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Mastering Underwater Video Recording with GoPro: A Step-by-Step Guide for Novices

Comprehensive tutorial on operating your GoPro, detailing standard and recommended configurations, optimal resolution and frame rate, filter utilization, video light usage, time-lapse settings, speedy tips, and additional accessories.

Mastering GoPro for Exceptional Underwater Footage: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mastering GoPro for Exceptional Underwater Footage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mastering Underwater Video Recording with GoPro: A Step-by-Step Guide for Novices

In the realm of underwater videography, the GoPro Hero8 Black stands out as a popular choice for its versatility and performance. Here are some recommended settings to help you capture stunning underwater footage.

Recommended Settings for GoPro Hero8 Black

  • Resolution & Frame Rate: For a smooth video and efficient file management, opt for 1080p at 30 frames per second (fps).
  • Video Stabilization: Activate Hypersmooth or standard stabilization to minimise shakiness underwater.
  • ISO Range: Set the minimum ISO to 100 and the maximum ISO around 200 to reduce noise in low-light conditions.
  • Exposure Value (EV): Slightly reduce exposure with an EV around -0.5 to avoid overexposure from bright sunlight or reflections.
  • Shutter Speed: Keep it on automatic for convenience, allowing the camera to adjust based on lighting.
  • Color Profile: Use GoPro’s natural or flat color profile to capture colours more accurately, enabling better colour correction later.

These settings help balance underwater lighting challenges and stabilise the footage.

Equipment and Accessories

  • Using a dedicated waterproof housing case rated up to 60m enhances protection and optical clarity for underwater shooting.
  • For time-lapse videos, the GoPro Hero4, Hero5, Hero6, Hero7, and Hero8 all have a time-lapse setting.
  • The Flip5 filter pro pack is recommended for using filters on the GoPro HERO5, HERO4, HERO 3+, and HERO 3.
  • Spare batteries can be purchased and swapped out after each dive.

Additional Tips

  • Higher frame rates like 120 and 240 are overkill for underwater use.
  • Filters are not recommended with underwater lights or in shallow water with plenty of natural sunlight.
  • Video lights are highly recommended when creating underwater videos.
  • The white rubber O-ring on the back cover of the housing should be free of debris to prevent water leaking inside.
  • It is important to keep the camera steady for a long period of time when making time-lapse videos.
  • GoPro Hero cameras can be charged by inserting the battery and connecting to a USB plug via the supplied USB-C cable.

For underwater photos, the recommended settings for the GoPro HERO7 or HERO8 include RAW File, Lens WIDE, Color GoPro, Auto White Balance, ISO 100-1600 (depending on if you have lights), Sharpness High.

For the most recent GoPro models, the most ideal card is a UHS-I U3 Micro SD card up to 256gb. Remember, not all Micro SD cards will work in a GoPro, and the official Micro SD card recommendation can be found on GoPro's website.

To turn on the GoPro Hero8 camera, hold the side mode button down for 2 seconds and release. The video camera symbol should be on the screen to confirm it is in video mode.

With these tips in mind, you're now ready to embark on your underwater video adventure with the GoPro Hero8 Black. Happy diving!

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