Ikelite Underwater Housing for Panasonic Lumix ZS100, TZ100, TZ101

If you're looking for a powerful, high quality super zoom for travel then look no further. Like the popular Sony Cyber-shot RX100 Mark IV, Panasonic gives us a huge 1"-type sensor and 4K video recording in a pocket-able body. Plus, Panasonic gives us an extended zoom of 25-250mm—the extra reach we want topside—without the normal bulk of a super zoom.

This compact and lightweight housing provide all important functions of Panasonic Lumix ZS100, TZ100, and TZ101 cameras up to depths of 200 feet (60m). Large, easy-to-reach controls are provided for all camera functions including the rear dial and custom function controls. Control functions are placed in a similar configuration to the camera's layout for the most natural operation taking advantage of the muscle memory you've already developed in surface use. Rear controls are marked with easy-to-see laser engraved symbols which never fade or fall off. The front-loading camera mounting system makes installation and removal a breeze. The camera mounting plate allows ready access to the battery and memory card, and features a standard 1/4-20 mounting point for attachment to a tripod topside.

Zoom and macro close-up

The glass lens port has been optimized for a wide angle to macro range of 25-200mm. This zoom range is ideal for use in the water with or without optional accessories. The camera cannot be zoomed beyond 200mm while installed in the housing with the standard lens port.

A press-fit Macro Adapter (sold separately) is available for the attachment of 67mm threaded accessory macro lenses. We recommend a macro lens which is designed for underwater use like those from Epoque, INON, Subsee, Nauticam, and other manufacturers. The adapter should not be used with 67mm threaded wide angle lenses. The wide angle lens would be too far away from the camera's lens to provide an improved image.

Optional wide angle port

The optional Wide Angle Port M67 for Panasonic ZS100 TZ100 can be used in place of the housing's standard port for use of 67mm threaded external wide angle lenses. This port is as close to the camera's lens as possible for the best image quality and very little vignetting (dark shadows in the corners of the image) with external wet lenses. Vignetting can be eliminated by cropping the photo in post-production. The INON UWL-H100 exhibits the least vignetting and best clarity with this model among popular wet lenses currently available on the market.

The standard lens port is removed and the Wide Angle Port M67 simply threads into the front of the housing for quick and easy installation. The camera's focal length must be pre-set to 25mm whenever this port is attached and cannot be zoomed underwater behind this port.

Color correction and external lighting

Light is absorbed as it travels through even short distances underwater, making colors appear dull or monochromatic. To preserve the natural colors of your subject, it's important to stay within arm's reach—no more than 3-4 feet (1m) away.

Additional color correction and clarity can be obtained by adding a color filter or external light. The lens port of the housing accept our 3.9-inch diameter color filters, which are available for both tropical blue water and green water settings. A color filter reduces the amount of light that reaches the camera's sensor, so they are most effective in sunny conditions up to approximately 80 feet (24m).

A flash or constant on light is necessary for close-up, night dives, and deep depths. An external light also brings out more colors in sunny conditions. External lights are typically not used in conjunction with color filters, as the combination will result in tones that are too red or too purple.

The location of the camera's flash in relation to the lens makes it unusable for lighting your subject underwater. However, the camera's flash may be used to trigger an external strobe. Two ports are provided for the connection of up to two fiber optically triggered underwater strobes.

Alternatively, a bright constant-on video light can be used. A constant-on light is not as bright as a strobe flash. Constant-on lights do provide added versatility because they can be used for focus assist and for improved colors when shooting video.

Two 1/4-20 threaded mounting points are included on the bottom of the housing for the attachment of a tray and handle system. Handles provide improved ergonomics underwater and are the foundation for your lighting mounts.

There is a simple rule that brighter is better underwater. A high-quality lighting system can produce magazine quality results with almost any compact camera system.

Durability and corrosion free performance

Our brand new ABS-PC blend provides strength and corrosion free performance year after year with minimal maintenance. The specially formulated color deflects the sun to keep your camera running cooler, longer. Compared to black or clear housings, the light gray color provides superior contrast for enhanced view of the camera, LCD screen, and o-ring seal.

The unique rear seal design prevents accidental twisting or stretching of the o-ring for simple and confident assembly. We have eliminated the need for an o-ring groove or channel which can trap sand, dirt, or debris. Two double-passivated stainless steel locking lid snaps are simple to use and virtually unbreakable. The clear back allows you to see the o-ring form a solid, watertight seal as it closes.

Ikelite products are designed, built and tested in the USA. We use locally sourced, top-grade materials. Our housings are built by hand and individually tested for fit and function. Every unit is water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m). We back our products with over 50 years of experience and the best reputation for service within the dive industry.

Specification

• 200 ft (60m) depth rating
• Controls for all camera controls except Control ring, Flash open lever, and Diopter adjustment dial; important control ring functions are accessible through convenient short-cuts (see instruction manual)
• Near neutral buoyancy in fresh water
• 1/4-20 thread tray mounting with 3-inch (76mm) spacing
• Weight 2.9 lb (1.3 kg)
• Dimensions 6 x 5.4 x 6.9" (152 x 137 x 175 mm)
• 3.9-inch diameter glass lens port