GDome XL 4

The XL 4 Surf comes with a removable 2-stage pistol (bottom) trigger grip. The XL 4 Fusion comes with a removable right-hand 2-stage side trigger grip.

What is a pistol trigger grip for surf photography?

A handle known as a pistol grip is fastened to the housing's base. A button on the handle activates the shutter of the camera by connecting a cable to the device's "remote" connection.

Why use a pistol-grip trigger when shooting?

It is simpler to swim with your housing and to position yourself into key wave sections for the finest shots when you shoot with a pistol grip because you can hold (and trigger) the camera with just one hand. With fisheye or wide-angle lenses, where you might not always be looking through your viewfinder when shooting, a pistol-grip trigger is frequently employed. Even though some photographers prefer to utilise the top shutter button for a more comfortable hold when peering through the viewfinder, you can still use a pistol grip when using longer lenses.

A side trigger system in water photography offers an alternative ergonomic design. It allows for a more stable two-handed grip on the camera housing, enhancing control and minimising shake, especially in challenging conditions like turbulent waters.

This setup is preferred by some photographers who prioritise stability and control over the convenience of a one-handed operation.

The choice between a pistol-grip trigger and a side trigger often depends on personal preference and the specific shooting conditions encountered in water photography.

To ensure compatibility with the GDome XL Surf / XL, there are two essential requirements:

Physical Fit: Your camera must meet the size constraints of the GDome to ensure a proper fit (see below).

TRS-Compatible Non-Proprietary Shutter Port: Your camera needs to have a TRS-compatible wired remote shutter port to utilise our 2-stage trigger system.

Read more here

Our flexible rear membrane is unbelievably strong and flexible, as they are custom-molded specifically for us from silicone.

Silicone has close to zero memory, excellent resistance to weathering and UV exposure, and lasts approximately four times longer than rubber.

Please keep in mind that they are not made to withstand impact or pressure from sharp edges or points.

We suggest storing the silicone screens in a ziplock bag when not in use or in transit.

Do not use any grease or O-ring lubrication on the membrane, it can affect the performance and memory of the screen. 

If you are using the flexible rear membrane screen, it will give the user full access to the camera's rear functionality.If you use the solid back door, you will not be able to change settings. You will have to set up your camera before closing the backdoor.

As our housing is universal, you will not have to buy new housing or ports as you upgrade your cameras and lenses (as long as they will fit in our housing).

We also have the 80mm extension ports available (these are stackable).If you need a longer port for your lens, we have you sorted.If you change camera brands, you will simply need to get the correlating 2.5mm remote cable.

Although the XL waterproof housing is universal, remote cables are specific to your camera.

Our mounting plate has multiple holes that allow you to position the camera backwards and forwards.

Getting ready to take amazing photos with a trigger system can be super exciting.

But sometimes, you might run into a couple of issues that can mess things up.

Let's look at how to fix two common problems so you can start taking awesome pictures without any trouble.

Problem 1: Your Camera Keeps Trying to Focus First, there's a setting on your camera that might need a little tweak. It's called continuous focus mode, and it means your camera keeps trying to focus over and over again. This is not good when you're using a trigger system because it can mess up the timing of your photo.

How to Fix It: You'll need to turn this mode off.

Since different cameras have different names for it, it might take a bit of searching in your camera's menu.

It's like making sure your instrument is tuned right before you play a note.

Turning off continuous focus helps your camera and trigger system work together perfectly.

Problem 2: The Timer Gets in the Way Next up, if your camera is set to use a self-timer or remote timer, it can cause delays.

These settings are great for jumping into photos yourself or avoiding camera shake, but they're not helpful with a trigger system.

How to Fix It: Make sure to turn off any timers before you start shooting. This way, when you hit the trigger, your camera takes the picture right away, catching the exact moment you want without waiting.

By fixing these two issues, you're all set for a smooth photo session with your trigger system.

You'll be able to capture those perfect moments exactly as you planned, easily and quickly.