24 Feb How to choose the right diving light underwater?
In underwater, the propagation of light is significantly different from that on land, which is particularly crucial for underwater photography. The variation of underwater light is mainly influenced by three factors: absorption, scattering, and refraction.
Now, let’s take a look at the absorption of light underwater. The penetrative power of underwater light varies with different wavelengths, with red light being absorbed first, followed by orange-yellow light, and finally blue-green light. Red light (with a wavelength of approximately 700nm) is absorbed within just a few meters of entering water, while blue light (with a wavelength of approximately 475nm) can propagate to depths of 100 meters or deeper underwater.
Given the changes in light entering water, how should we choose dive lights in different environments? The recommendations are as follows:
1. Shallow water photography (0-10 meters): It is recommended to use dive lights with a brightness between 1000 and 3000 lumens. This brightness range is sufficient to compensate for light absorption in shallow water areas and restore the colors absorbed by water.
2. Deep water photography (10-40 meters): Deep-water diving requires dive lights with a brightness between 3000 and 10000 lumens. At these depths, high brightness can help penetrate the water, illuminate a larger area, and compensate for color loss.
3. Cave and wreck exploration: In environments completely lacking natural light, the brightness requirement increases further, and it is recommended to use dive lights with a brightness of up to 10000 lumens or more. Powerful brightness can illuminate dark environments and reveal details hidden in the darkness.
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