Abstract: The invention enables multiple autonomously functioning cameras to capture highly synchronized images suitable for processing by SfM software for creating 3-D maps of waves and other features of dynamically moving ocean surfaces. The autonomously functioning cameras need not be in communication with each other through a network, thus reducing dependency on network components. The invention utilizes a microprocessor operatively coupled to the operating system of a camera to synchronize the shutter release component of cameras to an external signal. Large numbers of cameras can be synchronized to an external signal, such as a 1 PPS GPS signal, and can be calibrated in real time to reduce synchronization error to less than 1/1000 per second.