The photography industry is in a state of constant change. New technologies and trends emerge every year, reshaping how we take and share photos. Aside from phone cameras, one other camera that has significantly contributed to amateur photography in recent years is the GoPro.
A GoPro is a small, lightweight camera designed to be worn on the body or attached to objects. GoPros allow for hands-free, point-of-view (POV) shooting. They’re commonly used for making videos in extreme sports and other activities where a traditional camera would be difficult or impossible to use.
Let’s take a closer look at what distinguishes GoPros as well as some of their drawbacks. That way, you can decide whether this innovative camera is the right one for you.
What Is a GoPro?
A GoPro is a type of camera that extreme sports enthusiasts often use to capture high-quality action shots. GoPros are small, lightweight, and rugged, making them ideal for use in situations where a traditional camera would be difficult to use.
The cameras are also waterproof and resistant to impact damage, making them perfect for capturing footage in challenging environments.
Over the past few years, GoPro cameras have become increasingly popular with non-athletes as well. The cameras’ compact size and easy-to-use controls make them great for shooting video in nearly every situation, from family vacations to weddings.
And with the addition of GoPro’s line of official accessories, it’s easy to find a way to mount the camera just about anywhere. So whether you’re looking to capture some amazing action shots or create some special home movies, a GoPro camera is a good option to consider.
Are GoPros Worth It?
Now that you know a little bit more about GoPro cameras, you may be wondering if they’re worth the investment. There’s no simple answer to this question, as it depends on what you’re looking for in a camera.
If you’re an athlete or adventurer who wants to be able to capture high-quality video and photos of your exploits, then a GoPro is definitely a top contender.
The cameras are rugged and versatile and can be mounted just about anywhere with the right accessories. They’re also easy to use, so you won’t need to spend hours learning how to operate them.
However, GoPros are not cheap, so if you’re simply looking for a camera to take on vacation or occasional family events, you might be better off with a more traditional option.
GoPro Limitations
While GoPro cameras are great for many purposes, they do have some limitations. One of the biggest is that the older versions lack the optical zoom lenses found in the more recent HERO10, HERO9, and HERO8 models.
This means that you won’t be able to get close-up shots without physically moving the camera closer to your subject.
GoPros also have a wide field of view, which can be both good and bad. On one hand, it enables you to capture more of your surroundings in a single shot.
But on the other hand, it can make it difficult to focus on a specific subject. And because GoPros are designed to be mounted in unique ways, they can sometimes produce shaky footage.
So if you’re looking for a camera that you can use to shoot smooth, steady video, a GoPro may not be the best option.
GoPros also have a relatively short operating time on a single battery charge. Depending on the model, most GoPro cameras will only last about two hours when recording video.
And if you’re using the camera’s WiFi connection or shooting in 4K resolution, that time can be even shorter. So if you’re planning on using your GoPro for an extended period, make sure you have extra batteries.
Finally, GoPros lack editing capabilities. If you want to edit your footage, you’ll need to use a separate video editing program. While there are many great options available, they can be time-consuming to learn and use. So if you’re planning on doing a lot of editing, a GoPro may not be the best choice.
Which GoPro Should You Get?
New is always better, right? Not necessarily. The newest GoPro model is the HERO10 (on Amazon), which was released in 2021. It features a new design, improved image stabilization, and the ability to shoot in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. But it also comes with a hefty price tag.
If you’re looking for a great GoPro camera without breaking the bank, you might want to consider a slightly older model.
And if you don’t need all the bells and whistles, the GoPro HERO5 Session (on Amazon) is a good choice. It’s smaller and cheaper than the other options, but it still shoots high-quality video and photos.
The GoPro 11 is set to be released in the last quarter of 2022. It definitely will be an improvement on the GoPro 10, and we can’t wait to see what features it brings to the table.
How GoPros Differ From Other Cameras
There are numerous ways that GoPro cameras differ from traditional point-and-shoot or DSLR cameras:
Size
The first thing you’ll notice about a GoPro is that it’s small. This makes it easy to carry around with you and also means that it can be mounted in places where larger cameras wouldn’t fit. GoPros can fit inside your pocket, or you can even wear them on you.
Durability
GoPros are designed to be used in action, whether that’s surfing, snowboarding, or mountain biking. This means that they’re rugged and durable and can withstand quite a bit of physical wear. Most models are also waterproof (to a certain depth), so you don’t need to worry about them getting wet.
Wide Field of View
GoPro cameras have a wide field of view, which allows you to capture more of your surroundings in a single shot. This is great for sports and adventure photography but can be a bit tricky if you’re trying to focus on a specific subject.
Ease of Use
GoPro cameras are designed to be easy to use, even if you’ve never used a camera before. They have simple controls, and the latest models come with built-in touch screens that make it even easier to navigate the menu and take great photos and videos.
Mountable
One of the best things about GoPros is that they’re designed to be mounted in unique ways. This means you can attach them to your helmet, bike, or surfboard and get great shots that would be impossible with a traditional camera.
Video Quality
For its size, GoPro cameras pack a serious punch when it comes to video and image quality. They can shoot in 4K resolution, and the latest models come with improved image stabilization that helps to reduce camera shake.