Vidoegraphy underwater (Canon) and by air (GoPro) trip report.

[ajscuba]

I recently purchased a quadcopter for my GoPro. With a trip to Palau and Chuuk approaching, I spent every spare moment practicing with my new toy and thinking of what my shots might be and how I could incorporate them with my underwater videography. I wanted to create a shot that looked like it went from underwater to the air. All the aerial footage was done with a GoPro3+ and underwater was a Canon XA10 in a Light & Motion housing.

Just getting the quad to a foreign country was interesting. Would the airlines allow it's big batteries? Where should I carry them, in carry-on or checked baggage? Legally they must be in carry-on. All went off without a hitch, but I have to admit, I was more worried about my little quad than my scuba gear.

The weather didn't cooperate. It rained and was too windy to fly most of the time. However, I had a couple small windows, one at Jellyfish Lake (one of my main objectives).

While I need to perfect the idea, I'm glad I got something to work with. Check it out on Youtube
Palau by Drone & Underwater - YouTube

 

[tphelps]

Very sweet video! In regards to your question, I haven't had any problems with getting my camera batteries through air port security. The only real concern is if you have Lithium batteries (like for a DPV). Large lithium batteries won't be allowed and have to go through haz-mat.

 

[ajscuba]

I don't know what kind of batteries you have, but mine are LiPo lithium batteries. I did extensive research before taking them overseas not wanting to loose my $150/ea batteries in airport security or airline regulations. The newest regs state not more than 300W total power and have to be hand carried. I guess they want them in carry-on and not in the hold if they were to explode. Nobody with a fire extinguisher down there! Anyway, nobody even asked about them. Whew.

 

[Doubler]

Great video. I have been planning to do the same thing and you just made my decision firm.

 

[EL Pistoffo]

Way cool. Really, really nice job there. Getting a quad copter has crosses my mind but then I cross it right back out. I think I'd be too caught up between UW and aerial filming to relax and enjoy my trips.

 

[volvorules]

Wow, awesome video! Reminds me of my trip to Palau in 2012, so amazing! Stayed at the same hotel, too.

Really nice work!