Reddit mentions of XShot 2.0 Camera Extender for Most Cameras XS2379-F

They could have had something like this, in which case the cameraman was nowhere near the line of fire.

I have this one that I use with a gopro. It's actually great.

I was in your situation a few weeks ago and would listen to what others have already posted.

I would strongly recommend picking up a retractable pole. It helps for a number of reasons, e.g. getting close to reefs/fishes without running into them, taking self/group shots, etc. I found this one from Amazon to be quite affordable and useful.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VA4CK8/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You'll also need a GoPro tripod mount.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002RCLYXG/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Also, depending on the depth, a red filter may improve the colors coming off the GoPro. Something like this one.

http://snakeriverprototyping.com/shopblurfix3so.html

The head strap ontop of goggles isn't a fun choice while snorkeling. It doesn't come down far enough with the goggles in the way to really stay on tight. It also feels uncomfortable have all that pressure on your head. When I went we used our XShot 2.0 pole and it turned out great. Just wash the pole and case with fresh water and dry after snorkeling. There are better options but for your first time out I'd say start small and buy more if you think you need it the second time out.

You wont need a red filter but you'll see improvements however I cant think of any manufacturers who have on for the Hero3+ case.

You could also get the Bobber mount so it'll never sink.

Also this is there SD cards I use

Batteries
, Suction Cup,Polemount(you'll need the tripod mount for this one too)


Those are my essentials. if you dont want mounts then just get the batteries. if you're going to use the Wi-fi it really drains the batteries and the wall charger is convient

When I was using a GoPro (prior to getting a camera+housing) I used a monopod called X-Shot 2. I liked that it wasn't too expensive and how short it is when folded. It is probably somewhat shorter than some other monopods and (therefore) less sturdy, but once you're underwater it's fine.

The only problem is that since it's not solely designed for GoPro, so you need the GoPro tripod mount and you need to take care when screwing that on to the monopod so it is secure. As an extra precaution I also a string from the camera to the monopod.

As for durability, I used it for some tens of dives and it's still as good as when I bought it, just made sure to rinse it afterwards and sometimes put a little WD-40 on it.

Pretty sure it's this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VA4CK8

Just bought one for my trip to Hawaii and it was awesome. It's not gopro specific so I used it with my point and shoot also. You'll the gopro tripod mount but I recommend it highly.

I use the x-shot 2.0 it's really been great. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000VA4CK8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1383069154&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

GoPro: The rest of you might laugh but I actually get some decent shots from mine. My setup is the GoPro-On-A-Stick with GoPro Remote. I don't see my shots beforehand and don't mind either way as that would just be another system/battery to monitor; I'd rather keep it light-weight and I get good shots as it is.

Not-GoPro: Fujifilm X-T1 with 12mm, 23mm, and 18-135mm lenses.

Stuffing it all (and supporting gear) into a Lowepro Flipside 400.

http://www.amazon.com/XShot-Camera-Extender-Cameras-XS2379-F/dp/B000VA4CK8