3 Tips for GoPro Lights Underwater

[@BrentDurand]

Which of these tips do you think is most helpful? I'll create future videos about this!

[@shreyashverma9753]

Most underrated channel I've ever come across

[@BrentDurand]

Very kind - thank you! 🤙

[@sebastienadam6449]

Nice vidéo! Any advice for the arms setup? ( single or double, lenght ?) I use a gopro 7 with 2 big blue 10000 lumens video light.

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks Sebastien. This article has a lot of my thoughts on tray/handle systems plus arms for the GoPro, including my favorites from Backscatter and Mozaik: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/ For the arms themselves, you may find the flex arms easier to use since you just grab and position, or you may find the arms and clamps better (knowing you have to adjust them to start and end every dive). The arms and clamps can upgrade to interchangeable lens camera systems as well. Check out the guide and please let me know if you have more questions.

[@tankx5915]

Generally, do you keep the dive lights on during the whole duration of the dive? And would murky water reduce the overall effect of the light?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi - I do not keep the lights on all dive. They are usually rated for 60m at full power, however oftentimes that's not the case. This gets more important doing 80+ minute dives in cold water. I suggest turning them on when you're actively shooting, but off if you're doing some swimming. Beyond battery considerations, it's fairly annoying to your dive buddies to be swimming around with powerful videos lights on.

[@anndonahue8499]

Very informative! Thanks.

[@BrentDurand]

Glad it helped, Ann!

[@RBScuba]

Very good video!

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks Ricardo!

[@johnmontgomery2735]

Great videos. I just purchased 2 big blue 7200 lumen lights to add to my gopro 10 and tray. The lights put put out 5500k. Is there a setting on my gopro i should change to match that? and if so will that mess up my videos where I am filming without the lights and maybe just using a filter?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi John - Great question. The basic answer is that there is no general setting to change when using or not using the lights. If the lights are lighting a lot of the scene in front of you (e.g. a reef), the GoPro auto white balance will adjust for the bright color brought out by the lights. If you're not using the lights, the GoPro AWB will adjust accordingly. Same with using a filter. Going beyond that, the GoPro HERO10 produces some great results with filter AND video lights (still AWB), so experiment around to see if that works for you (bright ambient sunlight is best). Finally, you can also set manual white balance (color temperature) in the GoPro if you want to really customize the color, however that must be done on a shot by shot basis, since the adjustment may change with depth and light conditions. Hope this helps!

[@johnmontgomery2735]

@@BrentDurand thanks for you help

[@DelBlein]

Hello, I'm thinking about buying a second video light for my GoPro Hero 11 Black but I'm considering buying one with higher power than the one I already have. Do you think there are any drawbacks when mounting lights with different power?

[@BrentDurand]

It should be no problem if you think of it like a key light and fill light. This are my current favorite u/w video lights at various lumens and price points: tutorials.brentdurand.com/video-light-comparison/

[@DelBlein]

@@BrentDurand Thanks for the tip!!

[@tinyfatgiant]

Thanks for the tips, straight to the point!

[@BrentDurand]

You're welcome. No need for all the fluff!

[@petethehandyman9185]

I have a dive light (spot) and a video light (flood) can I use them both? One on each side? Bad idea?

[@BrentDurand]

Likely a bad idea because, depending on lumens of the lights, the narrow beam of the dive light will create a hotspot instead of an even wide light beam matching the video light. It can’t hurt to try though!

[@petethehandyman9185]

@@BrentDurand thanks for the advice

[@frankgenner782]

Like your video question for you what steady kit is that you have in this video?

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks Frank. In this video I'm using a Kraken tray and handles, but I've included a number of cheaper options in the Buyer's Guide in my website GoPro tutorials: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/

[@nicolasbourquin1412]

Interesting video Brent! I am using a video light for stills that is screwed on the bottom of the camera. It is handy. The only con is that as I am shooting wide for the raw files, I have to be very close to my subject. Any hints? Thank you, Nicolas

[@BrentDurand]

Well, with the wide field of view ("lens" on the GoPro HERO 8), you do have to be very close to your subject, which is ideal underwater. You could try a narrow field of view, but you would still want to be very close to your subject to minimize extra water (which lowers clarity of the image). Hope that helps!

[@raczyk]

Can you use the 1 inch ball mounts in the outdoors, and not just under water?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Razz, absolutely. Cinematographers regularly use the arms and clamps on cameras in TV and film production (e.g. to position monitors). Note that our underwater strobes and lights are fairly heavy on land, so the arms/clamps may not hold them in position on land. Underwater though their much lighter and the arms/clamps easily hold them in place. Hope this helps!

[@chadaztig07]

Does the backscatter light come with light filters? Just like the keldan lights?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Chad - Both light brands come with filters but for different purposes. The Keldan lights have ambient light filters that help balance ambient and artificial light for various dive conditions and resulting manual white balance settings: www.backscatter.com/search?keywords=keldan%20ambient?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= The Backscatter MW-4300 comes with a snoot to modify the light shape as well as a wide range of color filters (like gels on studio flashes) for creative effects: Bold Colors: www.backscatter.com/Backscatter-Bold-Color-Filters?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= Pastel Colors: www.backscatter.com/Backscatter-Pastel-Color-Filters?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= Hope this helps!

[@guimarenco]

Excellent video Brent, do you have a video about clamps and arms sections?¿? thanks!

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Guille - I do have one right here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZjan5injryiiLM

[@alialfalasi2204]

Very useful 👍🏽 Where did u get the grip from ?

[@BrentDurand]

Glad you enjoyed it. The grip I used is made by Kraken, but I've included a number of cheaper options in the Buyer's Guide in my website GoPro tutorials: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/

[@1972clarky]

Interesting Rig set up. Can you tell me where got your actual rig and light?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi, this is the Kraken Sports tray/handle system. I don't have a link for that specifically, but have a variety of alternatives listed here: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/ The lights are Light & Motion Sola Video Pro 3800s: www.backscatter.com/Light-Motion-Sola-Video-Pro-3800-Underwater-Video-Light?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=

[@darrellwhitehead8862]

New to go pro and have a go pro 7 black and my wife and I are traveling to Australia for the first time. Need suggestions on a light tray and lights that are under $350. For underwater.

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Darrell - Absolutely - here are some links below. Note that two video lights (plus tray and handle) will be tough for $350, as you really want more lumens or above for wide-angle video with the GoPro. Lower-power lights won't have much effect past 3ft from the subject or so. A good filter set will be important as well if you're shooting big reef scenes from beyond that distance. Here's my recommendation: Handle/Tray, Filter Set & 1000 lumen light ($399): www.backscatter.com/FLIP5-Bluewater-Filter-Combo-Package-Light-Motion-GoBe-850-Video-Light-GoPro?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= Some other ideas: PolarPro Filter Set ($43): amzn.to/2ZKKpwa Off Brand Filter Set ($60): amzn.to/2Fz21yy Great Handle/Tray ($69): www.backscatter.com/Flip-Filters-Double-Handle-Tray?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= Also, be sure to check out these videos/articles on using lights underwater plus benefits of GoPro Filters: Why You Need Lighting Underwater: tutorials.brentdurand.com/underwater-camera-lights GoPro Filters & Color Correction: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction Good luck! - Brent

[@somerandomclimber4425]

What Go pro tray are you using there? I pretty much want that exact setup but can find the tray with all those accessories. I own two SOLA 12 wide angle I was hoping to use.

[@c.patricksadowski9959]

What is your recommendation for a tray and arm setup? I’m building a rig based off a go pro hero 7 black and two Big Blue Light CB6500PB. Thanks!

[@BrentDurand]

Hi! There are a number of options, including some kits that include arms to hold the lights. I've listed some of my favorites in this guide on my website: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/ Hope this helps!

[@c.patricksadowski9959]

@@BrentDurand thanks... what are the advantages or not, of a flexible arm system, vs floats? I’m new to underwater filming and looking to mount my rig to my DPV. I understand that float arms will help compensate for any negative buoyancy issues caused by the camera. Any other “advantages”?

[@BrentDurand]

@@c.patricksadowski9959 Hi Patrick - the flex arms are a quick easy way to position lights. And like you said, float arms (or regular arms and clamps with detachable floats) allow you to dial in precise buoyancy. Normally I recommend arm + clamp systems, but given the DPV, flex arms may be the way to go. I'm not too involved in the scooter community, so don't know the preference of other folks with similar setup. Sorry!

[@deepdivetrading]

What setup is this that you are using?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Salty - Here's the gear: . . Tray/Handles: www.bluewaterphotostore.com/kraken-sports-dual-handle-aluminum-tray And a great one half the price: www.backscatter.com/Flip-Filters-Double-Handle-Tray?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= Lights: Light & Motion Sola Video PRO LE (this link is a very similar light): www.backscatter.com/Light-Motion-Sola-Video-Pro-3800-Underwater-Video-Light?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= And a great option for 2000 lumens: www.backscatter.com/Light-Motion-Sola-Video-2000-S-F-Underwater-Video-Light?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=

[@kienanrobbins8534]

I cant find the PolarPro Switchblade for the hero 9. does the 8 fit the gopro 9?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Kienan - I don't think the Switchblade for the HERO 8 will fit the HERO 9 housing. Check out my complete article on this, as well as some alternative double filter kits that DO work on both the HERO8 and HERO9: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/

[@moto__shark]

Hello, where did you buy that GoPro mount? Thank you!

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Moto - It's made by Kraken Sports - you can find it on their website. If you'd like to save a little cash, I like this one linked below as well (made by Backscatter): www.backscatter.com/Flip-Filters-Double-Handle-Tray?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=

[@marialadoucer9405]

Thanks for the tips! I just bought ONE Sola light and motion 9600 video dive light. I have a boomerang style Beneath the Surface double handle GoPro mount. The problem is that my Sola light is heavy. It has a ball joint attachment and I don't know the best arm for keeping it stable. The one I have now is floppy and won't work. Any suggestions? I am also worried about buoyancy, seems like now I will have to add a weight? help! I tried the two 2500 Sola's but wanted something brighter!

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Maria - An important note here is that the ball and clamp arm system behaves very differently on land and in the water. It's likely it will not hold the light up while on land, but in the water you'll likely find that the arm and clamp do indeed hold the light in place. You won't need any weight on the system, but you may want to add floats or a float arm to help make the system more neutrally buoyant (instead of very negative). Happy to suggest the best floats and/or arm - just let me know the arms and clamps you're currently using. Ultralight? - Brent

[@mohamedmuha6108]

Brent Durand what’s the best floats are arms set ? I am using GoPro with Bigblue. 9000 lumens two lights, which is heavy. I want more neutral and compact setup

[@JASON2594]

For filming with a GoPro and using a Kraken 2500 WRU macro light. What length arm do you suggest using?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Jasen - The precise arms you use may depend on the handle and tray system you're using, but I'd go with a 5" arm like this: www.backscatter.com/Ultralight-5-inch-Double-Ball-Arm?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=

[@BrentDurand]

Also, I'm happy to help you pick out the best gear. Here's the Gear Advisor page on my tutorials website: tutorials.brentdurand.com/camera-gear-advice/

[@WaterlandFilms]

I like your tips bro!

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks! Many more tips in the GoPro section of my tutorials website! tutorials.brentdurand.com/category/gopro-tutorials/

[@never2old-sd638]

Good stuff!!! 🤙

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks!

[@linamaringaviria4722]

What lights do you use with the GoPro?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Lina, here are some of my favorite GoPro lights: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/#lightsguide You can also see the Best video lights of 2021 in my comparison guide here: tutorials.brentdurand.com/video-light-comparison/

[@Chogogo717]

Any reason you only use a single arm instead of two per light? I’m assuming it’s because the size of the lights and camera.

[@BrentDurand]

Great eye! The only reason here is to make a rig like this look less intimidating to a beginner. The smaller rig is lighter and easier to use, but with two arm segments you have a lot more creative light positioning options...

[@Chogogo717]

@@BrentDurand so, when I get arms for my tray would you recommend all four be floats or do you prefer mixing the aluminum ball arms with float arms? It’s a GoPro on the tray, so I’m not really getting any kind of buoyancy from that housing.

[@BrentDurand]

@@Chogogo717 Four float arms is likely too much float for something light like a GoPro. I'd do two small ones. For a more accurate way to calculate neutral buoyancy, build the system and hang it from a luggage scale in a bucket of water or a pool (something large enough for the whole system to be underwater). Measure that weight and then purchase float arms to offset that weight. Note that this is freshwater and saltwater will be slightly more buoyant. Hope this helps!

[@andersonboy620]

@@BrentDurand This is a very useful advice, thanks!

[@BrentDurand]

@@andersonboy620 Glad you're finding it useful!

[@dragons9110]

What handle and mount are you using for your go pro?

[@BrentDurand]

This one is the Kraken Sports Dual Handle Tray. It's great it you want to attach lights using ball mounts. Otherwise, this is another great (and cheaper) option: www.backscatter.com/Flip-Filters-Double-Handle-Tray?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=

[@never2old-sd638]

Question! Do I need to keep the red filter on my GoPro even when I have lights or it doesn’t matter?

[@BrentDurand]

Lights or filter... if you use the filter and lights, everything will be red! I have a whole article on it here: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/

[@never2old-sd638]

Brent Durand thanks! I have a dive tomorrow night and I’ll put it to the test!!!

[@BrentDurand]

@@never2old-sd638 Perfect, although no red filters for night ;- )

[@never2old-sd638]

Brent Durand got it!!!👍

[@danielyork3406]

What is the handle you have your lights on? Also, which lights do you use?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Daniel - The grip I used is made by Kraken, but I've included a number of cheaper options in the Buyer's Guide in my website GoPro tutorials: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/ Here are my favorite video lights for 2020: tutorials.brentdurand.com/video-light-comparison/

[@onedewdew2183]

❤️❤️❤️

[@BrentDurand]

✌️

[@joegraziano]

How many lumens do I need and why? When does Beam matter?

[@BrentDurand]

Great questions Joe. There’s no definite answer for lumen count. If you’re shooting subjects very close, like an eel in a hole, a lower lumen count (1-2000) is fine. If you want to light the foreground of a big reef scene you may want dual 5000 lumen lights. I usually recommend a tray/arm setup with dual 2000 lumen lights. Can send a link if interested. For video you should always use a wide flood beam (100+ degrees). This produces even lighting. Hope this helps!

[@joegraziano]

@@BrentDurand Thanks Brent - indeed interested. Torches are not cheap so would like to avoid a mistake. Also about Beam.... I have read the if using a GoPro you need at least 120 degrees. The Sola lights appear to have great quality but a narrower beam. Are two 60 degree Solas more or less equal to one 120 degree torch? And....I may also use an Olympus TG-6 from time to time so will have Strobe capabilities. any recommendations for a good Constant Light and Strobe light combo or should I really consider different kit for each? Thanks for the advice.

[@BrentDurand]

@@joegraziano Here's a great one-click kit - the lights are actually 2500 lumens: www.backscatter.com/Backscatter-Sola-2500-Dual-Video-Flood-Light-Package?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= You don't necessarily need 120 degrees, but 100-120 is definitely what you're looking for. 60+60 won't equal 120 since you'd be more prone to hotspots in the image and less even lighting or the wider scenes. I would use one of these lights for your TG-6 as well, either as a macro focus light and/or video light. If you also need to buy an arm and clamp system for your TG-6 you could build a different GoPro kit and swap arms/clamps between TG-6 and GoPro.