Nauticam Releases Carbon Fiber Float Arms

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By Brent Durand

Most underwater photographers use some form of floatation to offset the negative bouyancy of their camera rig. These range in variety from foam to float arms to DIY projects out of PVC pipe. Nauticam first unveiled their new carbon fiber float arms at DEMA late last year and we've been anxiously awaiting the final product. Read on for the official press release and photos.

PRESS RELEASE:

Nauticam is pleased to announce the immediate availability of it's new line of Carbon Fiber Float Arms. First previewed at the DEMA Show 2012, these arms have undergone rigorous "gorilla" testing to insure they are ready to meet the needs of underwater photographers working in demanding conditions. The Carbon Fiber arm line is now in stock at Nauticam distributors worldwide.

Underwater photographers have long battled to make their camera systems neutrally buoyant in the water; a neutrally buoyant rig is easier to handle in the water and can be operated with one hand much easier than heavier rigs. Systems that are too heavy can result in arm strain and contribute to difficultly with buoyancy of the shooter. A properly balanced rig is a lot more fun to use!

The Nauticam Carbon Fiber Float Arm series is manufactured from a high quality carbon fiber tubing with molded plastic end caps and machined aluminum balls.  O-Ring seals ensure water tight integrity and each arm includes an aluminum spine that ties the entire assembly together, making the arm stronger than one machined from solid aluminum.  This robust design ensures that these carbon fiber arms will last a lifetime.

One approach that some underwater photographers have taken to lighten the load underwater is through the use of floats made of a special type of foam that compresses less than conventional foam. While this can be a useful option, foam does have its drawbacks. Typical "incompressible" foam blocks begin to noticeably compress at 100' and by 200' have completely lost effectives, and have begun to permanently deform. Foam can also break down over time and make something of a mess. Nauticam Carbon Fiber arms do not measurably compress even at 100 meters/330 feet, and look more streamlined than chunky foam blocks.

Carbon fiber doesn't just look cool.  It is five times as strong as steel, yet weighs about two-thirds less. Lighter means more net buoyancy for the same volume. In the 60mm diameter class, for example, the Nauticam arm provides 50% more buoyancy than competitors aluminum tubing arms. The 90mm diameter arms are perfect for systems demanding even more lift.

The Nauticam system of arms, clamps, trays and other mounting hardware allows a huge range of possibilities for arranging lighting. The addition of the Carbon Fiber Arms allows the underwater shooter even more flexibility in dialing in the exact rig desired.

For more information, visit www.NauticamUSA.com.

Further Reading

• 2013 Ocean Art Contest - Over $75,000 in Prizes!

• Nauticam Announces Flash Trigger for Canon

• Complete Guide to Strobe Positioning

Where to Buy

Please support the Underwater Photography Guide by purchasing your underwater photography gear through our sister site, Bluewater Photo & Video. Click, or call them at (310) 633-5052 for expert advice!