Underwater photography is a unique blend of art and technology, requiring equipment that can perform flawlessly in demanding environments. Among the most crucial tools for achieving professional-grade results are underwater strobes, which serve as the primary source of artificial light beneath the surface. In the world of underwater imaging, proper lighting can make the difference between a vibrant, color-accurate image and a dull, washed-out shot. The Ikelite DS165 and RC165 underwater strobes are designed to meet the needs of advanced enthusiasts and professional photographers who demand consistency, power, and reliability in their gear. These two strobes have been engineered to complement each other, offering a comprehensive lighting solution for a wide range of underwater scenarios. Their release marks a significant advancement in underwater lighting technology, integrating refined optical performance, robust construction, and versatile control options.
The DS165 and RC165 strobes share many core features while offering distinct functionalities that allow divers to adapt to various shooting situations. Both deliver 160 Ws of power, providing ample output to illuminate large scenes or bring out the details in macro compositions. Their wide 120° coverage ensures even lighting without harsh fall-off, which is essential for capturing expansive reefscapes or schooling marine life. With daylight-balanced color output at around 5000 K, these strobes reproduce natural hues, maintaining color fidelity even in deeper waters where ambient light becomes increasingly blue and muted.
One of the defining characteristics of these strobes is their rugged ABS-PC housing, which strikes a balance between durability and weight. This material offers resistance to corrosion while remaining lighter than aluminum alternatives, making the units easier to handle during long dives or while traveling. Depth-rated to 100 meters, both strobes are capable of performing reliably in challenging environments, from shallow tropical reefs to cold-water technical dives. Their design reflects years of field testing in some of the most demanding underwater conditions on the planet.
At the heart of the DS165 lies its built-in electrical bulkhead, which supports advanced TTL (Through-The-Lens) exposure control and seamless integration with a wide range of accessories. This makes it an ideal choice for photographers who prioritize precise exposure control and compatibility with complex setups. On the other hand, the RC165 utilizes a fiber optic connection, enabling flexible off-camera lighting configurations. This difference allows photographers to choose the strobe that best fits their shooting style, or to combine both in a synchronized dual-strobe setup for maximum creative flexibility.
Both strobes feature fast recycle times, ranging from instantaneous to approximately 1.2 seconds, powered by a dedicated NiMH battery pack. Unlike common AA-based systems, this custom power solution ensures consistent output and longevity, making it suitable for extended dive trips without worrying about battery degradation. The inclusion of a 205-lumen spot modeling light further enhances usability, aiding in composition and focus before firing the main flash.
The combination of power, color accuracy, and robust build quality makes the DS165 and RC165 trusted tools for underwater photographers who need their lighting gear to perform flawlessly dive after dive. Their matched output and design philosophy allow them to be used interchangeably or together, creating a cohesive lighting system capable of handling diverse shooting conditions.
The release of these strobes represents more than just new hardware; it underscores a commitment to supporting the growing demands of underwater imaging. As cameras become more advanced and capable of capturing higher resolutions and dynamic range, the need for lighting that can match these capabilities has never been greater. The DS165 and RC165 are designed to meet this demand, offering professional-grade performance in a package that remains intuitive and practical for divers at various skill levels.
In the following sections, we will explore the individual features of the DS165 and RC165 strobes in greater depth, examine their performance in real-world conditions, and discuss how they can be integrated into different underwater photography setups. From their technical specifications to practical usage tips, this comprehensive look at these strobes aims to provide a clear understanding of why they are considered among the best options currently available for underwater photographers seeking consistent, high-quality lighting solutions.
In-Depth Exploration of the Ikelite DS165 Underwater Strobe
The Ikelite DS165 underwater strobe has earned a reputation as a powerful, reliable lighting solution designed specifically for demanding underwater photography. Built to meet the expectations of both professional photographers and advanced enthusiasts, the DS165 offers a blend of power, control, and durability that makes it stand out in the realm of underwater lighting systems. In this section, we will take a closer look at the DS165, exploring its core features, build quality, performance characteristics, and practical applications in underwater photography. Understanding the DS165 in detail provides insight into why it has become a staple for photographers seeking consistent, professional results beneath the surface.
The DS165 is engineered to deliver a strong and consistent flash output of 160 Ws, giving photographers the ability to illuminate a wide range of subjects and scenes underwater. This level of power is particularly valuable when capturing wide-angle compositions such as reefscapes, wrecks, or large marine life, where natural light is insufficient, and even illumination is critical. The strobe achieves a guide number of 32 at ISO 100 in air, which translates into dependable lighting performance in both shallow and deeper water conditions. Its daylight-balanced color temperature of approximately 5000 K ensures that colors are reproduced with accuracy, maintaining the natural vibrancy of coral reefs, fish, and other underwater subjects. By producing a balanced light spectrum, the DS165 helps restore the reds and yellows that are quickly lost as depth increases, resulting in images that are true to life.
One of the key elements that defines the DS165 is its robust housing. Constructed from ABS-PC material, the housing is corrosion-resistant and designed to withstand prolonged exposure to saltwater environments. This material not only provides strength and impact resistance but also keeps the unit lighter than traditional aluminum-bodied strobes, making it easier to manage during dives and when traveling with gear. The strobe is depth-rated to 100 meters (330 feet), ensuring reliability in a range of diving conditions, including deep technical dives. This level of durability has been proven through extensive field testing in diverse and challenging environments, from cold Arctic waters to warm tropical seas.
Control is a major factor in underwater lighting, and the DS165 excels in providing intuitive and precise exposure adjustment. The manual exposure control is facilitated by a tactile 10-stop dial with half-stop increments, allowing photographers to fine-tune their lighting output based on the shooting scenario. The dial’s secure, click-stop design makes it easy to operate even when wearing thick dive gloves, ensuring that adjustments can be made quickly and accurately without fumbling with controls. This level of manual control is critical when balancing strobe light with ambient light, especially in situations where subtle adjustments make the difference between an overexposed and perfectly exposed image.
A notable feature of the DS165 is its integration of a built-in electrical bulkhead, specifically an ICCS-5 connector, which supports advanced TTL functionality. TTL, or Through-The-Lens metering, allows the camera to communicate exposure requirements directly to the strobe, providing automated and highly accurate flash output in rapidly changing lighting conditions. This capability is particularly beneficial for photographers who shoot fast-moving subjects such as fish or marine mammals, where manual adjustments may not be practical in real-time. Beyond TTL, the electrical bulkhead offers compatibility with a range of accessories, including sync cords and converters, enabling photographers to build a fully integrated and versatile lighting system tailored to their specific needs.
In addition to its powerful flash output, the DS165 incorporates a 205-lumen spot modeling light. This feature is invaluable for assisting in composition and focusing in low-light conditions. The modeling light provides a clear preview of how the strobe light will interact with the subject and surrounding environment, making it easier to position the strobe for optimal results. For macro photographers working with small subjects or in intricate environments such as coral crevices, the modeling light can significantly improve shot alignment and focus accuracy.
Another defining characteristic of the DS165 is its use of a custom NiMH battery pack. This airline-friendly power source provides consistent and long-lasting energy delivery, with recycle times ranging from instantaneous to approximately 1.2 seconds depending on the power setting. The ability to recycle quickly is essential for capturing sequences of images without missing critical moments. Unlike strobes that rely on AA batteries, the DS165’s dedicated NiMH pack ensures stable voltage output and longer lifespan, with many users reporting reliable performance well beyond five years of use. The battery system also incorporates a no-lube positive cam-lock design, simplifying the process of securing the battery and ensuring a watertight seal without the need for grease or complex maintenance.
The optical design of the DS165 further enhances its effectiveness as a professional-grade strobe. The proprietary circular flash tube, combined with a soft white powder-coated reflector, produces a wide and even beam pattern covering approximately 100° without requiring diffusers. This even light distribution eliminates hotspots and harsh edges, resulting in natural-looking illumination across the entire frame. For photographers capturing both wide-angle and macro images, this consistency in light spread is critical to maintaining image quality across different shooting scenarios.
Field performance is where the DS165 truly demonstrates its value. Tested extensively in real-world diving conditions, the strobe has proven its ability to perform reliably across a range of environments and depths. From icy polar expeditions to high-current drift dives, the DS165 has been praised for its durability, consistent output, and ease of use. Professional underwater photographers often rely on equipment that can endure repeated exposure to challenging conditions without failure, and the DS165 has established itself as a trustworthy companion in this regard.
The practical application of the DS165 in underwater photography is highly versatile. When paired with a compatible camera housing and TTL converter, the strobe delivers automated exposure control that simplifies shooting in dynamic conditions. For those who prefer manual control, the intuitive dial and fast recycle times allow for precise adjustments and rapid shooting. The DS165 can be used as a primary strobe for single-light setups or as part of a dual-strobe configuration, where its matched output with the RC165 enables seamless integration. Wide-angle photographers benefit from the strobe’s power and coverage, while macro photographers appreciate the controlled, even lighting that highlights fine details without overpowering small subjects.
The DS165 is also designed with travel and ease of maintenance in mind. The NiMH battery pack’s compatibility with international charging options makes it suitable for use in various regions, while the strobe’s modular design allows for straightforward servicing and part replacement. This level of practicality ensures that the DS165 remains a reliable tool not just in the field but also over years of continued use.
Ultimately, the Ikelite DS165 underwater strobe represents a careful balance between raw power, usability, and long-term reliability. It's thoughtful engineering addresses the unique challenges of underwater photography, offering a solution that enhances creative possibilities while maintaining simplicity and durability. Whether used by a seasoned professional capturing award-winning images or by an advanced enthusiast documenting their diving adventures, the DS165 provides the kind of consistent, high-quality lighting that allows underwater photography to truly shine.
Understanding the Ikelite RC165 Underwater Strobe
The Ikelite RC165 is designed as a versatile counterpart to the DS165, sharing many of its strengths while introducing unique features that cater to different shooting styles and setups. Where the DS165 emphasizes electrical bulkhead connectivity and integrated TTL systems, the RC165 offers an alternative approach with its fiber optic triggering capability. Together, these two strobes form a complementary system that can handle a wide range of underwater photography scenarios, from close-focus macro to expansive wide-angle scenes. In this section, we will explore the RC165 in detail, covering its core design, functionality, performance characteristics, and role within professional underwater photography setups.
The RC165 is built around the same powerful 160Ws flash output as the DS165, delivering consistent illumination for demanding underwater scenes. This level of power allows the strobe to effectively cut through the natural loss of light and color that occurs underwater, restoring vibrancy to subjects and environments alike. The strobe’s guide number of 32 at ISO 100 in air indicates strong light output, while its 5000 K daylight-balanced color temperature ensures accurate color reproduction across a wide spectrum. This consistency is especially important when using the RC165 alongside the DS165 in dual-strobe setups, as it allows for seamless blending of light sources without mismatched color temperatures or uneven illumination.
The build quality of the RC165 mirrors that of its counterpart. Constructed with an ABS-PC housing, the strobe is both rugged and lightweight, designed to endure the harsh conditions of underwater environments while remaining manageable for divers and photographers. The corrosion-resistant material ensures longevity even with repeated exposure to saltwater, while the depth rating of 100 meters (330 feet) provides confidence for both recreational and technical divers. This durability has been tested extensively in diverse conditions, ensuring that the RC165 can deliver consistent performance regardless of the dive site or water temperature.
Manual control is a key aspect of the RC165, and like the DS165, it features a tactile 10-stop dial with half-stop increments for precise exposure adjustments. This intuitive control system allows photographers to adapt quickly to changing lighting conditions underwater, making fine-tuned adjustments without the need for complex menus or electronic interfaces. The secure, click-stop mechanism of the dial ensures reliable operation even with gloves, which is essential during cold-water dives or technical expeditions where dexterity may be limited.
A defining characteristic of the RC165 is its fiber optic triggering system. Unlike the DS165, which uses an electrical bulkhead for TTL communication, the RC165 relies on a fiber optic connection to receive the firing signal. This design provides several advantages, particularly in terms of flexibility and ease of setup. Fiber optic triggering eliminates the need for physical electrical connections between the strobe and the camera housing, reducing the potential for leaks or connection failures. For photographers using compact or mirrorless camera systems that support fiber optic TTL, the RC165 offers seamless integration and accurate automated exposure control. In manual mode, the RC165 can be triggered via a fiber optic slave from any pre-flash or standard flash source, making it a versatile option for off-camera lighting applications.
The RC165’s fiber optic capability makes it particularly well-suited for creative lighting setups. Photographers can position the strobe off-camera to achieve more dynamic lighting effects, such as side-lighting or backlighting subjects to create depth and drama in the image. This flexibility is invaluable for advanced lighting techniques in both macro and wide-angle photography. In macro scenarios, off-camera strobes can help highlight textures and minimize backscatter, while in wide-angle shots, strategically placed strobes can emphasize the scale and dimensionality of wrecks, reefs, and large marine life.
Like the DS165, the RC165 includes a 205-lumen spot modeling light, which provides essential assistance in composing and focusing shots in low-light environments. The modeling light helps photographers visualize how the strobe’s light will interact with the subject and surrounding area, aiding in strobe positioning and improving overall image composition. For macro photographers working with small subjects or shooting in low-visibility conditions, this feature is particularly beneficial for achieving precise focus and optimal lighting placement.
The RC165 uses the same custom NiMH battery pack as the DS165, ensuring consistent power delivery and fast recycle times ranging from instantaneous to approximately 1.2 seconds. This rapid recycling is critical for capturing multiple frames in quick succession, especially when photographing moving subjects. The use of a dedicated NiMH battery pack over AA batteries ensures stable voltage output, longer operational lifespan, and greater reliability in demanding conditions. The battery’s no-lube cam-lock design simplifies handling and maintenance, providing a secure seal without the need for additional lubrication or complicated assembly.
The optical performance of the RC165 is engineered to match professional requirements. Its circular flash tube and soft white powder-coated reflector create an even, wide beam pattern of approximately 100° without requiring diffusers. This even light distribution minimizes harsh shadows and hotspots, producing natural, balanced illumination across the frame. When used in dual-strobe configurations with the DS165, the matched beam pattern and color temperature allow for uniform lighting, making the pair an excellent choice for photographers seeking consistent results.
In practical field applications, the RC165 demonstrates its value in a variety of shooting situations. For photographers who prefer fiber optic connections over electrical bulkheads, the RC165 offers a straightforward and reliable solution. Its compatibility with current Ikelite housings and many legacy systems ensures that it integrates smoothly into existing setups, reducing the need for additional adapters or modifications. For those exploring advanced lighting techniques, the ability to use the RC165 as an off-camera strobe provides creative freedom and control over the final image.
The RC165’s design also caters to the needs of traveling photographers. The lightweight ABS-PC housing, airline-friendly NiMH battery pack, and compatibility with international charging standards make it a practical choice for expeditions and dive trips. Its durability ensures that it can withstand the rigors of travel and repeated use in various diving environments, from warm tropical waters to challenging cold-water conditions.
Another aspect of the RC165 that deserves attention is its role in balanced lighting systems. When paired with the DS165, the RC165 provides photographers with a cohesive and matched lighting setup. The ability to combine electrical and fiber optic triggering within the same system offers flexibility for different shooting scenarios. For example, a photographer might use the DS165 as the primary strobe connected via electrical TTL for consistent exposure control, while deploying the RC165 as an off-camera fiber optic-triggered strobe to create more dynamic lighting effects. This combination allows for a level of creative control that enhances the overall quality and impact of underwater images.
From a maintenance perspective, the RC165 is designed with simplicity and reliability in mind. The modular construction allows for straightforward servicing and part replacement, ensuring that the strobe remains operational over years of use. The corrosion-resistant housing and secure sealing systems minimize the risk of water intrusion, while the NiMH battery system reduces the need for constant battery replacement and maintenance compared to AA-based systems.
Ultimately, the Ikelite RC165 serves as a powerful and flexible lighting tool that complements the DS165 while offering its unique advantages. Its fiber optic triggering system, combined with the same robust build and high-performance specifications as the DS165, makes it an ideal choice for photographers seeking versatility and creative control in their underwater lighting setups. Whether used as a standalone strobe or as part of a dual-strobe system, the RC165 delivers the consistent, professional-grade lighting that is essential for capturing stunning underwater imagery.
Using the DS165 and RC165 Together
One of the strongest aspects of the Ikelite DS165 and RC165 is how well they complement each other when used as a pair. Many professional underwater photographers choose to combine these strobes in a dual-strobe setup to maximize control over lighting and ensure full coverage in wide-angle scenes.
When both strobes are used together, their matched 160 Ws output and 5000 K color temperature produce consistent lighting with no color mismatch. This uniformity is critical when shooting scenes that require balanced light across a wide field, such as wrecks, reefs, and schooling fish. The even 100° beam angle on both strobes provides smooth, shadow-free illumination without requiring diffusers, although diffusers can be added for an even softer light when shooting delicate subjects.
Dual Strobe Configuration
A common approach is to mount the DS165 as the primary strobe using the electrical bulkhead for reliable TTL control, while the RC165 is positioned as a secondary strobe triggered via fiber optic. This setup combines the benefits of both connection types: consistent exposure through electrical TTL and the creative flexibility of off-camera fiber optic triggering. Photographers can adjust the RC165’s position freely without worrying about cable tension or water sealing on a secondary bulkhead.
Balancing Power Output
When using two strobes, fine-tuning power output is essential to avoid overexposure and backscatter. The 10-stop manual control on both the DS165 and RC165 makes it easy to dial in matching or complementary light levels. For example, one strobe can be set slightly lower to create natural side-lighting and depth in wide-angle shots, or both can be balanced equally for flat, even illumination on large subjects.
Applications in Macro Photography
While these strobes are often seen in wide-angle photography due to their high output, they are equally effective in macro work when paired with diffusers and adjusted for lower power settings. Dual-strobe macro setups allow precise control over shadows and can emphasize textures in small subjects like nudibranchs or crustaceans. The 205-lumen modeling lights on both strobes aid in focusing on tiny subjects, even in low-visibility environments.
Travel and Field Reliability
For traveling photographers, the DS165 and RC165 offer practical benefits. The shared battery system simplifies logistics by reducing the number of chargers and spare parts needed. The rugged ABS-PC housing and 100-meter depth rating ensure durability across diverse dive locations, from shallow tropical reefs to deep technical wreck dives. Because both strobes use the same mounting and control interface, transitioning between setups is seamless, minimizing downtime between dives.
Conclusion
The Ikelite DS165 and RC165 strobes represent a professional-grade underwater lighting system that balances power, durability, and flexibility. The DS165 excels with its electrical TTL capability, fast recycle times, and rugged construction, making it a reliable choice for primary strobe use in demanding conditions. The RC165 complements it with fiber optic triggering, providing additional creative freedom and versatility for off-camera and advanced lighting techniques.
Together, these strobes offer a matched lighting solution that delivers consistent, high-quality illumination for both macro and wide-angle underwater photography. Their shared specifications—160 Ws output, 5000 K color temperature, and even 100° beam—ensure uniformity in dual-strobe setups, while their durable build and fast recycle times make them dependable tools for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.
Whether used individually or as part of a coordinated system, the DS165 and RC165 provide the control and performance necessary to capture the vibrant colors and fine details that make underwater photography so compelling. Their combination of power, precision, and reliability positions them as a benchmark in the field, capable of meeting the needs of photographers working in a wide range of underwater environments.