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.
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 excitment 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.
For a closer look at our ULCS Underwater Camera Sled Tray Kits, CSK-WS camera sled weight kit, SB-04-BCK arm, and our sleds kits in action, check out 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.
Running two small businesses in the scuba industry keeps me constantly on the move. Channel Islands Dive Adventures (CIDA), my side hustle based in Oxnard, CA, offers local dive trips and scuba vacations in diverse locations. Juggling this with my full-time venture, Ultralight Camera Solutions (ULCS), which manufactures camera accessories for underwater cinematography, adds a layer of complexity. ULCS requires attendance at trade shows, visits to current dealers, and meetings with potential ones. Despite the demanding schedule, I find ways to manage both businesses, seeking continuous improvement and personal growth.
The key to navigating this dual business ownership lies in the desire to excel and evolve. While financial success is rewarding, it's not my sole motivation. Instead, I prioritize experiences and learning from others, valuing the insights gained from different lifestyles. This broader perspective enriches my ability to lead my businesses and be a better employer.
Many small business owners struggle to step away due to various reasons, such as a lack of reliable employees, a desire for personal control, or financial constraints. However, refusing oneself time off can lead to burnout, stress, and other issues affecting both personal and professional life. This is why I believe that traveling is not just a luxury but a strategic tool for enhancing small business efficiency and profitability. Below, I share the secrets that have proven effective for me and others in my network.
Secret 1: Invest in Your Business by Investing in People
Recognizing the distinction between $20.00 per hour jobs and $100.00 per hour jobs is crucial. Although it may seem daunting to hire employees when operating a small business, the reality is that you can't afford not to. Investing in reliable help pays off, as good employees bring a significant return on investment. This creates a win-win situation and allows for a much-needed break, knowing that the business is in capable hands.
Secret 2: Treat Employees with Respect and Trust
Creating a positive work environment involves treating employees with the same respect and trust one would expect for oneself. Providing fair compensation, flexible hours, and a safe work environment provides a healthy employer-employee relationship. Striking a balance and understanding priorities contribute to a work environment everyone likes.
Secret 3: Reprogram Your Perspective
Sometimes, a shift in mindset is necessary. Drawing inspiration from a past colleague named Jim, who transformed his outlook on employee training, can be enlightening.
I spent 31 years working for Ventura County as a mobile heavy equipment mechanic. In one of the departments I worked in, there was a crew supervisor named Jim. Whenever I encountered Jim, I noticed that he seemed a bit down at times. It turned out that Jim was facing a challenge – he was training his crew extensively in water work maintenance, but they would often leave for higher-paying jobs in a nearby city once they acquired the skills.
One day, I found Jim in a surprisingly good mood, so I asked him about it. He shared a valuable insight with me – he had shifted his perspective. Instead of viewing his role as training people to stay in the Waterworks department, he realized that his job was to equip them with skills that would enable them to pursue better opportunities elsewhere. From that day on, Jim's mood consistently improved.
This experience taught me a valuable lesson and one I always will remember. Sometimes, we need to step back, take a deep breath, and reassess our mindset. Jim's decision to change his perspective not only made him a happier supervisor but also reduced stress in the long run. It's a reminder that adjusting our thinking can lead to being a better leader and experiencing less stress overall.
In conclusion, traveling has played a big role in both my personal and professional growth. By constantly being aware of these secrets they have aided me in being a more effective business owner.
By sharing my secrets I hope that they will serve as valuable tools to others to become a better business owner and better individuals in their personal and family life.
See Part 2 "Unveiling the Remaining Secrets: Leveraging Travel for Small Business Success" for the other four secrets I will share.
When it comes to selecting clamps designed for underwater cameras, cinema monitors, or other equipment, the main question that we always get here at Ultralight Camera Solutions is: coarse or fine threads? For the longest time, Ultralight exclusively produced coarse-threaded clamps, a tradition that endures today, except for our AC-CSF28 clamps. The AC-CSF28 clamps were suggested by our largest dealer several years ago and have since become our best-selling clamp.
In an initial comparison between coarse and fine-threaded clamps, the primary difference lies in their knobs and the screws used for the bottom clamp half. Coarse-threaded clamps utilize a ¼”-20 Phillips pan machine screw, while finer-threaded ones use a ¼”-28 Phillips flat machine screw. The top clamp half with the through hole remains identical.
Coarse threads:
• Feature a larger pitch, resulting in fewer threads per inch, similar to the ¼”-20 machine screw.
• Are less susceptible to galling but require more threading area.
• Have fewer chances of cross-threading.
• Can endure more thread abuse before malfunctioning.
• Begin threading more easily into objects.
Fine threads:
• Have a smaller pitch, yielding more threads per inch, like the ¼”-28 machine screw.
• Are more prone to galling.
• Demand a longer threading area.
• Can sustain thread damage more easily.
• Allow for more precise adjustments.
• Are stronger than a similar bolt with coarse threads.
There are further considerations for larger bolts or machine screws, but they mostly concern manufacturers other than Ultralight.
The ultimate question remains: which is better, the fine-threaded AC-CSF28 clamp or the coarse-threaded AC-CSF clamp? Much of this decision comes down to personal preferences. While the AC-CSF28 clamp with finer threads provides greater precision when tightening the knob, does it make a significant difference? If everything is new and in perfect condition, it probably does. However, if the clamps haven't been cleaned and serviced regularly, will they still perform the same? Perhaps, or perhaps not. Personally, I admit that I don't maintain my equipment as diligently as I should, but I know others who are meticulous about it.
For me, the choice between the two clamps isn't so much about which one is better but rather which one suits my needs best. Here's how I believe the decision between coarse and fine-threaded clamps should be approached:
Coarse-threaded versus fine-threaded:
• Consider your equipment maintenance habits.
• Evaluate whether a finer adjustment justifies the higher cost of a fine-threaded clamp.
• Explore options for customizing the knob color. Both the AC-CSF and AC-CSF28 clamps are available in black, green, blue, and red, but the coarse-threaded AC-CSF also offers knobs in purple, pink, and yellow. • Assess the importance of uniformity if you require other clamp styles, such as longer ones or those with cutouts. The AC-CSF28 is the only clamp we manufacture with a fine-threaded bolt; all our other clamps feature coarse threads.
• Confirm the availability of repair and service parts; Ultralight offers them for all clamps.
If you still have questions after considering the above points, please don't hesitate to Contact Us at Ultralight. We are always eager to assist you!
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass three categories tailored to cinema gear and six categories dedicated to underwater equipment. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the second cinema category: Cinema Arm Kits
Of the cinema arm kits, we have twenty-five different ones. Why so many kits? Excellent question! We have such an abundance of products that for some it's difficult to visualize the parts needed for their particular setup. Offering all the kits helps our customers make the best decision for their needs through some of our gopro mounting solutions.
The kits come in various sizes, configurations, and mounting options. All the kits start with the AD-1420-2S with a 1/4"-20 threaded insert and use our AC-CSF clamps. From there, we have many options using a single DB-03, DB-05, DB-06, and DB-08 arm, to others with dual DB-05s or DB-08 arms as a gopro mounting solution.
Starting with the Ultralight CAK-01. This kit is the smallest and only includes two 1/4" ball mounts and one clamp. Shown below.
We have four kits using the smaller Ultralight DB-03 arm. The first is a CAK-S14-03 which comes with an AD-1420-2S whereas the CAK-S38-03 comes with an AD-3816-2S ball mount. Both are shown below.
The other two kits using the smaller DB-03 arm are, the CAK-SHD-03 using a SmallHD monitor mount and the other is the CAK-SMB-03 which comes with a universal monitor mount. Both are shown below.
For the single-arm kits using the DB-05, we have the same configuration as the kits above. They are the CAK-S14-05, CAK-S38-05, CAK-SHD-05, and the CAK-SMB-05. All are shown below.
For the single-arm kits using the DB-06, we have the same configuration as the kits above. They are the CAK-S14-06, CAK-S38-06, CAK-SHD-06, and the CAK-SMB-06. All are shown below.
For the single-arm kits using the DB-08, we have the same configuration as the kits above. They are the CAK-S14-08, CAK-S38-08, CAK-SHD-08, and the CAK-SMB-08. All are shown below.
For the double-arm kits using the DB-05, we have the same configuration as the kits above, except for one extra arm and clamp. They are the CAK-D14-05, CAK-D38-05, CAK-DHD-05, and the CAK-DMB-05. All are shown below.
For the double-arm kits using the DB-08, we have the same configuration as the kits above, except for one extra arm and clamp. They are the CAK-D14-08, CAK-D38-08, CAK-DHD-08, and the CAK-DMB-08. All are shown below.
With these diverse options, you can easily find the perfect kit that suits your specific camera and monitor setup. So, go ahead and explore our cinema arm kits – we're sure you'll find just what you need! If you don't find what you need, please Contact Us. We are always here to help!
Cinema Arm Kits:
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass three categories tailored to cinema gear and six categories dedicated to underwater equipment. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the first cinema category: Cardellini Clamp Arm kits
The Cardellini Clamp Arm kits come in various configurations depending on what equipment you have and what the use will be. The beauty of the Cardellini clamps is that they are incredibly versatile! They can mount to almost anything, whether it's round, square, or irregularly shaped, as long as it's not larger than 1 ½", this even includes GoPros. So, you can rely on these clamps to hold your gear securely in various situations. Below are some of the ways to use a Cardellini clamp.
The Cardellini clamps are made of stainless steel and cast aluminum and will work in any environment. Their jaws have vulcanized rubber and will not scratch whatever they are attached to making them the perfect go-to piece of equipment everyone should have in their GoPro kit or cinema kit. Below are three of the four different ones we carry at Ultralight Camera Solutions.
We carry nine different Cardellini clamp arm kits, four are smaller kits that do not include arms, four have arms included as part of the kit, and one is our special large Cardellini Tripod. Of the smaller kits, two are set up for GoPro's like the CCK-SMCGO and the CCK-MMCGO, both pictured below as GoPro mounting kits.
The other two small kits are the CCK-MMC14 and the CCK-SMCMB shown below. Both of these kits are for use with different monitors.
The next ones shown below are single-arm configurations using the DB-05 arm and AC-CSF clamps. The first, CCK-MMCMB-S5 comes with an AC-MB monitor mount and the second is the CCK-MMC14-S5 which uses an AD-1420 ball mount.
The last two kit configurations both use two DB-05 arms and three AC-CSF clamps. The CCK-MMC14-D5 as shown below comes with an AD-1420-2S ball mount and the CCK-MMC38-D5 (not shown) comes with an AD-3816-2S.
Last but not least is our special CCK-TRIPOD. The beauty of the design lies in the TRI-LEG's that are adjustable and the CARD-SMMC Cardellini clamps. Because of this, you can change the angle or position in minutes. We attached it to the back of a motorcycle in a matter of minutes for some awesome road video footage. Talk about a cool setup!
It might not be for everyone, but if you're facing a challenge finding the perfect mounting solution for your GoPro, this could be the answer. And trust me, it held up beautifully during our ride through the back hills – no issues at all as a GoPro mount.
If you don't find what you need, please Contact Us. We are always here to help!
Cinema Cardellini Clamp Kits:
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass six categories tailored to underwater equipment and three categories dedicated to cinema gear. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the fifth underwater category: Underwater Tripod kits.
In this fifth installment of our Underwater Kit series, we are thrilled to showcase our diverse array of underwater tripod kits. These kits have been meticulously designed not only for exceptional performance underwater but also to deliver outstanding results above the waterline with all types of cameras, including GoPros.
Our range spans from compact setups like the TPK-SGP-03 featuring smaller DB-03 arms and a GoPro mount, similar to the picture below but without the tray and handle. The next size up is our TPK-MGP-06 (not shown) using DB-06 arms with GoPro tripod mounted to the TPK-MBA-06 (not shown) with the DB-06 arms and an AD-1420 ball mount, perfect for securely mounting a light.
The more substantial TRI-THC pan & tilt tripod head are complemented by the DB-09 arms making up the TPK-LPT-09 shown below. This larger kit is ideal for as a GoPro tripod mount, or for handling a variety of cameras, housings, and lights.
One new impressive kit we offer, the TPK-LMU-06 uses our super versatile TRI-TRAY designed to fit almost any camera, still, or video out on the market. Along with the special BA-MT angled ball mounts, clamps, and our DB-06 arms as legs, this tripod will do it all and is a one-of-a-kind setup making it not only unique but extremely functional.
No matter your equipment preferences, our kits are built to be versatile and compatible with numerous camera setups and accessories. From professional cameras to action-packed GoPros, we have the perfect solution to suit your needs.
At Ultralight Camera Solutions, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of kits that cater to diverse underwater and cinema shooting requirements. So whether you're capturing breathtaking underwater scenes or engaging in above-water cinematography, our kits will deliver exceptional performance and reliability. If you don't find what you need, please Contact Us. We are always here to help!
Underwater Tripod Kit Links:
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass six categories tailored to underwater equipment and three categories dedicated to cinema gear. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the fourth underwater category: Underwater GoPro and video kits.
Previously, we only offered one pistol grip mount for GoPros which is now the GPK-PTGSC (not shown). We now have expanded on that with an upgraded and more versatile solution. Our new GoPro handheld design, the GPK-PTGLC, shown below features a small tray and clamp, allowing everything to be above your hand for better stability and ease of use. With a compatible camera pole mount, you can mount the handheld setup to an extendable painter-type pole to extend the tray and position your GoPro for underwater use, perfect for boat inspections or capturing footage without getting yourself wet. Moreover, the GoPro's flip-screen function works well for this allowing a clear view of your surroundings while the GoPro is underwater and you are on the dock with your GoPro underwater mount & GoPro handle.
We also offer our GPK-ST single-handle and GPK-LT double-handle kits that utilize the TR-GP and TR-GPDXL trays and TR-DHB handles making them excellent single or double-handle tray kits. However, for those looking to expand their possibilities, we recommend our Wing Tray System, the GPK-LWT which comes with our TR-DHB handles and not the AC-H handles as shown below. This setup uses the TR-GPDW tray and pushes the camera forward, providing easy access to flip filters without any obstructions for your GoPro water mount & GoPro handle.
The Wing Tray System accommodates various cameras, including those with 1/4"-20 threaded holes, such as the small SeaLife video camera. This gives you flexibility and opens up endless shooting opportunities. Whether you have a GoPro or a different video camera, the Wing Tray System will prove to be an excellent addition to your kit. It is also possible to make the wing tray kit into a tripod setup if needed as shown above as a GoPro water mount.
Last but not least our new special kit using a Cardellini clamp is the CCK-SMCGO. Cardellini clamps have been used for a long time in the Cinema industry and are very rarely seen, if at all in underwater photography applications. What makes the Cardellini clamp so special is the ease of use it has and it is easy to mount to any material 1 1/2" thick or less. Made out of stainless and cast aluminum it holds up to the environment and could easily be used instead of having someone hold a light in place for a specialized photoshoot. We are sure our new kit using this clamp will be a game changer once they catch on to the diving public.
In conclusion, our underwater GoPro photography & Video kits are not only perfect for underwater adventures but can also be a versatile tool in a work environment. So, whether you are capturing incredible marine footage or conducting inspections, our camera solutions have got you covered. Happy videoing, and have a fantastic day!
Underwater GoPro Tray Links:
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass three categories tailored to cinema gear and six categories dedicated to underwater equipment. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the second cinema category: Large Cardellini Tripod, our new cinema camera support system!
Today, we're going to dive into something pretty awesome – our new tripod the CCK-TRIPOD, and the secret to it are the adjustable legs and Cardellini clamps. Let me tell you, it's really cool!
Here's the story behind it: I had a friend drop by with his motorcycle one day, and we got tinkering to see how we could fit GoPros securely on it for some filming. While doing that he had an idea to have the GoPro extend out to the side. This way you could get some really cool videos. With his help, we came up with this the PERFECT solution. The main parts that make up the tripod are a GoPro mount, tripod clamp, three adjustable legs, three Cardellini clamps, and a number of our special cutout clamps and other parts. This cinema camera support system is super easy to set up and will fit most anything you can mount it to, as its one of the most versitile professional support systems out there on the market currently. You’ll need to think outside the box for this one!
The beauty of the design lies in the TRI-LEG's that are adjustable and the CARD-SMMC Cardellini clamps. Because of this, you can change the angle or position in minutes with your cinema camera support system from Ultralight Camera Solutions. Talk about a speedy setup!
It might not be for everyone, but if you're facing a challenge finding the perfect mounting solution for your GoPro, this could be the answer. And trust me, these professional support systems held up beautifully during our ride through the back hills – no issues at all.
Remember, we're here to help you with any questions or problems you might have. Contact Us and we are here to help, that's why we're called Camera Solutions, after all! Happy filming, and have a fantastic day! We are always here to help!
Ultralight Cardellini Tripod:
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass six categories tailored to underwater equipment and three categories dedicated to cinema gear. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the sixth underwater category: Underwater Sled Camera Tray kits. & what clients may need within their underwater camera support systems!
In this sixth installment of our Underwater series, we are excited to introduce our NEW INNOVATIVE camera sled tray kits and monitor kits to accompany the sleds for customers with large video monitors with some of the most premium underwater camera support systems that are available on the market.
Our camera sleds were born out of a request from a Norwegian underwater cinematographer, seeking an alternative to Nauticam's rail system. Within a remarkably short time of about 20 minutes, we devised a solution using readily available parts from our inventory to craft one of the best professional underwater camera supports. This innovative sled design, the CSK-SLDL gained significant popularity and now we have customers around the globe using them. Since then, the cinematographer Kjetil C. Astrup owner of Cinemarine is now an Ultralight Brand Ambassador.
Expanding on the sled's functionality, we introduced a variation with shorter rails, the CSK-SLDM and a rear monitor bracket kit, the CSK-MBK that can be effortlessly attached to the bottom of the sled's main mounting plate as a professional underwater camera support. The primary camera sled kit, the CSK-SLDL comprises one TRI-TRAY, four TR-HB brackets, two TR-SBLD trays, and a comprehensive hardware kit. Additionally, the CSK-MBK monitor kit is equipped with one TR-MB, one AD-1420, and a specially designed knob, the AC-TKB. We now have two other accessory kits that will be added to the sled lineup very soon. One is an adjustable sliding weight system that mounts on the side rails so achieving a perfectly balanced rig is quite easy. The other is a special arm and clamp setup to allow multiple buoyancy arms, small and large to be attached above the camera for perfect buoyancy for your underwater camera support systems. With these new accessory kits, The Ultralight sled system will be a game changer, especially because of the cost compared to other professional underwater camera supports currently on the market.
At Ultralight Camera Solutions, we are committed to continuous innovation and meeting the unique needs of our customers. Our camera sled tray kits and monitor kits are designed to enhance your underwater cinematography experience, ensuring ease of use and top-notch performance. With our array of options, you can easily find the perfect solution to suit your specific requirements for your professional underwater camera supports.
If you don't find what you need, please Contact Us. We are always here to help!
Underwater-Camera Sled Kits:
Here at Ultralight Camera Solutions, we pride ourselves in manufacturing quality underwater photography and cinematography parts, all USA made with USA materials. These products include underwater video lighting solutions, camera arms, lighting clamps and many other products. Our assembly and packaging are done in-house as well at our warehouse in Oxnard but occasionally there are some problems.
Our customer service is extremely important to us and we are ALWAYS happy to help. Owner Ken Kollwitz has been on the other end as a customer and fully believes in the Golden Rule, "do to others what you would have them do to you". For such a simple idea it seems many companies have forgotten. Here at Ultralight, this is one of our main goals, to offer the BEST customer service possible.
This also carries forward to our warranty and Terms of Service. We believe in making products that last, no matter what type of environment they are used in and because of this, we offer a lifetime warranty on all our products. As we all know, there's always the possibility of a problem, whether it is a malfunction of a product, missing parts, or a customer issue. Whether you purchased a 1 inch ball mount for your camera or cinema lighting clamps and arms, we will work with you to ensure that you are satisfied with our products. No matter what the issue is, email us at info@ulcs.com, give us a call at (805) 485-0233, or reach out to us through our contact us page and we will be happy to help.
One important thing to remember is that Ultralight is a small company. It's not like calling a big company which can be very hard to get a hold of somebody who can help. You won't go through one of those automated phone systems that take forever and totally frustrate you. Call us and more than likely you will get Ken, the owner of Ultralight. We stand behind everything that we manufacture, and we're here to help. Also, one more very important thing is that we are ALWAYS happy to hear your feedback, good or bad because we can't make needed changes if we do not know where those changes are needed. If you are looking for professional lighting support systems or other underwater photography accessories give Ultralight Camera Solutions a call today!
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass six categories tailored to underwater equipment and three categories dedicated to cinema gear. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the first category: Underwater Camera Arm kits.
Within this category, we have 7 different kits to suit various needs. Some kits feature standard options with different strobe mounts, while others introduce innovative solutions and approaches. To complement each category, we have also provided a video on our YouTube channel. You can find the link to the video at the end of this blog to our video on professional lighting support systems.
Among our offerings, we have a couple of underwater double-arm kits, The UAK-DSS-05 (not shown) and UAK-DSS-08, shown below that utilize our SBSS arms for professional lighting support systems. These arms are designed with a ball mount at one end and a YS mount (Sea & Sea style) at the other. One kit includes the SBSS-05 and DB-05 arms, while the other features the SBSS-08 and DB-08 arm.
Additionally, we have three kits that utilize a single DB-05 arm paired with an AC-CSLXL clamp. They are the UAK-SLCYS-05 (not shown), the UAK-SLCIN-05, and UAK-SLCIK-05, both shown below. This combination provides a great alternative to using two standard DB-05 arms. Each underwater camera arm kit is equipped with either the AD-SS ball mount for Sea & Sea and compatible lights, the AD-125 for Ikelite strobes, or the AD-IN made for Inon Strobes. We offer three similar kits but with a DB-08 arm instead of the DB-05 arm and they are the UAK-SLCYS-08 shown above, the UAK-SLCIN-08, and UAK-SLCIK-08, (both not shown). Ken, the owner of Ultralight, personally recommends the setup with the DB-05 arm for its versatility and ease of use. Using the extra-long clamp as an arm allows for easier adjustments by removing one clamp.
For those interested in double-arm kits, we provide three versions using two DB-05 arms and they are the UAK-DYS-05 shown below, the UAK-DIN-05, and UAK-DIK-05 (both not shown). For double arm kits utilizing DB-08 arms we have the UAK-DYS-08, UAK-DIN-08, and the UAK-DIK-08 (none shown) All these kits offer various options for mounting strobes and lights, including the AD-SS, and AD-125, or AD-IN for all of your professional lighting support systems needs.
Depending on your photography preferences, whether it's macro, wide-angle, or a combination of both, we have an arm kit suitable for you. Two shorter arms are ideal for macro photography and close-focus wide-angle shots, while two longer arms are better suited for wide-angle photography. Of course, you can also choose any combination in between to fit your specific needs. If you're shooting videos instead of still images, many of these kits will work equally well, especially if you have lights with a YS mount. Additionally, it's worth considering your travel requirements and how everything will pack. Ultimately, the best choice depends on what works best for you, and sometimes thinking outside the box can lead to great solutions.
If you don't find what you need, please Contact Us. We are always here to help!
Below are the kit part numbers and the links for each:
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass six categories tailored to underwater equipment and three categories dedicated to cinema gear. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the second category: Underwater Camera Tray kits.
Within this category, we offer seven different kits, each catering to specific needs. Two kits feature single-handle trays, while two others serve as extension kits, such as the CTEXKS-01 and the CTEXKM-01 allowing you to convert a single-handle tray into a double-handle configuration. Additionally, we have one kit that presents an innovative solution to address a common issue. To enhance your understanding of each category, we have provided accompanying videos on our YouTube channel. You can find the link to the video at the end of this blog.
For those seeking a single-handle tray option, we offer two choices. The first, the CTKS-01 shown below, comprises a TR-D tray paired with a TR-DHB handle, designed for smaller point-and-shoot cameras such as the Olympus TG-6. The second option, the CTKM-01 (not shown) combines a TR-D tray with an AC-H handle, catering to larger cameras resembling mirrorless models.
Our extension kits are perfect companions for the aforementioned single-handle trays, allowing you to transform them into double-handle setups. The CTEXKS-01 (not shown) uses a TR-DUP extension, in combination with the TR-DHB handle, which converts the TR-D tray into a double-handle tray. Alternatively, the CTEXKM-01, shown below uses the TR-DUPL extension, along with the AC-H handle, which can be added to the TR-DM tray, achieving the same result. Adding a second handle enhances stability and provides more options for attaching a light or strobe & can be your underwater video lighting solution.
For those in search of double-handle trays, we offer two options. Both utilize AC-H handles, accompanied by either the TR-DM2 tray or the TR-SBLD tray. The CTKL-01 uses the TR-DM2 tray and is best suited for medium-sized camera housings that require two bolts for attachment. On the other hand, the CTKL-02 that uses the TR-SBLD tray is ideal for larger cameras and compatible with Kraken or SeaLife iPhone housings. Similar to the TR-DM2 tray, they also utilizes two bolts for housing attachment.
Last but certainly not least, we present our innovative compact tray, the CTKS-01 featuring the DB-CB10 arm, one AC-CSL clamp, and one AC-CSLXL clamp. This setup works extremely well as a stable platform for smaller cameras, GoPros, or video cameras using a 1/4"-20 threaded hole. Because of its overall size, it works well for beach divers and others looking for a more compact solution.
At Ultralight, we pride ourselves on the extensive options we provide. If you cannot find exactly what you're looking for among our offerings, please don't hesitate to Contact Us. We are always delighted to assist you in finding the perfect underwater video lighting solutions for your needs.
Here at Ultralight, we have so many options that if you do not find what you are looking for, please contact us. We are ALWAYS happy to help!
Links to camera tray kits:
Welcome to Ultralight Camera Solutions, where we proudly offer a diverse selection of kits specifically designed for Underwater and Cinema photography. Our kits encompass six categories tailored to underwater equipment and three categories dedicated to cinema gear. In this blog post, we will be highlighting the third category: Underwater Caged Camera Tray kits.
Within this category, we present three distinct kits, each carefully crafted to accommodate a range of needs based on the camera or iPhone housing employed. All three of these kits introduce innovative solutions that revolutionize the approach to setting up your camera rig. To further enhance your understanding of each category, we have included a video on our YouTube channel. You can find the link to the video at the end of this blog.
But first, let's see what a double-caged camera tray is and why it might be a desirable option. This solution emerged from the desire to have a robust wrap-around tray capable of securely holding various additional accessories, while also providing better support for those accessories. And thus, the double-caged camera trays were born.
These kits consist of two identical trays bolted together, with two handles positioned in between. The top center of the tray features a GoPro mount, while two 1" ball mounts serve as attachment points for arms. One configuration is the DTK-MCXLH and comprises two TR-DM2 trays, two AC-H1/4XL handles, one GP-TRI-MOUNT for GoPro, and two BA-HB ball mounts.
Two of the kits utilize the longer TR-SBLD tray. The first kit, DTK-LCXLH (not shown) includes two TR-SBLD trays, two AC-H1/4XL handles, one TRI-MOUNT, and two BA-HB ball mounts. The second kit, DTK-SCSH shares the same components but features a shorter handle, the AC-H1/4.
Our caged camera tray kits are compatible with various camera housings and iPhone housings. For the Kraken iPhone housing, the kit, DTK-SCSH with shorter handles and the TR-SBLD tray is the optimal choice. However, the SeaLife iPhone housing, which possesses a vacuum port on the top, is better suited for the kit, DTK-LCXLH (not shown) with taller handles and the TR-SBLD tray. If you plan to use a small video camera that utilizes a 1/4"-20 mounting bolt, simply remove the GoPro mount and use the same bolt to attach the alternative-style video camera to the top tray.
We invite you to explore the versatility and functionality of our caged camera tray kits, designed to accommodate your unique photography needs and provide an elevated shooting experience.
If you have any questions or are not sure which kits will work for you please feel free to Contact Us. We're always happy to help!
Links to caged camera tray kits:
