Gopro Travel Videography: Tips For Adventure

GoPro cameras are revolutionising the way we take travel photos. They are small, high-tech, versatile, and lightweight. They are ideal for activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, mountain biking, and bungee jumping. They are also great for coping with rain, dust, shock, and sand.

- Save battery life by turning off Wi-Fi when not in use and using dim screen mode.

- Prevent fogging by using no-fog inserts.

- Prevent water droplets by licking the camera lens.

- Keep the camera stable by tightening all its screws.

- Find the right frame by learning how to handle the camera properly.

- Hold the camera steady to avoid disturbances in videos or photographs.

- Practice!

- Plan some creative stories to engage your audience.

- Use a selfie stick to record yourself on the go.

- Use slow-mo to make shots look more dramatic and cinematic.

Save battery life by turning off Wi-Fi and using dim screen mode

When it comes to shooting travel videos with your GoPro, one of the last things you want to worry about is battery life. Here are some tips to save your GoPro's battery life by turning off Wi-Fi and using a dim screen mode:

Turn off Wi-Fi:

Just like on your phone or laptop, Wi-Fi can be a major battery drain on your GoPro. If you're not using the Wi-Fi connection to transfer files or control your camera remotely, it's best to keep it turned off. This simple step can extend your battery life by 10-15 minutes, which can be crucial when you're out and about on your travels.

Use a dim screen mode:

The LCD screen on your GoPro can also use up a lot of battery power. To save power, try keeping the screen turned off when you're not using it. If you need to have the screen on, reduce the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting. This can make a big difference in battery life, especially if you're shooting long videos.

Other battery-saving tips:

In addition to the above, there are some other general tips to save your GoPro's battery life:

• Keep the camera turned off when not in use. This may seem obvious, but it's easy to forget, especially when you're on the move.
• Update your firmware. The latest firmware may include improvements that optimize battery usage.
• Enable the "Auto Power Off" setting. This will automatically turn off your camera after a set period of inactivity, so you don't have to remember to do it manually.
• Avoid using the remote control and smartphone apps unless necessary. The wireless connection between these devices and your camera can drain the battery.
• Limit the use of high-power features. Features like GPS, voice control, and Protune mode can all drain the battery. Only enable the features you really need.

By following these tips, you can extend your GoPro's battery life and ensure you don't miss any memorable moments on your travels due to a dead battery.

Prevent fogging with no-fog inserts

Fogging occurs when GoPro cameras are exposed to significant changes in humidity or weather conditions. To prevent this, you can use no-fog inserts, which are small strips of moisture-absorbing material that can be placed inside the camera housing to keep the lens clear.

No-fog inserts are available for purchase, with brands such as GoPro and FiTSTILL offering reusable options. These inserts can be used multiple times and are compatible with a range of GoPro models, as well as other action cameras. Simply place the inserts inside the camera housing before filming in cold or humid environments, and they will absorb excess moisture, preventing it from condensing on the lens.

If you're looking for a more cost-effective solution, you can even make your own no-fog inserts using paper towel strips. Cut the paper towel into 3-inch strips, roll them into little rectangles, and insert them into the gaps in your GoPro's case. This DIY method provides an incredibly cheap and easy way to prevent fogging, as the paper towel inserts can be replaced as needed.

Prevent water droplets by licking the camera lens

This method works great if you're holding the GoPro in your hand, but if your camera is mounted out of reach, you'll need to try something else. One option is to use a hydrophobic lens protector, which is a clear, little protector that you apply to the lens area of your waterproof housing. These are available for all GoPro cameras since the Hero5 and can last between 4-6 months. They also protect your lens from scratches.

Another option is to use a product like Rain-X Glass Treatment, which is designed to increase visibility in wet weather. Apply it carefully only to the glass lens area, as it may damage the surrounding plastic. One application will last for many uses, and you can just keep checking and reapplying as needed.

If you're looking for a more natural solution, try using candle wax. Wax is hydrophobic, which means it repels water, causing the water to form more drops that can easily roll off the lens. Simply shake your GoPro or use a cloth to remove the remaining drops.

So, the next time you're heading out to capture some underwater footage, give your GoPro lens a good lick and say goodbye to those pesky water droplets!

Keep the camera stable by tightening all screws

Keeping your GoPro camera stable is essential for capturing smooth and steady travel videos. One crucial aspect of achieving this stability is ensuring that all the screws on your camera and its accessories are tightened securely. Here are some detailed tips to help you keep your GoPro setup stable by tightening its screws:

• GoPro cameras typically use thumbscrews, which are designed to be tightened by hand. The advantage of these screws is that they don't require any tools, so you can easily adjust them on the go. Make sure you firmly tighten all the thumbscrews on your camera and any mounts or accessories you're using.
• If you want to ensure an extra-secure fit, consider carrying a small Phillips-head screwdriver in your kit. This can be useful for giving your setup a little extra tightening torque, especially if you're concerned about vibrations or intense activities affecting your camera's stability. Just be cautious not to overtighten, as this can damage the plastic and may void your warranty.
• To avoid the need for a separate screwdriver, consider investing in aftermarket thumbscrews, such as the GoPole Hi-Torque Thumbscrew. These are designed to provide added leverage and make it easier to tighten your camera securely without tools. They also feature a built-in Phillips screw for added precision when adjusting various mounts and attachments.
• If you're using a camera mount, you can apply a small amount of removable Loc-Tite to the screws before attaching the mount. This will help minimize the torque needed to keep the screws tight and prevent them from loosening over time.
• To prevent your camera from spinning if it gets bumped, consider adding a nylon set screw to your setup. This, combined with a velcro strap, will provide a surefire way to keep your camera steady.
• If you're having trouble tightening a specific screw, check that you're using the correct type and size of screwdriver. For example, try using a Posi-drive screwdriver instead of a Phillips, or vice versa. Also, ensure that you're turning the screw in the correct direction (usually anti-clockwise to loosen and clockwise to tighten).
• If you're using an electric screwdriver, adjust the torque setting to avoid overtightening.
• For added convenience and peace of mind, consider carrying a small GoPro wrench in your kit. These wrenches are less bulky than a traditional screwdriver and can be useful for making quick adjustments without the risk of impaling yourself if you tumble during an activity.

Find the right frame by pointing the camera towards your chest

When taking selfies or self-portraits with your GoPro, it's important to find the right frame to ensure you are the main focus of the photo, rather than the sky or other background elements.

To achieve this, it is recommended that you point the camera towards your chest. This will ensure that you are the main subject of the photo and that there is minimal sky in the frame. This technique is especially useful if you are taking a selfie while standing, as it will capture your upper body and face in the frame, with minimal background.

Additionally, by using the "chesty" accessory, you can mount the camera to your chest, allowing you to capture footage or photos hands-free. This is particularly useful for activities such as kayaking or cycling, as it provides a stable and unobstructed view of your surroundings.

Another tip to improve your GoPro selfies is to use the "Shorty" monopod accessory, which can be used as a mini tripod or extension pole. This will allow you to extend the camera slightly farther out, resulting in a more natural-looking selfie without your arm being visible in the foreground.

Furthermore, when taking selfies or self-portraits, it is beneficial to utilise the front-facing screen on the GoPro. This feature allows you to perfectly frame your shot, even when the camera is turned towards you, ensuring that you capture the desired scene around you.

By following these tips and techniques, you can effectively use your GoPro to capture high-quality selfies and self-portraits, making the most of its lightweight, versatile, and durable design.

Frequently asked questions