UNDERWATER MEDIA AND OUTREACH SPECIALIST
This program introduces the skills and challenges of professional underwater research diving, combining advanced dive techniques with visual storytelling for science and conservation. Participants gain hands-on experience in dive planning, risk management, and producing impactful photo and video content in real-world field conditions at Tvärminne.
THE INSTRUCTORS
Dr. Joseph Henry
Filmaker and Scientist
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Dr. Henry has over 25 years of diving experience, more than 20 years in creative marketing and design, and holds a PhD in coral reef ecology. A marine scientist and professional underwater filmmaker, he specializes in translating scientific research into powerful visual stories using film, photography, and immersive media to connect people with the ocean.
With a rare blend of academic expertise, scientific diving, underwater videography, and storytelling, he’s uniquely qualified to train the next generation of underwater communicators.
Dr. Erik Wurz
Photographer, Technical diver, and Scientist
PLAN
PREPARE
PRODUCE
PROGRAM OUTLINE
This program is designed to introduce the challenges and skills required to carry out professional underwater research diving while focusing on capturing compelling visual content to communicate science and conservation. Participants will gain expertise in advanced dive techniques, dive planning, team coordination, and risk management for task-loaded operations in challenging environments.
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Days during the program will combine theoretical components—covering camera and lighting systems from action cameras to mirrorless full-frame and 360° setups, composing and shooting underwater, planning and executing media campaigns, editing and producing engaging content to reach broad audiences — with hands-on practical experience under the guidance of our expert instructor team.
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The program will be based at Tvärminne Zoological Station in Southern Finland, with diving carried out boat-based in the archipelago off the station, providing participants the opportunity to apply skills in real-world conditions while learning to transform their research into impactful multimedia storytelling.
COURSE
PREREQUISITES
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Minimum 18 years old
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Advanced Open Water / CMAS 2* or equivalent
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50 Logged Dives
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Drysuit Experience
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Owning your own drysuit
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Capacity to maintain position underwater without moving fins/hand
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Good foundations of trim and buoyancy
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Maintaining precise buoyancy control
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One of the following:
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Scientific Dive qualification
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Bachelor or Master degree (or enrolled) in a relevant field
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Involvement in a scientific organization or institute
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Involvement in a conservation/restoration organization
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DATES
The program is delivered as a single, intensive block.
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Arrival at Tvärminne: 8 August 2026
18:00 Breaker and course opening
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Course dates: 9–15 August 2026
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Departure from Tvärminne: morning of 16 August 2026
PRICE AND
PACKAGE
The cost for the program (€2000) covers all training, diving activities, boat, single/twin cylinders and specialist camera/scientific equipment used on program. Includes human factor online learning.
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Accommodation and food will be organised in a package on site.
Full package includes:
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Twin shared accommodation
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08.08 Dinner
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09.08 – 15.08 Breakfast, lunch and dinner
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16.08 Breakfast
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Other meals can be booked around this according to travel plans. Price for participants of the program are based on the station pricing for collaborating researchers (UH Collaborations). This will be paid directly to the Tvärminne Zoological Station at end of program by credit/debit card.
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Students from University of Helsinki and other universities have special pricing options for this package.
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If you pay via a company/institute with a registered tax number a VAT free invoice might be issued. Please check with the HY+ service that issues the invoices after registration.
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REGISTER NOW
Registration following the link will register your interest for the program. After revision of the suitability to join the program you will receive a link for a deposit. After the deposit is made your spot and participation in the program is secured.
Application form to register
your interest
Download info sheet
(PDF)
COURSE PARTNERS
Thanks to the generosity of our course partners, all graduating members of the course will be able to purchase equipment from the following companies with a UMOS Discount.
OCEAN TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS
Dive Rite