RAID - Action Camera
RAID Action Camera Course
The RAID Action Camera course is a specialty program designed for certified divers interested in underwater videography and photography using compact action cameras (such as GoPro, DJI Action, Paralenz, or MUVI). It teaches techniques for capturing high-quality video and still images underwater, focusing on camera settings, shooting methods, and basic editing. The course emphasizes the versatility of small action cameras for accessing tight spaces and achieving creative shots.
No specific minimum age or depth extensions are associated with this specialty.
Benefits of the RAID Action Camera Course
- Develops skills for effective underwater video and still photography using compact, affordable equipment.
- Covers practical techniques for better framing, stability, lighting, and composition.
- Introduces basic editing to enhance footage.
- Enables unique shots in confined or challenging environments.
- Enhances overall diving experiences by documenting adventures professionally.
- Applicable to various action camera brands without favouring specific models.
Prerequisites
- Certified as RAID Open Water 20 or equivalent from a recognized agency (any entry-level scuba certification).
- Own or have access to a compact action camera.
- Completion of a medical questionnaire. Certain conditions require physician approval.
- For minors (under 18): Parental or guardian consent and signature on required forms.
- Required personal items: Action camera (all scuba equipment typically provided by the dive center during training).
Participants must complete or update standard RAID forms, including a liability release and safe diving practices agreement, via the RAID User Portal.
Course Structure
The course is conducted by a certified RAID instructor and combines online theory with practical water sessions:
1. Academic Development Completed via RAID’s online FREe-Learning platform. Topics include:
- Action camera features and settings
- Underwater shooting techniques (video and stills)
- Lighting and composition considerations
- Basic editing principles Students access digital manuals, complete quizzes, and pass a final multiple-choice exam at their own pace.
2. Equipment Orientation
Review of action camera setup and integration with diving gear.
3. Practical Water Training
- Confined water training: Practice camera handling, settings, and basic shots in a controlled environment.
- Open water training: Application of techniques during dives to capture real underwater footage.
Skills focus on stable shooting, creative angles, and adapting to underwater conditions.
Duration and Depth Limits
- Theory: Self-paced online (typically several hours).
- Practical sessions: Flexible, usually completed in 1-2 days depending on the dive center.
- Depth: Within the diver's existing certification limits (no additional depth authorization).
- Number of dives: Typically includes confined water sessions and at least one open water dive (exact number may vary by center).
Equipment Provided
During training, the dive center typically supplies all required scuba equipment, including:
- Tank
- Regulator
- Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
- Mask, snorkel, fins
- Weights
Participants must provide their own action camera and any personal accessories (e.g., mounts or lights).
Certification
Upon successful completion, students receive a globally recognized electronic certification (e-card) issued by RAID. The certification is permanent and downloadable from the RAID portal. It recognizes proficiency in underwater action camera use, with no changes to depth or diving limits.
Next Steps to Enroll
1. Create a free account on the RAID User Portal: https://user.diveraid.com
2. Purchase the digital Action Camera course materials in the RAID Store and access them via https://diveraid.com/free-learning/
3. Contact the center to book, discuss fees, and schedule your session. The center will unlock training materials, conduct the program, and handle any recognition.
The RAID Action Camera certification equips divers with practical skills to capture and edit high-quality underwater media, enhancing documentation and sharing of diving experiences.
