Recommendations; Visual Inspections; Insurance; Tips - Ikelite DS51 Instructions Manual

RECOMMEN D AT ION S

VISUAL INSPECTIONS

Visual inspections are important. Take the time to examine the entire assembled setup
(strobe, camera housing, arms, etc.) above water. An improper seal or loose
connection can cause a lot of damage. Always check for leaks once you place the
equipment in the water.

INSURANCE

It is recommended that you add an all-risk floater to your homeowner's and/or renter's
insurance policy to cover your equipment against loss or damage. While the Ikelite DS51
Strobe has a limited warranty against manufacturing defects, it does
not cover customer neglect.

TIPS

- Photograph through as little water as possible; move in close. Maximum
recommended shooting distance underwater is 1.8m (6').
- Use the diffuser for softer lighting or a coverage angle between 70° and 80°.
- If possible, measure the light with a meter and set the camera aperture
between your subject and the background, meter the available light and set
the camera aperture accordingly. Using a narrower aperture darkens the
background.
A wider aperture lightens the background and may overexpose the photographs.
- More natural looking photos can be achieved through the addition of a second
external strobe. The Ikelite 4403 Optical Slave Converter works well with a
second strobe when you plan on using manual exposure.
- Always carry spare batteries. Weak batteries are the cause of many strobe and
camera problems; check the voltage with a meter. Note: it's possible to buy bad
"new" batteries.
- Do not fire the strobe more than 15 times in rapid succession. If this does
happen, allow the DS51 to cool off for at least 10 minutes before resuming
photography.

LUBRICANT

- Use only Ikelite brand silicone lubricant with Ikelite brand o-rings; other brand
lubricants can cause the Ikelite o-rings to swell in size.
- Do not use spray lubricant; it can crack the plastic parts of the strobe.
- Ikelite brand silicone lubricant is provided for the sync cord stem o-ring and the
bulkhead connector threads. Use only enough lubricant to lightly cover the area
being applied; wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
- Lubricant only reduces friction; it is not a sealant.
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