It’s not uncommon for GoPro videos to come out as a shaky, wobbly mess. GoPro cameras are designed for capturing high-intensity moments, but sometimes this results in some pretty unsavory footage. Thankfully, there are simple ways to stabilize your videos.
To get more stable videos on GoPro, turn on the built-in stabilization feature. You can also use third-party editing programs to fix shakiness in post-production. The best option, however, might be to use an external stabilizer while filming, such as a gimbal, mount, or tripod.
Let’s take a look at why your GoPro videos are so shaky and the various ways you can solve the issue. Soon enough, you’ll be filming crisp, stable videos that you can be proud of.
Why Your GoPro Videos Are Shaky
Shaky videos are a common occurrence, especially when using a GoPro camera. Most people using a GoPro device are shooting high-intensity moments or shots with moving components such as surfing, mountain biking, or snowboarding.
Earlier GoPro models are more likely to have jerky shots because their stabilization ability isn’t as fine-tuned. Newer GoPro cameras that film in 4k are also more likely to shake because the built-in video stabilization is almost useless at higher frame rates.
Not to mention, digital stabilization on GoPro cameras is incredibly shutter-speed demanding. Videos with high speeds can utilize the HyperSmooth mode for increased stability. However, videos filmed in dim conditions or slow-motion videos are likely to appear jerky.
Unstable and shaky videos often look unprofessional, unrefined, and challenging to watch. Some viewers might even become motion-sick from watching. Thankfully, there are ways you can stabilize your GoPro videos.
How to Stabilize GoPro Videos
You can enhance your video quality and reduce wobbly shots through the use of built-in stabilization settings, editing software, and external equipment. Here are some tips for stabilizing your GoPro videos:
Built-In Stabilization Settings
Over the years, GoPro has improved its video stabilization features. Newer models since the HERO7 Black include HyperSmooth and TimeWrap features.
The newest model, the GoPro HERO10 Black (on Amazon), upgrades these features to HyperSmooth 4.0 with added horizon leveling.
Although GoPro’s built-in stabilization isn’t as useful as external equipment, it’s better than nothing. Keep in mind that some of these features can’t be adjusted, and they aren’t fully available for 4K videos shot in higher frame rates.
GoPro Studio (and Other Programs)
Unfortunately, GoPro Studio doesn’t have built-in stabilization features, meaning you’ll need to use third-party programs to resolve wobbly and jerky shots during post-production.
Thankfully, you have multiple options to choose from, regardless of your budget. Most of the steps will be similar depending on your video editing software, and here are a few tips to get you started.
YouTube
You can use the YouTube video editor if you’re looking for a quick and free fix for shaky footage. The YouTube video editor is great for short clips but isn’t suited for longer videos. You can even use GoPro Studio to import and export your shots beforehand.
- Simply import and export your clip using GoPro Studio or save it to your computer. Now, upload the clip to YouTube and set it to ‘Unpublished‘ or ‘Private.’
- Select YouTube’s ‘Enhancements‘ feature, which looks like a magic wand. There are several options available, but you’ll want to select the ‘Stabilize‘ button.
- Now the YouTube editor will stabilize your clip and show you the before and after. Select ‘Save New Video‘ to finish.
You can download the stabilized clip onto your computer and continue editing it in the GoPro Studio, or you can simply publish the video directly to YouTube.
Either way, this is a quick hack for stabilizing GoPro clips while using GoPro Studio.
Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is an editing program designed for professional use. Premiere Pro has a feature known as Warp Stabilizer for video stabilization.
Keep in mind that this editing software has a steeper learning curve than most. That being said, here are the basic steps for stabilizing GoPro videos in Adobe Premiere Pro.
- First, import your GoPro video into Adobe Premiere Pro. Add the clip to your project panel, create a new sequence, and place the jerky footage in the timeline.
- Now, go to the Effects panel, select ‘Video Effects,’ and scroll down until you find ‘Distort.’ Select ‘Warp Stabilizer’ and drag it to your GoPro clip.
- The editing program will analyze your video and stabilize it accordingly. You can adjust and fine-tune the settings to your liking. For more information, visit the official Adobe site.
Stabilizing Equipment
The best way to reduce shakiness while filming is to use external stabilizing gear. Stabilizing equipment can include mounts, tripods, gimbals, and more.
If you’re serious about getting the best shot, you’ll want to use a gimbal, like the GoPro Volta (on Amazon). Gimbals are devices designed for capturing stable, smooth shots while your camera is moving. These devices allow for rotation around an axis without sacrificing quality. However, they can be on the pricey side.
GoPro Camera Mounts allow you to attach your device to skateboards, surfboards, handlebars, and more. These mounts can offer more stable videos and versatility without risking your precious camera.
Some mounts, like GoPro Jaws (on Amazon), offer full 360-degree angles, different positions, and more accessibility. However, you’ll need to purchase a camera mount that’s compatible with your GoPro model and situation.
Tripods like the GoPro Max Grip + Tripod (on Amazon) are incredibly useful for stationary shots and finding different angles. For example, you might set up your tripod to capture stationary skateboarding shots.
What’s the Best Way to Stabilize GoPro Videos?
There are several different ways you can stabilize GoPro videos. So, which option is the best? The answer will depend on your needs, budget, and circumstance.
GoPro’s built-in video stabilizer can be useful when you’re in a pinch, but it has limited applications. Third-party software and editing programs can help you stabilize shaky footage during post-production.
However, the best option might be external stabilizing equipment. You can use gimbals, mounts, tripods, or even DIY stabilizing rigs while you film to avoid jerk footage in the first place.
However, these options can be pricey and must be compatible with your model and needs. Whichever option you choose, these tips are sure to enhance your GoPro video quality.