NJScubaDoc
Contributor
I'm looking at getting into UW videography and am seeking some advice.
To preface, I've been shooting UW photography for almost as long as I've been diving. I started with a Canon A640 and an Ikelite DS125 and the results were pretty decent. The most important steps I've taken since then are independent of the equipment by just learning better exposure/composition etc etc. Now the photos I churn out with two strobes and a Nikon D7000 with specialty lenses blow my early stuff out of the water. Part of that is technique, but a big part is equipment as well.
I'm assuming a similar paradigm exists with videography. Initially I looked at the GoPro series of products, as their popularity and price point seem attractive. I've done some cursory research and the quality of your finished production seems to relate to what's required from still - lighting and technique.
In terms of equipment I have my still tray I can probably DIY rig something up to hold whatever housing the eventual camera goes in. I'd need to pickup some decent lights, since my DS125s won't cut it for video, but that goes regardless of the camera. Any suggestions on lighting? I've seen SOLAs and Krakens mentioned as solid performers. I assume things like beam angle and output are most important, probably battery life as well.
I'm wondering though, are there better options beyond the GoPro that can deliver better results at a higher price point? Thanks for any thoughts more seasoned videographers may have!
To preface, I've been shooting UW photography for almost as long as I've been diving. I started with a Canon A640 and an Ikelite DS125 and the results were pretty decent. The most important steps I've taken since then are independent of the equipment by just learning better exposure/composition etc etc. Now the photos I churn out with two strobes and a Nikon D7000 with specialty lenses blow my early stuff out of the water. Part of that is technique, but a big part is equipment as well.
I'm assuming a similar paradigm exists with videography. Initially I looked at the GoPro series of products, as their popularity and price point seem attractive. I've done some cursory research and the quality of your finished production seems to relate to what's required from still - lighting and technique.
In terms of equipment I have my still tray I can probably DIY rig something up to hold whatever housing the eventual camera goes in. I'd need to pickup some decent lights, since my DS125s won't cut it for video, but that goes regardless of the camera. Any suggestions on lighting? I've seen SOLAs and Krakens mentioned as solid performers. I assume things like beam angle and output are most important, probably battery life as well.
I'm wondering though, are there better options beyond the GoPro that can deliver better results at a higher price point? Thanks for any thoughts more seasoned videographers may have!
