Ring lights greatly enhance macro photography underwater. There are so many tiny subjects below the water’s surface and the diminishing light quality as you dive deeper does not do the underwater photographer any favors. Underwater ring lights are the perfect equipment for such photography. Just like other ring lights, the underwater light is fitted around the lens of the camera. This positioning makes the light suitable for eliminating distracting shadows which would otherwise make little subjects not clearly visible.
Weight
Ring lights are generally light, rarely more than half a pound (226 grams) in weight. This is a welcome feature as it does not increase the probably already uncomfortable weight of your equipment.
Adaptability to the camera
Most ring lights come in one lens size and are thus suited for only a specific type of camera. There are, however, several sizes available for every model of ring lights; all you need to do is pick one that fits your camera lens.
Light quality
Ring lights do not provide the most powerful light, but that is not what they are designed to do. The light should be dim enough not to scare off the photographer’s subject, and soft enough to avoid an overly-bright shot. Most ring lights do not exceed 1000 LUX, but that is more than adequate for a nice shot.
Power source
A good ring light should be self-powered as you are already trying to save your camera’s battery. A 1000 LUX ring light’s battery should charge for about four hours and be able to comfortably handle a five-hour shoot.
Maintenance
Ring lights just need to be rinsed properly and dried after a session under water. Take care to remove the battery during cleaning and store it separately from the light.
The improvement that ring lights have brought to underwater photography cannot be overstated. These are light and inexpensive accessories that every diving photographer, whether recreational or professional, should strive to have in their pack.
