Ikelite Underwater Housing for Canon PowerShot S120 IS Camera

A compact, lightweight underwater housing for Canon PowerShot S120 IS cameras that provides access to all camera functions up to 200ft (60m). Suitable for scuba, snorkel, surf, pool, and any application in or around the water.

The PowerShot S120 IS is the fastest and brightest of the Canon S-series cameras. The S120 is truly pocket-sized, with an optically stabilized 24-120mm equivalent zoom lens and 12MP sensor. Manual exposure controls and 1080/60p video resolution make this one a solid compact choice for underwater.

Function and ergonomics

This housing is designed and built in the USA by experienced divers who are committed to providing top quality and value.

A drop-in, front-loading camera mounting system makes set-up and break down a breeze. An ergonomic side-mounted shutter lever is comfortable and reduces fatigue. The camera's full 24-120mm equivalent zoom range is usable in the housing without vignetting.

Large, easy-to-reach controls are provided for all camera functions except the Rear Control Dial. Most rear control dial functions may be accessed using the up/down/left/right directional buttons.

Zoom and macro close-up

Ikelite's 3" diameter ports feature a 67mm thread on the front for the easy attachment of external wide angle and macro wet lenses. Wide angle lenses make objects appear smaller so that you can fit more into your frame underwater. Macro close-up lenses make small objects appear larger so that tiny creatures will fill your frame.

The WD-3 Wide Angle Dome # 6430.3 provides a mid-range angle of view with no vignetting (dark shadows in the corners of the image). Compared to an actual wet lens, the WD-3 is sharper around the edges of the photo, lighter weight, and easier to attach or remove.

The W-30 Wide Angle Lens # 6430, INON UWL-H100 (Type 1), and other 67mm threaded wide angle lenses provide a wider maximum angle of view. Because these are separated from the camera's lens by the glass, air, and water, some vignetting and edge distortion will be present. These effects can be reduced or eliminated by using a smaller aperture, zooming in slightly, and/or cropping in post-production.

External macro lenses with 67mm threads from INON, Epoque, and other manufacturers can be attached directly to the front of the housing's port.

Accessory mounting

Two 1/4-20 threaded mounting points are included on the bottom of the housing for the rotation-free attachment of a tray and handle system. Handles provide improved ergonomics underwater and are the foundation for your lighting mounts. Mounting lights on a side arm rather than directly over the camera's lens helps to reduce the appearance of backscatter which looks like snow in your underwater images.

Light is absorbed as it travels through even short distances underwater, making colors appear dull or monochromatic. To preserve the natural colors of your subject, it's important to stay within arm's reach—no more than 3-4 feet (1m) away.

There is a simple rule that brighter is better underwater. A high-quality lighting system can produce magazine-quality results with almost any compact camera system.

Color correcting filters

Enhanced color correction and clarity can be achieved by adding a color filter or external light. The lens port of the housing accepts Ikelite's 3" diameter color filters, which are available in two formulas: Tropical Blue Water # 6441.41 and Green Water # 6441.81. A color filter reduces the amount of light that reaches the camera's sensor, so they are most effective in sunny conditions up to about 45 feet (15m). The absolute maximum effectiveness is 80 feet (24m) in ideal conditions of full sun and visibility of 100+ feet (30+m).

Ikelite also offers a Yellow Barrier Filter # 6441.11 for shooting fluorescence photography. Read more about fluorescence here...

Flash and constant on lights

A flash or constant on light is necessary for close-up, night dives, and deep depths. An external light also brings out more colors in sunny conditions. External lights are typically not used in conjunction with color filters, as the combination will result in tones that are too red or too purple.

The location of the camera's flash in relation to the lens makes it unusable for lighting your subject underwater. However, the camera's flash may be used to trigger an external strobe. Two ports are provided for the connection of up to two fiber optically triggered underwater strobes.

Alternatively, a bright constant-on video light can be used. A constant-on light is not as bright as a strobe flash. Constant-on lights do provide added versatility because they can be used for focus assist and for improved colors when shooting video.

Durability and corrosion free performance

Ikelite's ABS-PC blend provides strength and corrosion free performance year after year with minimal maintenance. The specially formulated color deflects the sun to keep your camera running cooler, longer.

Ikelite products are designed, built and tested in the USA. Ikelite uses locally sourced, top-grade materials. Ikelite's housings are built by hand and individually tested for fit and function. Every unit is water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m). Ikelite backs their products with over 50 years of experience and the best reputation for service within the dive industry.

Compatibility

Differences in lens and control placement prevent cameras other than the Canon PowerShot S120 IS from being used in this housing. Ikelite is not aware of any other camera models which may be used in or adapted to this particular housing.

Optional Accessories

• Spare O-Ring Seal # 0132.45
• WD-3 Wide Angle Dome # 6430.3
• W-30 Wide Angle Lens # 6430
• UR/PRO Color Filter for Tropical Blue Water # 6441.41
• UR/PRO Color Filter for Green Water # 6441.81
• Yellow Fluorescence Filter # 6441.11
• Action Tray with Left-Hand Handle # 2605.04
• Action Tray Extension with Right Handle # 2605.05
• Fiber Optic Cord # 4501

In the Box

Housing

• O-ring # 0132.45 (installed)
• Port cover # 0200 (installed)
• Lanyard # 0321.10
• Silicone lubricant # 0184.1
• 1 year limited warranty

Specifications

• 200 ft (60m) depth rating
• Controls for all camera functions except Rear Control Dial; Most Rear Control Dial functions may be accessed using the Up/Down/Left/Right directional controls
• Near neutral buoyancy in fresh water
• 1/4-20 thread tray mounting with 3" (76mm) spacing
• 1.3 lb (590 g)
• 6.2 x 4.5 x 4.1" (157 x 114 x 104 mm)
• 3" diameter glass lens port