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We get this question quite often, as well as the other way around, can I get TTL with non-Ikelite strobes and an Ikelite housing?
So first of all, this question is only relevant to the Ikelite Mirrorless or DSLR housings, that is because their compacts have a fiber optic connection and access to the cameras built in strobe and thus offer TTL with any TTL strobe just like any other housing.
Can I get TTL with non-Ikelite strobes and an Ikelite housing?
No, since the Ikelite mirrorless and DSLR housings do not support a fiber optic trigger and do not have any fiber optic adapters in them. As such strobe can only be connect through manual fiber optic or through a sync cord connection, both which do not allow for TTL.
Can I get TTL with Ikelite strobes and non Ikelite housings?
Now to our main question. Ikelite strobes support TTL through and electronic connection only and while they can be triggered optically with an additional device, that would be manual only. Only Ikelite support this connection with unique TTL circuitry that was developed by them and can only be found in their housing. Some manufacturers like Aquatica also offer Ikelite bulkheads but without the TTL circuitry so a strobe can be connected but can only be used in manual mode.
There is an exception to that, Aquatica offer a few of their housing with the Ikelite TTL circuitry as an option, this for example is offered in their 5D IV and R5 housing, it is current offered for Canon only.
In my opinion, TTL is not a must at all and setting manual strobe power and letting your camera do the rest is not that much of a learning curve. But … If you do want TTL, you ‘d have to get an Ikelite housing and Ikelite strobe or a different housing and a different strobe, can’t mix and match these and get TTL.
About the Author
Mari Herrarte
Mari has been diving for 15 years and loves spending time in the ocean, surrounded by nature. She is also passionate about photography and capturing the beauty she discovers underwater.
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