Once upon a time, I had a special friend called the GoPro 3. It feels like such a long time ago now, doesn’t it? Technology has moved so fast, and now we have the GoPro 11. But don’t worry! The tips for using a GoPro I shared back then still work their magic, even with these new models. Right now, I’m using the GoPro 10, and let me tell you, it has totally amazed me. But here’s a secret: I also had two tricky GoPro 7s that gave me a hard time. They had lots of problems, like glitches and bugs. It almost made me want to give up. Luckily, updates came to the rescue and fixed most of the issues.

7 tips for using a GoPro

Don’t let a dead battery ruin your recording fun. Always bring spare batteries for your GoPro to avoid any interruptions. The battery life has increased dramatically with each new GoPro, however staying prepared by having extra batteries or a portable charger on hand will make sure you don’t miss out on any key moments.

Maximize performance and avoid glitches by keeping your GoPro’s software up to date. Outdated versions can cause unexpected hiccups during recordings. Stay ahead of the game by regularly checking for software updates. After all, the GoPro is cutting-edge tech that benefits from the latest improvements.

Don’t let water droplets or smudges ruin your shots. It’s easy to forget about cleaning the lens when you’re caught up in capturing unforgettable moments with your GoPro. Take a moment to wipe away any water drops or smudges. Here’s a pro tip: Gently licking the cover can help prevent water from beading up when you surface from being underwater and give you better shots.

Get that professional-grade stability and exceptional video quality by turning on the built-in stabilization feature of your GoPro (introduced in the Hero5). This cool technology keeps your footage steady, even during action-packed moments. Combine stabilization with a GoPro monopod or 3-way grip to experiment with unique angles and capture breathtaking shots. With a monopod, you can extend your reach and go hands-free, immersing yourself fully in the adventure while maintaining superb video stability.

Before you dive into your adventures, take some time to get familiar with the basic features of your GoPro. This includes knowing how to use any accessories. By mastering the equipment in advance, you’ll effortlessly capture perfect shots and make the most of its awesome features.

Keep in mind that the GoPro captures video in a wider and more rectangular aspect ratio than its physical dimensions suggest when set to wide or super wide. When framing your shots, make sure your subject stays within the frame. To capture more action and increase your chances of getting remarkable footage, over angle the camera slightly upward. Don’t miss out on a shot because your angle was not right.

The HiLight tag feature is an absolute time-saver when it comes to post-editing. It’s like having a secret tool that helps you find those special moments effortlessly. Let me share a few ways you can take advantage of this fantastic feature. While you’re busy recording your adventures, simply press a designated button to tag a moment that you want to highlight later. Now, I have to admit, I sometimes forget about this handy trick. But fear not! You can also tag those memorable moments while reviewing your recording directly on the camera or through the quick app. How cool is that? The best part is, once you’ve tagged those key moments, you can easily export them for sharing and reliving the excitement. It’s a game-changer, my friend!

Any of you GoPro people out there have any tips or resources to share? Please post in the comments!