Backscatter Octo 3500 Wide Underwater Video Light
Compact high-output wide-beam lighting for underwater video rigs
The Backscatter Octo 3500 Wide Underwater Video Light is a go-to, travel-friendly light for action cameras and compact camera rigs. With a powerful 3500-lumen, 100° wide beam, 5000K color temperature, and CRI 90, it delivers bright, even coverage that brings out rich color and fine detail in your underwater footage.
A perfect pairing for wide-angle action cameras and compact systems, this backscatter macro wide light adds professional-level lighting without adding bulk. It also slots neatly onto bigger rigs as a low-profile focus or creative accent light, especially when you add Backscatter Color Filter System accessories or the optional Backscatter Video Light Excitation Filter for fluorescence (“fluoro”) video. Triple O-ring sealing, simple single-button control, and two interchangeable protected Xtar 18650 4000mAh batteries with up to 70 minutes of runtime (50 minutes at full 3500 lumens, then a 20-minute safety ramp-down) make it a practical, all-day tool for underwater video.
- What it is: A compact 3500-lumen, 100° underwater video light with 5000K output, CRI 90, three power levels, triple O-ring seal, and simple single-button operation.
- Best for / not for: Best for wide-angle action cameras and compact rigs that need bright, even coverage and travel-friendly size; not a replacement for a dedicated primary dive torch in dark or overhead environments.
- Main use & purpose: Designed to make underwater video look professionally lit straight out of the camera, from reef and wreck scenes to creative fluoro clips using the optional excitation filter.
- Key compatibility: Works on standard ball or YS arm systems; compatible with the Backscatter Color Filter System and the Backscatter Video Light Excitation Filter for fluorescence shooting.
- Important limitations/gotchas: Powered by two interchangeable protected 18650 batteries (not included), so you’ll need a charger and at least one spare set per light; always carry a separate dive light for general navigation and safety.
Wide-angle coverage with 100° beam
With its wide 100° beam angle, the Octo 3500 lights large underwater scenes evenly, making it easier to light foreground and background subjects without harsh fall-off.
- Wide beam prevents hot spots and uneven lighting.
- Ideal for wide-angle lenses and action cameras.
- Allows easier subject placement and more consistent exposure underwater.
Swappable dual 18650 batteries for travel convenience
The light uses two protected 18650 lithium-ion batteries (sold separately) which you can swap between dives—making it travel-friendly and easy to keep shooting all day.
- Battery compartment features triple O-ring seal for leak protection.
- Run time: approximately 70 minutes at full output (50 minutes at full brightness, then ramp-down for ~20 minutes).
- Indicator LED provides green/yellow/red charge status.
Creative lighting compatibility & accessories
Beyond standard video use, this light works with the Backscatter Color Filter System and optional Fluorescence excitation filter—letting you explore artistic lighting effects and fluorescence videography.
- Compatible with Backscatter Color Filter System.
- Fluorescence mode via optional excitation filter for neon-glow subjects.
- One-button interface simplifies control even with gloves or cold-water exposure.
- Travel-friendly wide-angle video rigs and action cameras.
- Shooters using compact mirrorless underwater systems who need clean wide lighting.
- Underwater content creators wanting simple, high-output lighting without bulky gear.
- Fluorescence-video dives when paired with the optional excitation filter.
Pros
- Wide-angle 100° beam gives broad, even illumination without hotspots.
- Swappable batteries make it travel and dive-trip friendly (carry spares easily).
- Compatible with creative lighting filters and fluorescence accessories for added versatility.
Cons
- Runtime at full output is limited (~50 minutes) before ramp-down.
- Requires user-supplied 18650 batteries—cost and logistics for travel/training.
- Single-button interface may be less flexible than multi-mode lights for advanced users.
Backscatter is a respected specialty brand in underwater imaging equipment, known for supporting underwater photographers and videographers worldwide. This product is backed by standard warranty terms and is sold through Bluewater Photo (with free standard shipping to USA/Canada on initial offering). Lifetime advice and setup guidance are available from Bluewater Photo’s support team.
Free shipping over $200 · Lifetime support included
Light your underwater world with broad, clean illumination that lets your wide-angle video shine.
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- Backscatter AF-1 Flash — perfect for travel, with plenty power
Learn More — Guides & Articles
- Best Underwater Camera for 2025 — our top picks for underwater photography.
- Best Dive Computer — our top dive computer picks.
- Best Underwater Strobes for 2025 — latest lighting & strobe recommendations.
- Best Video Lights for 2025 — our favorite continuous lights.
- 3500 Lumen Brightness
- 100º Wide Even Beam - Light Scenes with Wide Angle Lenses
- Three Power Levels
- Compact Size - Perfect for Travel
- Backscatter Color Filter System Compatible
- Enjoy the vivid colors of fluorescence with the optional Backscatter Video Light Excitation Filter
- Powered by two interchangeable protected 18650 batteries
- Simple Single Button Control
- 5000K Color Temperature
- CRI 90
- Triple O-ring Seal
- The Octo 3500 Light
- 1-inch Ball Mount,
- O-ring Grease,
- Spare O-rings.
Backscatter Octo 3500 Wide Underwater Video Light — FAQ
- Does this light work with GoPro HERO-series rigs?
Yes — the Octo 3500 is sized for compact systems and action camera rigs. You’ll need a housing/tray with a ball or YS mount to attach the light. Check your rig’s mounting standard.
- What batteries does it use and are they included?
It uses two 18650 lithium-ion batteries (user-replaceable); batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.
- Can I use it as a dive torch too?
While the wide beam provides good illumination, the manufacturer recommends carrying a dedicated dive torch for safety and general dive lighting.
- What is the stated depth rating?
The spec sheet lists a 100 m (330 ft) depth rating; please verify this specification with Bluewater Photo before deep or technical dives.
- Is it compatible with filters and accessories?
Yes — it supports the Backscatter Color Filter System and optional Fluorescence Excitation Filter for creative lighting options.
