We've fielded inquiries about why we don't produce aluminum tripod mounts for GoPro or action camera housings. Much of this query boils down to a key factor: aluminum isn't designed for repetitive bending, as it can lead to cracking or breakage. A simple example is an aluminum can pull lid; if you bend it back and forth as it's designed, it will eventually break.
While other manufacturers offer aluminum tripod mounts, reports of some breaking for the above reasons underscore the challenges with this material.
Here are some differences between plastic and aluminum mounts:
For Ultralight Camera Solutions, manufacturing tripod mounts from aluminum could align with our commitment to quality and could offer a more durable and cost-effective option. Additionally, aluminum mounts could be available in various colors to suit individual preferences. However, the risk of breakage due to the material's limitations remains a concern, which may outweigh the potential benefits.
Ultralight Camera Solutions stands as a premier provider of top-notch underwater photography equipment, serving professionals and enthusiasts alike. Our products are proudly made, assembled, and packaged in the US using domestic materials, backed by a lifetime warranty.
Spread the love! We're not stuck in the 1960s anymore, where love was abundant but often unspoken. Leap ahead several decades to a time when many of us explore the depths, capturing the beauty beneath the waves with underwater cameras, smartphones, strobes, lights, action cameras, GoPros, and more. Just as plants flourish with water, our camera setups grow, evolving into elaborate configurations with multiple lights, strobes, perhaps a smartphone or action camera, and often dive computers. While there's nothing wrong with this progression, it's essential not to overlook the unsung heroes behind these setups: the accessories.
So, what does spreading love have to do with all this? A whole lot! When most people share their underwater pictures on social media, they're quick to mention or hashtag the gear they used: camera models, housings, lights, and more. Yet, one crucial element often remains unsung. The below is a good example and one of MANY. To share the love, even more, hashtags for all the manufacturers would be nice.
None of the equipment mentioned could produce stunning images without the essential accessories that hold it all together, allowing us to easily maneuver and adjust when needed Here's a challenge: next time you're diving, try using all your gear without any accessories and see how hard it all becomes. It's best to secure everything with lanyards first to prevent some costly equipment from taking a plunge to the ocean floor.
Many overlook the significance of accessories in achieving that perfect shot or video. While Ultralight Camera Solutions specializes in manufacturing camera accessories, their importance should never be underestimated. So, the next time you share your images or videos, please spread your appreciation and mention the companies behind your camera accessories. I assure you, they'll be grateful for the recognition!
Ultralight Camera Solutions is a leading provider of high-quality underwater photography equipment catering to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Our products are all manufactured, assembled, and packaged in the US with US materials and have a lifetime warranty. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Ultralight continues to push the boundaries of underwater imaging technology.
At Ultralight Camera Solutions, we present an extensive array of cinema arm kits crafted to offer filmmakers and videographers convenient and versatile solutions for mounting monitors and other accessories. Engineered to simplify the selection process, our kits provide flexibility and adaptability across diverse setups. Once users experience the convenience of our Ultralight cinema arm kits, reverting to their old standard sometimes becomes unthinkable.
Our most sought-after kits are the CAK-S14-05, CAK-S38-05, CAK-SMB-05, and CAK-SHD-05. While all these kits utilize a single DB-05 arm and two AC-CSF clamps, each is different because of the mounts on each end, catering to various camera equipment. the kits below include the AD-1420-2S ball adaptor with a ¼” stud or the AD-3816-2S with a 3/8” stud, as pictured below. These same kits can be purchased with a single DB-03, DB-06, DB-08, or DB-09 arm instead of the DB-05.
The other two popular kits are the CAK-SMB-05, and CAK-SHD-05 as pictured below. These both use a single DB-05 arm, two AC-CSF clamps, and a single AD-1420-2S on one end. The difference is the opposing end has either the AC-SHD mount designed for SmallHD monitors, or the AC-MB, a universal mount for small to mid-sized monitors. These kits can also be purchased with a single DB-03, DB-06, DB-08, or DB-09 arm instead of the DB-05.
Our kits offer a wide spectrum of options to suit diverse setups and shooting conditions, proving to be a valuable addition to any filmmaker's toolkit. Custom solutions are also available upon request. Whether users work with compact cameras and accessories or require extensive setups with multiple arms and mounts, Ultralight Camera Solutions offers a kit to meet their specific requirements. If you cannot find what you need, please don't hesitate to contact us through our website. We are always available to assist you!
Ultralight Camera Solutions stands as a premier provider of top-notch underwater photography equipment, catering to both professionals and enthusiasts. Committed to excellence and innovation, all our products are manufactured, assembled, and packaged in the US using domestically sourced materials, and are backed by a lifetime warranty. With a dedication to pushing the boundaries of underwater imaging technology, Ultralight continues to lead the industry forward.
Introducing our latest innovation, the Ultralight Camera Solutions (ULCS) SB-04 single ball arm. Have you ever created something with a specific purpose only to discover its potential for so much more? That's the story behind our SB-04. Initially designed to accompany long double cutout clamps like our AC-CSLSK2 or AC-CSLXLSK2, for an easy solution to mount two large buoyancy floats side by side above the camera.
The SB-04 is a compact 4-inch single ball arm with a sturdy ¼-inch thick flat base featuring a ¼-inch through hole. It's a modified version of our AD-SSL strobe adapter, tailored at the flat YS style end. During testing, we stumbled upon its versatility, realizing it could serve multiple functions and be mounted in various ways, providing users with more options.
Beyond its original purpose, it can be securely bolted to a flat tray or bracket, offering users a robust ball mount that extends further outward compared to most add-on ball adapters. Another pleasant surprise was its compatibility when bolted between the ball and handle of our TR-DHB handle or combined with our AC-H1/4 handle using the BA-HB ball adapter. This setup gives users an ideal spot to firmly attach something extra to their camera rig.
Previously, achieving similar setups would require an AC-TCS triple clamp, DB-03 short arm, and AC-CSF clamp. However, the SB-04 is a solid mount that streamlines the process, enhances user-friendliness, reduces the number of parts needed, and ultimately lowers the overall cost. To explore our full range of products including the SB-04, visit our website at ULCS.
Ultralight Camera Solutions is a leading provider of high-quality underwater photography equipment, catering to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Our products are all manufactured, assembled, and packaged in the US with US materials and have a lifetime warranty. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, ULCS continues to push the boundaries of underwater imaging technology.
Naturally, the better something is taken care of the longer it will last. Even though Ultralight products are virtually indestructible, treating them with respect will keep them in good working order. After every dive, the best thing to do is thoroughly rinse everything in freshwater. If this is not possible, keep the equipment wet by placing a wet towel over it and refrain from drying it. You don’t want saltwater drying on your gear, forming salt crystals that can cut and scratch O-rings, especially those you cannot service yourself. You can wash your Ultralight gear in hot, soapy water to remove the grit and grime that builds up once you get home.
Most of the inquiries we get about maintenance are about how to clean the fuzzy salt build-up on parts such as clamps. To start, if possible, take as much of the part apart as you can by removing all stainless steel nuts, bolts, and screws. Once apart, soak everything in a 50/50 water and vinegar solution for 15-20 minutes. Use a soft bristle brush like a toothbrush to clean the parts. Don’t forget to clean the inside of the T-knobs on the clamps. Sometimes, it is necessary to repeat the process till everything is cleaned. When done, dry and put back together. For the clamps, add a small dab of silicone grease to the threads at the end of the bolt where the T-knob will be screwed on. Once finished, they will be ready for your next trip.
Whenever you have two dissimilar metals in contact, you will have electrolysis. This is what happens in the case of aluminum and stainless steel. The aluminum becomes oxidized, and the nuts and bolts tend to freeze, making it difficult or impossible to remove them. Sometimes wrapping the threads of screws and bolts with Teflon plumber’s tape (found at your local hardware store), reduces electrolysis and removal of the screws, nuts, and bolts is much easier. If you are looking at the thread end, make a couple of turns with the Teflon tape in a clockwise direction while stretching it slightly.
The O-rings in the balls of the adapters will last one to two years if not left out in the hot sun all the time. They will crack, but this will not affect the clamp's clamping ability. They should be changed when they are cracked, hardened, or the arms do not seem to be holding as well as when new. It is easy to forget about the O-rings, so we recommend replacing them every two years.
They can be difficult to remove and are best removed without sharp objects. The best way is to squeeze with thumb and forefinger, pushing together while simultaneously trying to move it to the side. This should give you a small amount of the O-ring to roll over the ball. To install the O-ring, stretch it over the ball and into the groove.
The ball O-rings are Buna, Size 2-209N70, and the O-rings for the base adapters are Buna, size 2-113N50. If you need replacements, we offer packages of 12 and 25 that can be ordered directly from us.
Ultralight Camera Solutions is a leading provider of high-quality underwater photography equipment, catering to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Our products are all manufactured, assembled, and packaged in the US with US materials. They have a lifetime warranty, and we offer replacement hardware for any of the products we manufacture.
Throughout the years, Ultralight Control Systems has undergone significant transformations, all aimed at enhancing our position as a distinctive business offering camera accessories to both the underwater and cinema industries. What sets us apart is our commitment to manufacturing all our products in the USA, using US materials, and hand assembling and packaging them at our warehouse in Oxnard, CA.
Our journey began with our very first underwater dealer, Backscatter Video & Photo from Monterey, CA, who joined us in mid-1994 and remains our largest dealer to this day. Another key player in our story is Bluewater Photo from Culver City, CA, who joined our family in late 2010. Both have contributed valuable ideas for new products that have been incredibly successful.
Over time, more underwater dealers joined our network, including Reef Photo and Force-E from Florida, Splash Underwater Imaging, and Squires from Manila, among others. Our international reach expanded with dealers like Fisheye Photo from Japan, Cathy Church from Grand Cayman, and Digital Dive from Germany.
The cinema industry became a significant focus for us around the early 2000s, with Filmtools from Burbank, CA, joining us in late 2014 as our first cinema industry dealer. Manios Cine Tools from Greece and other notable dealers, such as the DV Shop from Toronto, Canada, and TSF Cineboutique from France, followed suit.
While the landscape changed with events like the Covid pandemic and the Actors and Writers strike in 2023, Ultralight Camera Solutions, formerly Ultralight Control Systems, has remained resilient and adaptable. Under new ownership since March 2020, we rebranded in May 2023, continuing our legacy with a bright future ahead of us.
We've weathered these challenges by making strategic adjustments, discontinuing some products, redesigning others, and introducing innovative solutions. Our commitment to offering products in various colors reflects our dedication to individualism and ease of identification for camera setups.
If you're a big or small dealer who resonates with our values and vision, we invite you to join our expanding dealer network. Contact us, and let's embark on this journey together toward continued success.
It's safe to say we're all unique in our own ways, and that's what makes life interesting, right? Having choices is key to enjoying what we do, whether it's in diving or any other aspect of life. I mean, imagine if we were all just clones of each other—boring, right?
Speaking of diving, there's a whole spectrum of options out there, especially when it comes to gear. From outerwear like dive skins and wetsuits to innerwear and thermal protection gear, the choices are colorful and diverse. And let's not forget about equipment like buoyancy compensators, masks, and snorkels. Each offers its style and flair, allowing us to express our individuality even underwater.
However, one area where I've noticed a lack of color options is camera equipment and accessories. Sure, there are a few choices, but black seems to dominate the scene. As someone who's been diving for over thirty years and now owns Ultralight Camera Solutions, formerly known as Ultralight Control Systems, I've seen firsthand why some people shy away from too many options.
As consumers, we're all about having options, right? We want manufacturers to give us what we want, even if it means paying extra for those customized choices. But from a manufacturing standpoint, offering a plethora of options can be a logistical challenge. It means more parts, more inventory, and more complexity, which not all dealers are keen on dealing with.
Since taking over Ultralight, we've expanded our product line to include over 250 parts, with a significant chunk of that growth coming from our colored camera accessories. But with more options comes more responsibility—more inventory to manage and more headaches for our dealers and sometimes for us as well but it's worth it.
There's a whole process involved when it comes to coloring aluminum parts. For black, we use Type III hard anodizing, which provides durability in any environment. But for colored parts, we have to go with Type II anodizing, which isn't as tough as Type III and can wear or scratch more quickly depending on use.
Despite the challenges, we're proud to offer a range of colored accessories, from ball adaptors to knobs, allowing divers and filmmakers to add some personality to their gear. And hey, why not accessorize when you can, especially with a company like Ultralight that's committed to quality and innovation?
At Ultralight Camera Solutions, we're all about pushing the boundaries of underwater imaging technology. We provide high-quality equipment made right here in the US with a lifetime warranty. So go ahead, dive in, and capture those memories in full color.
It's interesting how things unfold over time. Ultralight kickstarted its journey in 1994, manufacturing camera accessories specifically tailored for underwater photographers. In the early days, our focus revolved around creating arms, clamps, strobe adapters, trays, and base adapters compatible with camera and housings from Nikonos, Subal, Nauticam, and Aquatica. While the product lineup has evolved, one thing has stood the test of time, our arms and clamps.
In fact, Ultralight pioneered the design of the arms and clamps that remain integral to our offerings today. A glance at other manufacturers reveals the imitation of our tried-and-true clamps, T-knobs, and arms. Rather than being irked by this, I see it as a compliment. After all, they wouldn't replicate our products if they weren't reliable and effective amidst changes in camera housings, strobes, lights, and other equipment.
Our products boast longevity and resilience in diverse environments. Early on, cinema camera assistants discovered the versatility of our products. Using our AD-1420 or AD-3816 paired with AC-CSF clamps, DB-05 arms, and a monitor mount like our AC-MB allows for superior camera monitor angles compared to alternatives. Interestingly, these parts were initially sourced from our underwater dealers.
These products have become staples for Ultralight, enduring replication by others. We were also trailblazers in introducing O-rings around the center of each ball end. Fast forward to 2010, we innovated further with the AC-CSF clamp featuring a cutout, now known as the AC-CSSK. Dubbed the Sues knuckle, this, along with the triple clamp AC-TCSJK or Jacks Knuckle, was a collaboration with Jack and Sue Drafahl, original owners of Ultralight.
These clamps played a pivotal role in Ultralight's push into the cinema industry while continuing to benefit the underwater industry. The cutout clamps, along with the double cutout clamps we now offer, allowed unprecedented arm positioning, a novelty introduced by Ultralight.
A serendipitous moment occurred with the double cutout clamps. A mistake led to the creation of these clamps such as the AC-CSSK2, initially sitting in a bag until brought to attention in a camera assistant Facebook group. The positive response paved the way for their addition to the Ultralight lineup, and they've since become a success among underwater photographers. Even these double cutout clamps are now imitated by other manufacturers, turning my unintentional mistake into a valuable contribution.
This blog has been an enjoyable journey, delving into past data, recalling memories, and narrating the story of Ultralight—a story that deserves to be told. We've been at the forefront of many firsts, and our commitment to innovation ensures we're not stopping anytime soon. Like our products, we aim to endure and leave a lasting legacy!
Ultralight Camera Solutions is a leading provider of high-quality underwater photography equipment catering to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Our products are all manufactured, assembled, and packaged in the US with US materials and have a lifetime warranty. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Ultralight continues to push the boundaries of underwater imaging technology.
At Ultralight Camera Solutions (ULCS), we pride ourselves on innovation, and our camera sled kits and accessories are a testament to that. These kits have gained international acclaim among professional underwater photographers and cinematographers, and for good reason.
Our CSK-SLDL and CSK-SLDM sled kits are designed to revolutionize underwater photography, offering unparalleled functionality and compatibility with all camera models. Central to these kits is our user-friendly TRI-TRAY, which ensures stability for your camera by using two side rails and four adjustable heavy-duty brackets. What sets our sled kits apart is their versatility both underwater and on land. Photographers can confidently place their sled-mounted camera on any flat surface without worry. The sled is extremely stable and sits high enough off the bottom to protect the largest of dome ports.
Adding to the functionality is our updated TR-MBK monitor kit, which includes the TR-MB rear mounting bracket, AD-1420 ball adapter, and AC-TKB special knob. This kit bolts to the bottom of the TRI-TRAY and allows for easy adjustment of monitors, providing endless possibilities when paired with our longer double cutout clamp like the AC-CSLSK2 or the AC-CSLXLSK2.
To complement our sled kits, we now offer two new accessory kits. The first is a camera sled sliding weight system, designed to perfectly balance the sled with stainless-steel weights and T-nuts that fit seamlessly into the side rails. This system enhances the user experience and ensures stunning underwater shots. The other new accessory kit is the SB-04-BCK, a small single-ball arm customized to work with our long double cutout clamps. It enables users to mount two large buoyancy floats above the camera.
To add to all the excitement we also have just added our CSK-WS camera sled kit . The weight kit includes all hardware and 1 lb. of stainless steel weights that can be made to slide back and forth in 3/8" the rail slots with the use of a special t-nut or the weights can be bolted almost anywhere the user requires. Extra weights and the t-nuts are available.
Our team is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations, and the positive feedback from our Brand Ambassadors and customers reaffirms our commitment to innovation and quality.
Look at the bottom of this page for a closer look at our ULCS Underwater Camera Sled Tray Kits and how others have used them in action. Also, for more detailed information, watch our YouTube video here. To learn more about ULCS and explore our full range of products, visit our website at ulcs.com.
Ultralight Camera Solutions leads the way in providing high-quality underwater photography equipment, manufactured with care in the US using US materials and backed by a lifetime warranty. With a dedication to innovation and excellence, ULCS continues to push the boundaries of underwater imaging technology.
Welcome back to the second part of my blog series on how travel can enhance the efficiency and profitability of your small business. In the previous blog, I looked into my approach to travel, its impact on my life, and the initial three secrets that have helped to contribute to the success of my two scuba industry-related businesses. Now, let's dive into the final secrets that complete this journey.
Both Channel Islands Dive Adventures (CIDA) and Ultralight Camera Solutions (ULCS) are integral parts of my life, both professional and personal. CIDA, my side hustle based in Oxnard, CA, offers local dive trips and scuba vacations in the SoCal Channel Islands area. ULCS, my full-time venture, specializes in manufacturing underwater and cinematography camera accessories, catering to international and domestic dealers and customers.
To recap, the initial three secrets emphasized the importance of hiring an extra employee, choosing the right person, and knowing when to reprogram our thinking. Now, let me share the remaining secrets.
Secret 4: Embrace Expertise Outside Your Skill Set
Recognizing our limitations is essential. Not everyone can be a master of all trades, and knowing when to enlist the expertise of others is crucial. Whether it's website construction, SEO, social media management, or accounting, finding the right professionals for specific tasks is a game-changer. Conduct thorough research and ask the right questions when hiring individuals with expertise in areas critical to your business.
Secret 5: Balancing Business and Personal Time Away
Achieving a work-life balance while traveling is challenging but can be done. Having a trustworthy employee who can manage operations in your absence is key. Equipping yourself with internet access, utilizing communication apps, and implementing technology like VPNs can facilitate remote management. Share clear instructions with your employees, and invest in technologies like signal boosters, Starlink systems, or both for reliable connectivity on the road. Remember, it's possible to enjoy your vacation without compromising business efficiency.
Secret 6: Disconnecting and Enjoying the Present Moment
Taking time off shouldn't come with a delayed realization that you're on vacation. Avoid the trap of needing days to unwind from work mode. I have friends and family where it takes them at least 2-3 days to realize they are on vacation. Allow yourself to disconnect mentally and emotionally from work, even if it's just for long weekends. Embrace the freedom of being present in the moment, savoring the experiences that travel brings.
Secret 7: Seize the Present, Cherish Life
In the grand scheme of things, time is unpredictable, and there are no guarantees. An in-your-face reminder of this came to me while writing this blog with the sudden passing of a family friend. Her unexpected death serves as a stark reminder that life is precious and unpredictable. Don't postpone your dreams and aspirations, assuming there will always be time in the future. Embrace the present, enjoy every moment, and hopefully my secrets will help shape you into a better person and a more fulfilled small business owner.
In conclusion, these secrets remind us of how the essence of travel has been instrumental in running my small businesses efficiently and profitably and being a better person overall. May they inspire you to think of your business success in new ways enriched by more travel. Safe travels and enjoy the only life we get!
