SSI Photo and Video Specialty in Koh Tao
This specialty is about getting comfortable shooting underwater, understanding light and movement, and coming home with photos or video you’re actually happy with. Calm, practical, and focused on real diving conditions around Koh Tao.
WHY TAKE THE SSI PHOTO AND VIDEO SPECIALTY WITH ECHO DIVERS?
Learn while you dive
This course fits naturally into normal fun dives. No studio setups, no artificial exercises — just real shooting, in real conditions.
Practical camera skills
We focus on settings, positioning, buoyancy awareness, and timing — the things that actually improve your results underwater.
Calm, unrushed teaching
We keep it relaxed so you can concentrate on both diving and shooting, without feeling overloaded.
Works with photo or video
Whether you’re shooting stills, video, or a bit of both, the course adapts to what you’re using.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN OUR SSI PHOTO AND VIDEO SPECIALTY
Two open water training dives
You’ll complete guided dives focused on shooting techniques while maintaining good buoyancy and awareness.
SSI digital learning
Clear, simple theory covering basic photo and video principles, camera setup, and underwater challenges.
Instructor guidance underwater
Your instructor works with you during the dives, helping you adjust positioning, angles, and timing.
Dive planning for shooting
We plan dives with photography and video in mind — light, depth, movement, and conditions.
Tanks and weights included
Standard dive tanks and weights are covered for the course.
International SSI certification
Earn your SSI Photo and Video Specialty certification, valid worldwide.
HOW THE SSI PHOTO AND VIDEO SPECIALTY WORKS
The SSI Photo and Video Specialty is usually completed over one day, built around normal fun dives with added guidance for shooting underwater.
During the course, you will:
– Go through the key photo and video basics before diving
– Set up your camera in a way that suits the conditions
– Practise shooting while maintaining buoyancy and awareness
– Review what worked and what could be improved after each dive
The focus is on improving results without distracting from the dive itself.
WHO CAN JOIN THE SSI PHOTO AND VIDEO SPECIALTY
These are the minimum requirements to join the course
Certification
You’ll need an SSI Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.
Experience
You should feel comfortable with basic buoyancy so you can focus on shooting without losing control.
Age
The minimum age to join the course is 10 years old.
Medical
A standard diving medical questionnaire is completed before the course.
If anything is flagged, a doctor’s clearance may be required.
What You May Capture During Your Dives
Every dive is different, and so is what you’ll capture. The focus isn’t on chasing perfect shots, but on learning how to notice moments, work with light, and position yourself comfortably in the water.
From divers in motion to small details on the reef, this specialty helps you come away with images and clips that feel natural and personal —
not staged.
BOOK YOUR SSI PHOTO AND VIDEO SPECIALTY
If you’d like to improve your underwater photos or videos while still enjoying your dives, this specialty fits in naturally with your time on Koh Tao.
Book the course below, or combine it with fun dives so you can practise shooting in real conditions with guidance along the way.
SSI PHOTO AND VIDEO SPECIALTY IN KOH TAO –
CAPTURE YOUR DIVES WITH CONFIDENCE
฿5,000
Want Epic Memories? Add a Photo or Video Package!
If you’d like photos or a video of your SSI Photo and Video Specialty, our media team can take care of it anytime.
If your group wants to book together, we’ll also apply an on-site discount for everyone.
Popular next steps
These are a few directions divers often go from here.
DEEP DIVER course
PERFECT BUOYANCY course
NITROX DIVER course
WRECK DIVER course
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own camera for this course?
Ideally, yes — the course focuses on helping you get more from the camera you already have. If you don’t have one, don’t worry, we’ve got you.
Is this course suitable for beginners?
Yes. The course starts with the basics and builds up naturally during the dives.
Can I do photo and video in the same course?
Yes. The course can be adapted depending on what you’re shooting.
Can I combine this with other courses?
Yes. Many divers combine this specialty with fun dives or buoyancy training.
Can I fly after my last dive?
The general rule for flying after diving is to wait 12 hours after one dive, and 18 hours after two or more dives. If you went over your no decompression limits, or missed a safety stop on the dive, it is advised to wait 24 hours.
Will this distract from my diving?
No. A big part of the training is learning how to shoot while staying relaxed and aware underwater.
Didn’t find the answer you were looking for?
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Send us a quick message and our team will get back to you as soon as possible — whether it’s about your course, booking dates, accommodation, or anything else.