News
UWP News from DEMA: Light & Motion
Light & Motion was started up by two Stanford students in 1989. The company is based in Monterey in California and everything they make is built at this location. What a fantastic place to be based, where they can walk out the company headquarters doors and straight into the water for some great diving! We did this ourselves two years ago. We met-up with Hal Wolter at DEMA to talk about what is new in the world of Light & Motion.
Our first conversation got us onto just how many video lights there are on the market and how consumers are really struggling to work-out which was the best video/photo light to buy. Hal told us about the FL-1 standard that should put everyone on the same page when it comes to their claims on lumens and output. They have even gone so far as setting-up a webpage to compare the various lights that are on the market: www.wetestlights.com
We then got on with talking about new products from Light & Motion that were on display at DEMA. The first of these is the Sola Video Pro 9600. As the name suggests this is a 9600 lumen light launched at DEMA and it has an LED read-out on the back of the light to show the current battery life and lumen output. This is the top of the range video light with 7 modes plus an SOS facility.
Also new at the show was the Sola Video 3800 F. This is a wonderfully compact light that packs a mean punch. 3800 lumen flood with a wide 90 degree beam. It has a fast charge system, so that you can be fully charged within 1hr 45mins and you have the option of carrying a remote battery pack so that you can recharge this light without a wall socket for up to 3 charges, great for trips with limited access to standard electricity sockets!
The Sola Video 2500 S/f is a light that has a moderately wide beam of 60 degrees at 2500 lumens and also the option to switch to a penetrating 12 degree spotlight at 1200 lumen. This will be popular with underwater photographers who want a snoot-style light option, to go with a video light and can have this all wrapped up in one light with the Sola. Each beam has three power levels plus the additional SOS mode.
New for January 2017 will be a dome to increase the beam angle by 20 degrees. This has been designed so that it will fit all models from around the last 3 years.
Light & Motion have partnered with another DEMA exhibitor, Polarpro (see Scubaverse interview here) to create the “ultimate video kit” for the GoPro cameras. This is a package that includes a tray, 2 arms, filter system, macro lens and 2 lights, all packed up in a handy bag.
Blogs
BTM Travel: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Dive Adventures
Who We Are
BTM Travel is a boutique dive travel agency based in Munich, Germany, led by a passionate team of seasoned diving professionals.
- Marcel Wilpernig, our founder, has explored nearly every corner of the underwater world and brings over a decade of experience in the diving industry.
- Tim De Deygere, our product manager, made the bold leap from a successful law career to follow his true passion—diving.
- Simona Hlavova is the backbone of BTM Travel, ensuring smooth operations with her expertise in administration and sales.
While a significant portion of our clientele comes from Germany, our reach extends globally—from Bangladesh to California. BTM Travel is closely connected to Behind the Mask, an underwater videography network that inspires us to bring divers to the world’s most breathtaking ocean destinations.
What We Do
BTM Travel specializes in group diving adventures and tailored big animal experiences:
- Group Travel: We organize intimate trips to premier dive spots, led by expert photographers or wildlife guides for an unforgettable adventure. The vibe? Laid-back and adrenaline-filled.
- Tailor-Made Trips: For seasoned divers, we craft bespoke itineraries, offering insider tips on where to go, when to go, and what to expect. Our expertise ensures realistic expectations and unforgettable experiences.
Our focus lies on big animal diving, delivering the thrill of encounters with marine giants. While we love macro and reef diving, we know our true strength lies in providing high-octane experiences for adventurers.
What Makes Us Different
We take a fresh look at traditional diving industry practices, challenging outdated habits to better serve modern-day customers.
- Authenticity First: We only recommend destinations we trust, avoiding overselling places that don’t offer great value or quality.
- Heartfelt Advice: Our honest approach resonates with clients, building lasting relationships and unforgettable journeys.
Our Mission
Helping divers explore the places we love is not just our job—it’s our passion. Our goal is to remain small, authentic, and dedicated to delivering exceptional dive travel experiences.
Find Out More
For more information about itineraries, destinations, and bespoke dive adventures, contact BTM Travel:
Email: info@behind-the-mask.com
Call: +49 (0) 176 55771225
Website: www.behind-the-mask.com
News
Dive into Adventure: Limited Space Available for January Socorro Liveaboard Trip with Oyster Diving
Socorro Giant Mantas, Sharks and Dolphins – 8-16th January 2025
Oyster Diving is offering an unforgettable opportunity to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary dive destinations – Socorro Island. With only one male space left for this January’s liveaboard adventure, divers are invited to join an exclusive trip to explore the waters of Socorro, renowned for its remarkable marine life and incredible dive experiences.
Unmatched Diving in Socorro
Socorro is home to a unique population of giant oceanic mantas that actively seek interaction with divers and snorkelers, making it one of the best places in the world to encounter these majestic creatures. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – the waters surrounding Socorro are also teeming with marine life, including schooling hammerheads and silky sharks, over 10 other species of sharks, playful bottlenose dolphins that love to interact with divers, large schools of pelagic fish, and, during the season, humpback whales.
Luxury Aboard the Nautilus Belle Amie
Diving in such an extraordinary location is made even more special by the Nautilus Belle Amie. Launched in 2015, this modern, spacious liveaboard yacht is designed with divers in mind, ensuring comfort and luxury throughout the trip. The boat offers various suite options, including twin rooms and superior double suites, all with the ambiance of a boutique hotel. Divers will spend 8 days aboard the Belle Amie, with all meals, guided dives, and soft drinks included.
Pricing and Availability
This exclusive Socorro liveaboard trip is available for the following prices:
- Twin Room (2 people sharing a Stateroom): £3360 per person
- Superior Double Suite (2 people sharing): £3860 per person
Both prices include Socorro Island fees. A port fee of $35 is payable upon arrival.
Additional Costs:
- Return economy flights: Approx. £1,000 – £1,300 per person (prices confirmed prior to booking)
- One night hotel B&B accommodation before the liveaboard: Approx. £100 per person
Book Now
With only one spot left, this opportunity to explore Socorro’s spectacular underwater world is sure to fill up fast. Interested divers are encouraged to get in touch with Oyster Diving Holidays to secure their place today.
For more information and bookings, please contact:
Oyster Diving Holidays
Phone: 0800 699 0243
Email: info@oysterdiving.com
Don’t miss your chance to dive with mantas, sharks, dolphins, and humpbacks in one of the world’s most pristine marine environments!
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