Need advice on filters

[Guba]

I'm just getting started in uw videography, though I have quite a bit of experience in conventional photography. Right now, I'm experimenting with filters to get more natural color.
My question...what magenta filter do you find best for restoring natural colors at depth? I'm particularly interested in depths of 25-50 feet, and I'm also interested in what filter you've found useful for clear freshwater photography. I've experiemented with 10M and 20M filters, but things still don't look quite "right". Thanks for any info you might provide.

 

[diversteve]

In salt water I use a URPro CY filter below 15' until the light falloff is too much - generally 60-90' depending on sunlight and water conditions. More info here: URPRO Patented Underwater Correction Filters

I mostly shoot in bright Caribbean water. Although I have used it on overcast days with mixed results. I don't shoot in fresh water. URPro does sell a GR filter for fresh water use.

 

[PerroneFord]

Forgo the filter. White balance your camera with a warming card (or something similar) and go shoot. Underwater videography is already a losing battle with light. You'll lose half a stop or more with a filter.

 

[ronscuba]

Good advice, but if he/she is just starting in UW video, it is doubtful they have a camcorder/housing that will access MWB underwater at decent depths. As you go deeper, many camcorders have difficulty locking WB w/o a filter in place because of the drop in contrast.

 

[Guba]

Square on the head, Ron. My housing does not have WB controls. In fact, it's a very rudimentary setup (home built), so about all I can do is turn the camera on/off.
Hey, I told you I was just getting started...
Thanks for the help, though.

 

[PerroneFord]

I keep forgetting that you OW guys are dealing with varying lighting conditions. In that case, I'd suggest you buy a full stop filter, the best lights you can afford, and a good color correction program.

Best of luck!

 

[paulpost]

I keep forgetting that you OW guys are dealing with varying lighting conditions. In that case, I'd suggest you buy a full stop filter, the best lights you can afford, and a good color correction program.

Best of luck!

for a change get certified see how is like under and we will follow your advise

 

[ronscuba]

I'm pretty sure he is an experienced certified cave diver. I know he is experienced with topside videography and often offers very good advice on editing. For whatever reason he lists his profile as not certified.

 

[PerroneFord]

ronscuba,

Think he'll follow my advice now? LOL!