Transect layers then return to the boat / shore to collect and lay out subsequent transect, whilst the videography team are led to the start of the first transect. Keen snorkellers and dry crew can provide invaluable assistance with equipment handling, data transference and record keeping - including ambient conditions etc.

The benthic monitoring / videography team descend. Switching the camera to record, the team identifies the site at the start of the tape by filming a dive slate marked with the date, location etc. The benthic monitor then films a 360° panorama of the site before starting the transect.

The benthic monitor swims slowly and evenly along the tape, maintaining the position of the camera lens parallel to and 30 cm above (using a plumb line for guidance) the bottom. The tape should be located to the right of the lens and just out of view as it can cause glare. When approaching a bombie, the videographer should slowly pan up the obstacle before swimming over - ideally maintaining the 30 cm focal length throughout. Ideally, each 20m transect. should take ~ 2-3 minutes to film. Film rate is 6-8 seconds per metre.

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