2/5/2025 | 11:00 AM - 12:20 PM | Grand Peninsula C

GoProUP – A tool to optimise GoPro cameras for underwater photogrammetry

Author(s)

Andrew Woods | Curtin University HIVE
David Newman | GoPro
Daniel Adams | Curtin University HIVE

Abstract

GoPro cameras are widely used for maritime archaeology survey purposes conducted by divers and ROVs. We have developed a set of techniques to optimise the image capture properties of recent GoPro cameras for photogrammetry purposes. The technique makes extensive use of GoPro Labs, a custom firmware for recent GoPro cameras, which allows the GoPro cameras to be configured and programmed using a series of QR codes. GoPro cameras are primarily marketed as action cameras and hence their operation is optimised for action scenes. In action scenes with fast motion it is common to prioritise high shutter speeds. Unfortunately, to achieve high shutter speeds it is often necessary to use high ISO settings, which in turn incurs more image noise which compromises photogrammetry processing quality. For underwater archaeology surveys we load a custom exposure profile onto the camera which prioritises a shutter speed of 1/50 second and an ISO of 100 if light levels allow it. This technique has already been used on several diver and ROV surveys. Once this technique is validated on more surveys, the instructions for this process will be made available more widely. Results to date indicate technique allows the generation of higher quality digital 3D models of underwater sites.