To dramatically improve the production quality of your underwater video footage, push these 3 levers:
Lever #1 - Stable Camera Movement
- The ability to create smooth camera moves while diving is a hallmark of professional underwater cinematographers.
- Unstable footage is fine if it's shot intentionally to emulate a "reportage" style, as in the Jason Bourne movies
- Smooth stable camera moves are preferred by high-end natural history productions, as their preferred style of filmmaking is "objective" rather than "subjective."
Lever #2 - Frame With Intention
- Choosing what to frame and how it is positioned in the frame is a fundamental tool in the cinematographer's toolbox.
- You cant frame what you can't see
- Investing in an external underwater monitor is non-negotiable
Lever # 3 - Leverage the Light
- Positioning yourself and your camera in the optimal position relative to the sun is critical to getting the most out of a scene
- This decision to front light, side light or backlight is primarily driven by the narrative ambition.
- As a general rule or when in doubt, aim for two-thirds backlit.
Apply yourself to mastering these three elements and you will be well on your way to dramatically improving the production quality of your underwater footage.
