I got the impression from the start of the video that you would be talking about settings for underwater. I have the 7 Black. I am curious about white balance, ISO min and max and these type of things. Could you comment on them?
Hello! I haven't been able to switch between presets clicking the mode and shutter buttons at the same time, it just starts recording and adds a hi-light
Hi Brent. Happy New Year! I have just purchased the GoPro 11(previously had the 8).Do you have any new advice on which are the best underwater settings for this camera? Many thanks
Hi Jess, I think this depends on how you plan to use the HERO 11. I don't have the camera but know there is an Easy mode out of the box that should get the job done. Great for clips to share to social media, etc. But if you're looking for more creative control, then I would set a profile to 4K, 60fps, wide linear lens, and stabilization ON for general underwater use. Beyond that, you could customize profiles based on specific shooting scenarios (e.g. narrow lens for small subjects and 30fps if you're recording audio). Hope this helps!
This video explained nothing about ISO, EV COMP, WHITE BALANCE.... ISO 100-400 (the deeper you go the higher it needs to be...800 or more) EV COMP -1 or -0.5 (it avoids flares where the light shines on) WHITE BALANCE: NATIVE (never auto because the waves passing the balance will always shift). Some people like 5600K of color temperature and some let it be as it is. SARPNESS LOW (but thats your preference...i like it high and all people like it low).
Yes, they're useful in many, but not all snorkel situations. I recommend using a flip filter holder if you're interested in really being able to ad and remove the filter based on how you're getting the best results. Link below to the Backscatter FLIP. Of course, you could just pop a single red filter on. www.backscatter.com/FLIP11-One-Filter-Kit-with-DIVE-Filter-for-GoPro-HERO-5-6-7-8-9-10-11?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=
Brent, I really enjoy your channel ! you mentioned that you were going to demonstrate how to us the Quik app for changing settings. Is there somewhere I need to go to get this info ? Thanks
Hi, thanks for the kind words. I didn't make the video using the Quik app since it was changing so frequently. But one of these days I do need to create a video for the latest GoPros (Hero12) and latest version of Quik. Hopefully soon!
Hi Carlo - I like to limit the ISO to 400, which should be enough since you're using a torch for lighting close subjects. You can also rely on the torch light of other divers like in the beginning of this video (ua-cam.com/video/XV8lRNzcIaM/v-deo.html). EV Comp would depend on whether you think the footage is too dark or too light, which you probably would not know until reviewing the footage on your phone or computer after the dive. Also, a slower frame rate will help in the dark conditions. Good luck!
I recommend the settings you see on screen in this comparison: ua-cam.com/video/iXAtgq5Sxss/v-deo.htmlsi=v6dtQNiqh4dGquoV It's best to set them as a user Preset for easy access underwater in the dive housing.
Brent, help me out on ISO settings. What exactly is ISO and what am I influencing in my videos? Should I use ProTune, and if so, what are the ISO min and max I should be looking at?
Hi Patrick - ISO is the camera sensor's sensitivity to light: photographylife.com/what-is-iso-in-photography Protune is fine for setting manual ISO (try 100-400), otherwise I only recommend Protune for folks comfortable with post-processing things like white balance. Hope this helps
@@BrentDurand that’s where I have it set. Thanks for that. On settings, do you recommend to go with the flat colors (so you can correct later in post) or Go Pro colors? What about sharpness? Their are those that state the the sharpest setting makes images look “crusty”. What’s your preference? I too am using iMovie and find it’s extremely intuitive and easy to use. I did notice last week when working colors in the post processing, that my 2016 MBP, was having a hard time with 2.7k @ 60 FPS.
@@c.patricksadowski9959 Hi Patrick. Color profile really depends on 1) how much you care, and 2) how committed you are to post-processing. Giving your questions, go with flat and keep up the editing work. Standard sharpening should be fine. And yes, processing video takes a lot of computer power. Generally you should finish your video edit and then do the color grading as a last step.
3:04 Program QuikCapture to shoot a still photo? Is that a GoPro 9 feature? I'm pretty sure the 8 cannot do this, only video (push) and timelapse (hold).
Great catch AH - You're correct. QuikCapture only works for video and time-lapse. I was thinking of the default mode when the camera is powered on, which can include still photos, and of course is different from QuikCapture. Thanks for pointing this out. Wish YT would allow us to replace videos so I could correct this.
Nice informative video thanks Brent. I always us narrow view when filming macro (Hero8) and hand hold a Hero3 macro adaptor up to the lens. Great to know that there are new options. Thanks mate.
@@JimsUWPhotography Maybe this is a sign to go for it! 😎 Looks like the Backscatter Macro Mate + Filter is $199: www.backscatter.com/FLIP10-Pro-Package-with-SHALLOW-DIVE-Filters-15-MacroMate-Mini-Lens-for-GoPro-HERO-5-6-7-8-9-10?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM%3D
Hello! I haven't been able to switch between presets clicking the mode and shutter buttons at the same time, it just starts recording and adds a hi-light
Hi Lina, try pushing the side button just before the top button. You should see the wrench icon appear. Press the side button just before the top button again and you'll change the preset. You can also read the full instructions and settings in my article: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-underwater-settings/#presets
Hi - That's a great question. I usually edit at 30fps since that will allow you to slow the 60fps by 50% for 50% slow motion (or even slower if shooting at 120fps). Hope that makes sense!
I usually go with 2.7k @ 60 fps, either linear or wide, flat color mode and I set the exposure to be just a little under exposed to avoid loss of data when there’s a peak of light. Always using a 2 hand dive tray and kraken light. Backscatter Flip lens for macro. With a little work on DaVinci I get great results !
Great settings and gear! I often shoot 2.7k at 60 or 120 fps as well. Very smart with the negative exposure comp, since it's so easy to burn out highlights on small camera sensors.
Would you not use 5k underwater since its only 30fps? Night dive the 30 might be better wouldnt it? Im going to have it attached to my mask. What about if im using a DIVER PROPULSION. Id be moving pretty quick so id want a higher fps for that dive, should i go up to 120? 4k x 60fps ideal for scuba. I dive most day sometimes night. Thank you
Hi TS - 5K resolution at 30fps would be nice underwater, although everything is a tradeoff. The high resolution will allow you to crop in and help stabilize the image in post (if you find it still shaky with in-camera stabilization). The 30fps does limit you in terms of creating slow motion. As you mentioned, a lower frame rate for night diving is nice because the camera may not need to increase the ISO as high as with a faster frame rate. But a tradeoff again, because if you're close to your subject with bright lights it doesn't matter as much. If you have the ability, try several different settings on one dive to see what works best based on what you're doing. This is easy with HERO9 presets!
@@BrentDurand so youd do the 5k@30 at night but pull it back to the 4k@60 for day diving? I probably wont be changing to many things in post but you never know right. Might see something. Surfing and rafting i know id use the 60fps for sure. Is 120 for when you are really moving fast?
@@TMS519 Faster frame rates do correspond to faster action if you anticipate pulling framegrabs from the footage, but the bigger reason to use faster frame rates is to slow down the footage during post-processing to create slow motion (e.g. 60fps on a 30fps editing timeline is 2x slow motion. 120fps would be 4x slow motion). My personal preference would be not to switch settings all the time, as that could get confusing when editing, but totally up to you. I would go for 4K@60fps. The extra sensor resolution can be used by the in-camera stabilization and you can still create 50% slow motion. In the end, trial and error will determine the best results. I haven't done comparison tests of all these settings either.
Thanks, Brent! I just ordered the Hero 9. This helps me prepare until it arrives 😊 Do you think 2.7k resolution is a good compromise between 1080 and 5k?
Hi Arnie. The HERO9 is great! That's the model I have right now. And yes, 2.7K or 4K is great. I recommend 1080p in my tutorials for beginners since they may not want to deal with large file sizes, weird aspects of high frame rate playback in certain media players, etc.. You're a fantastic shooter, understand this stuff, and will benefit from the better resolution!
@@BrentDurand Thank you, Brent! Appreciate this! 😊 Getting one for the same reasons you mentioned (had a turtle feeding 2 arms length away from me on my last dive and I had my 90mm lens on Lol!)
Great video, thank you. I’m looking to up my video game by using a tray & video lights. In looking at your recommendations I don’t see the tray from this video. Also you don’t discuss using flex arms vs. arms & clamps. I need a tray with good fat handles to accommodate my arthritis. & currently debating between the Backscatter MW-4300 & Sola video FC. I live in Southwest FL so I dive all year, in all conditions (low viz hunting sharks teeth, wrecks, Blackwater, etc.) so I need a system I can grow into. Do you plan on doing a review video of different trays, handles, arms & lights? There is very little information and actual reviews on this subject. Thank you!
Hi Allura, the tray in the video is made by Kraken Sports. I really like the Backscatter tray and handle, although it has a narrower grip covered by foam. The Kraken tray has some of the wider grips you'll find. Here are a couple videos that will help answer questions: GoPro Light Positions: ua-cam.com/video/IqdA-D51ScQ/v-deo.html Using Arms & Clamps: ua-cam.com/video/wgwneqYWoRQ/v-deo.html While flex arms are convenient and light, most serious shooters will begin using arm and clamp systems. I recommend Ultralight Control Systems components: Ultralight 5" arm: www.backscatter.com/Ultralight-5-inch-Double-Ball-Arm?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= Ultralight Clamps (2x per side): www.backscatter.com/Ultralight-New-Style-Clamp-15-degrees-side-movemen?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= At the moment I don't have videos scheduled since it's really hard to get hold of all the gear, but I'll add this topic to my list. Hope this helps!
Hi Patrick - By default GoPro shoots with auto white balance, but if you want to start experimenting, you can turn on ProTune mode. This will allow you to access manual white balance settings, selecting the kelvin temperate that looks best to your eye when underwater. It's a manual process at that point, as white balance will change depending on depth and other factors like angle to sun. Hope this helps!
hi Brent, thanks for this helpful vid. I watched someone recommend "natural" setting. would you recommend "natural" white balance as setting? in that way it would be easier to do post-prod edits with colors? i read also somewhere that "auto" is not a good setting for white balance for underwater shots. do you have opinions re that? thanks appreciate it.
@@almondeyesnotforsale Hi Marisol - I think "natural" may be a translation error. Generally Auto White Balance is fine for underwater, especially when using red filters (see article below with best filters). If you plan to do post-processing and editing you will have the opportunity to create better color by shooting in Protune and "Flat" color. In other words, the answer depends on if you plan to do color grading when editing. Best Filters & Color Correction: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/ Hope this helps!
Hi Mike - I've got a number of different options and price points (plus some kits with lights) on this page of my website: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/ Good luck!
@@solamanproductions Hi Mike - those handles are actually padded with foam, so it's more grip than any other brand (others use rubber, o-rings on aluminum, etc.). Here are some options to look through at Mozaic Cameras: www.housingcamera.com/packages/uw-tray-arm-packages/gopro#brentd For attaching to your BCD, any tray would require purchasing a separate lanyard. Here's my favorite, as it clips in tightly but then can be expanded while shooting: www.backscatter.com/Ultralight-Coiled-Camera-Lanyard?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM= This is another option, but may have resistance towards the end of the coil range: www.housingcamera.com/id3293-bts-gopro-lanyard.html#brentd
Thanks for this video and for the tutorials. I have a question about changing settings underwater: I have a Hero 10 and there "was" the ability to add Custom setting that one could switch between while in the housing. I planned to have one for general use and another for macro. Yesterday, I upgraded to Version 1.16 and they took away the ability to make custom settings. I am not sure how to now deal with changing underwater settings while in the housing when I cannot make my own. Any thoughts/suggestions are appreciated.
Hi Marshall - this is the first I've heard on this issue and just did a quick search but couldn't find any other note of this change. Did you reformat your memory card and reset the camera to factory settings after installing the update? Sometimes this helps eliminate bugs in the firmware.
@@BrentDurand I heard from another UA-camr and they told me how to do it: When you select, Activity - for instance - in the upper right hand corner is a figure with 2 triangles and 2 bars. If you select that, the + shows up and you can apparently (I have not done one yet) set up a custom setting. The other thing that a few people suggested, is to go to GoPro Labs and install Firmware to the camera to read QR codes. Then you can set up QR codes for specific settings and when the camera sees them, it just changes the settings "automatically". .One person suggested printing them out, laminating them for underwater, attach them with a clip and line and then just select the one you want as appropriate. Again, I have not done it yet but plan to try both options.
@@marshallbreite4647 Thanks for the update on this issue, Marshall. It's interesting that GoPro made it more difficult to switch between custom presets. I imagine most of their users don't use too many different settings. We're pretty unique underwater. For laminating a QR code, make sure to have a good amount of extra/adhesive space. I laminate shot lists and gear test procedures and sometimes it's tough to keep the water out!
Do you have any opinion on the GoPro 8 vs 9 in relation to diving at depth/low light? I heard some say the 8 is better due to less pixels being squeezed into the small sensor. Thanks!
Hi Puncho - that's a great question. The 9 does have smaller pixels, however it also delivers nice detail and contrasts in low light scenes, which may make more of a difference. I haven't tested the 8 next to the 9 (I only have the 9), so don't have a 'best answer' in real world dive conditions.
Hi Brent, I saw in the video that you mentioned the switchblade made by polarpro (which is more affordable than backscatter flip). Do you know if it works also on the gopro 9? Thanks
Hi KD - I don't believe the Switchblade works on the HERO9 dive housing, but you can use these individual PolarPro filters: amzn.to/3wzWws5 I've written more info here: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/
@@BrentDurand polar Pro Switchblade from Hero 8 doesn’t go on hero 9 and for the 9 they don’t have a switchblade yet, I asked them, they are thinking about it ☹️
@@holgerschmiede5969 Thanks for the info Holger! GoPro changed the size of the dive housing port for the H9, which is certainly frustrating for the 3rd party accessory companies. It's been so long since release I don't think PolarPro will make a new Switchblade. They appear to be focusing on higher quality interchangeable lens filters.
Great stuff here man, I do think if people can afford to store and edit in 4K they should so that you futureproof your footage. But yea totally agree wide angle is the sweet spot, and the default settings are usually pretty good, and your slo mo recommendation is spot on but like resolution it takes a lot more memory to record in super high frame rate
Hi Peter - These are all great points. I completely agree that more advanced shooters can future-proof their work by shooting at a higher resolution, and will also be more willing to invest in hard drive space to store the larger files. One step at a time!
Hi C Dez - 1080p is a great default but 4K and 5k have great image quality even when the resolution is reduced. The more important factor is whether your phone (or whatever you’re using to store the video) can handle the larger files before uploading to social. I would experiment and see what works best!
Hi - I've got a few lights on this GoPro tutorial and then my list of video lights for 2021 in the second link. Hope this helps! tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/ Best Video Lights of 2021: tutorials.brentdurand.com/video-light-comparison/
Hi, as always, good and cool info. But just a question: is you shoot at 1080 or 2.7k, the hypersmooth boost still reduces the quality of the footage? I mostly use 2.7k at 60fps with the hero 7 (so no boost), but I'm considering the upgrade to the hero 9, and want to try the boost and/or the horizon locking, you didn't mention it, but what do you think about that feature in underwater video? Thanks!
Hi Parmaia - I'm not extremely technical with this, but my general quality comment is due to the 25% crop in field of view when using the Hypersmooth Boost. Of course, the HERO 9 has a larger sensor with greater resolution, so this might actually work well (e.g. if you use SuperView and Boost, which will still provide a wide field of view). I think someone just needs to do these side by side tests underwater. These videos are simply fun for me, but I'd do the tests if being paid, ha! RE Horizon Leveling - I haven't tested this since I don't really see the need underwater if you're carefully composing your shots. Should be awesome for kayaking and other activities where there's a distinct contrast / luminance horizontal line in the scene.
@@BrentDurand thanks for your really quick answer. I saw other videos on the Gopro subject, but no one talks exclusively on the use for scuba diving. I'll wait for the next year to see more reviews before making the move to the hero 9. I will not jump on water till next summer, not super fan of cold water 🥶.
Well, that is not really a video about the best settings, more about tips for shooting underwater. How about scuba diving settings where the red is key.
Hi Thierry - thanks for the feedback. You're probably referring to white balance and/or artificial lighting "where red is key". While different GoPros offer different ability to adjust kelvin temp and shoot in a flat profile with some ability to adjust WB in post, you will have best effect learning about underwater filters (red, magenta) and in using artificial light to bring rich color back to close subjects. You can watch the videos below for more, or visit the corresponding pages on my website for in-depth guides: - GoPro Filters: ua-cam.com/video/Eudw-F3hy4g/v-deo.html - GoPro Lighting: ua-cam.com/video/IqdA-D51ScQ/v-deo.html
Seriously? Did you Google settings? How about Protune? This is a basic settings video, as are all my GoPro videos. Not all of us had everything given to us on a silver platter. Get lost kook.
Do you have more questions on GoPro Underwater Video? Let's hear them! 👊
I got the impression from the start of the video that you would be talking about settings for underwater. I have the 7 Black. I am curious about white balance, ISO min and max and these type of things. Could you comment on them?
Hello! I haven't been able to switch between presets clicking the mode and shutter buttons at the same time, it just starts recording and adds a hi-light
Hi Brent. Happy New Year! I have just purchased the GoPro 11(previously had the 8).Do you have any new advice on which are the best underwater settings for this camera? Many thanks
Hi Jess, I think this depends on how you plan to use the HERO 11. I don't have the camera but know there is an Easy mode out of the box that should get the job done. Great for clips to share to social media, etc. But if you're looking for more creative control, then I would set a profile to 4K, 60fps, wide linear lens, and stabilization ON for general underwater use. Beyond that, you could customize profiles based on specific shooting scenarios (e.g. narrow lens for small subjects and 30fps if you're recording audio). Hope this helps!
Thank you :)
this is one of the best underwater camera out there. i still used it from time to time with my gopro hero 10
I agree, it's a fantastic camera, but of course depends on intended use.
This video explained nothing about ISO, EV COMP, WHITE BALANCE....
ISO 100-400 (the deeper you go the higher it needs to be...800 or more)
EV COMP -1 or -0.5
(it avoids flares where the light shines on)
WHITE BALANCE: NATIVE
(never auto because the waves passing the balance will always shift).
Some people like 5600K of color temperature and some let it be as it is.
SARPNESS LOW (but thats your preference...i like it high and all people like it low).
Do you reccoment the use of red or snorkeling filters on the gopro?
Yes, they're useful in many, but not all snorkel situations. I recommend using a flip filter holder if you're interested in really being able to ad and remove the filter based on how you're getting the best results. Link below to the Backscatter FLIP. Of course, you could just pop a single red filter on.
www.backscatter.com/FLIP11-One-Filter-Kit-with-DIVE-Filter-for-GoPro-HERO-5-6-7-8-9-10-11?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=
Brent, I really enjoy your channel ! you mentioned that you were going to demonstrate how to us the Quik app for changing settings. Is there somewhere I need to go to get this info ? Thanks
Hi, thanks for the kind words. I didn't make the video using the Quik app since it was changing so frequently. But one of these days I do need to create a video for the latest GoPros (Hero12) and latest version of Quik. Hopefully soon!
Hi Brent!!any tips for night diving with a gopro Hero 9 and a torch??any setup for ev comp and iso?tnx Carlo
Hi Carlo - I like to limit the ISO to 400, which should be enough since you're using a torch for lighting close subjects. You can also rely on the torch light of other divers like in the beginning of this video (ua-cam.com/video/XV8lRNzcIaM/v-deo.html). EV Comp would depend on whether you think the footage is too dark or too light, which you probably would not know until reviewing the footage on your phone or computer after the dive. Also, a slower frame rate will help in the dark conditions. Good luck!
kan / wil je ook een video maken van de best Settings met de DJI 5 Pro
I recommend the settings you see on screen in this comparison: ua-cam.com/video/iXAtgq5Sxss/v-deo.htmlsi=v6dtQNiqh4dGquoV
It's best to set them as a user Preset for easy access underwater in the dive housing.
Brent, help me out on ISO settings. What exactly is ISO and what am I influencing in my videos? Should I use ProTune, and if so, what are the ISO min and max I should be looking at?
Hi Patrick - ISO is the camera sensor's sensitivity to light: photographylife.com/what-is-iso-in-photography
Protune is fine for setting manual ISO (try 100-400), otherwise I only recommend Protune for folks comfortable with post-processing things like white balance. Hope this helps
@@BrentDurand that’s where I have it set. Thanks for that. On settings, do you recommend to go with the flat colors (so you can correct later in post) or Go Pro colors? What about sharpness? Their are those that state the the sharpest setting makes images look “crusty”. What’s your preference? I too am using iMovie and find it’s extremely intuitive and easy to use. I did notice last week when working colors in the post processing, that my 2016 MBP, was having a hard time with 2.7k @ 60 FPS.
@@c.patricksadowski9959 Hi Patrick. Color profile really depends on 1) how much you care, and 2) how committed you are to post-processing. Giving your questions, go with flat and keep up the editing work. Standard sharpening should be fine. And yes, processing video takes a lot of computer power. Generally you should finish your video edit and then do the color grading as a last step.
3:04 Program QuikCapture to shoot a still photo? Is that a GoPro 9 feature? I'm pretty sure the 8 cannot do this, only video (push) and timelapse (hold).
Great catch AH - You're correct. QuikCapture only works for video and time-lapse. I was thinking of the default mode when the camera is powered on, which can include still photos, and of course is different from QuikCapture. Thanks for pointing this out. Wish YT would allow us to replace videos so I could correct this.
Nice informative video thanks Brent. I always us narrow view when filming macro (Hero8) and hand hold a Hero3 macro adaptor up to the lens. Great to know that there are new options. Thanks mate.
Thanks for the kind words, Jim! Sounds like an effective combo, but yes, you could get the Backscatter Macro Mate to help free up that other hand.
@@BrentDurand would be great what I have works but is a pain
@@JimsUWPhotography Maybe this is a sign to go for it! 😎
Looks like the Backscatter Macro Mate + Filter is $199: www.backscatter.com/FLIP10-Pro-Package-with-SHALLOW-DIVE-Filters-15-MacroMate-Mini-Lens-for-GoPro-HERO-5-6-7-8-9-10?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM%3D
Another great tutorial!
Hello! I haven't been able to switch between presets clicking the mode and shutter buttons at the same time, it just starts recording and adds a hi-light
Hi Lina, try pushing the side button just before the top button. You should see the wrench icon appear. Press the side button just before the top button again and you'll change the preset.
You can also read the full instructions and settings in my article: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-underwater-settings/#presets
So if you shoot 2.7k 60fps in post editing should I be putting the editing to 30fps or remain at the 60fps I shot the video in??
Hi - That's a great question. I usually edit at 30fps since that will allow you to slow the 60fps by 50% for 50% slow motion (or even slower if shooting at 120fps). Hope that makes sense!
I usually go with 2.7k @ 60 fps, either linear or wide, flat color mode and I set the exposure to be just a little under exposed to avoid loss of data when there’s a peak of light. Always using a 2 hand dive tray and kraken light. Backscatter Flip lens for macro. With a little work on DaVinci I get great results !
Great settings and gear! I often shoot 2.7k at 60 or 120 fps as well. Very smart with the negative exposure comp, since it's so easy to burn out highlights on small camera sensors.
Would you not use 5k underwater since its only 30fps? Night dive the 30 might be better wouldnt it? Im going to have it attached to my mask. What about if im using a DIVER PROPULSION. Id be moving pretty quick so id want a higher fps for that dive, should i go up to 120? 4k x 60fps ideal for scuba. I dive most day sometimes night. Thank you
Hi TS - 5K resolution at 30fps would be nice underwater, although everything is a tradeoff. The high resolution will allow you to crop in and help stabilize the image in post (if you find it still shaky with in-camera stabilization). The 30fps does limit you in terms of creating slow motion. As you mentioned, a lower frame rate for night diving is nice because the camera may not need to increase the ISO as high as with a faster frame rate. But a tradeoff again, because if you're close to your subject with bright lights it doesn't matter as much. If you have the ability, try several different settings on one dive to see what works best based on what you're doing. This is easy with HERO9 presets!
@@BrentDurand so youd do the 5k@30 at night but pull it back to the 4k@60 for day diving? I probably wont be changing to many things in post but you never know right. Might see something. Surfing and rafting i know id use the 60fps for sure. Is 120 for when you are really moving fast?
@@TMS519 Faster frame rates do correspond to faster action if you anticipate pulling framegrabs from the footage, but the bigger reason to use faster frame rates is to slow down the footage during post-processing to create slow motion (e.g. 60fps on a 30fps editing timeline is 2x slow motion. 120fps would be 4x slow motion). My personal preference would be not to switch settings all the time, as that could get confusing when editing, but totally up to you. I would go for 4K@60fps. The extra sensor resolution can be used by the in-camera stabilization and you can still create 50% slow motion. In the end, trial and error will determine the best results. I haven't done comparison tests of all these settings either.
@@BrentDurand Thanks
Thanks, Brent! I just ordered the Hero 9. This helps me prepare until it arrives 😊 Do you think 2.7k resolution is a good compromise between 1080 and 5k?
Hi Arnie. The HERO9 is great! That's the model I have right now. And yes, 2.7K or 4K is great. I recommend 1080p in my tutorials for beginners since they may not want to deal with large file sizes, weird aspects of high frame rate playback in certain media players, etc.. You're a fantastic shooter, understand this stuff, and will benefit from the better resolution!
@@BrentDurand Thank you, Brent! Appreciate this! 😊 Getting one for the same reasons you mentioned (had a turtle feeding 2 arms length away from me on my last dive and I had my 90mm lens on Lol!)
@@diverspudph Typical! Always when you have the macro lens, ha!
@@BrentDurand Lol! Indeed!
Great video, thank you. I’m looking to up my video game by using a tray & video lights. In looking at your recommendations I don’t see the tray from this video. Also you don’t discuss using flex arms vs. arms & clamps. I need a tray with good fat handles to accommodate my arthritis. & currently debating between the Backscatter MW-4300 & Sola video FC. I live in Southwest FL so I dive all year, in all conditions (low viz hunting sharks teeth, wrecks, Blackwater, etc.) so I need a system I can grow into. Do you plan on doing a review video of different trays, handles, arms & lights? There is very little information and actual reviews on this subject. Thank you!
Hi Allura, the tray in the video is made by Kraken Sports. I really like the Backscatter tray and handle, although it has a narrower grip covered by foam. The Kraken tray has some of the wider grips you'll find. Here are a couple videos that will help answer questions:
GoPro Light Positions: ua-cam.com/video/IqdA-D51ScQ/v-deo.html
Using Arms & Clamps: ua-cam.com/video/wgwneqYWoRQ/v-deo.html
While flex arms are convenient and light, most serious shooters will begin using arm and clamp systems. I recommend Ultralight Control Systems components:
Ultralight 5" arm: www.backscatter.com/Ultralight-5-inch-Double-Ball-Arm?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=
Ultralight Clamps (2x per side): www.backscatter.com/Ultralight-New-Style-Clamp-15-degrees-side-movemen?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=
At the moment I don't have videos scheduled since it's really hard to get hold of all the gear, but I'll add this topic to my list. Hope this helps!
Brent, what’s the best way to adjust white balance for scuba, on a Go Pro?
Hi Patrick - By default GoPro shoots with auto white balance, but if you want to start experimenting, you can turn on ProTune mode. This will allow you to access manual white balance settings, selecting the kelvin temperate that looks best to your eye when underwater. It's a manual process at that point, as white balance will change depending on depth and other factors like angle to sun. Hope this helps!
hi Brent, thanks for this helpful vid. I watched someone recommend "natural" setting. would you recommend "natural" white balance as setting? in that way it would be easier to do post-prod edits with colors? i read also somewhere that "auto" is not a good setting for white balance for underwater shots. do you have opinions re that? thanks appreciate it.
this is for GoPro9 btw. thanks
@@almondeyesnotforsale Hi Marisol - I think "natural" may be a translation error. Generally Auto White Balance is fine for underwater, especially when using red filters (see article below with best filters). If you plan to do post-processing and editing you will have the opportunity to create better color by shooting in Protune and "Flat" color. In other words, the answer depends on if you plan to do color grading when editing.
Best Filters & Color Correction: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/
Hope this helps!
@@BrentDurand cool! thanks Brent! this is super helpful. looking forward to viewing your vid tutorials ☺️
A huge benefit of shooting in higher resolutions is that your frame grabs will be much better.
Absolutely!
Could you please send me the purchasing link for that double handle stabilizer for my GoPro9 with protective housing? Many thanks
Hi Mike - I've got a number of different options and price points (plus some kits with lights) on this page of my website: tutorials.brentdurand.com/how-to-keep-your-gopro-steady-underwater/
Good luck!
@@BrentDurand will the backscatter double handle work with the GoPro9 protective casing?
@@solamanproductions Hi Mike - absolutely. You just mount the H9 protective housing to the mount on the backscatter tray and you're good to go.
@@BrentDurand the only issue i see are the handles...not padded for better grip and when i dive is there an attachment to my bc?
@@solamanproductions Hi Mike - those handles are actually padded with foam, so it's more grip than any other brand (others use rubber, o-rings on aluminum, etc.). Here are some options to look through at Mozaic Cameras: www.housingcamera.com/packages/uw-tray-arm-packages/gopro#brentd
For attaching to your BCD, any tray would require purchasing a separate lanyard. Here's my favorite, as it clips in tightly but then can be expanded while shooting: www.backscatter.com/Ultralight-Coiled-Camera-Lanyard?affiliate=U2FsdGVkX1+5HP8BlhLkagWnVwymT4hAXsf4ct8uMAM=
This is another option, but may have resistance towards the end of the coil range: www.housingcamera.com/id3293-bts-gopro-lanyard.html#brentd
Thanks for this video and for the tutorials. I have a question about changing settings underwater: I have a Hero 10 and there "was" the ability to add Custom setting that one could switch between while in the housing. I planned to have one for general use and another for macro. Yesterday, I upgraded to Version 1.16 and they took away the ability to make custom settings. I am not sure how to now deal with changing underwater settings while in the housing when I cannot make my own. Any thoughts/suggestions are appreciated.
Hi Marshall - this is the first I've heard on this issue and just did a quick search but couldn't find any other note of this change. Did you reformat your memory card and reset the camera to factory settings after installing the update? Sometimes this helps eliminate bugs in the firmware.
@@BrentDurand I heard from another UA-camr and they told me how to do it: When you select, Activity - for instance - in the upper right hand corner is a figure with 2 triangles and 2 bars. If you select that, the + shows up and you can apparently (I have not done one yet) set up a custom setting. The other thing that a few people suggested, is to go to GoPro Labs and install Firmware to the camera to read QR codes. Then you can set up QR codes for specific settings and when the camera sees them, it just changes the settings "automatically". .One person suggested printing them out, laminating them for underwater, attach them with a clip and line and then just select the one you want as appropriate. Again, I have not done it yet but plan to try both options.
@@marshallbreite4647 Thanks for the update on this issue, Marshall. It's interesting that GoPro made it more difficult to switch between custom presets. I imagine most of their users don't use too many different settings. We're pretty unique underwater. For laminating a QR code, make sure to have a good amount of extra/adhesive space. I laminate shot lists and gear test procedures and sometimes it's tough to keep the water out!
Do you have any opinion on the GoPro 8 vs 9 in relation to diving at depth/low light? I heard some say the 8 is better due to less pixels being squeezed into the small sensor. Thanks!
Hi Puncho - that's a great question. The 9 does have smaller pixels, however it also delivers nice detail and contrasts in low light scenes, which may make more of a difference. I haven't tested the 8 next to the 9 (I only have the 9), so don't have a 'best answer' in real world dive conditions.
Hi Brent,
I saw in the video that you mentioned the switchblade made by polarpro (which is more affordable than backscatter flip). Do you know if it works also on the gopro 9?
Thanks
Hi KD - I don't believe the Switchblade works on the HERO9 dive housing, but you can use these individual PolarPro filters: amzn.to/3wzWws5
I've written more info here: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/
@@BrentDurand polar Pro Switchblade from Hero 8 doesn’t go on hero 9 and for the 9 they don’t have a switchblade yet, I asked them, they are thinking about it ☹️
@@holgerschmiede5969 Thanks for the info Holger! GoPro changed the size of the dive housing port for the H9, which is certainly frustrating for the 3rd party accessory companies. It's been so long since release I don't think PolarPro will make a new Switchblade. They appear to be focusing on higher quality interchangeable lens filters.
Great stuff here man, I do think if people can afford to store and edit in 4K they should so that you futureproof your footage. But yea totally agree wide angle is the sweet spot, and the default settings are usually pretty good, and your slo mo recommendation is spot on but like resolution it takes a lot more memory to record in super high frame rate
Hi Peter - These are all great points. I completely agree that more advanced shooters can future-proof their work by shooting at a higher resolution, and will also be more willing to invest in hard drive space to store the larger files. One step at a time!
You shoulf have talked about white balance and color temperature.
What about if you don’t edit just a travel point and shooter, do you still recommend recording in 1080p vs 4k and 5k?
Hi C Dez - 1080p is a great default but 4K and 5k have great image quality even when the resolution is reduced. The more important factor is whether your phone (or whatever you’re using to store the video) can handle the larger files before uploading to social. I would experiment and see what works best!
Very cool tips video Brent! Now I would love to learn more about video lights for the GoPro Hero 9 please :)
Hi - I've got a few lights on this GoPro tutorial and then my list of video lights for 2021 in the second link. Hope this helps!
tutorials.brentdurand.com/gopro-filters-and-color-correction/
Best Video Lights of 2021: tutorials.brentdurand.com/video-light-comparison/
What’s the best setting for videos with lights on the go pro? I feel if I am on awb everything is too red and if I’m in native it’s too flat.
Hi, as always, good and cool info. But just a question: is you shoot at 1080 or 2.7k, the hypersmooth boost still reduces the quality of the footage? I mostly use 2.7k at 60fps with the hero 7 (so no boost), but I'm considering the upgrade to the hero 9, and want to try the boost and/or the horizon locking, you didn't mention it, but what do you think about that feature in underwater video? Thanks!
Hi Parmaia - I'm not extremely technical with this, but my general quality comment is due to the 25% crop in field of view when using the Hypersmooth Boost. Of course, the HERO 9 has a larger sensor with greater resolution, so this might actually work well (e.g. if you use SuperView and Boost, which will still provide a wide field of view). I think someone just needs to do these side by side tests underwater. These videos are simply fun for me, but I'd do the tests if being paid, ha!
RE Horizon Leveling - I haven't tested this since I don't really see the need underwater if you're carefully composing your shots. Should be awesome for kayaking and other activities where there's a distinct contrast / luminance horizontal line in the scene.
And thanks for the comment by the way. This is good food for thought!
@@BrentDurand thanks for your really quick answer. I saw other videos on the Gopro subject, but no one talks exclusively on the use for scuba diving. I'll wait for the next year to see more reviews before making the move to the hero 9. I will not jump on water till next summer, not super fan of cold water 🥶.
@@parmaia Hi Parmaia - I'll be doing a lot more testing with the HERO 9, so maybe I can do a video specifically on the stabilization. Stay tuned!
@@BrentDurand Oh yeah! I always keep an eye on your channel because you post really nice and useful tips.
Not a GoProer, but I have to say, "Great shirt!"
Ha! Thanks Oren!
Well, that is not really a video about the best settings, more about tips for shooting underwater. How about scuba diving settings where the red is key.
Hi Thierry - thanks for the feedback. You're probably referring to white balance and/or artificial lighting "where red is key". While different GoPros offer different ability to adjust kelvin temp and shoot in a flat profile with some ability to adjust WB in post, you will have best effect learning about underwater filters (red, magenta) and in using artificial light to bring rich color back to close subjects. You can watch the videos below for more, or visit the corresponding pages on my website for in-depth guides:
- GoPro Filters: ua-cam.com/video/Eudw-F3hy4g/v-deo.html
- GoPro Lighting: ua-cam.com/video/IqdA-D51ScQ/v-deo.html
PSA, this video is going to tell you to keep default settings.
You Really Wasted my time i was looking for iso . sharpness , white balance
Seriously? Did you Google settings? How about Protune? This is a basic settings video, as are all my GoPro videos. Not all of us had everything given to us on a silver platter. Get lost kook.
this video is for what? 🤣
This video answers basic questions many divers ask about shooting the GoPro Hero 8 underwater. I hope it helped!