects that sets the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing apart from other underwater housing options is its superior ergonomics. The design prioritizes the comfort of the user during long underwater sessions, where handling the camera efficiently can make or break a shot. The rubber grips provide a solid and comfortable hold, preventing fatigue even after extended use. This attention to comfort is particularly significant for underwater photographers who are often required to spend hours diving and capturing shots in difficult conditions.
The housing is designed to accommodate the natural movements of the photographer’s hands, ensuring a secure grip on the camera even when submerged in water. The intuitive placement of the controls is another ergonomic advantage. This ensures that essential settings such as exposure, aperture, and focus can be adjusted without the need to move the hands away from their natural grip. By reducing the amount of movement required to adjust the camera’s settings, the housing minimizes the potential for discomfort and maximizes the user’s ability to capture the perfect shot. Even though the housing is bulkier than some alternatives, its thoughtful design and strategic control layout make it a great choice for photographers who prioritize comfort during long dives.
Despite being bulkier than some other options, the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing provides the ideal balance of usability and comfort. It allows photographers to maintain their focus on shooting, rather than struggling with the camera’s handling. This ensures a more enjoyable experience, even in challenging conditions, which is crucial for producing top-quality underwater photographs.
Limitations of the Ikelite 5D Mark III Housing and Potential Workarounds
While the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing excels in many areas, there are some limitations that users should be aware of. A notable drawback is the lack of access to the Canon 5D Mark III’s joystick, which can be critical for photographers who need to adjust the autofocus (AF) point quickly while composing shots. Without the joystick, users are left to rely on the rear control wheel and the main control dial to adjust the autofocus. While this method still works, it is less intuitive and slower than directly manipulating the joystick, which can hinder the ability to fine-tune focus mid-shot. This is particularly problematic for photographers who require fast and precise control over their autofocus points.
Another limitation arises when reviewing images on the camera’s screen. After capturing a shot, photographers often need to zoom in to check focus or examine potential issues like backscatter. In the Ikelite housing, this process can be cumbersome, as there is no quick and efficient way to reposition the zoomed-in view on the screen. For photographers who rely heavily on these functions to ensure sharp focus and clarity in their shots, this limitation can be frustrating. It requires additional time and effort to ensure that the image is in focus, potentially leading to missed opportunities or less-than-optimal images.
Despite these limitations, the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing remains an excellent option for many photographers. The housing offers ample access to essential camera functions, including aperture, ISO, shutter speed, and other key settings. The housing’s design ensures that photographers can still make quick adjustments and capture high-quality images. While the inability to access the joystick or the zoom-in view might slow down some processes, most users find that the overall benefits of the housing far outweigh these minor inconveniences. The sturdy and clear polycarbonate construction, along with easy inspection of o-rings and seals, ensures that the housing remains leak-proof, allowing photographers to focus on their work rather than worrying about water ingress.
Performance Across Various Conditions
When it comes to evaluating an underwater housing, the true measure of its capability lies in its ability to perform in a wide range of conditions. The Ikelite 5D Mark III housing stands out in this respect, proving to be exceptionally reliable and durable, whether navigating the warm, clear waters of tropical dive destinations or enduring the more demanding and colder environments of California's rugged surf. Over nine months, I’ve had the opportunity to extensively test the housing in various shooting conditions and environments, and it has consistently delivered reliable performance. From the clarity of tropical waters to the turbulence of colder dive sites, this housing consistently rises to the occasion, offering the precise control that underwater photographers require.
One of the most notable features of the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing is its ability to seamlessly adapt to different lenses and shooting styles. Whether shooting macro photography in calm waters or capturing wide-angle shots in challenging conditions, the housing's performance is impressive. When paired with lenses like the Canon 100mm Macro lens, the housing proves to be a formidable ally. This combination offers exceptional clarity, allowing for detailed close-up shots of marine life and coral formations. Additionally, for macro photographers looking for even greater versatility, adding a SubSee diopter and a flip adaptor enhances the experience by allowing photographers to get closer to subjects while retaining sharpness and detail.
However, while the housing performs well in macro photography, there is a small challenge that photographers may encounter when using it in tight spaces. When shooting near reefs or other delicate environments, the housing's strobes and arms can sometimes feel a bit too close for comfort. In certain situations, this results in the need to adjust the setup and reposition the camera slightly. Although it may take a little extra effort to avoid accidental contact with the reef or other underwater features, this is a minor inconvenience that can be easily overcome. Simply drifting a little away from the subject can often resolve the issue, allowing the photographer to maintain a comfortable shooting position while still achieving a clear and well-composed shot.
Exceptional Performance with Wide-Angle Lenses
The versatility of the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing truly shines when paired with wide-angle lenses, especially for those capturing sweeping seascapes or dynamic underwater vistas. One of the standout lenses for this setup is the Tokina 10-17mm lens, which excels when used with the 8-inch acrylic dome port. This combination ensures that wide-angle shots come out with stunning detail and clarity, even when capturing large schools of fish or expansive coral reefs. The housing allows for precise control of the depth of field, enabling photographers to craft their compositions with accuracy. From the smallest fish to the largest structures, the sharpness and color saturation are impressive, all while the housing protects the equipment from the harsh underwater elements.
Wide-angle photography requires the right combination of lens and housing to deliver the best results. With the Tokina 10-17mm lens, the Ikelite housing allows for versatility in focal lengths, especially in the 15 to 17mm range. This range produces some of the most breathtaking underwater images, whether capturing the entire sweep of a reef or the delicate interactions between marine creatures. The results speak for themselves in terms of sharpness, vibrancy, and overall composition, making it an excellent choice for those specializing in wide-angle underwater photography.
While the 8-inch dome port does add some buoyancy to the setup, this is a typical characteristic of housing-dome combos and does not significantly affect the overall performance of the housing. Photographers need to be aware of this buoyancy when adjusting their setup, but it is by no means a hindrance to capturing stunning images. For those who specialize in split shots, where the photographer captures both above and below the waterline in a single frame, the larger dome provides an added advantage. The increased surface area allows for better composition and smoother transitions between the two elements, enhancing the overall visual impact of the final shot.
Maintenance and Care for Long-Term Performance
Like any piece of photography equipment, the performance and longevity of the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing depend heavily on regular maintenance and care. Underwater housings are exposed to harsh environments that can result in salt buildup, corrosion, and debris accumulation if not properly cleaned and maintained. However, with a few simple maintenance practices, the Ikelite housing can continue to perform optimally over the long term, ensuring photographers get the most out of their investment.
After each dive, it is essential to thoroughly rinse the housing with fresh water to remove any saltwater and prevent it from drying and causing damage. A gentle soak is often the best method for ensuring that the housing remains free from any salt or other contaminants. Once soaked, it is important to push all the buttons and manipulate the controls to break up any salt buildup that may have accumulated. This step helps maintain the housing’s functionality, ensuring that all buttons and dials continue to operate smoothly.
In addition to regular rinsing, conducting a warm water soak without the camera inside the housing is also recommended. This process ensures that all functions remain operational and can help prevent any button stickiness or malfunctions that may arise from prolonged exposure to saltwater. By following these simple maintenance procedures, photographers can protect the integrity of their equipment, reducing the likelihood of issues like corrosion or damage. It also ensures that the housing remains ready for use, whether for the next tropical dive or a challenging cold-water shoot.
Although the housing performs well in a wide range of conditions, it is important to acknowledge that regular maintenance plays a significant role in keeping it in top working condition. By adhering to a maintenance routine, photographers can rest assured that the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing will continue to perform at a high level, whether they are capturing the intricate details of a coral reef or the vast beauty of an underwater landscape. This commitment to maintenance and care ultimately ensures that the housing can withstand the rigors of the underwater world, providing reliable performance for years to come.
The Ikelite 5D Mark III Housing: A Solid Option for Underwater Photography
For underwater photographers seeking a reliable and affordable housing solution for their Canon 5D Mark III, the Ikelite housing emerges as an excellent contender. Combining durability, ease of use, and great value for money, this housing is designed to cater to a wide range of shooting styles, from macro photography to wide-angle and split shots. Whether you're an experienced diver or a novice looking to capture the beauty of the underwater world, the Ikelite housing offers a practical solution that won’t break the bank.
One of the standout features of the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing is its intuitive design. It has been crafted with the needs of underwater photographers in mind, making it easy to handle and operate even in challenging underwater conditions. The buttons and controls are well-placed, allowing photographers to adjust their settings without struggle. This thoughtful design makes it suitable for both beginners and seasoned professionals. For those looking to capture underwater images without worrying about equipment failure or frustration, the Ikelite housing offers peace of mind while shooting in various environments.
Another key aspect of the Ikelite housing is its construction quality. Built to withstand the harsh conditions of the ocean, it ensures that your Canon 5D Mark III remains safe and secure. Whether you’re diving deep or simply snorkeling, the housing’s robust build provides the protection needed for your valuable camera gear. While it’s not as high-end as some of the more expensive housing options, the reliability and sturdiness it offers are more than sufficient for most underwater photography adventures.
Performance and Functionality: An Excellent Value for the Price
When comparing the Ikelite 5D Mark III housing to more expensive alternatives, it becomes clear that it offers an outstanding value for its price. Higher-end housing options tend to have a wider range of advanced features, but they come with a significant price tag. The Ikelite, however, delivers impressive performance while remaining accessible to those on a budget. For underwater photographers who don’t need every single advanced function, the Ikelite housing provides an optimal balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.
One of the notable advantages of the Ikelite housing is its ability to accommodate a variety of lenses and ports. This versatility ensures that you can adapt the housing to your shooting needs, whether you're capturing wide-angle shots of expansive marine life or getting up close for intricate macro photography. The flexibility of the Ikelite housing allows you to tailor your setup, ensuring that you’re prepared for any underwater situation, be it a swift dolphin passing by or a delicate coral reef in need of careful framing. The ability to customize the housing with the appropriate ports means that you won’t be forced to compromise on the quality of your images, no matter the environment.
While the housing is not as feature-packed as its more expensive counterparts, it certainly excels in providing the essential features that an underwater photographer needs to capture stunning images. For many, the complexity and added cost of advanced functions found in more expensive models are unnecessary, especially when the Ikelite can meet the demands of a wide range of photographic situations. The simple, intuitive controls make it easy for photographers to focus on their craft, rather than becoming overwhelmed by extraneous technicalities. For anyone who values ease of use and reliability, the Ikelite housing is an excellent choice, offering a streamlined approach to capturing vivid underwater imagery.
Moreover, the construction of the housing allows it to remain lightweight despite its robust design. For photographers who need to travel with their gear or want to avoid cumbersome, heavy equipment underwater, the Ikelite housing proves to be a great option. Its manageable weight doesn’t compromise its ability to provide sufficient protection for your camera gear, allowing you to focus on capturing your shots without worrying about excess weight. For long dives, this can make a huge difference, as the last thing anyone wants is to be burdened by heavy equipment when navigating through currents or exploring tight spaces.
Another remarkable feature of the Ikelite housing is its focus on providing strong protection for your camera while maintaining simplicity. While other, more expensive housing options may offer advanced sealing mechanisms or sophisticated automation, the Ikelite housing provides a proven design that consistently delivers reliability. The camera and lenses remain safe from water ingress, ensuring that even novice photographers can dive in with confidence, knowing their gear is protected. The easy-to-use locking system prevents accidental leaks, making it one of the most reliable options available in its price range.
Additionally, its durable materials, such as polycarbonate and acrylic, allow the housing to withstand the pressures of deep dives while keeping the camera safe from bumps or falls. This robust yet lightweight construction ensures longevity and performance even under the harshest underwater conditions. Whether you're taking your housing on deep explorations or casual dives, you can trust it to hold up well over time, offering a lasting solution for those serious about underwater photography.
Furthermore, the intuitive design and ergonomic controls enhance the overall user experience. The buttons and dials are easily accessible, which is crucial when working underwater, where every second counts. With these thoughtful design elements, the Ikelite housing lets photographers focus on what truly matters: capturing breathtaking images and videos without being distracted by complicated gear. The housing’s ability to keep the camera in a secure and easy-to-control setup means that photographers can devote their attention to the environment around them, whether they're seeking out vibrant coral gardens or documenting marine creatures in motion.
It’s worth noting that while the Ikelite may not be equipped with every cutting-edge feature available in top-tier housings, it offers more than enough for the vast majority of underwater photographers. For many, the ability to create stunning imagery without investing in costly, complex setups is a major advantage. The Ikelite housing strikes the perfect balance for those who want performance without the extra cost, making it an ideal option for those who want to enjoy high-quality underwater photography without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The Ikelite 5D Mark III Housing proves to be a reliable, durable, and cost-effective solution for underwater photographers. Its user-friendly design, ergonomic controls, and versatile functionality make it an ideal choice for divers of all skill levels. Whether capturing vibrant marine life in macro shots or expansive ocean views with wide-angle lenses, the housing ensures photographers have the necessary tools to create stunning images. While it may lack some advanced features found in more expensive models, its performance and ease of use make it a standout option for those seeking quality and affordability in their underwater photography adventures.