In the fast-evolving world of underwater imaging, combining the best aspects of photography and videography in one compact, user-friendly device is a game-changer. The Symbiosis SS3, developed by iDiveSite, represents a shift in underwater lighting technology. Previously, underwater photographers had to carry separate equipment for strobes and video lights. The Symbiosis SS3 eliminates that burden by offering both a strobe and a continuous video light in a single compact unit.
This hybrid design caters perfectly to a new generation of divers who want to capture both still and moving images without changing their setup mid-dive. With a lightweight body, intuitive controls, and a design geared for macro lovers and casual shooters, the Symbiosis SS3 is setting new standards in its class.
Design and Build Quality
One of the most impressive features of the Symbiosis SS3 is its compact and solid build. At just 520 grams on land and only 120 grams underwater, the SS3 feels more like a video light than a traditional strobe. Unlike bulkier dual-head systems, the SS3 uses a single output head to deliver both strobe flashes and continuous video light. This simplification results in a much smaller device, ideal for travel and long dives.
The body includes only a single button and a single control dial. This minimal design does not compromise functionality. The strobe includes all the essential modes and settings, made accessible through this simple interface. One clever safety feature is the power-on mechanism: the SS3 can only be turned on by clicking the power button five times in a row. This prevents it from being accidentally activated during travel or storage.
The housing is rugged and built to handle dives up to a depth of 60 meters. Its design keeps the unit sealed and operational under pressure, giving users confidence when diving in deeper or more challenging environments.
Power and Guide Number
When evaluating a strobe’s capability, the guide number is an essential metric. The Symbiosis SS3 has a guide number of 20. While this is not the highest available in professional strobes, it provides more than sufficient power for many shooting situations, especially in macro photography. For wide-angle shooting, especially in tropical waters where ambient light competes with artificial lighting, users may find that a guide number of 30 or above offers better results. In those cases, pairing two SS3 strobes or opting for the Symbiosis SS2 might be more appropriate.
However, for casual divers and macro photography enthusiasts, the SS3 delivers ample strobe power. The quality of lighting in close-focus scenes is impressive, with consistent output and enough intensity to bring out fine details in subjects such as nudibranchs, small crabs, or coral textures.
Video Light Performance
Where the Symbiosis SS3 truly shines is in its video light output. The 2800-lumen LED light is powerful enough for a wide range of applications, from close-up video work to wide-angle reef scenes. It even surpasses the video light performance of its more powerful cousin, the Symbiosis SS2, in lumen output.
This strong video performance makes the SS3 particularly attractive to users who prioritize video over still photography. It's bright and smooth light field ensures high-quality footage with minimal hot spots or uneven exposure. The beam angle, discussed further below, also contributes to the video light’s effectiveness.
The SS3’s video light can be adjusted across five different power levels. These provide flexibility in lighting control depending on visibility, subject distance, and dive conditions. In addition to the white light mode, the SS3 features a red light mode that is particularly useful for focus assistance without disturbing marine life.
Beam Angle and Light Distribution
The beam angle of the Symbiosis SS3 ranges between 95° and 105°, making it well-suited for wide-area lighting. This is especially beneficial in close-focus wide-angle photography and general video use. The dome-shaped light head serves as a built-in diffuser, helping spread the light evenly across the frame.
Though the SS3 does not support external diffusers, the integrated front dome effectively minimizes harsh edges and shadows. This is important when working with sensitive marine subjects or when shooting in murky water, where a soft light beam helps maintain clarity.
This wide and even beam also means that users can shoot underwater scenes with natural, pleasing lighting without needing to fine-tune their positioning repeatedly. The SS3 simplifies the process of achieving balanced, professional-looking images and video.
Battery Life and Charging
The battery performance of the Symbiosis SS3 is impressive considering its size. Powered by two 18650 lithium-ion batteries, the device delivers around 700 strobe flashes per charge or 55 minutes of continuous video light at full power. This dual-function capacity is essential for multi-dive days.
In real-world tests, using both the strobe and video functions alternately, users found they could complete two to three dives without needing to swap batteries. This kind of longevity reduces surface interval maintenance and allows for greater focus on capturing great footage underwater.
The device is designed with safety and ease of use in mind. Batteries are user-replaceable, and the sealed compartment protects the unit from flooding. Always ensure battery compartments are clean and o-rings are well-lubricated before use to maintain waterproof integrity.
Recycle Time and Strobe Speed
The recycle time of the strobe is three seconds at full power. While this may be slightly slower compared to higher-end strobes, it is rarely an issue in typical shooting conditions. Most photographers do not fire strobes at full power for every shot, and at lower power settings, the SS3 recycles much faster.
This makes the SS3 quite suitable for shooting macro sequences, slow-moving subjects, or portrait-style reef compositions. In high-action situations such as fast-moving fish or wide scenes where burst photography is desired, the recycle time could become more noticeable. In those cases, photographers may want to consider pairing the SS3 with a second unit or exploring faster-recycling strobes.
TTL Training Mode
One standout feature of the Symbiosis SS3 is its TTL training mode. TTL, or Through-The-Lens metering, automatically adjusts the strobe's power based on the camera’s flash. The SS3 is designed to learn and sync with any camera’s flash pattern, as long as it is connected via a fiber optic cable.
To activate this function, users place the SS3 in training mode, where it monitors the pre-flash sequence of the camera. After learning this pattern, the SS3 will respond accordingly in future shots. This is particularly helpful for cameras that have non-standard pre-flash behaviors.
In tests, the TTL training worked well with most compact and mirrorless cameras. Some users may need to run the training sequence more than once to ensure perfect sync, but once completed, the strobe and camera work together smoothly, ensuring well-exposed shots without manual adjustments.
Multi-Mode Video Light Settings
The video light function of the SS3 is highly adaptable. It includes multiple power levels that allow users to fine-tune their lighting based on the subject and environment. Beyond the standard white light, the red light mode serves a valuable function for divers trying to get close to shy or nocturnal species.
Red light is less visible to many marine animals, allowing divers to approach without startling the subject. Simultaneously, cameras can still use the red light to focus effectively. The SS3’s ability to switch between light modes without changing its position or setup streamlines the entire process of underwater shooting.
Furthermore, the ability to use the strobe mode while in video light mode adds another layer of flexibility. This means users can switch between capturing video and taking still images instantly, without adjusting the settings or moving to the surface.
Field Testing the Symbiosis SS3 Underwater
Testing the Symbiosis SS3 in real-world underwater conditions is essential to fully understanding its performance beyond the technical specifications. Controlled lab environments only provide part of the story. Field testing dives were conducted in different environments, including cold water locations in the Pacific Northwest and tropical dive sites in Southeast Asia. This range allowed for a thorough exploration of the SS3’s versatility across varied marine ecosystems.
In the cold, darker waters of the Pacific, visibility is often limited, and lighting becomes a crucial factor. The SS3 was able to pierce through these murky conditions with its 2800-lumen video light. Subjects such as giant Pacific octopuses, rockfish, and delicate anemones were brought to life with clear detail and excellent color representation. The red light mode was particularly useful for approaching shy macro subjects, allowing divers to get in close without disturbing them.
In warmer waters with better ambient light, the SS3 adapted well. While wide-angle photography presented some limitations with only a single unit, macro photography stood out. The light output was enough to highlight textures on coral polyps and the vibrant patterns of nudibranchs. Overall, the SS3 performed consistently in diverse conditions.
Macro Photography with the SS3
Macro photography is often where hybrid lighting systems face the most pressure to perform. The proximity of the subject demands even light distribution, fast response times, and minimal backscatter. The Symbiosis SS3 excelled in these categories. When working with small subjects like pygmy seahorses or blennies, the strobe power was more than sufficient to freeze motion and enhance contrast.
The wide beam angle of the video light also created a soft fill that minimized harsh shadows on subjects. This combination allowed for creative flexibility—shooters could illuminate their subjects from multiple angles using a single source. Even when shooting with diffused natural light, the SS3 helped fill in darker areas, making post-processing easier and more efficient.
Since macro photography typically involves slower, more deliberate compositions, the recycle time of three seconds was rarely a limitation. In fact, at lower power levels (commonly used in macro work), the recycle time was faster, allowing for quick sequences when needed.
Wide-Angle Photography and Lighting Considerations
While macro shooters will find the SS3 extremely capable, wide-angle photographers need to consider a few factors. First is the guide number of 20. For wide-angle reef scenes, wrecks, or schooling fish, a single SS3 may not provide enough coverage or intensity, especially when ambient light is strong.
However, in low-light situations or during early morning dives, the SS3 proved to be adequate. When used with a fisheye lens and proper positioning, it produced images with decent color balance and illumination. A second unit significantly improved coverage and allowed for more dynamic compositions. Using dual strobes helped eliminate side shadows and brought more life to the foreground and background simultaneously.
Some photographers may choose to pair the SS3 with an additional light source, such as a video light mounted on the opposite arm. This setup provides better flexibility, particularly in situations where wide scenes need to be captured with both photo and video outputs.
Usability and Control System
The Symbiosis SS3’s single-button and single-dial control layout is perhaps one of its strongest usability features. Many underwater photographers and videographers appreciate simplicity, especially when they are dealing with gloves, water pressure, and short dive durations. The dial allows users to switch between modes quickly, and the push-button selects or confirms settings.
Although minimalist, the interface does not sacrifice access to important functions. Power levels, light modes, and TTL training can all be adjusted with ease. After a short learning curve, most users become comfortable with the layout and are able to operate the light intuitively, even during more complex shooting scenarios.
The lack of a digital screen may be a downside for those who prefer numerical feedback, but the LED indicators are clear enough to convey information once you become familiar with them. This approach also helps keep the unit compact and reduces the chance of water intrusion through additional display ports.
Durability and Long-Term Use
Durability is a critical factor for underwater gear. Frequent exposure to saltwater, sand, and pressure demands rugged construction and secure sealing. The SS3 features a robust outer shell that holds up well across multiple dives in both warm and cold water environments. There were no signs of wear or flooding, and the buttons and dial remained responsive.
The battery compartments are well-sealed and use high-quality O-rings. Divers should always ensure these o-rings are clean and lightly greased before every dive, as this is the primary defense against water ingress. Over several weeks of use, the SS3 showed no signs of degradation in performance or physical integrity.
The unit’s durability also extends to its mount and joint hardware. The SS3 is compatible with standard ball mounts, flex arms, and other common configurations. This makes it easy to integrate into existing rigs. Users who travel frequently will appreciate how well the SS3 withstands transportation stress.
Power Efficiency and Temperature Control
Efficient battery use is essential for longer dives and multi-dive days. The Symbiosis SS3 uses two 18650 lithium-ion batteries, which offer a great balance between power and compact size. The battery compartment is designed for quick replacement, allowing users to swap cells between dives without hassle.
During extensive use, the SS3 showed good thermal management. The device did not overheat, even after running the video light continuously for extended periods. Internal components are designed to dissipate heat safely, and the metal body helps regulate temperature through passive cooling.
In warmer waters, a slight rise in the external temperature is noticeable when using the video light at maximum brightness. However, this never reached a level that would make the device uncomfortable to handle or pose a danger to the electronics inside. Overall, the SS3’s power management and thermal control systems are reliable and efficient.
Red Light Mode and Focus Assistance
Red light modes are often underappreciated features in underwater lighting systems, yet they offer distinct advantages in certain situations. The Symbiosis SS3 includes a red LED mode specifically designed to aid in focusing on nocturnal or shy marine life. This mode allows the diver to maintain visibility while minimizing the risk of scaring away sensitive creatures.
The red light is gentle, diffused, and easy on the eyes. It does not interfere with camera sensors, and autofocus functions remain accurate. In night dives or during early morning excursions, this feature proved invaluable. Divers could approach animals more closely, get their compositions right, and then fire the main strobe for the final shot.
Macro shooters benefit particularly from this function. Subjects like crustaceans, cephalopods, and some species of fish react poorly to white light. The red mode becomes an essential tool for photographers who want to blend patience with precision.
Synchronization with Cameras via Fiber Optic
The Symbiosis SS3 is designed to be used with fiber optic cables, which are preferred by many modern underwater photographers due to their reliability and universal compatibility. These cables use the camera’s onboard flash to trigger the strobe, making it easier to connect across multiple camera brands.
The SS3 does not support sync cords, which may be a limitation for DSLR shooters who rely on electrical connectors. However, for mirrorless users and compact camera enthusiasts, fiber optic sync is often more straightforward and versatile.
The TTL training mode enhances this connectivity further. It allows the SS3 to mimic any camera’s flash signature, ensuring consistent output. Whether using a Sony mirrorless system, an Olympus compact, or a Canon DSLR with a flash trigger, the SS3 can be trained to recognize and respond accurately to the camera’s signals.
Flexibility in Mounting Options
Versatility in mounting is a critical feature for divers who want to adapt their gear to different situations. The Symbiosis SS3 can be mounted using various types of arms, clamps, and adapters. It fits standard ball mounts commonly used in underwater rigs and is compatible with flex arms and trays.
This allows users to customize their gear setup based on the type of dive. For macro photography, a closer, more compact arrangement works best. For wide-angle video or photography, longer arms can help angle the light to avoid backscatter and create more dynamic shadows.
The SS3’s lightweight design also reduces strain on the mounting points, which helps prevent wear over time. When mounted properly, the device remains stable and easy to reposition underwater, giving photographers better control over light placement.
Travel and Portability Benefits
One of the Symbiosis SS3’s most appealing aspects is its portability. For divers who frequently travel to different dive destinations, gear weight and space are always concerns. The SS3 addresses these with its small form factor, dual-purpose design, and relatively low weight.
Instead of packing separate strobes and video lights, travelers can reduce their luggage by bringing a single SS3 unit. Its rugged build also means it can withstand the stress of flights, long drives, and boat transfers. The internal battery system is compliant with airline regulations when stored properly, making it an ideal travel companion.
For liveaboard divers or expedition photographers, reducing gear bulk while retaining professional functionality is crucial. The SS3 delivers on this front by combining performance, portability, and user-friendliness in a single device.
Value for Money and Target Audience
The Symbiosis SS3 is priced competitively within its category. It offers a compelling combination of features usually seen in more expensive systems. For underwater shooters who are just starting or looking for an all-in-one light system without breaking the bank, the SS3 is an ideal option.
It is particularly well-suited for macro photographers, video enthusiasts, and divers who want to keep their setup light and manageable. While it may not fully replace high-powered dual-strobe rigs for advanced wide-angle photography, its performance is more than sufficient for most general diving and recreational needs.
Students, dive instructors, marine biologists, and content creators will all find the SS3 to be a valuable tool. Its ability to perform both strobe and video functions simplifies the shooting process and allows users to capture a wide range of content in one dive.
Final Thoughts on Field Use
After extensive field testing, it becomes clear that the Symbiosis SS3 is more than just a convenient hybrid tool. It represents a new way of thinking about underwater lighting—where simplicity, versatility, and functionality coexist in a compact package. While there are some compromises, such as the limited guide number and slower recycle time, the advantages far outweigh these limitations.
The real strength of the SS3 lies in its balance. It delivers just enough power, usability, and flexibility to satisfy a wide audience, without overwhelming them with complexity or cost. For anyone wanting to capture high-quality underwater video and photography with minimal hassle, the SS3 is an excellent choice.
Comparing the Symbiosis SS3 to Other Underwater Lighting Systems
Understanding where the Symbiosis SS3 stands in the landscape of underwater lighting products requires comparing it with both entry-level and professional options. Many divers choose between traditional strobes, dedicated video lights, or hybrid systems depending on their priorities. The SS3 lands somewhere in the middle of this range. It combines a well-rounded feature set with affordability, offering a significant advantage for divers who want flexibility without investing in multiple lights.
Comparing it to single-purpose strobes like the YS-D3 Lightning or Inon Z330, the Symbiosis SS3 may not match them in raw strobe power. The YS-D3, for instance, has a guide number of approximately 33, which is more than 50 percent more powerful than the SS3’s guide number of 20. This makes the YS-D3 ideal for wide-angle shots in bright conditions or when shooting toward the sun. However, the YS-D3 lacks a built-in video light, and users must carry an additional light for video needs.
Inon strobes are known for fast recycle times and precise light control. They’re a favorite among professionals who shoot wide-angle reef scenes or large marine animals. But for macro or casual video shooters, this may be overkill. The SS3 offers a simpler solution, especially for those focused on macro work or travel documentation.
Video-focused lights like the Kraken Hydra series offer tremendous output—some reaching up to 6000 lumens—but these lights lack strobe functionality. That means poor battery performance if you rely solely on high-lumen continuous lighting for still images. The SS3 conserves battery through its strobe function and still provides excellent video lighting when needed. In hybrid operation, this can significantly extend your dive time and increase your shooting opportunities.
Symbiosis SS2 vs Symbiosis SS3: Sibling or Successor?
It’s tempting to assume the SS3 is a direct upgrade of the SS2 based on its name, but that would be misleading. These two devices serve different purposes. The SS2 is larger, heavier, and features a dual-head design with separate outputs for strobe and video light. It has a higher strobe output (guide number of 32) and a faster recycle time than the SS3, making it more suitable for wide-angle shooting and rapid burst photography.
However, the SS2’s size and weight make it less practical for travel or lightweight setups. The SS3, on the other hand, is a much more compact option designed for mobility and ease of use. It’s perfect for casual divers, macro enthusiasts, or vloggers who may prioritize continuous lighting for narration or subject tracking.
The SS2 is a better choice for photographers who shoot primarily wide-angle subjects and need maximum output, but at a higher cost and with greater bulk. The SS3 is for those who prefer a hybrid, flexible setup that doesn’t compromise simplicity. Instead of viewing them as upgrades of each other, it’s more accurate to see them as two tools designed for different diving styles.
Use Cases: Who Is the SS3 Really For?
The ideal user for the Symbiosis SS3 falls into several categories, based on diving behavior, photography preferences, and budget. Casual divers who occasionally shoot photos or videos during their dives will benefit greatly from the all-in-one convenience. There’s no need to mount multiple lights or carry extra batteries for separate devices.
For macro photographers, the SS3 is an optimal tool. It provides focused strobe power, smooth video lighting, and excellent control in a compact form. Because macro work is often done at short distances, you don’t need overpowering strobes. Instead, precision, battery life, and ease of movement matter more—areas where the SS3 excels.
Travelers and expedition divers will appreciate the low weight and compact size. It takes up minimal space in a gear bag and is easy to set up on any standard tray or arm. For instructors or dive guides who double as photographers for guests, the SS3 offers a reliable solution without needing to manage multiple lighting components.
Underwater videographers can also benefit from the SS3, particularly those who shoot compact or mirrorless systems. While dedicated video lights might offer more raw lumens, they come with size and heat management challenges. The SS3 balances brightness, duration, and beam quality in a way that supports clear and vibrant footage, especially for macro subjects or interviews.
For scientific divers, researchers, or survey teams capturing environmental documentation, the SS3 is useful due to its TTL capabilities, ease of syncing with various camera systems, and red light mode for non-invasive observation.
Shooting Techniques for Maximizing SS3 Performance
Getting the most out of the Symbiosis SS3 requires understanding how to position and use the light to suit your subject and environment. For macro work, position the SS3 close to the housing and angle it slightly downward. This reduces backscatter and helps isolate the subject with strong foreground lighting.
Using the red focus light mode allows you to approach shy subjects without startling them. Once focused, switch to strobe mode to capture the shot. In cases where ambient light is low or the subject is in shadow, use the video light mode on a low setting to aid with framing and focus.
For video recording, place the SS3 slightly above and to the side of the lens to avoid flat lighting. Shooting with the light just off-axis enhances texture and reduces the risk of blowing out highlights. Adjust the output level based on distance and visibility. Remember, the closer your subject, the lower the light intensity should be to avoid washing out colors.
If using the SS3 for wide-angle compositions, consider adding a second strobe or video light. This improves coverage, helps manage shadows, and balances exposure across the frame. The SS3 can still serve as the primary unit due to its video output and TTL compatibility, while the secondary unit provides fill or directional light.
Shooting wrecks or caves is another excellent scenario for the SS3. The powerful video light allows you to illuminate dark environments effectively. Combining video light with occasional strobe usage enables creative freedom without sacrificing battery life.
Reducing Backscatter with Proper Lighting Techniques
Backscatter is one of the most common challenges in underwater imaging, caused by particles in the water reflecting light into the lens. The SS3’s wide beam angle helps reduce this problem when properly positioned. To minimize backscatter, avoid pointing the light directly at the subject from the front. Instead, angle the light from the sides or slightly behind the subject.
The diffused beam provided by the dome helps soften edges and spread the light evenly, reducing harsh hot spots. In murky water, reduce the video light intensity to prevent over-illumination. Similarly, lower strobe power and bringing the light closer to the subject to reduce the space the light must travel through water, which limits its interaction with floating particles.
Controlling backscatter also involves buoyancy and trim. Maintain proper neutral buoyancy to keep a consistent distance from the subject and allow for slow, deliberate movements when adjusting lighting angles. This not only improves image quality but also protects marine life and reduces accidental disturbance of sediment.
Balancing Ambient Light and Artificial Light
Understanding how to balance the ambient light from the sun and the artificial light from the SS3 is crucial for producing natural-looking underwater images. In shallow water, where sunlight is abundant, you may need to reduce strobe output and adjust white balance accordingly. Shooting with the sun behind you generally makes lighting easier, while shooting into the sun requires stronger strobe output to balance exposure.
Use the SS3's lower power settings during bright daylight dives to avoid blowing out highlights. Instead, let the strobe fill in shadows and add color lost through water filtration. In deeper water or shaded environments, increase the video light level to ensure your camera captures sufficient light for clear images.
For video, always consider white balance adjustments. Set your camera's white balance manually to account for the blue or green tints underwater. The SS3’s 5500K color temperature closely resembles natural daylight, making it easier to match ambient light tones and produce more realistic footage.
When shooting wide-angle reef scenes, a mixture of sunlight and strobe can produce dramatic results. Use the SS3 to highlight the foreground while the background remains lit by sunlight. This technique creates depth and draws the viewer’s attention to the subject while preserving the natural environment.
Extending Battery Life and Managing Power Consumption
Battery management is critical during multi-dive days, especially in remote locations where charging facilities may be limited. To extend the life of your batteries, avoid running the video light at full brightness unless necessary. The SS3’s five-level adjustment system makes it easy to match the light to the scene without draining energy.
Use the strobe function more than the video light when capturing still images. The short bursts of light from the strobe use less power than sustained video lighting. Between dives, turn the unit off completely to prevent accidental battery drain. The five-click activation feature protects against unwanted activation in storage or transport.
Carrying an extra set of fully charged 18650 batteries is recommended. These batteries are compact, lightweight, and easily swappable. Always inspect battery contacts for corrosion and moisture before installing them in the device.
When storing the SS3 for extended periods, remove the batteries entirely and store them separately. This prevents potential battery leakage or power drain. Keep the battery compartment dry, and service the o-rings periodically to maintain waterproof integrity.
Underwater Videography Applications
The Symbiosis SS3 is well suited to underwater video production, particularly for vloggers, educators, and environmental content creators. Its smooth and evenly distributed video light is ideal for face illumination during narration or subject highlighting.
When used with wide-angle lenses, it can cover most small to medium-sized subjects with good clarity and color. For larger scenes, supplementing with a second video light or SS3 unit will enhance coverage.
Use the red light mode for setting up shots at night or in caves, then switch to white mode for recording. The ability to switch modes quickly means less disruption to the dive and smoother footage transitions.
With its adjustable brightness, the SS3 adapts well to different shooting styles, whether capturing fast motion (such as fish movement) or slow sequences (such as coral polyps opening). Its flexibility supports a variety of creative goals.
Advanced TTL Training Tips
While the TTL training function on the SS3 is designed to be easy, fine-tuning it for specific cameras may require multiple attempts. For best results, perform TTL training in a dark room or shaded area underwater where external light won't interfere with the camera's flash pulse.
Ensure the fiber optic cable is properly aligned with the camera flash window. Any misalignment may cause partial triggering or missed pulses. After training, test the system with a few shots and check exposure consistency. If the strobe over- or under-exposes, try the training again with minor adjustments in positioning.
TTL works best when the camera’s onboard flash settings are not overridden by custom exposure modes. Use standard auto or TTL modes during training to let the SS3 learn the full flash pattern. Once trained successfully, you can switch to manual or other modes as needed.
Maintenance and Care for Longevity
Maintaining the Symbiosis SS3 ensures it performs reliably across hundreds of dives. Rinse the unit thoroughly in fresh water after every use, especially after saltwater dives. Pay attention to crevices around buttons, the dial, and battery compartment seals.
Before opening the battery compartment, dry the exterior completely to prevent water from entering the interior. Inspect and lubricate o-rings regularly. Carry a small maintenance kit with spare O-rings, grease, and a cloth to wipe down contacts and seals.
Avoid leaving the SS3 in direct sunlight for extended periods, especially when not underwater. Overheating may cause premature wear of internal components. When transporting the unit in checked luggage, remove batteries and pack them separately to comply with airline regulations and avoid accidental activation.
Practical Use Scenarios for Different Dive Environments
The Symbiosis SS3 performs differently depending on the dive environment and subject matter. Understanding how to adapt your lighting strategy to different conditions ensures consistent results.
In tropical reef environments, where water visibility is typically good and light penetration is strong, the SS3 should be used more as a fill light than a primary source. The vibrant colors of coral and reef fish can be easily overexposed by intense lighting. Lower power settings on both strobe and video light will suffice. In these situations, proper positioning and subtle enhancement bring out natural hues without overwhelming the scene.
In colder or temperate waters, where light fades rapidly and visibility may be reduced due to plankton or suspended particles, the SS3's broader video beam becomes more useful. The even spread helps illuminate subjects in murky conditions. Backscatter becomes a more significant concern in these waters, so side lighting and diffused settings are critical. The red focus light is particularly valuable for night dives or during low-light macro work in kelp forests or rocky reefs.
For cave and wreck diving, where darkness is absolute and ambient light is absent, the SS3 functions primarily as a video light. The constant beam enables both navigation and documentation. In these environments, divers often work with smaller apertures and slower shutter speeds to accommodate the lighting limitations, making the SS3’s adjustable beam essential for exposure control. Battery life also becomes a greater consideration during these types of dives, so efficient use of power modes becomes part of the overall dive plan.
Expert Techniques for Consistent Exposure
To ensure a well-exposed underwater image or video, divers must manage several variables simultaneously: camera settings, light positioning, distance from subject, and clarity of water. The SS3 simplifies this process by allowing fast, intuitive adjustments via its physical dial and button layout.
For still photography, especially in macro, maintain a steady shooting distance and experiment with different strobe powers before committing to a full dive shoot. A common approach is to begin a dive by taking three or four sample shots of a coral or stationary subject. Use these to confirm TTL training or manual exposure consistency. Once satisfied with the results, apply those settings to your target subjects.
Underwater photographers often adjust ISO, aperture, and shutter speed based on depth and visibility. Since the SS3 provides both strobe and continuous light, you have the flexibility to adjust lighting instead of constantly shifting camera settings. Use lower ISO and tighter apertures for sharpness, relying on strobe output to compensate for lower sensitivity. In video mode, choose frame rates and shutter speeds that match your light output to prevent flicker or overexposure.
If you’re recording subjects that move unpredictably—such as schooling fish or passing sharks—keep the light slightly ahead of your field of view. This anticipates movement and reduces motion blur. Use medium or wide beam patterns depending on how much environmental context you want around the subject.
Dual Light Use: Creative Lighting Combinations
One of the SS3’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to function both as a strobe and a video light. When paired with a secondary light source—either another SS3 or a compact focus light—divers can create complex lighting setups that elevate image quality.
For instance, when shooting a macro subject such as a nudibranch or a shrimp, you can use the SS3 as a strobe on the left side of the housing, and a small video light angled from the right. This dual approach adds depth to the image by casting soft shadows and highlighting textures. The SS3’s ability to quickly transition between modes allows the photographer to test lighting combinations in real time.
In video, combining two SS3 units (one on each arm) provides excellent foreground coverage and balances left/right exposure. This is ideal for capturing underwater interviews, diver silhouettes, or wide reef pans. When used in red light mode during night shoots, the dual beam creates a cinematic ambiance while minimizing disturbance to marine life.
Advanced users may even use the SS3 with color filters or diffusers to change the mood or match color temperatures between natural and artificial lighting. Custom lighting profiles can be created using camera presets and SS3 brightness memory settings, supporting consistency across multiple dives.
Managing Equipment in Remote and Harsh Conditions
Many photographers and divers take their equipment to remote islands, liveaboards, or expedition settings where support and replacement parts are not readily available. In these situations, the reliability and modularity of the SS3 system become vital.
The use of standard 18650 lithium-ion batteries offers a major advantage. These batteries are widely available and can be charged using universal USB-compatible chargers. Having multiple charged sets and a lightweight charging kit ensures continued operation during back-to-back dives.
Because the SS3 includes built-in safety features like overheat protection and waterproof sealing, it can withstand long dives in challenging environments. However, divers should regularly inspect and clean the charging port, power button, and fiber optic connection to ensure functionality. It's best practice to carry spare O-rings, lens cloths, and a silicone grease tube in your dive kit.
A simple visual inspection of the dome lens and control dial before every dive can prevent surprises underwater. In high-silt or rough environments, always mount the SS3 with flexible arms that allow quick repositioning if visibility or subject distance changes unexpectedly.
Long-Term Value: Is the SS3 a Good Investment?
When evaluating long-term value, it’s important to look at durability, adaptability, and future-proofing. The SS3 checks many of these boxes. Unlike dedicated systems that serve only a single function—either strobe or video—the SS3 combines both in a single unit, reducing gear redundancy and simplifying packing for trips.
Its ability to work with virtually any camera system, whether compact, mirrorless, or DSLR, ensures that as you upgrade your camera, your lighting system remains compatible. The TTL training mode means that switching camera brands or models doesn’t render the SS3 obsolete. Its flexible mount system allows it to be attached to a wide variety of trays and arms, which is valuable for growing underwater photographers who may evolve their rig over time.
Additionally, the build quality is robust enough for frequent use. Even if you later decide to purchase a dedicated strobe or more powerful video light, the SS3 can still serve as a backup, a second unit for creative lighting, or a travel light when space is limited. This kind of versatility adds real-world value that outlives the initial purchase cost.
Final Evaluation: Who Should Buy the Symbiosis SS3?
The Symbiosis SS3 is not for everyone, but for its intended user, it delivers exceptional value. It is not the most powerful strobe, nor the brightest video light on the market. However, it successfully bridges the gap between amateur needs and semi-professional demands, offering a truly hybrid solution in a compact form factor.
Photographers who travel frequently, shoot a mix of video and photos, or who dive in variable environments will benefit most from its all-in-one design. It’s especially useful for macro shooters and content creators who require high reliability, fast setup, and lighting flexibility without dragging heavy, complicated gear through airports or onto boats.
On the other hand, professionals who specialize in wide-angle still photography of fast-moving pelagic animals may need more power and faster recycle times than the SS3 provides. In that case, a high-end strobe like the Retra Pro or Inon Z330 might be better suited. Similarly, if you shoot primarily high-frame-rate 4K video, dedicated video lights with higher lumen output would perform better.
But for the vast majority of underwater photographers who balance stills, video, and travel, the Symbiosis SS3 is an intelligent, practical, and durable choice.
Conclusion
The Symbiosis SS3 underwater lighting system represents a thoughtful and effective approach to a common challenge in underwater imaging: the need to balance powerful lighting with portability and versatility. It delivers strong strobe performance for macro and medium subjects, high-quality video lighting with wide coverage, and the bonus of red light and TTL functionality—all in one compact unit.
From tropical reefs to dark shipwrecks, and from close-up nudibranch portraits to wide reef panoramas, the SS3 can handle a wide variety of tasks. Its user-friendly design, reliable build, and flexible compatibility make it a perfect match for divers who want professional results without building a complex, multi-component lighting system.
In the end, it offers not just convenience, but also creative freedom—allowing you to focus on your subject and composition, rather than your gear.