Train to become a BSAC Professional HD Underwater Videographer on Koh Tao, Thailand

Oceans Below Underwater Video Training Center recently had the pleasure of taking Eliza from Poland through her BSAC Professional Underwater Video training, 2 Documentary Internships and our Student Video Internship. Here she gives her thoughts on the training…



“After successfully completing my Instructor Course on Koh Tao with Buddha View, I was looking for a new challenge. I decided to enroll in Oceans Below’s BSAC Professional Underwater Videography course and Documentary Internship. I had absolutely no idea of just how much I would learn; how many new skills I would gain- both underwater and at the computer; and how much fun I would have! I am thankful every day that I made this decision. I have met some truly inspirational people whose knowledge and passion for filming the underwater world is extensive.


Newly certified Professional Underwater Videographer, Eliza

Every time I entered the water, camera in hand and instructor by my side, I felt the excitement of seeing the underwater world with fresh eyes. The editing was a challenge as I had very little knowledge of computers and no experience with Adobe Premiere Pro CS5. My instructor, Autumn, was helpful, knowledgeable and very patient. With her help I was able to write, film and edit my very own short documentary. She gave valuable feedback, making things that seemed like a mystery, clear and easy to understand.


Pro Video Trainer, Autumn, with Eliza (right)

My time on Koh Tao has come to an end, and as I reflect on the last few months here, I am truly thankful for the knowledge I have gained, the passionate and enthusiastic people I have met, and the amazing time I have had both in and out of the water. I am unsure of what new adventures lie ahead of me but there are two things I am now certain of-  I will NEVER again dive without a camera, and I will be back to Koh Tao to see my Oceans Below family again in the future!!!

Many thanks to Oceans Below, especially to Autumn for her much tested patience!!”

Barracuda Rock, at the south end of Chumphon Pinnacle, has always held a special place in the hearts of everyone at Oceans Below, and I'm no exception. On entering the water and descending, I inevitably find myself heading south with a feeling of anticipation. Every time I cross the sand and see the huge pinnacle appearing out of the blue, I am amazed at the hive of activity and inspired by the thought of the numerous great shots that can be captured there. The vast amount of fish species has always made it a phenomenal place to take our BSAC Professional Underwater Videography trainees.

Whaleshark filmed by Eliza- Pro Underwater Video Trainee

A few days ago was no different. Whilst out on the Buddha View boat with Eliza, our latest budding Professional Underwater Videographer at Oceans Below, we were excited by the news of a whaleshark sighting. We entered the water only to find out from other divers  that the majestic giant had disappeared into the blue. I decided we should head south in order for Eliza to get some good shots and resigned myself to the fact we had missed out. Upon arriving at Barracuda Rock we found it almost deserted of divers and Eliza settled in. She got some great footage of a group of Pickhandle Barracuda that was, unusually, hunting by day. A few moments later I happened to look up. Soaring towards us over the pinnacle was the elusive whaleshark! We spent 20 minutes cruising alongside the beautiful beast as it glided effortlessly around the pinnacle before it eventually went on its way.

On the second dive we headed back to Barracuda Rock and came across a huge Malabar grouper hanging motionlessly in the current. It seemed unperturbed by our approach and let us get some stunning close-ups. The backdrop of barracuda cruising past the 1.5 meter fish gave the shots a dramatic effect. Eliza was ecstatic at capturing these majestic beasts on film and a good day was had by instructor and student alike.

Malabar Grouper at Chumpon Pinnacle

Oceans Below is sad to see a valued member of staff leave us. We say goodbye to our youngest recruit of just eighteen! Ben began his BSAC Underwater Videography course and Student Filming Internship with us some months back. His talent and passion for filming the underwater world was evident from day one. Upon finishing the internship, he was immediately offered a full time position at Oceans below. He has excelled in all areas and been a pleasure to have on the team. Ben will be attending university in New Zealand. We all thank him for his fantastic work and wish him luck in the future!