Ikelite announces housing for LUMIX GX85, GX80 and GX7 Mark II cameras

by Adam Hanlon Monday, July 25th, 2016

Ikelite has announced their housing for the Panasonic Lumix GX85, GX80 and GX7 Mark II mirrorless cameras. Constructed from white ABS-PC, it features the company's new smooth shutter release lever, wired TTL strobe control (with Ikelite strobes), a rubber front grip and port compatibility with "most popular zoom, macro and wide angle lenses."

The new housing will retail at $975 in the U.S.A. and will be shipping to Ikelite dealers worldwide from mid-August.

Product Details

So far Panasonic leads the game in 4K digital cameras and this latest series is no exception. The GX85/GX80/GX7 Mark II is great for any photographer seeking cutting-edge technology in still and video capture in a compact and travel-friendly body.

Superb handling

Panasonic is known for proving a straightforward and highly customizable control set. We extend this underwater, providing larger controls and push buttons which are easy to access even with thick gloves. Whenever possible, controls are located in the same configuration as on the camera to replicate the muscle memory and familiarity you've already developed by using your camera on land. Control symbols laser engraved into the back of the housing will never peel off or fade even with years of use. The camera's large, super-bright LCD screen is viewable edge-to-edge through the back of the housing.

Our latest 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.

True TTL exposure

Light is absorbed as it travels through even short distances through the water. This makes the colors of objects at depth or at a distance 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.

An integrated TTL circuit is fine-tuned to Panasonic's latest flash exposure protocol for the most accurate exposure possible. The circuit is powered by the strobe for zero maintenance and no batteries to change. Exposure compensation in TTL mode is supported using the camera's built-in control. At this time, only Ikelite DS strobes are capable of powering the circuitry. SEA&SEA, INON, and Nikonos strobes attached via electrical sync cord will still enjoy fast recycle times and improved battery life, but must be used in manual exposure modes only.

This housing provides a direct electrical connection to the camera's external flash hot shoe. Cord attachment is as easy as screwing in a lightbulb. The threaded fit prevents accidental detachment during use. The bulkhead connection has been moved to the top of the housing to keep cords out of your way and reduce strain on the cord ends. A variety of sync cord terminations are available for Ikelite, SEA&SEA, INON, or Nikonos strobes for ultimate versatility.

The camera's built-in flash is suitable for firing an external strobe, but not for lighting a photo underwater. Two fiber optic ports are built into the front of the housing provide an attachment point for fiber optic cords from most major manufacturers. Use of a fiber optic connector requires the camera's built-in flash to fire, reducing battery life and bypassing the TTL functionality of the housing.

A bright constant-on video light can be used instead of or in addition to a flash. Constant-on lights provide added versatility because they can be used for focus assist and for improved colors when shooting video. A constant-on light is not as bright as a strobe flash.

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.

The Lens Support You Want

It couldn't be more simple to change ports than this system—just press the port on and tighten three thumb screws. Feel positive reinforcement that the port is secure with simple parts you can trust in a remote location.

This housing accepts a variety of ports to accommodate all of the most popular zoom, macro, and wide angle lenses. Our custom optical grade acrylic domes components provide the color, clarity, and durability of glass at a fraction of the travel weight and cost.

Lens port sold separately.

View Mirrorless Port Charts

Durability and corrosion free performance

Our brand new ABS-PC blend provides strength and corrosion free performance 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 white 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.

IN PRODUCTION for mid-August release. This housing is available for pre-order worldwide through your local Authorized Ikelite Dealer. Contact your favorite dive or photo store for pricing and availability.

(1) The MSRP referenced is a suggested US market retail price. Actual sales prices are set exclusively by Authorized Ikelite Dealers. Shown with camera, not included.

Source: Ikelite announces housing for LUMIX GX85, GX80 and GX7 Mark II cameras