Backscatter Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV Underwater Octo Housing
The Backscatter Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV is a compact yet powerful underwater housing designed to enhance the capabilities of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV camera. This housing is not only lightweight but also robust, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced underwater photographers.
Key Features
- Compact Design: The housing is designed to be lightweight, allowing for easy handling and transportation.
- Depth Rating: It can withstand depths of up to 45 meters (147 feet), making it suitable for various underwater environments.
- Material: Constructed from durable polycarbonate, it provides excellent protection against water pressure and impacts.
- Custom Graphics: The unique octopus design adds a touch of personality to the rig, making it visually appealing.
Who Is It For?
This underwater housing is ideal for:
- Diving Enthusiasts: Whether you're a recreational diver or a seasoned pro, this housing enhances your underwater photography experience.
- Travel Photographers: Its compact size makes it easy to pack and carry on diving trips.
- Wildlife Photographers: With its ability to capture high-quality images, it’s perfect for those looking to document marine life.
Performance Analysis
Image Quality
One of the standout aspects of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV is its impressive image quality. With a 20-megapixel sensor, it captures sharp and detailed images, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Advantages of the Sensor
- Dynamic Range: The camera excels in capturing a wide range of tones, from deep shadows to bright highlights.
- Low Light Performance: While it performs well at lower ISOs, it begins to show noise at higher settings. However, the extended Low setting (equivalent to ISO 100) can help mitigate this issue.
Autofocus Capabilities
The autofocus system of the E-M10 IV is noteworthy. It features quick and accurate tracking, making it easier to capture moving subjects underwater.
- Tracking Mode: This mode allows the camera to keep focus on subjects even in less-than-ideal visibility.
- Back Button Focus: This feature enhances control, allowing photographers to separate focus from shutter release for better accuracy.
Ergonomics and Usability
Control Layout
The Backscatter Octo Housing is designed with user experience in mind. The controls are intuitively placed, making it easy to adjust settings even while wearing dive gloves.
- Dedicated Dials: Controls for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO are easily accessible, allowing for quick adjustments.
- Compatibility: The housing is compatible with various accessories, including viewfinders and wet lenses, enhancing its versatility.
Comfort and Handling
The ergonomic design ensures that photographers can comfortably hold the housing for extended periods. The locking mechanism provides a reassuring click, confirming that the housing is securely sealed.
Versatility of Lens Options
Interchangeable Lenses
One of the most significant advantages of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV is its compatibility with a wide range of lenses. This flexibility allows photographers to adapt to different underwater scenarios.
- Macro Lenses: The Olympus 60mm macro lens is particularly popular for capturing intricate details of marine life.
- Wide-Angle Lenses: For broader underwater scenes, the Olympus 8mm fisheye lens provides stunning perspectives.
Recommended Lens Combinations
Lens Type | Recommended Use | Notes |
---|---|---|
14-42mm EZ | General photography | Good for mid-size subjects |
60mm Macro | Close-up shots | Excellent detail and sharpness |
8mm Fisheye | Wide-angle shots | Great for large scenes and close focus |
Lighting Solutions
Built-in Flash Features
The Backscatter Octo Housing includes an integrated LED flash trigger that supports automatic TTL flash power when paired with compatible strobes. This feature simplifies lighting adjustments, allowing for optimal exposure in various conditions.
Strobe Compatibility
Using strobes like the Backscatter Mini Flash 2 enhances lighting in underwater photography, especially in murky waters. The ability to utilize high-speed sync (HSS) allows photographers to control ambient light effectively.
Travel-Friendly Design
Lightweight and Compact
For divers who travel frequently, the Backscatter Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV housing is a game-changer. Its lightweight design means it won’t weigh down your gear, making it easier to transport.
Easy Setup
The housing comes with everything needed to start shooting right out of the box. The interchangeable ports and lenses make it easy to configure your rig for different shooting scenarios.
Related Underwater Gear Categories:
- MODEL NUMBER: Backscatter UH-EM10 IV
- DESCRIPTION: Underwater Housing for Olympus E-M10 IV - White Color
- HOUSING COLOR: Custom Octo Print on a White Hosuing
- COMPATIBLE CAMERA MODELS: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
- MAIN MATERIAL - Housing Body: Polycarbonate
- DEPTH RATING: 45 Meters / 147ft
- LENS PORT SYSTEM: AOI / Olympus PEN Ports System
- BUILT-IN LED FLASH TRIGGER: Compatible with
- a) Manual Flash Trigger (with and without Pre-flashes Functions)
- b) Olympus RC Mode (TTL AUTO, MANUAL, FP TTL AUTO, FP MANUAL)
- WATER LEAKAGE PROTECTION: Built-in Vacuum Analyzation and Wet Detection System (VWS)
- BATTERY POWER: Built-in Rechargeable Lithium Polymer Battery (3.7V 110mAH)
- BATTERY CHARGING: By USB Charger DC5V, 0.5A (not included) - Approx. 1.5 Hours for a full charge
- NOTE: Not compatible with Quick 3A or higher chargers
- BATTERY OPERATION TIME: Approx. 2 Days (Based on 3 Dives/Day and 1 Hour/Dive)
- DIMENSIONS: 177.9mm (W) x 139.8mm (H) x 151.2mm (D) / 7.0in (W) x 5.5in (H) x 5.95in (D)
- WEIGHT: On Land : Approx. 835g / 1.84lbs - (Only included the Housing Body and Flat Port)
- STANDARD ACCESSORIES:
- Flat Port (AOI FLP-06);
- Lens Gear (AOI LG-OM-1442EZ)
- Hot Shoe Connector (AOI HSC-02);
- USB Type-C Charging Cable (AOI USBC-02)
- Vacuum Pump (AOI VP-02);
- LCD Monitor Hood (LCDH-01)
- Spare O-Ring for Vacuum Valve Protection Cap x 1pc. (AOI SRVV-01)
- Spare Main Seal O-ring x 1pc. (AOI HOR-01)
- Silica Gel (AOI SIGE-3) x 1pc.;
- Silicone Grease (AOI SIGR-5)
- Lanyard (AOI LYD-01);
- Port Front Cap for M67 Thread (AOI LFC-01)
- Port Rear Cap for PEN Mount (AOI PRC-02);
- O-ring Remover (AOI ORR-02)
- Micro-Fiber Cleaning Cloth (AOI MC-01);
- AOI Logo Sticker
- Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV underwater housing
- AOI FLP-06 Flat Port
- AOI 14-42mm EZ focus gear
- Vacuum System
- Spare O-Rings
- Sun shade
- Multi-control RC LED Flash Trigger
- O-Ring Removal Tool
- O-Ring Grease
- Port Cap
- Anti-fog packs
- Lens Cloth
- USB Cable
- Wrist Lanyard