Marelux SOFT Mini – Precision snoot for underwater macro lighting
The MArelux SOFT Mini Snoot is a dedicated underwater snoot accessory that attaches to your existing underwater strobe system to deliver a tightly-controlled beam of light for macro photography. It is ideal for photographers shooting small subjects in challenging underwater conditions and pairing with underwater strobes like the Marelux Apollo S or the Marelux Apollo III. It is not a standalone strobe—your existing underwater strobe is still required.
- What it is: a compact attachment snoot that narrows the beam on your underwater strobe to enhance subject-isolation and reduce backscatter in macro environments.
- Best for: underwater macro photographers who shoot small critters, want tight beam control, or need to limit stray light in turbid conditions.
- Not for: general wide-angle underwater lighting or macro setups that already use wide-beam diffusers; needs a strobe with central aiming light to work correctly.
- Key compatibility: works with most modern underwater strobes when paired with the correct dock/mount for your strobe model.
- *Important limitation: requires the strobe’s aiming-light or pilot-light to be at the center of the tube; if your strobe uses an off-centre pilot light, you may need the SOFT Lite version instead.
Precision adjustable beam
This snoot lets you dial in the beam size to match your subject, helping you isolate small critters and cut backscatter by limiting stray light.
- Beam spot adjustable range from ~3 mm to ~50 mm in water.
- Focal length in water: approx. 130 mm — positions the beam precisely.
- Simple iris dial on the body; no additional parts or cards needed.
Optimised for underwater macro rigs
The SOFT Mini is designed for underwater use: compact size, minimal underwater weight and built-in central aiming light make it well suited to macro rigs where space and precision matter.
- Length: 155 mm. Weight (air): 370 g; underwater: approx. 50 g.
- Depth rating: 100 m (–100 m) — built for serious dives.
- Material: Plastic body (mini version) – lighter for travel use.
Modular docking system for your strobe
The SOFT Mini uses the same dock-mount system as other Marelux snoots, meaning you can swap the mount for your strobe model and use the snoot across gear changes.
- Compatible docks available for a wide range of strobe brands including Sea & Sea, Inon, Retra, Ikelite.
- Quick-release button allows removal underwater if needed.
- Use your existing strobe — no need to buy a dedicated flash unit just for the snoot.
- Close-focus macro of tiny nudibranchs or pygmy seahorses.
- Dark water conditions where you want a tight beam and black-background effect.
- Travel diving rigs where size and weight matter and you want to maximise flexibility.
- Photographers who already own a strobe but want to add creative beam control without swapping systems.
Pros
- Tight adjustable beam for precise macro lighting.
- Lightweight underwater (~50 g) making handheld macro easier.
- Modular docking system lets you reuse with different strobes and mounts.
Cons
- Must have strobe with central aiming light—off-centre pilot lights may require different model.
- Not intended for wide-angle lighting or large subjects — beam too narrow by design.
- Does not include strobe or dock; additional cost and compatibility check required.
Manufactured by Marelux, a recognized brand in underwater imaging accessories. Bluewater Photo offers lifetime support and advice to help with setup, mounting and accessories. Standard return and warranty policies apply—please refer to your seller’s terms for details.
Free shipping over $200 · Lifetime support included
Elevate your underwater macro lighting with focused precision and minimal rig weight.
- Underwater Strobes — pair your snoot with the right light source.
- Marelux Apollo III 2.0 — an ideal strobe in the Marelux ecosystem.
- Marelux Apollo S — more compact strobe by Marelux
- Marelux SOFT Lite Snoot Complete Package — includes diffusers, extension lens and filters.
- Macro Extension Arms & Controls — optimize your rig for subject isolation and handling.
Learn More — Guides & Articles
- Bluewater Photo Blog — underwater macro and snoot technique tutorials.
- How to Use a Snoot Underwater — beginner to advanced guide.
- Marelux Apollo III 2.0 Review — strobe companion review.
- Underwater Photography Guide — external resource for strobe & lighting tutorials.
Specifications
- Build – Material: Plastic (body)
- Build – Dimensions (L × W × H): Length 155 mm
- Build – Weight (land): 370 g
- Build – Weight (underwater): approx. 50 g
- Sealing & Depth – Depth Rating: 100 m (–100 m)
- Ports & Optics – Supported Wet Optics: [Not specified] (Please verify mount/optics compatibility)
- Ports & Optics – Beam focus in water: 130 mm
- Controls & Ergonomics – Beam adjustment: Iris/aperture dial controlling light spot from 3 mm to 50 mm
- Lighting/Sync – Compatibility: Attaches to existing strobe via docks; requires strobe with central aiming light
- Power/Other – Accessories included: Dock not included; strobe and aiming light battery not included.
- Compatibility: Wide support across strobe brands via Marelux docks — see full chart from Marelux.
Marelux SOFT Mini — FAQ
- Does this snoot fit my Sea & Sea YS-D3 strobe?
Please verify that a compatible SOFT Dock exists for your specific strobe model. Marelux lists docks for YS-D3, YS-D2 and others.
- Can I use this with a strobe whose pilot light is off-centre?
No — The SOFT Mini is only applicable to strobes with the aiming/pilot light at the centre of the flash tube. If your strobe uses an off-centre pilot light you should consider the SOFT Lite instead.
- What beam size can I get in-water with this snoot?
The light spot adjustable range in water is ~3 mm to ~50 mm diameter, enabling fine beam control for macro subjects. :
- What’s the depth rating and underwater weight?
Depth rating is 100 m. Underwater weight is approx. 50 g.
- Is the strobe included with the snoot?
No — You must supply your own underwater strobe and compatible mount/dock. The snoot is an accessory, not a standalone light.
