Epic Water Housing

G

ggrantly

Veteran
Has anyone used the epic housing? I don't need much functionality, so it seems like a viable option.

I want to make some water to air transition shots or some very basic "just below the surface" footage for B-roll. I won't be diving, I'll be standing in water just above my knees since I'm afraid of deep water <8-0

I can use either a HPX or HMC40

Do you have any better inexpensive suggestions? I have even considered a waterproof pocket still cam like the Pentax W-80 which shoots 720p. Some of the sample footage I've seen is surprisingly good in well lit conditions.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=epic+pro+hd&N=0&InitialSearch=yes

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/634771-REG/Pentax_17771_Optio_W80_Digital_Camera.html

Best Regards,
Grant
 
I think that I have used the Epics before, but the one I remember was all yellow. Anyways, it seems like the same deal and would be ideal for what you are doing unless your air to water transitions need to go underwater. These things are very, very buoyant and a smooth transition would be extremely difficult.

Have you considered the Ewa-marine bags? Not buoyant, better ergonomics, and you get access to all the controls.
 
Those Ewa bags just don't inspire me much. Do they really work well?

I suppose weights could be hung on the Epic to create neutral bouyancy.

Grant
 
They make curved dive weights that might fit the outside of the Epic-but you would be surprised how much you need-probably like 8 lbs.

The Ewa bags are actually fine for what you are talking about-I wouldn't trust them on a dive or anything, but for being near the water and just under it, they are really great. One thing to watch out for with them is fogging, especially if its a sunny day and the water is cold. With all or underwater gear, we seal them in a dry or AC'ed room, then keep them absolutley covered from the sun and only bring them out to shoot. Seems to help keep fogging down.

Good luck
kairosmatt
 
I have never used any long-term anti-fog on the glass. Its an interesting idea, but I would contact the housing/bag manufacturer first-it might affect the sharpness of the image or the glass might not be compatible? I seem to recall using de-fog (like for a snorkeling mask) and that didn't cause any problems.

If I am careful about keeping the housing/bag out of the sun unless I need it, I don't have any problems. And the bigger housings (like the Epic) will take longer to fog because of the amount of air locked in there (the same reason its so buoyant).

kairosmatt
 
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