This Masterclass presents a rare opportunity for New Zealand technicians of all levels to explore the integration of the HydroFlex underwater housing with the Hydro Head remote system. Through a hands on demonstration and practical discussion, with 1st AC Niki Winer, participants will gain insight into both the technical build of the system and the optical principles that shape underwater cinematography.
Part One: The Build
The first section will focus on building and understanding the system. Niki will walk through the specifics of the HydroFlex housing, including the adaptability of the package and the range of cameras and lenses it can support. We will also cover practical tips and techniques for working underwater that are relevant to all types of housings, as well as best practices for safely operating high-value camera equipment around water.
During this portion, Jesse Currie will assemble the Hydro Head, allowing us to discuss the unique way these two systems interface and operate together. Niki will also introduce an exciting workflow we implemented for the first time recently, running camera control through the latest ARRI equipment.
Part Two: The Science of Underwater Optics
In the second half of the session, we will place the rig in water to demonstrate both the submersible capabilities of the system and the optical principles that affect underwater cinematography.
Using live demonstrations, we will explore the fundamentals of reflection, refraction, and magnification. The discussion will cover when to use a flat port versus a dome port, how to select lens focal lengths to minimise distortion, the mathematics behind pulling focus with a flat port, and how to understand the virtual image created when focusing through a dome port.
This practical demonstration will help technicians better understand not just how to operate underwater housings, but the optical principles that shape the images they produce.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will:
- Gain a practical understanding of how to build a HydroFlex and Hydro Head system.
- Understand safe working practices when operating camera equipment in and around water.
- Learn how underwater optics affect image formation, including the roles of selection, refraction, and magnification.
- Be able to identify when to use flat ports versus dome ports and how lens choice affects distortion and field of view.
- Develop a clearer understanding of focus mechanics underwater, including pulling focus through flat ports and the concept of the virtual image when working through dome ports.
Limited to 15 Participants, so will be on a first-come, first-served basis. All participants will be required to sign an NDA with security at the gate.
Thanks to sponsors Umami: Shot Productions Ltd
Please register at the link below:
