How to Get the Best Out of Your GoPro Camera
GoPros are the most versatile and high-performance action cameras out there. They can capture awesome footage in almost any environment.
To get pro-looking videos and great photos, you need to know how to adjust the settings, use the right techniques, and make the most of the accessories. In this article, we’ll cover how to get the best out of your GoPro cameras. Go to Get On The Water to browse GoPros.
1. GoPro Camera Settings
First things first, when learning how to use your GoPro, it’s essential to get to know your camera settings. Here are a few things to consider:
- Resolution and Frame Rate: Higher resolutions, like 4K, give great detail but use more storage. Choose the right frame rate for the type of video you’re shooting. For slow motion, use a higher frame rate (e.g. 60fps or 120fps).
- Field of View (FOV): Adjusting the field of view can make a big difference in your shots. For wide-angle shots, SuperView is good; for a more natural perspective without distortion, use Linear.
- White Balance: Adjusting the white balance setting can make a big difference, especially in low light. Setting it to “Auto” is good for most situations, but for specific environments, you may want to manually set it to match the lighting for good photos and videos.
2. GoPro Tips for Awesome Footage
Here are some GoPro tips:
- Experiment with Camera Angles: Changing your camera angles is the easiest way to make your footage more interesting. You can also mount your GoPro on your chest or helmet for immersive action shots, especially for extreme sports or fast action.
- Use Burst Mode: This allows you to take multiple frames per second, increasing your chances of getting the best shot, especially for high-speed action.
- Use Night Mode and Night Lapse: For night lapse or night mode footage, the camera can automatically adjust the shutter speed to capture more light and detail, even in the dark.
- Time Lapse and Night Lapse Mode: GoPros are great for time lapse or night lapse shots. You often need to set the shutter speed to a longer exposure to capture detail in low light.
To get the most out of your GoPro, you need to master the features for different types of shots. GoPros are super versatile, so they’re perfect for action camera enthusiasts and GoPro photography enthusiasts. One of the best features is time lapse video; you can capture amazing footage of landscapes or fast-moving scenes, compressing hours of action into seconds. Whether you’re in photo mode snapping quick shots or recording in slow motion, learning how to adjust your settings for each situation will make a big difference in getting great footage. By trying different settings and techniques, you can get the most out of your GoPro, and every shot will be a winner.
3. Master Manual Settings for the Best Shots
While GoPro Hero models have auto settings, manually adjusting the camera settings for shutter speed, ISO, and white balance gives you total control over the image and video quality.
- Shutter Speed: If you’re shooting slow motion or capturing moving objects in detail, adjust the shutter speed to match the action for the best shot.
- ISO: A higher ISO is good for low light, but it can produce grainy images. For daytime or well-lit environments, a lower ISO is usually best.
- Video Format: GoPros shoot MP4 format, which is the most used for video editing and is compatible with most software.
4. Hold Your GoPro
While the settings are important, your technique and how you hold the camera are just as important for awesome footage.
- Stabilisation: GoPro’s built-in stabilisation is good for handheld shots or action shots. But when shooting on uneven terrain or with very fast movement, consider using a tripod or a stabilising gimbal to further smooth out your footage.
- Slow Motion: Whether you’re capturing adrenaline junkie stunts or sports, slow motion is great for slowing down fast-moving subjects to highlight the action.
- Voice Control: If you’re busy framing your shots, the voice control feature is a great tool for hands-free operation. This allows you to switch modes, start and stop recording, and adjust settings without taking your hands off the camera.
5. Battery Life
To not miss a moment:
- Carry Extra Batteries: Having a spare battery or two is a lifesaver when you’re shooting for hours.
- Use Power Saving Settings: When you’re not recording, turn your GoPro off or put it in standby mode to save battery. Some newer models have auto shut-down after inactivity.
6. Editing Your GoPro Footage
GoPros are designed to work with editing software so you can make the most of your GoPro footage.
- Post Production: The editing software allows you to adjust colour settings, sharpen images, and enhance video quality. After shooting, go through your GoPro videos and remove any unwanted sections to make the final video more professional.
- Editing Software: Use GoPro’s Quik app or other editing tools like Adobe Premiere to edit your shots, adjust frame rates, and add effects to make your footage pop.
7. GoPro Tips
Here are some GoPro tips:
- Burst Mode: Use burst mode to shoot a series of photos in quick succession to get the perfect shot.
- Proper Mounting: Try using a selfie stick, mount, or camera bag for convenience. A mount can also help you get more stable shots while moving.
- RAW Photos: Shoot in RAW photos for more flexibility and better quality in post-production.
Conclusion
Learning how to use your GoPro settings, understanding time lapse mode, burst mode, and night mode, and using the right accessories like a selfie stick or camera bag will take your GoPro footage to the next level.
With the right camera angles, the perfect shot, and some GoPro tricks, you can start capturing stunning footage. So, grab your GoPro, set your shutter speed, adjust your ISO, and start capturing your adventures today
