Master’s Degree in Underwater Photography and Filmmaking
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Underwater Photography and Filmmaking
Immers you in a world of creativity and technique, where you will learn to capture the hidden beauty of the oceans. Master the essential skills to operate underwater filming and photography equipment, from lighting to composition, adapting to the challenges of the aquatic environment. This program will provide you with a deep understanding of marine biology and conservation ethics, combining a passion for exploration with impactful visual storytelling.
Distinctive Advantages
- Professional Equipment: Access to state-of-the-art cameras, lights, and housings for hands-on practice.
- Guided Dives: Expeditions to diverse marine ecosystems to apply your knowledge in the field.
- Expert Mentors: Direct learning from internationally renowned underwater photographers and filmmakers.
- Editing and Post-Production: Mastery of specialized software to refine your audiovisual creations.
- Networking: Connection with the industry and job opportunities in documentaries, Research and tourism.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Photographers and filmmakers passionate about exploring the depths and capturing the beauty of the underwater world.
- Marine biologists and oceanographers looking to document their research with stunning, professional images.
- Professional divers and instructors wanting to expand their skills and offer underwater photography and video services.
- Audiovisual creatives interested in specializing in a booming niche market with great artistic potential.
- Sea and nature lovers with basic photography skills who aspire to become experts in the field.
Flexibility and practice
Combines theory with practical dives: flexible online sessions, masterclasses with experts, and real-world projects in diverse marine environments.
Objectives and skills
Master lighting techniques to capture professional-quality underwater images and videos:
“Adjust white balance, ISO, and aperture to compensate for chromatic absorption and maximize available light, using external flashes and video lights to highlight details and natural colors.”
To efficiently and creatively manage underwater photography and film equipment in diverse environments:
“Optimize workflows by adapting techniques and resources to the specific requirements of underwater filming (lighting, stability, communication).”
Develop innovative underwater audiovisual projects, from conception to post-production:
“Mastering underwater filming, lighting, and audio capture techniques in challenging environments, integrating cutting-edge technologies to tell visually impactful stories.”
Apply safety regulations and best practices in photographic and cinematographic dives, ensuring the integrity of the equipment and respect for the marine environment:
“Implement specific safety protocols for the handling of underwater equipment, minimizing environmental impact and preventing occupational risks.”
Analyze and understand the behavior of light in water to optimize image quality and visual storytelling:
“Manipulate underwater lighting (natural and artificial) to highlight details, create atmosphere, and minimize backscattering and absorption effects.”
Create impactful visual narratives that promote marine conservation and awareness of underwater ecosystems:
“Master underwater filming and photography techniques to capture the beauty and fragility of marine life, editing the resulting material to construct compelling and emotive visual narratives that inspire action.”
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Underwater Lighting: Absorption, Diffusion, Light Spectrum in Water, and Chromatic Behavior
- Types of Light Sources: HID lamps, high-power LEDs, strobe flashes, and continuous lights; their use and optimization in marine environments
- Advanced Lighting Techniques: Angles of incidence, shadow control, fill lighting, and backlighting to enhance textures and natural colors
- Visual Composition: Classic rules and adaptations for underwater environments, including horizon line, vanishing points, and negative space
- Strategic Use of Color and Contrast to Compensate for Progressive Tonal Loss at Different Depths
- Specialized Equipment: Selection and Configuration of Filters, Diffusers, Reflectors, and Light Modifiers for Optimal Results
- Photographer and Equipment Positioning Techniques to Maximize the
- Light quality and avoiding backlighting and flare
- Advanced composition methodologies: integrating marine subjects with the environment, taking advantage of natural patterns and geometric elements in the scene
- Optimizing white balance through manual adjustments and calibration protocols in changing conditions
- Preparing and executing sessions in extreme underwater environments: technical planning, assessment of lighting and environmental risks
- Post-production processes to preserve color fidelity and visual impact in underwater images and videos
- Practical case studies with detailed analysis of professional underwater images and audiovisual material
- Regulations and best practices for environmental conservation during underwater photography and filmmaking
- Emerging technological innovations in underwater lighting systems and cameras for advanced photographers and filmmakers
- Integrating lighting systems with drones and vehicles ROV for explorations in inaccessible and deep areas
- Fundamentals of Underwater Optics: Refraction, absorption, and scattering of light in water, refractive indices, and their influence on image quality
- Selection and Advanced Configuration of Waterproof Cameras and Housings: Compatibility, Materials, Pressure and Corrosion Resistance
- Optimization of Digital Sensors for Capture in Hyperbaric and Low-Light Environments: Native ISO, Dynamic Range, and Noise Reduction
- Recording and Compression Formats in Underwater Video: Codec, Bitrate, Resolution, and Storage in Extreme Conditions
- Specialized Artificial Lighting: Types of Underwater Lights (LED, HID), Color Temperature, Power, Diffusion, and Mounting to Minimize Backscatter and Flare Effects
- Optical Filter and Lens Systems for Chromatic Correction and Contrast Enhancement in Turbidity-Proof Environments
- Equipment Setup and Stabilization in Movement: Use of gimbals, anti-vibration mounts, and real-time white balance techniques
Remote control and wireless systems adapted to submerged environments: Technical limitations and innovative solutions for camera control underwater
Integration of GPS and navigation systems for precise geotagging of underwater images and videos
Advanced protocols for preventive maintenance and calibration of equipment after saltwater dives: Prevention of corrosion and critical failures
- Physical principles of light in underwater environments: absorption, scattering, and light spectrum in fresh and salt water
- Types and characteristics of underwater lighting sources: halogen, LED, strobe, and continuous; Selection based on depth and photographic objective
Advanced lighting system configuration: positioning, angles, and synchronization to minimize backscatter and maximize contrast
Compositional design under hydrostatic pressure: framing adjustments, rule of thirds, and use of lines and textures in dynamic environments with limited visibility
Optimization of specialized optical equipment: waterproof cameras, housings, macro and wide-angle lenses for different extreme marine conditions
Control and calibration of white balance and color modes adapted to progressive depth and spectral variability of the marine environment
Image stabilization techniques and polarizing filters to improve sharpness and reduce reflections in active captures under strong currents
Equipment maintenance and care protocols in corrosive and cold environments, including disassembly, specialized cleaning, and preventive storage
- Integration of sensors and complementary accessories: pressure gauges, digital compasses, and telemetry systems for remote synchronization of flashes and triggers
- Analysis of practical cases and problem-solving in situations of low visibility, artificial light noise, and involuntary movement of the subject or operator
- Exploration and application of emerging technologies in underwater lighting: artificial bio-illumination and AI-controlled steerable light systems
- Ergonomic and safety considerations for handling equipment during prolonged dives in extreme conditions
- Strategies for pre-planning photo and film shoots: light studies, current maps, dive scheduling, and technical resource management
- Fundamentals of Underwater Film Planning: Studying Storyboards Adapted to Underwater Environments and Defining Creative and Technical Objectives
- Safety in Technical Diving: Advanced Protocols, Decompression Stop Planning, Risk Management, and Underwater Emergency Handling
- Setting Up and Optimizing Specialized Rigs for Underwater Photography and Filmmaking: Components, Ergonomics, and Adaptations for Different Diving Conditions
- Underwater Image Stabilization Techniques: Using Gimbals, Electronic Stabilizers, and Manual Techniques to Minimize Vibrations and Unwanted Movements
- Capturing in 4K and RAW Formats: Recording Parameters, Dynamic Range, Custom White Balance, and Exposure Adjustments in Low-Light Underwater Conditions
- Workflow for Advanced Color Correction: Calibrating Color Profiles and Using LUTs Specific to Aquatic Environments
and techniques for preserving color fidelity in post-production
Integration of underwater artificial lighting systems: types of lights, color temperature, positioning, and synchronization with cameras for optimal and controlled lighting
Communication and coordination in underwater filming crews: hand signals, use of acoustic communication systems, and effective role management during immersion
Evaluation and mitigation of environmental factors: analysis of visibility, suspended particles, depth, and temperature, and how they affect audiovisual production
Documentation and technical recording of filming: protocols for real-time annotations, metadata management, and backup of material in environments with high humidity and pressure
- Fundamentals of visual storytelling applied to the underwater environment: understanding space, light, and movement in aquatic settings
- Advanced screenwriting techniques for underwater audiovisual projects: constructing narrative arcs adapted to immersion and real time
- Filmmaking in extreme conditions: equipment management, technical team coordination, and strategies for maximizing resources in hostile environments
- Conscious use of natural and artificial underwater lighting to create atmospheres and enhance visual storytelling
- Composition and framing in the underwater environment: rules adapted to the dynamics of water, particles, and moving flora and fauna
- Subjective and objective camera dynamics: how to integrate perspectives that emotionally engage the viewer in the underwater world
- Editing and montage focused on underwater storytelling: rhythm, transitions, and synchronization with natural and ambient sounds
- Integration of Direct sound recording and sound design for underwater production: capture, cleaning, and post-production adapted to the aquatic environment.
Case studies of emblematic underwater documentaries and film projects: technical and creative analysis of successful narratives.
Technological innovations in underwater audiovisual narratives: underwater drones, 360° cameras, and immersive realities.
Narrative risk management: how to plan and adapt storytelling in the face of changing conditions and emergencies in extreme underwater environments.
Optimization and preservation of audiovisual material: file formats, editing workflows, and protocols to guarantee the integrity and longevity of the content.
Strategies for the presentation, distribution, and marketing of underwater audiovisual projects on specialized platforms and international festivals.
Ethical aspects and narrative sustainability: respecting ecosystems and communities when creating content in aquatic environments.
Personal project development. and professionals: complete design of a script and storyboard for an underwater photography and film production, putting all the learned elements into practice.
- Advanced Fundamentals of Underwater Lighting: Light Spectrum, Absorption, and Scattering in Aquatic Environments
- Directional and Diffused Lighting Techniques for Color Correction and Elimination of Unwanted Shadows in Marine Environments
- Specialized Use of Continuous vs. Diffused Light Sources
- Equipment in marine conditions: corrosion resistance, watertight sealing, and rapid repair
- Positioning and movement techniques to avoid optical distortions and turbidity during underwater filming
- Advanced management of technical parameters: ISO, shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation based on depth and aquatic flora
- Implementation of external stabilization systems and gimbals adapted for high-pressure environments and fluid movements
- Synchronization and composition in underwater filmmaking: planning the visual narrative, using sequence shots and cuts to maximize emotional impact
- Integration of post-production techniques specific to marine images: color correction, noise reduction, and enhancement of aquatic textures without loss of realism
- Strategies to overcome climatological and environmental challenges: turbidity, light variability, and interactive fauna during filming sessions
- Safety protocols for handling equipment and interacting with marine ecosystems to preserve physical and environmental integrity
- Analysis of practical cases and field studies with direct application of advanced techniques to achieve unique and professional images
- Development of personal and corporate projects applying the technical synergy between lighting, composition, and specialized underwater equipment
Stroboscopic flashes: synchronization, power, and color temperature
Light control and modulation: adapters, diffusers, snoots, and reflectors for creative effects in confined underwater spaces
Optimizing photographic composition in underwater environments: analysis of three-dimensional space, guide lines, and focal points underwater
Applying classic and disruptive rules in underwater composition: the rule of thirds, the use of negative space, and dynamic framing in motion
Studying the interaction between subject, background, and light to maximize sharpness and depth of field in underwater photography
Selecting and customizing specialized underwater photography equipment: cameras, underwater housings, macro and wide-angle lenses
Advanced equipment configuration and camera settings for stability, autofocus, noise control, and white balance in extreme conditions
Preventive maintenance and inspection protocols
- Advanced Fundamentals of Underwater Lighting: Types of Lights (Video, Continuous, Stroboscopic), Light Spectrum, and Behavior in Aquatic Environments
- Design and Construction of Lighting Setups for Complex Underwater Scenes: Backlighting, Ambient Light, Fill Light, and Dramatic Effects
- Light Control and Modulation: Use of Diffusers, Reflectors, Color Gels, and Filters to Correct Color Casts and Improve Image Quality
- Composition Techniques Specific to the Marine Environment: The Rule of Thirds Adapted to the Three-Dimensionality and Dynamics of Water
- Strategic Use of Negative and Positive Space to Emphasize Marine Subjects and Coral Structures within the Frame
- Study and Application of Extreme Depth of Field in Underwater Photography: Aperture, Focal Length, and Sensor to Maximize Sharpness and Subject Isolation
- Technical Optimization and Maintenance of Underwater Photographic and Cinematographic Equipment: Selection
- Waterproof housings, scratch-resistant materials, and sensor calibration
- Advanced camera settings for capturing in low-light and high-turbidity environments: ISO, shutter speed, and custom white balance
- Integration of stabilization and remote control systems to minimize vibrations and movements caused by currents and waves
- Electronic security protocols to prevent moisture ingress and failures in sensitive equipment during prolonged deep-sea dives
- Use of special lenses and underwater optical accessories: domes, macro lenses, and wide-angle lenses, to adapt the capture to various subjects and situations
- Advanced processing and post-production: specific color correction for blue and green cast cancellation, detail reconstruction, and enhancement of marine textures
- Working with biomechanical models and animal behavior to anticipate movements and capture high-precision underwater cinema sequences
- Practical exercises Field professionals: planning and execution of audiovisual projects in extreme marine environments, considering environmental and logistical variables.
Development of methodologies for the efficient management of energy resources in portable equipment during long days of underwater recording or photography.
- Fundamentals of Integrated Underwater Project Management: Defining Objectives, Scope, Schedule, and Resources
- Advanced Planning in Aquatic Environments: Analysis of Environmental Variables, Marine Meteorology, Hydrodynamics, and Selection of Specialized Equipment
- Risk Assessment Methodologies in Technical Diving: Identification, Analysis, and Mitigation of Hazards in Complex Dives
- Safety Protocols in Technical Diving: Use of Gas Mixtures (Nitrox, Trimix, Heliox), Decompression Planning, and Management of Underwater Medical Emergencies
- Applicable International Regulations and Safety Standards: IMCA, PADI TecRec, NOAA, and Local Regulations
- Design and Coordination of Multidisciplinary Work Teams: Roles, Responsibilities, and Effective Communication During Underwater Operations
- Advanced Operational Monitoring and Control Techniques: Real-Time Monitoring Systems, Dive Trackers, and Protocols for
- Report
- Logistics management for audiovisual productions in extreme environments: transport, assembly, maintenance, and protection of high-value technical equipment
- Underwater film production: shooting planning, underwater lighting techniques, sound recording, and specific art direction
- Optimizing time and resources in complex projects: digital tools for planning, monitoring, and performance evaluation
- Integrating safety and creativity: balancing the protection of personnel and equipment with obtaining high-quality images
- Contingency and crisis management: protocols for unforeseen technical, weather, or security issues during underwater productions
- Post-mission evaluation: results analysis, technical documentation, safety reports, and recommendations for future operations
- Case studies and advanced simulations: real-world project management with specific challenges in extreme underwater environments
- Fundamentals of Light in Underwater Environments: Behavior of the light spectrum at different depths, absorption and scattering according to water type and density
- Advanced Artificial Lighting: Positioning and power techniques for stroboscopic and continuous light sources to minimize artifacts and maximize contrast in murky and dark waters
- Optimizing White Balance and Color Temperature Using Underwater Filters and Post-Production Corrections Specific to Deep Scenes
- Underwater Visual Composition: Advanced framing and perspective rules to convey three-dimensionality and a sense of immersion in confined spaces and low-visibility environments
- Integrating Marine Subjects with Natural Backgrounds: Techniques to improve separation and highlight details without altering the environment or disturbing marine life
- Equipment Setup and Maintenance: Selection and handling of camera housings, lenses, adapters, and mounting systems High-end equipment under extreme pressure conditions
Protocols to avoid optical distortions and common aberrations in lenses under pressure and in saltwater, including the use of filter holders and real-time correction
Energy and thermal management of electronic equipment to ensure prolonged operation in deep dives and low-temperature environments
Advanced synchronization between lighting and photographic capture: triggering techniques and remote control of lights for high-speed underwater sequences
Safety and ergonomics when operating complex equipment in extreme conditions: practices to avoid overloading, prevent mechanical damage, and ensure the integrity of the photographer and their equipment during technical dives
Comparative analysis of different stabilization and autofocus systems for cinema and motion photography, optimized for underwater currents and turbulence
Post-capture workflow: advanced calibration of Color, noise reduction, and restoration of details affected by adverse lighting conditions.
Case studies and professional practices: Critical review of professional photography and filming projects in environments of high depth and limited visibility, including innovative solutions and resolution of complex technical problems.
- Design and development of the final project: integration of advanced concepts in underwater photography and cinematography applied to highly complex professional contexts
- Technical pre-production: selection of specialized equipment, analysis of underwater environmental conditions, dive planning, and independent logistics for filming in open and confined waters
- Advanced underwater lighting studies: handling of artificial light sources, white balance at different depths, and techniques to minimize chromatic aberrations in heterogeneous environments
- Professional techniques for capturing moving images: protocols for stabilization, frame rate appropriate to marine biomechanics, and underwater audio synchronization
- Advanced visual storytelling: construction of coherent and emotive storytelling by applying screenwriting principles specific to the underwater environment
- Post-production and specialized color grading: use of state-of-the-art software for color correction and reduction
- Noise reduction and detail enhancement in high-resolution images under underwater conditions
- Digital media integration: video editing in 4K and higher formats, creation of visual effects adapted to underwater content, and optimization for professional distribution platforms
- Development of professional presentations: preparation of pitches, technical dossiers, and multimedia portfolios aimed at clients, festivals, and scientific institutions
- Safety and professional ethics protocols for content creation in sensitive environments: protection of ecosystems, respect for marine fauna, and current international regulations
- Comprehensive project evaluation: critical feedback, self-evaluation, and oral presentation before a panel of experts in underwater photography and filmmaking
Career prospects
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- Professional Underwater Photographer: Production of underwater images and videos for media, advertising, and documentaries.
- Underwater Filmmaker: Direction and production of underwater films and documentaries.
- Underwater Photography and Filmmaking Instructor: Teaching and training new professionals at dive centers and specialized schools.
- Diving Guide with a Photographic/Cinematic Focus: Leading underwater expeditions for photographers and filmmakers, ensuring safety and maximizing capture opportunities.
- Underwater Documentarian: Creation of content for marine conservation and scientific outreach.
- Underwater Photography and Filmmaking Equipment Consultant: Technical advice on the selection and use of specialized equipment.
- Underwater Visual Researcher: Using photography and film for scientific research in the marine environment.
- Underwater Visual Content Manager: Organizing and marketing underwater image and video archives.
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Entry requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Bachelor’s degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering or a related qualification; or proven professional experience on the bridge/in operations.
Language proficiency:
Functional Maritime English (SMCP) recommended for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated CV, copy of qualification or seaman’s book, national ID/passport, motivation letter.
Technical requirements (for online):
Device with camera/microphone, stable internet connection, monitor ≥ 24” recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admissions process and dates
Online
application
(form + documents).
Academic review and interview
Admissions decision
Admissions decision
(+ scholarship offer if applicable).
Place reservation
(deposit) and enrolment.
Induction
(access to the virtual campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and financial support
- Master the Art: Learn advanced underwater photography and cinematography techniques, from lighting to composition.
- Professional Equipment: Become familiar with the use of state-of-the-art specialized cameras, housings, and lighting systems.
- Underwater Visual Storytelling: Develop skills to tell compelling stories through images and videos of the marine world.
- Professional Certification: Earn an internationally recognized qualification that will open doors in the audiovisual industry and marine conservation.
- Immersion in Nature: Participate in real-world expeditions and projects in unique marine environments, applying your knowledge in real-world situations internships.
Testimonials
This master’s program gave me the tools and confidence to turn my passion for the ocean into a career. I learned not only underwater photography and filmmaking techniques, but also the importance of marine conservation. Thanks to the training and internship, I landed my dream job as a videographer for an organization dedicated to marine life research and education.
I designed an innovative biomimetic propulsion system for recreational boats that reduced fuel consumption by 30% and emissions by 40%, which was awarded in the international maritime design competition, catapulting me to a leading position in a major shipyard.
This master’s program gave me the tools and confidence to turn my passion for the ocean into a career. I learned from expert instructors, honed my diving and cinematography skills, and now I work documenting the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems for an international conservation organization.
This master’s program gave me the tools and confidence to turn my passion for the ocean into a career. I’ve gone from being an enthusiastic amateur to a professional underwater filmmaker with commissions for documentaries and conservation projects. The combination of theory, intensive practice, and guidance from experts in the field has been fundamental to my success.
Frequently asked questions
The underwater environment.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
It provides a balanced education in underwater photography and cinematography.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Design and development of the final project: integration of advanced concepts in underwater photography and cinematography applied to highly complex professional contexts
- Technical pre-production: selection of specialized equipment, analysis of underwater environmental conditions, dive planning, and independent logistics for filming in open and confined waters
- Advanced underwater lighting studies: handling of artificial light sources, white balance at different depths, and techniques to minimize chromatic aberrations in heterogeneous environments
- Professional techniques for capturing moving images: protocols for stabilization, frame rate appropriate to marine biomechanics, and underwater audio synchronization
- Advanced visual storytelling: construction of coherent and emotive storytelling by applying screenwriting principles specific to the underwater environment
- Post-production and specialized color grading: use of state-of-the-art software for color correction and reduction
- Noise reduction and detail enhancement in high-resolution images under underwater conditions
- Digital media integration: video editing in 4K and higher formats, creation of visual effects adapted to underwater content, and optimization for professional distribution platforms
- Development of professional presentations: preparation of pitches, technical dossiers, and multimedia portfolios aimed at clients, festivals, and scientific institutions
- Safety and professional ethics protocols for content creation in sensitive environments: protection of ecosystems, respect for marine fauna, and current international regulations
- Comprehensive project evaluation: critical feedback, self-evaluation, and oral presentation before a panel of experts in underwater photography and filmmaking
Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24–48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.