We would like to film and record fish behavior in relatively small (5m*5m*5m) net pens at day time through variable ocean conditions, likely with multiple synchronized cameras. Any experience of a well-functioning and affordable camera system would be appreciated.
GoPro is great, small, handy, easy to hide and easy to program, with image stabilizer and more. One camera goes 40m below
Can I ask why you want to use multiple synchronised cameras? What you need to measure would make a difference to my answer I think. If it is so you can calibrate them, so you can make measurements of lengths, distances between fish, depth of view etc etc then you could use a program like Event Measure and paired stereo cameras. Previously you couldn't use cheap POV cams like Gopro for this because of distortion around the edges of the picture and issues with the rolling shutter on older models. However, those issues have been overcome relatively recently making the cheaper cameras an option. Still, at least two gopros and the program would cost ~$4000 AU so depends also on what affordable is.
In this study, we're looking at effects of noise on the spawning behavior of cod. Ideally we'd like to be able to film as much of the net pen as possible (to be sure to cover a large part of the studied behavior).
GoPro is probably our main option but a land/computer-based storage and energy supply system would reduce the need to physically disturb the fish (and make our lives easier too).
Perhaps a drop camera would work? In some of my work I deploy a heap of baited underwater video systems (BRUVS) and I use a drop cam with a cable to surface to attach to the BRUVS frame (with Velcro) and check that each camera rig is sitting correctly once it hits the seafloor (then pull the drop cam free to detached it so I can use it on the next BRUV). The one I use the field of view would be too narrow for your requirements I think. However, I know that spotx have developed a similar system that allows you to use gopros in a housing with power supply and link to surface e.g. https://www.spotx.com.au/professional-tow-cameras-rovs/pro-squid-pro and that might be a good option. Sounds like a super interesting study!
I think GoPro if portability is important. You don't really need the newer models that come with screen (use more juice) so buying a bunch of GoPro Hero 3 or 4 Black edition for example would be cheaper. If sound needs to be in sync from the different cameras you can use software like Plural Eye.
Battery life is always going to limit you so the extra battery pack will nearly double your shooting time though all adds up!
You could also have a "second unit" with an underwater 360 camera:
http://www.threesixtycameras.com/waterproof-360-cameras/
I am not familiar with Event measure so I can't really comment on it.
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