GoPros are one of the most popular action cameras on the market and for a good reason. They’re tough, small, and easy to use, making them perfect for capturing all your adventures. They can be mounted to just about anything, whether you’re hitting the slopes or taking a dip in the ocean. GoPros are easy to use, but there are still a few things you should know to take advantage of all the features.
To turn on your GoPro, press the power button once. The camera will power on and begin recording. To browse the modes, press the Mode button repeatedly until you reach the desired setting. Pressing the Shutter button in Photo mode takes a still image and start/stops recording for Video mode.
The GoPro also has a variety of mounts and accessories that can be used to capture different types of footage. The chest mount is the most popular and perfect for action sports like skiing or mountain biking. There are also helmet mounts, handlebar mounts, and suction cup mounts. Many third-party accessories are also available if you’re looking for even more creative options. Let’s look at how to get the most out of your GoPro.
The Difference Between GoPros And Other Cameras
Most cameras are designed for still images, but the GoPro is different. It’s designed specifically for action shots. That means it can be mounted to just about anything, whether you’re skiing down a mountain or taking a dip in the ocean.
The GoPro is also much smaller and tougher than most cameras. In addition, it’s designed to be used without a case, making it more versatile. First, let’s look at how GoPros compare to other cameras.
GoPro vs. iPhone
The GoPro is designed for a specific purpose: action shots. That means it’s built tough and can be mounted to just about anything. On the other hand, the iPhone is a general-purpose camera that is good for action shots.
The iPhone is far more versatile than the GoPro because it can be used for various activities, including editing videos. It’s also easier to use, thanks to the large touchscreen.
The GoPro is better suited for specific activities like skiing or surfing. It’s also easier to mount in places where an iPhone would be impractical, like on your helmet or handlebars.
The GoPro is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a camera to take on your next adventure. However, the iPhone is the better option if you want a camera that can do everything, including editing videos on-site.
GoPro vs. DSLR cameras
DSLR cameras are the gold standard for still images, but they’re not designed for action shots. They’re larger and more delicate, making them less versatile than the GoPro.
The GoPro is also much cheaper than a DSLR, which makes it a more attractive option for many people. If you’re looking to take action shots, the GoPro is the better camera. However, a DSLR is the way to go if you’re looking for high-quality still images.
GoPro Setup
Now that you know the difference between a GoPro and other cameras, let’s look at how to get started with your new GoPro:
- Take Off Screen Protectors: The first thing to do with your new GoPro is to take off the screen protector. New cameras have transparent screen protectors on the lens and LCD. It’s easy to miss these in a rush, and if you shoot a video or take a photo, it might come out dark and blurry due to this sticker.
- Insert the Battery and Charge the Camera: The next thing to do is insert the battery and charge the camera. The GoPro comes with a rechargeable battery, so you’ll need to connect it to a power source before use. When charging, the camera shows a red light. This will turn green when fully charged.
- Insert and Format the Memory Card: The GoPro uses a microSD card to store photos and videos. You’ll need to insert the memory card into the camera before use. The camera has an 8GB microSD card, but you can use a larger capacity card if you want. To format the memory card, go to the Settings menu and select Format.
- Turn on the Camera: Turn on the camera by pressing the power button on the top of the camera. The camera will boot up, and you’ll see the viewfinder on the LCD screen.
- Change the Camera Settings: The GoPro has several different settings that you can change to get the perfect photo or video. To change the settings, press the Menu button on the side of the camera.
- Download the GoPro Quick App: The GoPro Quick App is a free app that you can download to your smartphone or tablet. The app allows you to control the camera remotely, view photos and videos, and share content on social media.
GoPro App
The GoPro Quick App is a free app that allows you to control the camera remotely, view photos and videos, and share content.
How to Use the GoPro Quick App:
- Download the GoPro Quick App.
- Connect your GoPro to your smartphone or tablet.
- Open the app and select Remote Control.
- Use the app to control the camera.
- View photos and videos in the app.
- Share content.
The GoPro Quick App is most useful when you want to take photos or videos without having to hold the camera. It’s also helpful when you want to move content from the camera to your phone.
GoPro Modes
The GoPro has several two main modes: Photo and Video modes.
Photo Mode
Photo mode is used to take still images. To take a photo, press the shutter button on the top of the camera. The camera will take a picture and save it to the memory card.
Video Mode
Video mode is used to record videos. To start recording a video, press the shutter button on the top of the camera. The camera will start recording and save the video to the memory card. To stop recording, press the shutter button again.
Other Modes
The GoPro also has several other modes that you can use to take photos and videos. These include:
Time-Lapse Mode
Time-Lapse mode is used to take a series of photos at regular intervals. The interval can be set from 1 second to 60 seconds. To use Time Lapse mode, go to the Settings menu and select Time Lapse.
Night Lapse Mode
Night Lapse mode is used to take Time Lapse photos at night. The camera will take a series of pictures at regular intervals and then combine them into a video. To use Night Lapse mode, go to the Settings menu and select Night Lapse.
Choosing The Best GoPro For You
There are a number of different GoPro cameras on the market, each with its own set of features and capabilities. So, how do you choose the best GoPro for you?
GoPro Hero10 Black
If you simply want a helmet cam, the GoPro Hero 10 may be more than you need. However, if you’re searching for a camera that can shoot high-quality video with smooth motion, this is the one to get.
It resembles the GoPro Hero 9 but has many improvements. The superior processor in-camera improves user responsiveness, increasing frame rates to 24 frames per second (60 fps), and provides the finest image stabilization technology.
Unfortunately, this camera goes for about $500.
GoPro Hero9 and 8 Black
The most visible change between the GoPro Hero 8 and GoPro Hero 9 is the inclusion of a front-facing LCD. If you’re using it mostly attached to a helmet, your chest, or your handlebars, you won’t find it very useful. However, if you use it for vlogging, webcam, or selfies, it’s an excellent addition.
The Hero8 is slightly cheaper than the Hero 9, so you may want to go with that one if you don’t think you’ll use the front-facing display.
GoPro Max
The GoPro Max (on Amazon) is the company’s 360-degree camera, and it’s an excellent choice if you want to experiment with that format or already have a use for it. It’s also great as a general-purpose action camera because it can shoot traditional video at up to 60 fps and has image stabilization built-in.
GoPro Hero7 White and Silver
The GoPro Hero 7 White and Silver are entry-level action cameras that are a good choice if you’re just getting started with this type of photography or if you don’t need all the bells and whistles of the more expensive models.
The main difference between the two is that the Silver model can shoot video at up to 60 fps, while the White is limited to 30 fps.
Accessories You Might Need For your GoPro
Once you have your GoPro, there are a few accessories you might want to get the most out of it. These include:
A Memory Card
The GoPro Hero7 Black comes with a 32GB microSD card, but if you’re planning on taking many photos and videos, you might want to get a larger one. A good option is the 64GB SanDisk Extreme microSDXC UHS-I card, which is designed for use with action cameras and can store up to 4K video.
A Tripod
A tripod can help take photos and videos without holding the camera in your hand. The Joby Gorillapod is a good option because it’s designed for use with action cameras and can be wrapped around objects or positioned on uneven surfaces.
A Mount
You’ll need a mount if you want to attach your GoPro to a helmet, bike, surfboard, or other objects. The GoPro Handlebar/Seatpost Mount is a good choice because it’s versatile and easy to use.
A Waterproof Case
You’ll need a waterproof case if you want to take your GoPro swimming or snorkeling. The GoPro Super Suit is a good option because it can withstand depths up to 60 meters (200 feet).
An Extra Battery
The GoPro Hero7 Black has a built-in battery that can last up to 2 hours of recording time, but if you’re planning on taking many photos and videos, you might want to get an extra one.
The GoPro AABAT-001 Rechargeable Battery is a good option because it’s designed for use with the GoPro Hero7 Black.