Underwater photography using the Nikon D80/Hugyfot HFN D80

I started underwater photography in 1999, with a Motormarine IIex, that I gradually extended with a secondary strobe, 16mm wide angle and both macro lenses. In 2003 is switched to an SLR camera, the F80 by Nikon, with a Hugyfot underwater housing.

In 2007 I switched to digital photography, and chose for the Nikon D80. This choice was primarily determined by the lenses already in my possesion, including the 24-85mm zoom, and 105 plus 60mm macro. I also found numerous positive reviews on the camera, which showed the camera's good price/performance. The D200 was too expensive for me. I did buy a Tokina 12-24mm lens to replace the 24mm of my zoom lens, as the latter can no longer be regarded as wide angle on the D80.

As the D80 already has extensive coverage on the internet, I will limit this review to the Hugyfot housing.

Hugyfot D80 underwater housing

The Hugyfot HFN D80 draws attention by its beautiful exterior and excellent design. The housing is fully machined from seawater resistant aluminum and has a black coating. Almost all camera functions can be operated through the housing.

My housing is equipped with two 5-pins Nikonos strobe connectors and a built-in Heinrich-Weikamp TTL converter for attachment of two strobes. The converter is optional but I can recommend it if you want to shoot TTL. If required, the housing can also be fitted with a 6S connector.

Ports are available for many Nikon, Sigma and Tokina lenses, sometimes in combination with extension rings.

The preparation

The camera is fitted in the housing with a tripod screw: first the screw is attached to the camera, than both are put in the housing and fastened. Quick and easy. When the camera is not in the housing, it can be kept in the base so you don't lose it.

As probably is the case with all housings, the positioning of the power button must be payed attention to. Switch it off and match the housing's switch before putting the camera in the housing.

As both the leak sensor and the TTL converter do not have a power switch, I recommend to test these regularly (e.g. by placing a wet finger on the sensor). A continuous flashing led does indicate a functioning sensor, but from the tone of the audible signal one can determine the state of the battery. According to Hugyfot the battery should last 5 years, but in my case it was already empty after only 5 months.

After connecting the strobe shoe the housing can be closed by means of two Hex cap bolts.

Some people do no like this way of locking, but personally I do like this method as it ensure me that the housing is closed. I also thus know that it can not be accidentally opened when jumping in or under water. But do pay attention: the manual states that the bolts only need to be tightened mildly, but many housings may have been flooded this way as the bolts do require some force for correct closure.

Underwater use

I use the housing in combination with two Hartenberger 250HS strobes, making it quite heavy on the surface: the housing and camera weigh +/- 4.5 kg, my strobes and arms +/- 6 kg, in total more than 10 kg. Underwater this is no issue, the set is even slightly buoyant, depending on the port in use.

All buttons are positioned for easy access and also quite large so they can be operated when wearing diving gloves.

The viewfinder is nice and clear, though unfortunately it does not provide a 100% view. But by moving my head a little bit, I can still check the corners of the picture quite easy. The shutter release button works excellent, pressing it half-way can also be felt very well. I do miss direct control over the flash compensation function, I now have to use the camera's menu.

Conclusion

I am very happy with the:

• Look and design of the housing
• Ergonomics, the handle and strap
• Large buttons for easy control, even when wearing gloves

Things that could be improved:

• The finishing of the strobe wiring (see picture on the right)
• The lack of a direct flash compensation control

I do recommend this set for the high-demanding photographer that does not have a problem with "dragging" all the equipment around.

Review by: Erik de Boer, www.scubaphoto.eu

Underwater photos

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