Nauticam announces the new SMC-3 Super Macro Converter

Nauticam has just announced their latest version of the popular macro wet lens, the Nauticam SMC-3 Super Macro Converter, which is a significant advancement in underwater macro photography, offering exceptional magnification and image quality. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the SMC-1, the SMC-3 retains the impressive 2.3x magnification factor while boasting a lighter, more compact design and an extended working distance.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Enhanced Magnification: The SMC-3 magnifies the subject by 2.3 times, allowing for extreme close-ups of even the tiniest underwater creatures. When paired with a full-frame camera and a 100mm or 105mm macro lens, it fills the frame with a subject area as small as 15.6mm x 10.4mm.
• Superior Optics: Constructed from precision-crafted, low-dispersion optical glass with broadband anti-reflective coatings, the SMC-3 minimizes chromatic aberrations, coma, spherical aberration, and field deformation, ensuring sharp, high-contrast images with accurate color rendition.
• Lightweight and Compact: Compared to the SMC-1, the SMC-3 is 33% lighter and 40% thinner, making it less cumbersome for underwater use and easier to pack for dive trips.
• Increased Working Distance: The SMC-3 offers an 8mm increase in working distance compared to the SMC-1, providing more space for lighting and reducing the risk of disturbing skittish subjects. The SMC-3 offers a working distance between 51-103mm. 
• Durable Construction: Housed in a rugged, hard-anodized aluminum casing and nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging, the SMC-3 is built to withstand the rigors of underwater environments.
• Compatibility: Designed for use with a wide range of macro lenses and Nauticam underwater housings, the SMC-3 seamlessly integrates into existing underwater photography setups.

Differentiation from Other Brands:

Unlike traditional magnifying lenses designed for in-air use, the Nauticam SMC-3 is specifically optimized for underwater photography, taking into account the refractive properties of water. This unique approach results in significantly improved image quality and sharpness, particularly at the edges of the frame, compared to other underwater macro converters. Additionally, the SMC-3's combination of high magnification, extended working distance, and compact design sets it apart from competitors, making it a top choice for discerning underwater photographers.

Compatible Lenses

The SMC-3 has been fully tested to work with the following lenses (more will be added in due course):

• Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
• Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Macro
• Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
• Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM
• Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM
• Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS
• Olympus M. Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f2.8 Macro
• Panasonic LEICA DG MACRO-ELMARIT 45mm F2.8 ASPH. EGA O.I.S.

The Nauticam SMC-3 will be available in Nov 2024 from Bluewaterphoto at the cost of $562.