What do u have to do to become a cameraman?

How to become a media diver, or underwater cameraman?

• I have posted this in a few different categories as there are not any that pertain exactly to what I am asking. It comes from my desire to be a marine biologist. To put it simply, I didn't focus enough in school to get to where I wanted to be, I didn't care about my future as a teenager, So to become a marine biologist now, is unlikely. I'm currently working as a carpenter for my father's business, and desire to find a career i'd enjoy. I am aware that becoming certified in SCUBA, as well as learning to use a rebreather, is a must. What I don't know, is what classes are necessary to start filming under water? I'd be interested it both video, and photography work, with any marine life from coral reefs to mammals, and fish, from tropical colorful fish to sharks. I am a fairly strong swimmer, and have some snorkel experience, as well as boat operation. So I am curious on how to obtain the proper credentials to be an underwater cameraman, as well as how to break into the field (who hires them, how to get involved) I don't expect to get rich off this, it's more of a desire to do something I would love to do, versus spending my life chasing money. Money is important regardless, but before I get too old and get stuck doing something I don't enjoy solely for the money, I'd like to get on a path of an enjoyable career while I'm still young. I am 22, didn't do all that well in school, not because I'm not smart, but because I didn't apply myself, I didn't care. So my record won't get me into any fantastic colleges, but I am willing to climb the ladder to achieve my goal. At this point i'd be happy to apprentice on a boat cutting up bait, or doing deck hand work, but not just anyone can pick up a camera and know what they are doing, so I'm sure schooling is required. But as far as I know, most photography courses at community colleges near me don't offer anything on photography under water. Anyone with any ideas, or hopefully, any experience in the field I am interested in? How does someone like me get involved? Thank you for your help.

• Answer:

  You need to understand something first. Marine film makers are film makers first..divers second ( safety being the exception). Diving is just a means of commuting to work. Many of those who's work you watch, took film making courses at their local colleges and THEN made underwater filming and still photography their focus. Some took a different route and are simply self taught. Straight up? Take a dive agency's photography course after you get your open water certification. PADI offers one. Who knows..you may not even like diving. Some people think they will but when they do their first kneel in the shallow end and submerge their head..they absolutely lose it. Get yourself certified first if marine filing is your passion. Then the agency course to see if you like filming underwater and to give you the basics. You may be able to self teach yourself or you might then want to go to film school. That should be the order of your progression.