Using 2 different Strobes good or bad?

[tvelden]

Hi guys

I would like to get your opinion on the pros and cons of using 2 different strobes on my underwater setup. Currently I use a Nikon D90 in an Aquatica housing, I was now wondering if I should go for 2 YS 120 or for 1 YS 250 combined with 1 YS 120.
Does have anybody experience with using different strobes with different power?

Thanks for your thoughts

[James]

You may get shadowing to the weaker side. This effect is sometimes accomplished on purpose by varying the power side to side even with the same strobes. To eliminate the shadow you will have to reduce power on the strong side and use a diffuser to even things out.

No expert here but yes, I used to have different strobes with different power levels on my Nikonos III and those did not have adjustable power so I balanced them with different diffusers (home made).

[scottg]

I don't think it's a problem, especially if you're setting the strobe powers manually.

Will you set the strobe power manually or use TTL? Slightly different strobe power can give your photos depth. YS-250's are big though, you're rig might be a little unbalanced. But it will be nice for you to have that extra power and recycle speed if you need it, even if it's just on one side.

[tswinner]

Like Scott said, It's no problem unless you plan on shooting TTL. If so I would check with Sea N Sea. If you haven't bought the strobes yet I would buy 2 of the same. Go for the 2 120s or just start with 1 250. A lot of great images are made with 1 strobe. Also take a look at the Ike strobes they work great and a lot less money.

Todd

[scottg]

Do they still sell 120's? I thought those were quite an old model and discontinued.

[tvelden]

sorry small mistake not the 120 it's the YS 110.

Concerning the price the Ikelites 160 are pretty similar when you add the charger to the strobe compared to the YS 250.

The question is I have a YS 110 what would be now better as future investment another YS 110 or getting now something more powerfull.

[scottg]

well I"d get the more powerful strobe if you don't mind the size of the Ys-250. The power would be useful for wide-angle, shooting into the sun at F18.

[bvanant]

First, there is nothing wrong with 2 different strobes, many of us do it all the time. The YS250 is a honker of a strobe, so travel will be tougher than with two smaller strobes like the 110a or the Inons. If you are going to shoot wrecks or lots of big stuff deep and dark then on the general principle of you can't have too much light, get the biggest strobe you can. On the other hand if you mostly shoot macro then smaller strobes are all that you will need.
Bill

[tvelden]

Thanks guys for your advice. I will go now for two Ikelites D160. I think they offer good value for money interms of power, recycle speed and interms of weight they are still managable on travels.