I'm planning a very low-budget short film and one scene may need underwater footage in a swimming pool. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is rated IP68 and advertised as surviving up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes under controlled conditions. Is it realistic to rely on that rating for 10–15 minutes of filming, or should I use additional protection?
3 Answers
Use a proper waterproof phone housing or underwater case instead of relying on the built-in rating. If possible, borrowing or renting an action camera would be a safer filming option, since those are designed for underwater use.
The water resistance can be compromised if the phone has ever been opened for a battery, camera, or other repair. Even without repairs, seals and adhesives can wear down, and dust or grit may affect them over time.
That makes sense. I was hoping the rating would be enough, but I’d rather not risk losing the phone over one shot.
The phone might survive it if its seals are still perfect, but the rating is based on controlled laboratory testing with a new device. Apple does not guarantee liquid-damage repairs, so filming underwater with the bare phone is a pretty expensive gamble.
I may look into a waterproof case or rental, since my usual action-camera option is no longer available.