Action Camera Accessories

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a GoPro for scuba diving without a special housing?

Standard GoPro models in their included waterproof case are rated to 10 metres — suitable for snorkeling but not for scuba diving beyond very shallow recreational depths. For scuba diving, a dedicated dive housing rated to 40 metres or more is required. GoPro produces dive housings for their current camera models, and third-party options are available for some models. Always verify the depth rating of the specific housing for your specific GoPro model — ratings vary between camera generations and housing types. The stock included case that ships with a GoPro is not a dive housing regardless of how it is described on the packaging.

What is the best way to mount a GoPro while scuba diving?

The most popular mounting positions for action cameras while diving are: a head mount on the mask strap for a first-person perspective, a chest mount on the BCD for a slightly wider perspective that includes your hands and equipment in frame, and a dedicated camera tray or handle for a handheld shooting position with better stability. BCD and mask strap mounts have the advantage of freeing both hands but provide limited control over framing — the camera points wherever your body points. Sometimes a head-mounted GoPro can give you a bobble-head feeling when watching the video afterwards. A handheld tray gives the most control over composition but occupies a hand. Many divers use a compact handle grip on the GoPro housing that clips to a BCD D-ring between shots, making it accessible when needed without permanently occupying either hand.

Can I add video lights to a GoPro setup for underwater use?

Yes — adding a video light to a GoPro dramatically improves the colour and quality of underwater footage at any depth below 5 metres. At greater depths the camera's footage takes on a blue-green cast without a light, and marine life colours are suppressed entirely. A small video light on a short arm attached to the GoPro housing mount restores natural colour and dramatically improves the quality of the footage. Big Blue and Sealife produce compact video lights compatible with standard cold-shoe or ball-mount adapters found on GoPro accessories. The tray and arm systems in our range include GoPro-compatible mounting solutions that add a light arm to your action camera setup without requiring a full-size camera tray.