SubC Imaging has introduced two purpose-built underwater survey packages, the Drop Camera System and the Tow Camera System, designed to streamline marine research and offshore data collection from initial mobilization through final reporting.
Developed to eliminate the time-consuming process of integrating and troubleshooting separate components, the end-to-end systems unite imaging, lighting, recording, mounting, and data management into pre-tested, ready-to-deploy solutions. Each setup utilizes Rayfin cameras to record 4K video and high-resolution stills while embedding metadata—including altitude, depth, GPS coordinates, and timestamps—directly into image files to streamline data alignment. System control is unified through the company’s DVR+ software, which manages cameras, lights, and lasers alongside automated logging and live event tagging.
The two configurations cater to distinct marine survey requirements. The compact Drop Camera System offers no-contact imaging ideal for delicate environments such as marine protected areas and coral reefs, while its portable design allows deployment from smaller vessels or ships of opportunity. Conversely, the Tow Camera System provides a stable, bottom-following platform tailored for repeatable transects, environmental monitoring, and change detection over long-term research programs.
By integrating hardware with post-dive ReviewStudio software for event editing, data validation, and structured log exports, the workflow cuts post-survey processing time by 50 percent or more.
“There’s a lot that goes into getting a survey system ready to go. You have to make sure all the components work together, test everything, and troubleshoot before you even get in the water. We’ve taken care of that upfront! These systems are built and tested as complete solutions, so customers can spend less time worrying about the equipment and more time focused on the survey itself,” said Chad Collett, CEO of SubC Imaging.
Field-tested in environments ranging from Newfoundland’s coastal waters to the Southern Ocean, the imaging systems target applications across marine research, offshore surveys, and environmental monitoring. For operators with established infrastructure, individual SubC cameras, lighting, lasers, and software can also be integrated into existing equipment platforms without requiring full hardware replacement.
