Backscatter Optical Snoot OS-2 for Atom Flash
Precision macro beam shaping for your Backscatter Atom Flash
The Backscatter Optical Snoot OS-2 is a dedicated accessory for the Backscatter Atom Flash, designed to give underwater macro photographers precise control of the flash beam. If you’re using the Atom Flash and want to isolate subjects, darken backgrounds, or target light exactly where you need it, this snoot delivers a simple, reliable solution for creative lighting in underwater scenes.
This product is built for shooters working in macro or tight-scene setups who already own (or plan to buy) the Atom Flash. It’s not intended as a wide-angle or general flood modifier—it’s optimized for targeted beam control using the Atom system.
- What it is: A beam-control snoot accessory (OS-2) designed exclusively for the Atom Flash’s bayonet mount.
- Best for: Underwater macro or isolation style lighting where tight beam and background control are key.
- Not for: Wide-angle ambient flood lighting without modification—this is a focused beam tool.
- Key compatibility: Compatible with the Backscatter Atom Flash and uses the same filter holder as OS-1.
- Important limitation: Requires the Atom Flash’s bayonet mount and is optimized for that unit only—verify your flash model before purchase.
Customizable Beam Size & Shape
The OS-2 includes both circular and oval aperture cards, so you can fine-tune the size and shape of the beam for subjects of different sizes or orientations.
- Includes one circular and one oval aperture card set.
- Rotate the snoot when the oval card is installed to change beam shape from long to wide.
- Allows smaller beam spots to isolate subjects and darken backgrounds.
- Macro dives seeking tight beam control and dark backgrounds.
- Underwater critter photography where light placement matters more than beam width.
- Travel rigs using the Atom Flash where compact precision lighting is needed.
Pros
- Clean, concentrated beam enabling subject isolation and dark backgrounds.
- Easy installation via Atom Flash bayonet mount—quick on/off underwater.
- Includes both circular and oval aperture cards for flexible beam shaping.
Cons
- Works only with the Backscatter Atom Flash—no compatibility with other strobes without adapter.
- Beam is tightly focused—unsuitable for wide-angle lighting situations without diffuser or modification.
The OS-2 is manufactured by Backscatter, a U.S.-based company specialised in underwater imaging gear. Bluewater Photo offers full support, including lifetime gear advice and setup guidance, and backs its products with the standard return/warranty policy.
Free shipping over $200 · Lifetime support included
With the OS-2 attached to your Atom Flash, you gain the kind of precision lighting control that turns underwater macro from “okay” to standout.
- Backscatter HF-1 Strobe — powerful hybid strobes
- Backscatter MF-3 — compact macro focused strobe
- 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.
- Compatible with the Backscatter Atom Flash
- Easiest to use macro strobe + snoot combination
- LED aiming light of the flash shows exactly where the flash will hit
- Brightest aiming light of any snoot
- Aperture Cards adjust the size of the light beam
- Circular & Oval Aperture Cards included
- Rotate the snoot to adjust the shape of the beam with the Oval Card
- The Atom Strobe
- Aperture Cards
Backscatter Optical Snoot OS-2 for Atom Flash — FAQ
- Is the OS-2 compatible with strobes other than the Atom Flash?
No — it is designed specifically for the Backscatter Atom Flash’s bayonet mount. Using it with other strobes may require an adapter and is not officially supported.
- What beam-shaping accessories are included?
It includes a circular aperture card and an oval aperture card, each offering multiple hole sizes so you can adjust beam size and shape.
- Can I use this for wide-angle lighting?
Not ideal — this snoot is optimized for macro or subject-isolated lighting with a narrow beam. For wide-angle scenes you’ll need a broader modifier or diffuser.
- Does the OS-2 include filters or color-modifiers?
No. Filters or color-modifier accessories must be purchased separately if desired. The OS-2 uses the same filter-holder system as Backscatter’s OS-1 model.
- What is the depth rating of the OS-2?
Backscatter does not publish a specific depth rating for the OS-2 alone. Please verify this specification with Bluewater Photo before purchase.
