Abstract: An instrument for the inspection of well bores includes an improved light source contained within the same pressure barrel as the camera. A low power lamp is disposed within an elliptical-shaped reflector that reflects the lamp light to a focal point distal of the reflector. Optical fibers are disposed at that focal point and conduct the light received from the lamp to form an array of light sources disposed about the camera. An annular window disposed in the line of illumination of the array of light sources directs the illumination into the field of view of the camera. The light source arrangement provides an unobstructed and illuminated field of view for the camera. Because of the increased efficiency of the light source that includes the described elliptical reflector, a self-contained power system may be used in the instrument thereby resulting in a much smaller support cable for the instrument with the ability to inspect much smaller boreholes. Standard size batteries may be used in the power system.