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Cameras are an integral part of our modern lives. So much so that we can’t imagine being without them on a daily basis. Seriously, can you go a day without taking pictures and tweaking them with some fun and cute filters, or posting some videos on your social networks? Didn’t think so!
Pilots are no exception to this. And when you think about it, it isn’t surprising cameras are an essential part of their most trusted equipment. Sure, plane window photos are cool, but imagine how much cooler they are from the pointy end of the aircraft with all the clouds and amazing sights. This explains why many pilots became social media stars.
And yes, before we delve into the amazing world of GoPro cameras and the suitable GoPro accessories because this is the brand of camera brands, let’s get one thing clear: it’s perfectly safe for pilots to take photos from the cockpit. Moving on to the cameras, I mentioned this is the best option simply because it’s been on the market for quite a while now and has become synonymous with quality and reliability.
What Is the Advantage of a GoPro?
GoPros are the most durable and easily handled small action cameras you can take anywhere with you. Thanks to the small footprint and impressive compact design, it’s possible to attach them even to the plane’s rear or wing and swivel them to get shots from various angles. That is, if you get bored of the “inside the cockpit” videos.
To be able to pull this off, you’re going to need adequate kits with pieces of GoPro accessories like mounts, filters, SD cards, batteries, mics, cases, and audio splitters. Moreover, these cameras also allow you to do high speed recording due to the high frame rates at high resolutions, and they have better photo capability. The battery power is impressive too, so you can expect to use it to your benefit before it needs to be recharged.
To make the most of what this amazing camera can offer, here are a couple of pointers for better inside and outside shots and recordings:
- If filming inside during the flight, get a head mount to strap the camera and show the viewers your point of view.
- If filming outside, attaching the camera to the wingtip is an excellent spot because it gives you a great insight into both the takeoffs and landings.
What Should I Get with My GoPro?
When shopping, you’ll come across a wide range of GoPro accessories. It’s best to start with the basics and then take it from there with the extras. The following are some of the essentials you can expect to get in the basic kits.
Mounts
Unless you plan on doing hand-held shots and videos, which is unsafe to say the least, you simply can’t do without the mounts when using the camera throughout the flight as they’re the attachments that secure the camera to the plane. Depending on what you’re after, there are designs created for cockpit and exterior use, so be sure to look into this prior to the purchase.
They’re versatile and available in a range of designs. The internal usually consist of suction cups that allow them to be attached to the windows, whereas the external ones come with adhesives or screws so that you can attach them to the wings or tail for example. Some of the internal models incorporate ball joints so you can rotate the camera in various positions.
Filters
To avoid the wobbly result when filming propellers, you’re going to need a propeller filter. It’s designed to help you cancel out this effect that happens due to the awkward phasing. However, remember, much like the different mounts there are varying filters so check this before you purchase for cockpit or external use.
SD Cards
If you want to add hours of filming, and you know the struggle between deleting precious content or ending the filming earlier than planned, then you can’t do without a reliable SD card or cards for that matter. With such useful accessories that some GoPro cockpit kit options consist of you won’t have to go through the trouble of deleting videos and freeing up space mid-flight.
And the best of all is you can easily transfer the contents to the smartphone or computer and do some editing before posting them on social media. To get enough memory, a 32 or 64GB option would do.
Batteries
The same can be said about batteries – there’s nothing worse than creating hours of lapse video only to find out you weren’t actually recording because the battery died. if you want to film for hours without such disappointments or interruptions, you need to rely on batteries that will make this possible. Power packs and portable chargers are a must, as are extra batteries.
Mics
If you want to take your editing and production to the next level, then be sure to also include go pro accessories such as microphones in your kit. Even though GoPro cameras include an internal microphone, acquiring an additional accessory can help you cancel out excess noise, whether in the cockpit or outside. An audio recorder headset is truly amazing, however, be aware that not all GoPro cameras allow the use of such additional elements, as in the case with the GoPro Max.
Cases
Last but not least, you need a suitable case to neatly pack up and store your precious equipment. Much like when buying accessories to keep your iPhone in mint condition you ought to take your GoPro’s protection seriously. Start with getting the perfect cage designed for optimal protection for your GoPro camera. Then, buy another one with internal foam to protect each of the accessories when not in use.
