Video Lighting configuration

[Padowan]

I'm setting up a lighting system for my new housing, and am looking for advice on how/where to position the batteries if using an umbilical system.

I was planning on using my existing umbilical lights with DIY diffusers on, but both lights (Custom Divers 10W HID and Solus SU-500) have quite negative batteries, which would make the system more unweildy underwater. So I was thinking of attaching the batteries to me, and then only the lamps to the camera.

Anyone tried either configuration, and have pros and cons of each?

Thanks in advance!

[Okeanos]

I use my GF HID head with the canister still on my cylinders. If I were going to put 2 light heads on I would have the umbilicals coming around the same side (left for me) and use a bigger battery pack, I do like GF's versatility in this sort of scenario. It all works well and seems comfortable enough, although I am thinking of a longer umbilical.

Ultra light do a series of holders for different sized torch heads, I use the 50mm one as it holds the HID impact head perfectly.

[Padowan]

I was thinking as a starting point to zip-tie a goodman handle onto each of the video housing handles giving me one light each side - something like this:
o[I_O_I]o

Then leaving the batteries attached to me.

[Ken]

Attaching the batteries to the waist strap HOG style works nicely and keeps the camera from being heavy. Going that route makes life easier. I am using this setup and I have one of Salvo's systems after using a L&M setup for years.

[Okeanos]

Its always best to get the light source away from the camera, you get back scatter with video just as with still photography.

It will work, try using it on dry land to make sure you have no restrictions in your movement, thats why I only use one light at the moment. It all gets a right PITA when you have stages on as well.

[yellowduke]

I am using a Salvo 18watt with a video diffuser mounted on a ULC arm with a focusing light mount. Used it last week and it was great. Good even light over a very wide area. People just followed me around on the night dives! There is a photo in the gallery somewhere.

Jim