Diver using Nauticam SMC-3 lens to capture close-up underwater macro shot of a nudibranch

If you’ve ever tried to photograph a tiny nudibranch doing something adorable (or just existing), you already know: macro photography underwater is a game of patience, precision, and the right gear. And when it comes to gear, Nauticam’s Super Macro Converter 3 (SMC-3) is quickly becoming a favorite tool for underwater shooters who like to get up close and personal with the smallest critters in the sea.

So, what makes this new version special? Let’s dive in.

First Things First: What Is the SMC-3?

The SMC-3 is Nauticam’s latest super macro wet lens attachment, offering up to 2.4x magnification when paired with a full-frame camera and a 100mm or 105mm macro lens. In plain English? You can fill your entire frame with something as tiny as 15mm across. That’s small. Like, "I just photographed a shrimp's eyeball" small.

And it’s not just about getting closer, it’s about doing it with style and optical clarity.

Is the SMC-3 the Successor to the SMC-1?

In a word: yes, though Nauticam doesn’t officially market it as a direct replacement. Instead, they describe the SMC-3 as “a renewed version of the acclaimed SMC-1.’’ It builds on everything that made the SMC-1 such a powerhouse, while refining the experience in a few key ways:

  • Lighter: It’s around a third of the weight of the SMC-1 (only 307g in air).
  • More user-friendly: A longer working distance makes it easier to approach subjects without spooking them.
  • More affordable: Slightly easier on your wallet compared to the discontinued SMC-1.

In other words, if you're shopping for a super macro converter for your full frame camera paired with a macro lens today, the SMC-3 is the one to get.

Lighter, Smaller, Still Mighty

One of the first things you'll notice is just how portable the SMC-3 is. At just 307 grams on land and 215 grams in water, it won’t throw off the balance of your rig.

Stunning Image Quality

Don’t let the smaller size fool you, the SMC-3 delivers the same incredible optical performance Nauticam is known for. It’s made with low dispersion optical glass, coated with multi-layer anti-reflection tech that keeps issues like chromatic aberration and distortion at bay.

The result? Tack-sharp images with rich contrast and crystal-clear detail.

Working Distance That Works

Thanks to a redesigned optical formula, the SMC-3 gives you a generous 51–103mm of working distance (depending on your lens setup). Even at full magnification, you’ll have more than 50mm between your subject and the front of the lens.

That’s a game-changer when you’re photographing shy creatures like gobies, blennies, or shrimp.

Autofocus-Friendly and Sharp All the Way

This isn’t just a magnifier. it’s a finely tuned optical tool. The SMC-3 was engineered to work seamlessly with your camera’s autofocus system. With excellent light transmission and high image contrast, most modern macro setups can autofocus comfortably even at high magnification.

That means fewer missed shots and more keepers.

Bokeh That’s Actually Beautiful

Underwater macro backgrounds can sometimes look... a little rough. But not with the SMC-3. It retains the smooth bokeh characteristics of your macro lens, giving you a soft, creamy blur in the background, without weird fringing or color artifacts.

Built Like a Tank, But Nicer

Like all Nauticam gear, the SMC-3 is rugged and dive-ready. It’s housed in hard anodized aluminum and nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging. It mounts easily on any standard M67 thread and plays well with flip adapters and bayonet systems for quick use underwater.

It also comes with thoughtful extras like front and rear lens caps, a spacer ring, a neoprene pouch, and a lens cloth.

The Bottom Line

If you love macro and super macro photography, the Nauticam SMC-3 is a rock-solid investment. It’s lighter, sharper, easier to use, and more affordable than its predecessor and it maintains the top-tier optical quality Nauticam’s known for.

If you're chasing nudibranchs, shooting pygmy seahorses, or just exploring the micro world below the waves, this little lens will help you get closer, and shoot sharper than ever before.