Since GoPro came out, underwater photography and videography has become accessible to every scuba diver and snorkeler, not only because of its waterproof capabilities (HERO 12, 11, 10, 9, 8 and 7 go down to 10m / 33ft without a housing) but also because this camera is affordable, easy to use and rich of accessories.

I’ve learned a ton of tips and tricks  while snorkeling and scuba diving in Indonesia back in 2018.

In this article, I’m going to share them with you, along with some useful GoPro accessories that will help you capture awesome underwater photos and videos.

 

The Best GoPro For Underwater Use


This is a recurrent question that I get from those who are thinking of buying a GoPro for their underwater adventures.

Here’s a table that compares different GoPro HERO models against GoPro features relevant to underwater use:

GoPro ModelWaterproofStabilization / Slow MotionImage Quality UnderwaterAmazon Link
HERO 1210 m/33 ftHypersmooth 6.0 / 240fpsGreatCheck Price >>
HERO 1110 m/33 ftHypersmooth 5.0 / 240fpsGreatCheck Price >>
HERO 1010 m/33 ftHypersmooth 4.0 / 240fpsGreatCheck Price >>
HERO 910 m/33 ftHypersmooth 3.0 / 240fpsGreatCheck Price >>
HERO 810 m/33 ftHypersmooth 2.0 / 240fpsGreatCheck Price >>
HERO 7
(B/S/W)
10 m/33 ftHypersmooth / 240fpsGreatCheck Price >>
HERO 6
(Black)
10 m/33 ftEIS / 240fpsGreatCheck Price
HERO 5
(Black/Session)
10 m/33 ftEIS / 120fpsGoodCheck Price
HERO 4
(Black/Silver)
Needs housingNo EIS / 120fpsOKCheck Price
HERO 3, 3+
(All)
Needs housingNo EIS / 60fpsAcceptableCheck Price

So, which GoPro should you buy?

GoPro Hero 12 – My Top Choice!

Absolutely the best and the newest GoPro camera! The HERO 12 Black, a hallmark of GoPro’s renowned quality, brings unprecedented advancements in imagery with High Dynamic Range (HDR) for both 5.3K and 4K videos and photos, capturing intricate details in varied lighting conditions with striking accuracy and vibrancy. 

SPECIAL SALE
GoPro HERO12 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, HDR, 1/1.9' Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
1,021 Reviews
GoPro HERO12 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, HDR, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
  • High Dynamic Range Video + Photo: HERO12 Black takes its best-in-class image quality...
  • Unbelieveable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
  • Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: HyperSmooth continues to set the...

The camera’s remarkable resolution, offering 91% more clarity than 4K and a staggering 665% more than 1080p, ensures every moment is seized with unparalleled detail and cinematic richness, also allowing for the capture of 27MP and up to 24.7MP still photos from videos via the GoPro Quik app.

Its Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 provides exceptional stabilization, earning accolades for its groundbreaking in-camera sensor and software stabilization, ensuring every adventure—from biking to skiing—is captured with sublime smoothness, even under the most vigorous conditions. With its robust and waterproof design, capable of enduring the elements and submersions up to 33ft (10m), the HERO 12 Black stands as a resilient companion for any adventure, with a water-repelling lens cover to further enhance image quality by reducing lens flare and artifacts.

GoPro Hero 11

On of the best and the most expensive and Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth Stabilization GoPro camera. Hero 11 can be a really good investment for you.

GoPro HERO11 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, 1/1.9' Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
1,224 Reviews
GoPro HERO11 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
  • Revolutionary New Image Sensor: expansive field of view ever on a HERO camera out of...
  • Unbelievable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
  • High-Res Photos + Videos, High Frame Rate: HERO11 Black’s new image sensor boosts...

GoPro Hero 10

This GoPro went even further with the video quality, upgrading it to 5,3k HD, but you can really feel the difference in the price.

GoPro HERO10 Black Bundle + Dual Battery Charger + 1 Extra Battery + 64GB SD Card - E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD & Touch Rear Screens, 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video
  • E-COMMERCE PACKAGING: GoPro HERO10 Black Camera + Dual Battery Charger + 1 Extra...
  • REVOLUTIONARY PROCESSOR: Faster. Smoother. Better. The powerful new GP2 engine...
  • HIGH-RES PHOTOS + VIDEOS, HIGH FRAM RATE: Step up to the sharpest-shooting GoPro...

GoPro Hero 9

With this little camera you can make full 5k videos and get 30% longer battery life comparing to the previous Hero 9.

I definitely recommend you consider buying this model.

GoPro HERO9 Black - E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5K Ultra HD Video, 20MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
  • 5K VIDEO: Shoot stunning video with up to 5K resolution, perfect for maintaining...
  • 20 MP PHOTO WITH SUPERPHOTO: Capture crisp, pro-quality photos with 20MP clarity. And...
  • FRONT DISPLAY + REAR TOUCH SCREEN: A new, larger rear touch screen with touch zoom on...

GoPro Hero 8

Well, if you’re on budget, then opt for at least GoPro HERO 8 . Its amazing Hypersmooth 2.0 will eliminate any sudden movement that you may make underwater due to strong currents or waves.

GoPro HERO8 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 1080p Live Streaming Stabilization
1,787 Reviews
GoPro HERO8 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 1080p Live Streaming Stabilization
  • HyperSmooth 2.0: HERO8 Black has three levels of stabilization: On, High and Boost....
  • Streamlined Design: The re-imagined shape is more pocketable, and folding fingers at...
  • Expandable Mods: Vloggers, pro filmmakers and aspiring creators can do more than ever...

All the upper model of GoPro are even more amazing for the underwater filming, considering their upgraded Hypersmooth and prolonged battery life.

 

Why GoPro is The Best Underwater Camera 


All the newest GoPros (from Hero 5 and above) are waterproof up to 10m / 33ft without a housing. They are rugged, lightweight and have a bunch of underwater accessories to choose from. On the other hand, GoPro is compact, affordable and easy to use.

All of this makes GoPro the perfect camera for filming your underwater experiences. In fact, I’m so glad that I took my HERO 6 to my first dive in Bali, where I completed a PADI diving course. On the last day the instructor took us to a Japanese wreck. And that was one of the best experiences of my life so far! After that my friends and I couldn’t stop watching my underwater videos…

And thankfully my diving instructor was also an underwater photographer and a long term GoPro user!

A frame shot with GoPro HERO 6 by me in the clear waters of Indonesia while snorkeling

 

The Best Underwater Gear 


When it comes to GoPro underwater photography or videography gear is almost essential. Over the years many third party companies hugely contributed in the development of GoPro underwater accessories, making variations of filters, deep water housings, handles, etc. available to GoPro users.

 Suggested GoPro Accessories for Scuba Diving

Waterproof Housing

All GoPro camera models require a waterproof housing for scuba diving. Try to avoid cheap solutions. A good housing will protect your camera from any damage and water leak. Here are a few listed for you:

GoPro Protective Housing (HERO8 Black) - Official GoPro Accessory
GoPro AADIV-001 Super Suit with Dive Housing for HERO7 /HERO6 /HERO5 , Clear, One Size
FitStill 60M Dive Housing Case for Go Pro Hero 5 Session Waterproof Diving Protective Shell with Bracket Accessories for Go Pro Hero5 Session & Hero Session
FitStill 60M/196FT Waterproof Case for Go Pro Hero12 Black/Hero11 Black/Hero10 Black/Hero9 Black,Protective Underwater Diving Housing Shell with Accessories for Hero12/11/10/9 Black Action Camera
Title
GoPro Underwater Housing - Official GoPro Accessory
GoPro Super Suit with Dive Housing
FitStill 60M Dive Housing
FitStill 60M Dive Housing
GoPro Model
HERO 8
HERO 8/7/6/5
Session 5
GoPro Hero 12/11/10/9
GoPro Protective Housing (HERO8 Black) - Official GoPro Accessory
Title
GoPro Underwater Housing - Official GoPro Accessory
GoPro Model
HERO 8
GoPro AADIV-001 Super Suit with Dive Housing for HERO7 /HERO6 /HERO5 , Clear, One Size
Title
GoPro Super Suit with Dive Housing
GoPro Model
HERO 8/7/6/5
FitStill 60M Dive Housing Case for Go Pro Hero 5 Session Waterproof Diving Protective Shell with Bracket Accessories for Go Pro Hero5 Session & Hero Session
Title
FitStill 60M Dive Housing
GoPro Model
Session 5
FitStill 60M/196FT Waterproof Case for Go Pro Hero12 Black/Hero11 Black/Hero10 Black/Hero9 Black,Protective Underwater Diving Housing Shell with Accessories for Hero12/11/10/9 Black Action Camera
Title
FitStill 60M Dive Housing
GoPro Model
GoPro Hero 12/11/10/9

Red Filter Diving Lens

Red or Magenta filters are used for underwater video to bring back the reds into the picture, which are lost as you dive deeper. Red filters provide more contrast and color in deep water, while magenta filters are used for green water.

gopro underwater filter

So the kind of filter is well dependant from depth. That’s why I recommend to use a multi filter pack, so that divers can easily change filters as they change depth. Here are a few diving filters:

PolarPro DiveMaster Red Filter Pack of 3 for GoPro Hero8 Protective Housing, H8-1016-PROT
GoPro Blue Water Snorkel Filter for HERO6 Black/HERO5 Black (GoPro Official Accessory)
SOONSUN 3-Pack Lens Filter ND16 / Light Red/Magenta Filter for GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 Black, Neutral Density and Color Correction Diving Lens Filter Kit for GoPro Hero 9 10 11 12 Black Camera
Title
PolarPro Red Filter
GoPro Blue Water Snorkel Filter
SOONSUN 3 Pack Dive Filter
GoPro
HERO 8
HERO 7/6/5
HERO 12/11/10/9
PolarPro DiveMaster Red Filter Pack of 3 for GoPro Hero8 Protective Housing, H8-1016-PROT
Title
PolarPro Red Filter
GoPro
HERO 8
GoPro Blue Water Snorkel Filter for HERO6 Black/HERO5 Black (GoPro Official Accessory)
Title
GoPro Blue Water Snorkel Filter
GoPro
HERO 7/6/5
SOONSUN 3-Pack Lens Filter ND16 / Light Red/Magenta Filter for GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 Black, Neutral Density and Color Correction Diving Lens Filter Kit for GoPro Hero 9 10 11 12 Black Camera
Title
SOONSUN 3 Pack Dive Filter
GoPro
HERO 12/11/10/9

Diving Camera Rig

For more stable footage and better control I suggest trying one of these GoPro camera rigs:

Movo GB-U70 Underwater Diving Rig for GoPro Hero with Cold Shoe Mounts, Wrist Strap - Works with HERO3, HERO4, HERO5, HERO6, HERO7, HERO8, Osmo Action Cam - Perfect Scuba Gear GoPro Accessory
Shoot Aluminium Alloy Handheld Stabilizer Tray Handle Grip for Hero 12/11/10/9/8/7 6/5/4/3+/3 and 6 inch Dome Port and All LED Video Light Camera Camcorder with 1/4 inch Screw Hole
Title
Movo GB-U70 Underwater Diving Rig
SHOOT Aluminium Alloy Underwater Video Light Stabilizer
GoPro
All GoPro
All GoPro
Movo GB-U70 Underwater Diving Rig for GoPro Hero with Cold Shoe Mounts, Wrist Strap - Works with HERO3, HERO4, HERO5, HERO6, HERO7, HERO8, Osmo Action Cam - Perfect Scuba Gear GoPro Accessory
Title
Movo GB-U70 Underwater Diving Rig
GoPro
All GoPro
Shoot Aluminium Alloy Handheld Stabilizer Tray Handle Grip for Hero 12/11/10/9/8/7 6/5/4/3+/3 and 6 inch Dome Port and All LED Video Light Camera Camcorder with 1/4 inch Screw Hole
Title
SHOOT Aluminium Alloy Underwater Video Light Stabilizer
GoPro
All GoPro

Waterproof LED Lights

Video lights are well recommended if you dive in dark spots or at night time, but also in deep waters where the wavelengths of sun light are lost and absorbed in the depths of the water. Depending on the power of the light (lumen), diving lights can light up a distance of about 3-6 feet away, bringing back those colors that were lost without an external light.

Here are a few LED underwater models for GoPro:

HONGDAK Waterproof Dive Light for GoPro Underwater 147ft(45m) Photography Accessories for GoPro Hero 12 11Mini 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 DJI OSMO Action
Neewer Waterproof Up to 131ft/40m Underwater 20 LED 700LM Flash Dimmable Fill Night Light with 3 Color Filter(White, Orange, Purple) for GoPro Hero 7 6 5 4 3+ 3 2 1 Action Camera and All DSLR Cameras
Title
Hongdak Diving Light High Power Dimmable Waterproof LED
Neewer Waterproof Up to 131ft/40m Underwater 20 LED
Lumens
400 Lumens
700 Lumen
HONGDAK Waterproof Dive Light for GoPro Underwater 147ft(45m) Photography Accessories for GoPro Hero 12 11Mini 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 DJI OSMO Action
Title
Hongdak Diving Light High Power Dimmable Waterproof LED
Lumens
400 Lumens
Neewer Waterproof Up to 131ft/40m Underwater 20 LED 700LM Flash Dimmable Fill Night Light with 3 Color Filter(White, Orange, Purple) for GoPro Hero 7 6 5 4 3+ 3 2 1 Action Camera and All DSLR Cameras
Title
Neewer Waterproof Up to 131ft/40m Underwater 20 LED
Lumens
700 Lumen

Large micro SD

Don’t underestimate your GoPro memory card space! You don’t wanna end up preparing all your diving gear, going for a dive, and then discovering that your SD card is full ?

Since we can’t (still) change sd cards underwater, ensure that you stock your GoPro with an empty and large SD card before any activity. Here are a few sd card models that work well with GoPro cameras:

B07FCMKK5X
SanDisk 128GB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 190MB/s, C10, U3, V30, 4K, 5K, A2, Micro SD Card - SDSQXAA-128G-GN6MA
SAMSUNG (MB-ME64GA/AM) 64GB 100MB/s (U3) MicroSDXC EVO Select Memory Card with Full-Size Adapter
Lexar Professional 1000x 64GB microSDXC UHS-II Card (LSDMI64GCBNA1000A)
Model
SanDisk Extreme UHS-I 160MB/s
Samsung EVO Select 100MB/s
Lexar Professional 1000x
Fit
All GoPros
All GoPros
Does not support: HERO3, HERO3+, HERO+, HERO (2014)
Capacity
128GB, 256GB, 500GB
32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Rating
-
-
-
-
-
-
B07FCMKK5X
SanDisk 128GB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - Up to 190MB/s, C10, U3, V30, 4K, 5K, A2, Micro SD Card - SDSQXAA-128G-GN6MA
Model
SanDisk Extreme UHS-I 160MB/s
Fit
All GoPros
Capacity
128GB, 256GB, 500GB
Rating
-
-
B07FCMKK5X
SAMSUNG (MB-ME64GA/AM) 64GB 100MB/s (U3) MicroSDXC EVO Select Memory Card with Full-Size Adapter
Model
Samsung EVO Select 100MB/s
Fit
All GoPros
Capacity
32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Rating
-
-
B07FCMKK5X
Lexar Professional 1000x 64GB microSDXC UHS-II Card (LSDMI64GCBNA1000A)
Model
Lexar Professional 1000x
Fit
Does not support: HERO3, HERO3+, HERO+, HERO (2014)
Capacity
32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Rating
-
-

Batteries

Since we can’t swap batteries while scuba diving, it’s a good practice to remember to fully charge the battery before any dive since it won’t last much longer than a session.

Also having multiple charged batteries available on the surface will help you enjoy the dive and be free of worries between each dive.

Pro Tip: Before going for a dive ensure that both bluetooth and WiFi are disabled. This will help you save battery. Check this tutorial for tips on how to extend battery life.

Here are a few batteries suggested for GoPro in case you need an extra back-up:

Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) & Dual Charger for GoPro HERO7 Black, HERO6 Black, HERO5 Black, Hero (2018 Model)
TOMSHEIR Replacement Batteries for Gopro Hero 8/7/6/5 (3-Pack) and USB Fast Charger, Black (Fully Compatible with Official)
TOMSHEIR 2000mAh Hero 12/11/10/9 Battery 2-Pack and 3-Channel USB Charger with High Speed Micro SD Card Reader Function (Fully Compatible with Gopro Hero 12 11 10 9 Black Official)
Title
Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) & Dual Charger
TOMSHEIR Rechargeable Replacement Battery
TOMSHEIR 2000mAh Rechargeable Replacement Battery
GoPro
HERO7 Black, HERO6 Black, HERO5 Black, Hero (2018)
HERO8 Black,HERO7 Black, HERO6 Black, HERO5 Black
Hero 12/11/10/9
Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) & Dual Charger for GoPro HERO7 Black, HERO6 Black, HERO5 Black, Hero (2018 Model)
Title
Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) & Dual Charger
GoPro
HERO7 Black, HERO6 Black, HERO5 Black, Hero (2018)
TOMSHEIR Replacement Batteries for Gopro Hero 8/7/6/5 (3-Pack) and USB Fast Charger, Black (Fully Compatible with Official)
Title
TOMSHEIR Rechargeable Replacement Battery
GoPro
HERO8 Black,HERO7 Black, HERO6 Black, HERO5 Black
TOMSHEIR 2000mAh Hero 12/11/10/9 Battery 2-Pack and 3-Channel USB Charger with High Speed Micro SD Card Reader Function (Fully Compatible with Gopro Hero 12 11 10 9 Black Official)
Title
TOMSHEIR 2000mAh Rechargeable Replacement Battery
GoPro
Hero 12/11/10/9

 

 Suggested GoPro Accessories for Snorkeling

Waterproof housing (only for HERO 4 and below)

Assuming that snorkeling is done at a maximum depth of 10 m/33 ft and you use a GoPro HERO 5 or above, you don’t need any extra waterproof housing since the GoPro has a waterproof body. For HERO 4 and older you must get a waterproof housing for your camera.

Here are the best top 3 GoPro waterproof housings on available for GoPro 4 and below:

Suptig Replacement Waterproof Case Protective Housing for GoPro Hero 4, Hero 3+, Hero3 Outside Sport Camera for Underwater Use - Water Resistant up to 147ft (45m)
HONGDAK Waterproof Housing Case for GoPro Hero 4/3/3+, 60M/196FT Underwater Protective Dive Housing Shell with Bracket Mount Accessories for GoPro Hero4, Hero3+, Hero3 Action Camera Outside Sports
Title
Suptig Waterproof Housing 45m/147ft
HONGDAK Diving Waterproof Housing 60m/200ft
HERO/Session
HERO 4, HERO 3 & 3+
Session 4
Suptig Replacement Waterproof Case Protective Housing for GoPro Hero 4, Hero 3+, Hero3 Outside Sport Camera for Underwater Use - Water Resistant up to 147ft (45m)
Title
Suptig Waterproof Housing 45m/147ft
HERO/Session
HERO 4, HERO 3 & 3+
HONGDAK Waterproof Housing Case for GoPro Hero 4/3/3+, 60M/196FT Underwater Protective Dive Housing Shell with Bracket Mount Accessories for GoPro Hero4, Hero3+, Hero3 Action Camera Outside Sports
Title
HONGDAK Diving Waterproof Housing 60m/200ft
HERO/Session
Session 4

Floating Stick/Pole/Grip (Very useful! Prevents from sinking)

The floating grip is the most useful accessory to take with your GoPro when filming underwater. It will prevent the camera to sink in case you loose it. And trust me, it happens! The GoPro stick also allows a better overall control of the camera underwater. These are the 3 top rated GoPro grips available on Amazon:

GoPro Camera the Handler Floating Hand Grip (All GoPro Cameras) - Official GoPro Mount
SHOOT Floating Hand Grip Handle Stick Bobber Floaty Handheld Monopod for Hero 12 11 10 9 8 7 Black Silver White 6 5 4 3+ 3 Hero(2018) with 12pcs Anti Fog Inserts
Waterproof Floating Hand Grip Compatible with GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 3+ 2 1 Session Black Silver Camera Handler & Handle Mount Accessories Kit for Water Sport and Action Cameras (Orange)
Title
Floating Hand Grip - Original GoPro Mount
SHOOT Floating Hand Grip
MiPremium - Waterproof Floating Hand Grip
GoPro Camera the Handler Floating Hand Grip (All GoPro Cameras) - Official GoPro Mount
Title
Floating Hand Grip - Original GoPro Mount
SHOOT Floating Hand Grip Handle Stick Bobber Floaty Handheld Monopod for Hero 12 11 10 9 8 7 Black Silver White 6 5 4 3+ 3 Hero(2018) with 12pcs Anti Fog Inserts
Title
SHOOT Floating Hand Grip
Waterproof Floating Hand Grip Compatible with GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 3+ 2 1 Session Black Silver Camera Handler & Handle Mount Accessories Kit for Water Sport and Action Cameras (Orange)
Title
MiPremium - Waterproof Floating Hand Grip

Dome Port Housing

If you want to create cool split photos of above and below the water line then a Dome Port Lens is what you need. Here are a few for GoPro:

TELESIN Gopro Dome Port for GoPro 7/6/5 Black Underwater 6 inches GoPro Diving Dome Port with Waterproof Cover Case + Floating Bobber Handle + Trigger
Dome Port for GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 Black,Waterproof Housing Case Compatible with GoPro Hero 9 10 11 12 Underwater Protective Diving Dome GoPro Lens Accessories with Trigge Pistol an-ti Fog Insert
Title
Vicdozia Telesin 6 inches Dome Port Lens
Feimouzi Underwater Dome Port
GoPro
HERO 7/6/5 (Black) & HERO 2018
HERO 9/10/11 (Black) & HERO 2018
TELESIN Gopro Dome Port for GoPro 7/6/5 Black Underwater 6 inches GoPro Diving Dome Port with Waterproof Cover Case + Floating Bobber Handle + Trigger
Title
Vicdozia Telesin 6 inches Dome Port Lens
GoPro
HERO 7/6/5 (Black) & HERO 2018
Dome Port for GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 Black,Waterproof Housing Case Compatible with GoPro Hero 9 10 11 12 Underwater Protective Diving Dome GoPro Lens Accessories with Trigge Pistol an-ti Fog Insert
Title
Feimouzi Underwater Dome Port
GoPro
HERO 9/10/11 (Black) & HERO 2018

 

How To Shoot Underwater With Your GoPro


A frame shot with GoPro HERO 6 by me in the clear waters of Indonesia while snorkeling

Here’s a check list of the main steps for shooting underwater:

Preparing the Gear

Ensure that you have at least some basic accessories that will protect your GoPro in underwater environments. Double check your GoPro model in the table above and see if you need a waterproof case or not. Remember the floating grip, it’ll prevent the camera from sinking.

Charging Batteries

Don’t risk that your battery goes dead during the best experience of your life. So I’d ensure that the battery is fully charged before any dive. Usually a full charge won’t last much longer than a diving session.

Emptying SD Card

Same as for batteries…check that your SD card is empty or there’s enough space before any diving session.

Adjusting the Camera Settings (before diving!)

Check the full recommended camera settings for underwater (below). And remember that if you are going to shoot videos in dark places, avoid the use of electronic stabilization or hypersmooth, and reduce the frame rate to 30fps to allow the camera to capture more light in the dark.

Filming

We finally get to the best part: filming underwater. I’ve listed a few tips here below that will help you achieve better videos underwater. “Make it good use” 🙂

  • Keep Camera Steady: Use a hand grip or camera rig to avoid vibrations and shaky video, especially if you switched the Stabilization off (in low light).
  • Keep the sun behind you: to get a high contrast image, full of colors, avoid filming against the sun.
  • Use lights if dark: Small underwater LED lights are perfect to brighten up an underwater scene.
  • Record long sequences: Avoid too many takes (new recordings) and focus on the dive first, while enjoying filming.

A frame shot with GoPro HERO 6 by a diving instructor in Tulamben, Bali – Indonesia.

Video: Recommended GoPro Settings for Underwater

  • FOV : Wide
  • Frame Rate: 30fps / 60fps
  • Resolution : 4k / 1080p
  • ISO: Protune-> ISO min. 100 / ISO max. 400
  • Sharpness: Medium
  • Color: “Flat” if you intend to color grade, otherwise “GoPro”
  • White Balance: Auto
  • Stabilization: ON if well lid / OFF if dark
  • Turn Screensaver and Auto Off to Never

Photo: Recommended GoPro Settings for Underwater

  • Photo: RAW
  • FOV: Wide
  • Color: “Flat” if you intend to color grade, otherwise “GoPro”
  • ISO: Protune-> ISO min. 100 / ISO max. 800)
  • Sharpness: Medium

 

How to Edit Underwater GoPro Videos


Editing underwater videos is not much different from editing other kind of action videos in terms of software and skills. The only thing you should bear in mind is that usually scuba diving videos are loooong.

close up of computer screen with editing timeline

If you are only looking to create a video to show to your family and friends, try to keep it short: 3-4 minutes should be enough.

Your unedited files will probably be huge if you filmed long diving sequences, so try to include only the best part and cut out the rest.

On Your Phone

If you want to quickly make a video out of your experience, without fancy filters, and effects, then you can achieve basic edits with these free Apps:

  • Quik (GoPro)
  • Splice
  • Adobe Premiere Clip
  • iMovie (iOS)

On Your Computer

If you are looking to make higher quality GoPro edits, then you need a professional video editor like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X (Mac). These editors are not difficult to learn, especially Final Cut Pro if you have a Mac.

Editing your GoPro videos on a proper computer gives you freedom. The editing quality will be higher as you are not limited to simple cuts and trims (like on mobile) and you can also use video effects like the GoPro LUTs filters and the Pro Editing Bundle to make your video editing more cinematic.

If you want to learn more how to edit a video, check this editing tutorial >>

 

Try our Cinematic Color Filters (LUTs) – Underwater Pack


We have released a fresh brand new Color Grading LUT pack optimized for GoPro and Drone. 

Check it out here: GoPro Underwater LUT filters >>

GoPro LUTs Color Grading Filters - Underwater Pack [Download]

This pack includes 100 LUTs in various formats (3D, .CUBE, .look, .XML) to cover most video and photo editing programs. Once installed, you can easily apply (and customize!) these color presets with a single click in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, Final Cut Pro X, DaVinci Resolve, Sony Vegas, Filmora Wondershare and more!…

Check it out here: GoPro Underwater LUT filters >>

 

FAQ


How long can a GoPro be underwater?

There’s no timing limits for a GoPro to remain underwater. As long as the battery lasts you can keep your GoPro underwater.

Is GoPro  12/11/10/9/8/7 waterproof without lens cover/case?

Yes. GoPro HERO 12/11/10/9/8/7 have a waterproof body up to 10 m/33 ft. Below that depth it needs a scuba diving housing.

How deep can a GoPro go underwater?

A GoPro can go as deep as the body or its housing can support. GoPro HERO 12/11/10/9/8/7/5/5 support 10 m/33 ft without housing. Most GoPro diving housings support 60 m/197 ft.

 

 

Thanks for reading!

I hope this guide helped you to understand better underwater filming with GoPro 🙂

 

Sharing is Caring ❤️

If you found this article useful, please share it on social media with your family and friends.


Related Articles: