Aquatic Videographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of digital exploration, the focus on aquatic videographers has never been more prominent.
As technology progresses, the demand for skilled individuals who can capture, enhance, and protect our underwater world grows stronger.
But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from an aquatic videographer?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricate art of aquatic videography,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we unravel a customizable aquatic videographer job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Aquatic Videographer Duties and Responsibilities
Aquatic Videographers are responsible for capturing underwater footage for documentaries, research, or recreational purposes.
They are skilled in both scuba diving and videography, allowing them to navigate underwater environments while filming.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Preparing and maintaining underwater videography equipment, including cameras, lighting, and sound devices
- Performing pre-dive checks and ensuring all equipment is in working order
- Scuba diving to various depths to capture video footage of underwater ecosystems, marine life, or specific dive sites
- Following safety procedures and diving protocols to ensure the safety of themselves and the team
- Collaborating with directors, researchers, or clients to understand the desired outcome of the video footage
- Editing and processing video footage to create a final product
- Ensuring all video footage adheres to legal and ethical guidelines, especially regarding marine life and ecosystems
- Identifying and mitigating potential risks or challenges associated with capturing footage underwater
- Keeping up-to-date with new trends and advancements in underwater videography
Aquatic Videographer Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a creative and proficient Aquatic Videographer to join our team.
The Aquatic Videographer will be responsible for filming, editing, and producing high-quality underwater videos to meet our content needs.
The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in underwater videography and a strong understanding of the technical aspects of filming in aquatic environments.
They should also be a strong swimmer, be comfortable with diving, and understand safety regulations associated with underwater work.
Responsibilities
- Shooting, developing, and editing high quality underwater video content
- Planning and conceptualizing video shoots
- Ensuring the correct and safe use of all video equipment
- Performing routine equipment maintenance
- Ensuring compliance with all safety regulations during underwater shoots
- Collaborating with team to determine project scope and requirements
- Participating in pre-production meetings to discuss assignments
- Delivering final video content in line with company standards and deadlines
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a professional videographer, with specific experience in underwater videography
- Strong understanding of shooting and editing techniques
- Proficiency in using video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro
- Excellent swimming and diving skills
- Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures for underwater work
- Familiarity with different types of video equipment and their maintenance
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Strong communication and time management skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Film, Media, or a related field is preferred
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Travel opportunities
- Professional development assistance
Additional Information
- Job Title: Aquatic Videographer
- Work Environment: Majority of work will be conducted in aquatic environments. Travel may be required depending on project locations.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or assigned supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a portfolio of your work to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Aquatic Videographer Do?
An Aquatic Videographer is a specialized type of videographer who primarily works underwater.
They can work for a range of industries, such as documentary or nature filmmaking, marine research organizations, advertising firms, or travel and tourism companies.
Their main role is to capture high-quality videos and images under the water surface.
This could include filming marine life, underwater landscapes, divers, or even shipwrecks.
They work closely with a team that might include marine biologists, divers, filmmakers, and other specialists, depending on the nature of the project.
Aquatic Videographers also have the responsibility of maintaining and operating complex underwater video and lighting equipment.
They need to be well-versed in various filming techniques that are unique to the underwater environment.
They often have to be prepared to travel to various locations depending on the assignment and must be comfortable working in a variety of underwater conditions.
In addition to their videography skills, many Aquatic Videographers also need to be skilled divers, as this is an essential part of the job.
They must also have a solid understanding of marine safety protocols.
Overall, the role of an Aquatic Videographer is to capture the beauty, mystery, and sometimes harsh realities of the underwater world in a way that can be shared with others.
Aquatic Videographer Qualifications and Skills
An Aquatic Videographer should possess a unique blend of technical, creative and physical abilities.
Skills and qualifications required in this role include:
- Proficiency in using underwater video equipment, lighting, and editing software to capture high-quality footage.
- Knowledge of aquatic life and ecosystems to understand the best times and places to shoot and to anticipate the movements and behaviors of underwater subjects.
- Ability to swim and dive proficiently, often while carrying equipment, and maintain composure and focus in challenging underwater environments.
- Creativity and artistic vision to compose engaging and aesthetically pleasing shots.
- Communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members, clients, or subjects, and to express artistic vision and concepts.
- Physical fitness and endurance to handle the demands of underwater shooting, including the ability to hold breath for extended periods, maneuver in water, and handle potentially dangerous situations.
- Knowledge of safety procedures and protocols related to diving and underwater filming, including the use of appropriate gear and first-aid procedures.
- Attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and quality of footage, and to carefully maintain and handle sensitive equipment.
Aquatic Videographer Experience Requirements
Entry-level aquatic videographers typically require 1 to 2 years of experience in videography, which could be gained through internships, part-time roles, or educational projects.
Experience or certification in scuba diving is often an essential requirement, as the job requires capturing underwater visuals.
Candidates are expected to have a strong foundation in the basics of video production and camera operation.
They might also gain hands-on experience in roles related to nature videography, wildlife photography, or documentary production.
Individuals with more than 3 years of experience have likely honed their videography skills and will have an extensive portfolio showcasing their aquatic videography capabilities.
They should also possess advanced diving skills and a familiarity with a variety of underwater conditions.
Those with more than 5 years of experience are often comfortable with advanced underwater shooting techniques, such as macro and wide-angle underwater videography.
They might have experience in supervising underwater shoots or leading a team of videographers.
At this level, aquatic videographers may be prepared to take on a role as a director of photography or a team leader in larger productions or expeditions.
Aquatic Videographer Education and Training Requirements
An Aquatic Videographer typically holds a bachelor’s degree in Film or Video Production, Marine Biology, or a related field.
They also need a deep understanding of underwater filming techniques and equipment.
Proficiency in editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer is often essential.
Moreover, they must be certified in scuba diving as most of their work is done underwater.
Certifications from recognized organizations like PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) or SSI (Scuba Schools International) are most common.
Advanced courses or workshops on underwater videography are beneficial for gaining practical experience and learning about the latest filming techniques and equipment.
In addition to educational qualifications, Aquatic Videographers need to be strong swimmers, have a good understanding of marine life, and possess the physical fitness necessary for the job.
Finally, having a master’s degree in marine biology or a related field can provide a deeper understanding of marine life, which could enhance the quality of their work.
However, this is not a common requirement for the role.
Some Aquatic Videographers also opt for additional certifications in specialized areas of underwater videography or marine life to further strengthen their skills and broaden their job prospects.
Aquatic Videographer Salary Expectations
An Aquatic Videographer can expect to earn an average salary of $57,000 (USD) per year.
However, the salary can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, specific skills, the type of projects they work on, and their geographical location.
Aquatic Videographer Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Aquatic Videographer need?
Aquatic Videographers need to have a solid understanding of videography and technical proficiency with various types of underwater video equipment.
They should also have excellent swimming skills, a keen eye for detail, and a good understanding of marine life.
Additionally, they should be skilled in video editing software and storytelling through visual media.
Do Aquatic Videographers need any specific qualifications?
Aquatic Videographers typically need a degree in videography, filmmaking, or a related field.
Certification in scuba diving is often required, and additional certifications in underwater photography or videography are beneficial.
Experience with marine life can also be advantageous.
What should you look for in an Aquatic Videographer’s resume?
Look for a solid background in videography or filmmaking, as well as proficiency with various video editing software.
Certifications in scuba diving or any other underwater activity are important, as are any past experiences of filming underwater.
Any additional experiences or knowledge about marine life would also be a bonus.
What qualities make a good Aquatic Videographer?
A good Aquatic Videographer is patient and persistent, as capturing the perfect underwater shot can take time and numerous attempts.
They also need to be comfortable and calm under water, and have a genuine respect and understanding for marine life.
Adaptability is also important, as they often have to deal with changing underwater conditions.
Is it difficult to hire an Aquatic Videographer?
Hiring an Aquatic Videographer can be challenging as it is a specialized field that requires both technical videography skills and diving abilities.
Hence, the pool of candidates with the necessary qualifications and experiences is often limited.
However, offering competitive compensation and opportunities to work on interesting projects can help attract talented Aquatic Videographers.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we submerged into the depths of what it really means to be an aquatic videographer.
Surprised?
It’s not just about filming underwater.
It’s about capturing the marine world, one frame at a time.
With our ready-to-use aquatic videographer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make waves.
But why limit yourself to the surface?
Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted listings or refining your resume to excellence.
Remember:
Every frame you film is a glimpse into the underwater world.
Let’s unveil that world. Together.
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