Paragliding is an exhilarating sport that provides a unique perspective of the world from high above. As a paraglider, you can witness breathtaking views and experience an unmatched sense of freedom.
However, to capture and relive these moments, it is essential to have a reliable action camera that can withstand the rigors of paragliding. An action camera can help you record your entire paragliding experience, from takeoff to landing, and create lasting memories. With so many action cameras available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs.
This article will highlight the top five action cameras for paragliding and provide a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision. So, whether you are a professional paraglider or a beginner, read on to find the best action camera to document your paragliding adventures.
Factors to Consider
Choosing the right action camera for paragliding is crucial to ensure that you capture high-quality footage of your flight without any interruptions or difficulties. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which camera suits your specific needs.
However, certain factors are essential to consider before making a decision. In this section, we will discuss the critical factors that you should take into account when selecting an action camera for paragliding. From size and weight to durability and weatherproofing, we’ll guide you through the most important aspects to consider when making your decision.
By the end of this section, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in an action camera and be well-equipped to choose the best one for your paragliding adventures.
Size and Weight
Size and weight are crucial factors to consider when choosing an action camera for paragliding. As a paraglider, you want to minimize the weight of your equipment to ensure a smooth and effortless flight. An action camera that is too bulky or heavy can significantly affect your balance and the quality of your flight. Therefore, it is essential to choose an action camera that is lightweight and compact enough to mount on your equipment without adding unnecessary weight.
Fortunately, many action cameras on the market are small and lightweight, making them ideal for paragliding. However, it is still essential to pay attention to the camera’s dimensions and weight to ensure that it fits seamlessly into your equipment. Additionally, the camera’s shape and design are also critical factors to consider, as it can affect the camera’s mounting options and how well it integrates with your gear.
When considering the size and weight of an action camera, it’s crucial to strike a balance between its portability and its features. While a smaller camera may be more convenient to carry, it may lack essential features that can enhance the quality of your footage. Therefore, it’s important to choose a camera that is small and lightweight but also offers the features and capabilities you need to capture high-quality footage of your paragliding adventures.
Durability and Weatherproofing
Durability and weatherproofing are two critical factors to consider when choosing an action camera for paragliding. As a paraglider, you are likely to encounter different weather conditions, including rain, wind, and extreme temperatures, which can pose a significant challenge to your equipment. Therefore, it is essential to choose an action camera that can withstand these conditions and offer reliable performance throughout your flight.
Most action cameras on the market are built to withstand tough environments and can endure falls, shocks, and vibrations. However, it’s important to pay attention to the camera’s construction and materials to ensure that it is durable enough to handle the rigors of paragliding. Ideally, the camera should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand impacts, scratches, and water damage.
In addition to durability, weatherproofing is also critical when choosing an action camera for paragliding. Weather conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly during a paragliding session, and you want a camera that can perform reliably under any conditions. Look for cameras that are designed to be weatherproof, dustproof, and waterproof to ensure that they can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Overall, when considering durability and weatherproofing, it’s essential to choose an action camera that is robust and can withstand different environmental conditions. This ensures that you can capture high-quality footage of your paragliding experience without worrying about your camera’s performance.
Mounting Options
Mounting options are a crucial factor to consider when choosing an action camera for paragliding. Paragliders need to mount their cameras securely to their equipment to ensure stable and reliable footage. Therefore, it’s essential to choose an action camera that offers versatile and secure mounting options.
Different action cameras come with different mounting options, including adhesive mounts, suction cups, and clips. Adhesive mounts are ideal for flat surfaces, while suction cups are suitable for mounting on smooth and curved surfaces. Clips are versatile and can attach to different parts of your equipment, including helmets, backpacks, and harnesses.
When choosing an action camera, it’s important to ensure that it offers the right mounting options that work with your paragliding gear. Consider the shape and size of the camera, as well as the design and construction of the mounting options, to ensure a secure and stable fit. Additionally, it’s crucial to test the camera’s mounting options before using it on your paragliding adventure to ensure that it is stable and reliable.
In addition to the mounting options, it’s also essential to consider the camera’s angle and field of view when mounted. A camera with a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing expansive views and can enhance the quality of your footage. However, it’s important to ensure that the camera’s angle and field of view do not interfere with your paragliding experience or create any distractions.
Battery Life
Battery life and charging options are essential factors to consider when choosing an action camera for paragliding. A camera with a long battery life and convenient charging options ensures that you can capture your paragliding adventures without worrying about running out of battery power.
Different action cameras come with different battery life, depending on their features, resolution, and other settings. Generally, cameras with higher resolution and more advanced features tend to have a shorter battery life. Therefore, it’s essential to choose an action camera that offers a long battery life that can last throughout your paragliding session.
In addition to battery life, it’s important to consider the camera’s charging options. Look for cameras that offer fast and convenient charging options, such as USB charging or wireless charging. It’s also essential to consider the availability of power sources when paragliding. Look for cameras that come with extra batteries or power banks that can help extend your camera’s battery life.
When choosing an action camera, it’s important to balance battery life and charging options with the camera’s other features and capabilities. Choose a camera that offers a long battery life and convenient charging options but also offers the features and performance you need to capture high-quality footage of your paragliding experience.
Image and Video Quality
Image and video quality are crucial factors to consider when choosing an action camera for paragliding. Paragliders need a camera that can capture high-quality footage that accurately reflects their experience, from the beautiful scenery to the adrenaline rush of paragliding.
When considering image and video quality, look for cameras that offer high resolution, sharp focus, and accurate colors. Cameras with a high resolution, such as 4K or 1080p, offer sharp and clear images and videos that capture fine details and textures. Also, look for cameras with a high frame rate, as this allows for smooth and seamless footage, especially during high-speed movements.
Another important aspect of image and video quality is the camera’s stabilization. Paragliding involves a lot of movement, and a camera with poor stabilization can result in shaky and unusable footage. Look for cameras that offer advanced stabilization features, such as electronic image stabilization or optical image stabilization, to ensure smooth and stable footage.
When it comes to camera settings, it’s essential to choose the right settings to capture the best footage possible. For paragliding, it’s recommended to use a wide-angle lens with a field of view of at least 120 degrees to capture the expansive views of the landscape. Also, set the camera to a high frame rate of at least 60 frames per second to ensure smooth and seamless footage.
Other recommended camera settings for paragliding include using a lower ISO to reduce noise and graininess in the footage, using a higher shutter speed to freeze motion and reduce motion blur, and adjusting the white balance to ensure accurate colors in different lighting conditions.
Overall, when considering image and video quality, look for a camera that offers high resolution, sharp focus, accurate colors, and advanced stabilization features. And when setting up your camera, use the recommended settings for paragliding to ensure the best footage possible.
Best Action Camera for Paragliding
With so many action cameras available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for paragliding. As a paraglider, you need a camera that can withstand extreme conditions, capture high-quality footage, and be mounted in a convenient and secure way.
In this section, we will explore some of the best action cameras for paragliders, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision when choosing a camera for your paragliding adventures.
GoPro HERO11 Black
The GoPro HERO11 Black is the latest and most advanced action camera from GoPro, one of the most well-known brands in the action camera industry. As expected, this camera offers top-of-the-line features and performance, making it a popular choice for paragliders who want to capture their adventures in stunning detail.
One of the most impressive features of the HERO11 Black is its 5.3K video resolution, which offers incredibly sharp and detailed footage. Additionally, this camera offers HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization, which provides incredibly smooth and steady footage even in the most extreme conditions. This feature is particularly useful for paragliders who experience a lot of movement and turbulence during their flights.
The HERO11 Black also offers advanced features such as TimeWarp 3.0 and SuperPhoto + HDR, which allow you to capture stunning time-lapse videos and high-quality photos with accurate colors and sharp details. The camera is also waterproof up to 33ft (10m) without a housing, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions.
Another great feature of the HERO11 Black is its front-facing screen, which makes it easy to frame shots and adjust settings while recording. This feature is especially useful for paragliders who need to quickly adjust camera settings while flying.
While the HERO11 Black offers top-of-the-line features, it comes at a higher price point compared to other action cameras. Additionally, its battery life can be shorter than some other cameras on the market, especially when using higher resolution and advanced features. However, the camera comes with a rechargeable battery and USB-C charging cable, and the availability of additional batteries and chargers make it possible to extend the camera’s battery life as needed.
Overall, the GoPro HERO11 Black is an excellent choice for paragliders who want a high-performance action camera that can capture stunning footage in even the most extreme conditions. Its advanced features, video stabilization, and front-facing screen make it a top choice for paragliding enthusiasts looking to capture their adventures in vivid detail.
| GoPro HERO11 Black | Features |
| Price: | $448 |
| Weight: | 1lb |
| Resolution: | 5.3k at 60fps |
| Battery Life: | 1 hour |
Apexcam Action Camera
The Apexcam Action camera is a popular choice for paragliders who want a high-quality camera at an affordable price point. Despite its lower price compared to other action cameras, the Apexcam still offers some impressive features and performance.
One of the most notable features of the Apexcam is its 4K video resolution, which provides sharp and detailed footage. Additionally, the camera offers image stabilization, which helps to minimize camera shake and provide smoother footage during paragliding flights.
The Apexcam also has a durable and waterproof design, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. It comes with a waterproof case that allows it to be used underwater up to 30m, as well as a variety of mounts and accessories that make it easy to attach to a paragliding helmet or harness.
Another great feature of the Apexcam is its wide-angle lens, which provides a 170-degree field of view, allowing you to capture more of the stunning scenery while paragliding. The camera also offers multiple shooting modes, including time-lapse and burst mode, which can help you capture the perfect shot during your flight.
However, there are some downsides to the Apexcam. While it does offer 4K resolution, the video quality is not quite as sharp and detailed as some of the higher-end action cameras on the market. Additionally, the camera’s battery life can be limited, especially when using advanced features or higher resolutions.
Overall, the Apexcam Action camera is a solid choice for paragliders who want a good quality camera at an affordable price. Its 4K resolution, image stabilization, and waterproof design make it a great option for capturing paragliding adventures in vivid detail.
| Apexcam Action Camera | Features |
| Price | $59.99 |
| Weight: | 15.2 ounces |
| Resolution: | 4k at 60fps |
| Battery Life: | 100 minutes |
Insta360 ONE RS
The Insta360 ONE R is a popular action camera that offers a range of advanced features, making it an excellent choice for paragliders who want to capture their adventures in stunning detail. This camera is particularly well-suited for paragliding thanks to its impressive stabilization, waterproof design, and compact size.
One of the most notable features of the Insta360 ONE R is its FlowState stabilization technology, which provides incredibly smooth and steady footage even in the most extreme conditions. This feature is particularly useful for paragliders, who may experience a lot of movement and turbulence during their flights. Additionally, the camera offers a waterproof design, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions.
Another great feature of the Insta360 ONE R is its modular design, which allows you to easily swap out the lens module, battery module, and memory card module. This means that you can easily customize the camera to meet your needs and extend its battery life or storage capacity as needed. The camera also offers a 360-degree lens module, allowing you to capture fully immersive footage of your paragliding adventures.
The Insta360 ONE R also offers a range of shooting modes, including time-lapse and slow-motion, which can help you capture stunning footage during your paragliding flights. The camera also has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to mount to your helmet or harness without adding too much weight or bulk.
However, there are some downsides to the Insta360 ONE R. The camera can be a bit complicated to use at first, and it may take some time to get used to its various features and settings. Additionally, while the camera offers impressive image and video quality, it may not be quite as sharp and detailed as some of the higher-end action cameras on the market.
| Insta360 ONE RS | Features |
| Price: | $299.99 |
| Weight: | 4.5 ounces |
| Resolution: | 5.7k at 30fps |
| Battery Life: | 75 minutes |
Insta360 X3
The Insta360 X3 is a compact and versatile action camera that is well-suited for paragliders who want to capture their flights in stunning detail. This camera offers a range of advanced features, including 360-degree video and photo capabilities, which make it an excellent choice for those who want to capture fully immersive footage of their paragliding adventures.
One of the most notable features of the Insta360 X3 is its 360-degree lens, which allows you to capture fully spherical video and photos. This feature is particularly useful for paragliders who want to capture a complete view of their surroundings during their flights. Additionally, the camera offers advanced image stabilization, which helps to minimize camera shake and provide smooth footage.
The Insta360 X3 also offers a range of shooting modes, including time-lapse and slow-motion, which can help you capture stunning footage during your paragliding flights. The camera also has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to mount to your helmet or harness without adding too much weight or bulk.
Another great feature of the Insta360 X3 is its waterproof design, which makes it suitable for use in various weather conditions. The camera comes with a waterproof case that allows it to be used underwater up to 10m, making it a great option for paragliders who fly over bodies of water.
However, there are some downsides to the Insta360 X3. The camera’s 360-degree lens can be tricky to use at first, and it may take some time to get used to its various features and settings. Additionally, while the camera offers impressive image and video quality, it may not be quite as sharp and detailed as some of the higher-end action cameras on the market.
Overall, the Insta360 X3 is a great choice for paragliders who want a high-performance camera with advanced features and impressive stabilization. Its 360-degree lens, waterproof design, and lightweight construction make it a top choice for those who want to capture immersive footage of their paragliding adventures.
| Insta360 X3 | Features |
| Price: | $495.99 |
| Weight: | 1.1 lbs |
| Resolution: | 5.7k at 30fps |
| Battery Life: | 90 minutes |
Surfola SF230 Action Camera
As a paraglider, you want a camera that can capture all the action and thrills of your flights. The Surfola action camera is one such option that offers a range of features to ensure that you get stunning footage of your paragliding adventures.
One of the standout features of the Surfola action camera is its 4K Ultra HD video resolution. This ensures that your footage is incredibly detailed, crisp, and clear. Additionally, the camera has a wide-angle lens that can capture up to 170 degrees of your surroundings, giving you a more comprehensive view of your flight.
The Surfola action camera is also incredibly durable and designed to withstand various weather conditions. The camera is waterproof up to 40m, making it suitable for paragliders who want to capture footage over bodies of water or in rainy conditions.
The camera comes with a range of mounting accessories, including a helmet mount, handlebar mount, and adhesive mounts, giving you various options for mounting the camera onto your gear. Additionally, the Surfola action camera is incredibly easy to use, with a simple one-button control that allows you to switch between shooting modes quickly.
One downside to the Surfola action camera is that its battery life is not quite as long as some other action cameras on the market. However, the camera does come with two batteries, which can be easily swapped out, ensuring that you can keep capturing footage for longer periods.
| Surfola SF230 Action Camera | Features |
| Price: | $49.99 |
| Weight: | 2.4 ounces |
| Resolution: | 4k at 30fps |
| Battery Life: | 1 hour |
Apeman A87
The Apeman A87 action camera is a great option for paragliders who want to capture their flights in stunning detail. This camera offers a range of features that make it a reliable and convenient choice for anyone looking to document their paragliding adventures.
One of the standout features of the Apeman A87 is its 4K Ultra HD video resolution. This ensures that your footage is incredibly detailed and crisp, allowing you to relive your flights in stunning clarity. Additionally, the camera has a 170-degree wide-angle lens, which captures a broader field of view, giving you a more immersive experience when watching your footage.
The Apeman A87 is also incredibly durable and built to withstand various weather conditions. It is waterproof up to 40m, making it suitable for capturing footage over bodies of water or in rainy conditions. Furthermore, the camera is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for paragliders who want to capture footage in harsh weather conditions.
The camera comes with a range of mounting accessories, including a helmet mount, handlebar mount, and adhesive mounts, giving you various options for mounting the camera onto your gear. Additionally, the camera is easy to use, with a simple one-button control that allows you to switch between shooting modes quickly.
One downside to the Apeman A87 is its battery life, which may not last as long as some other action cameras on the market. However, the camera does come with two rechargeable batteries, which can be easily swapped out, ensuring that you can keep capturing footage for longer periods.
| Apeman A87 | Features |
| Price: | $104.99 |
| Weight: | 0.1 lbs |
| Resolution: | 4k at 60fps |
| Battery Life: | 80 minutes |
COOAU Action Camera
If you are a paraglider looking for an affordable and reliable action camera to capture your flights, the COOAU action camera is a great option. This camera offers a range of features that make it a versatile and convenient choice for anyone who wants to document their paragliding adventures.
The COOAU action camera has a 4K Ultra HD video resolution and a 20MP camera, allowing you to capture stunning footage and photos with incredible detail. It also has a 170-degree wide-angle lens, which captures a broader field of view, giving you a more immersive experience when watching your footage.
The camera is also built to withstand various weather conditions, with its waterproof case allowing it to be used in wet and rainy conditions. It also has a shockproof and dustproof design, making it an ideal choice for paragliders who want to capture footage in harsh environments.
The COOAU action camera comes with a range of mounting accessories, including a helmet mount, handlebar mount, and adhesive mounts, giving you various options for mounting the camera onto your gear. It also has a Wi-Fi connectivity feature that allows you to connect it to your smartphone and control it remotely.
One downside to the COOAU action camera is its battery life, which may not last as long as some other action cameras on the market. However, the camera does come with two rechargeable batteries, which can be easily swapped out, ensuring that you can keep capturing footage for longer periods.
Overall, the COOAU action camera is an excellent choice for paragliders who want a reliable and affordable camera to capture their flights. With its 4K Ultra HD video resolution, wide-angle lens, and durable design, this camera offers great value for its price and is a convenient choice for anyone looking to document their paragliding adventures.
| COOAU Action Camera | Features |
| Price: | $69.99 |
| Weight: | 15.9 ounces |
| Resolution: | 4k at 30fps |
| Battery Life: | 3 hours |
AKASO V50 Elite
The AKASO V50 Elite action camera is an excellent choice for paragliders who want to capture high-quality footage of their flights. This camera offers a range of features that make it a versatile and convenient option for anyone looking for an action camera that can keep up with their adventures.
One of the standout features of the AKASO V50 Elite is its 4K Ultra HD video resolution and 20MP camera, which allow you to capture stunning footage and photos with incredible detail. It also has a 170-degree wide-angle lens, giving you a broader field of view that lets you capture more of your surroundings.
The camera’s built-in image stabilization feature also helps to ensure that your footage is smooth and steady, even in turbulent conditions. This is particularly useful for paragliders, who may encounter unpredictable wind conditions during their flights.
The AKASO V50 Elite is also designed to withstand various weather conditions, with its waterproof case allowing it to be used in wet and rainy conditions. It also has a durable and robust design, making it an ideal choice for paragliders who want a camera that can handle the rigors of extreme sports.
The camera comes with a range of mounting accessories, including a helmet mount, handlebar mount, and adhesive mounts, giving you various options for mounting it onto your gear. It also has a Wi-Fi connectivity feature that allows you to connect it to your smartphone and control it remotely.
One of the downsides of the AKASO V50 Elite is its battery life, which may not last as long as some other action cameras on the market. However, the camera does come with two rechargeable batteries, which can be easily swapped out, ensuring that you can keep capturing footage for longer periods.
| AKASO V50 Elite | Features |
| Price: | $111.99 |
| Weight: | 1.19 lbs |
| Resolution: | 4k at 60fps |
| Battery Life: | 1 hour |
Nikon Keymission 170 Action
The Nikon Keymission 170 action camera is a rugged and durable option for paragliders who want to capture their adventures in high quality. With its sleek and compact design, this camera is easy to carry and use on your flights.
One of the standout features of the Nikon Keymission 170 is its ability to shoot 4K Ultra HD videos at 30 frames per second, ensuring that you can capture every detail of your flight. The camera also has a 170-degree wide-angle lens, which is ideal for capturing panoramic views of your surroundings.
Another great feature of this camera is its built-in image stabilization, which helps to ensure that your footage is smooth and steady, even in turbulent conditions. This is particularly useful for paragliders who may encounter rough winds during their flights.
The Nikon Keymission 170 is also waterproof up to a depth of 33 feet, making it a great choice for paragliders who may encounter wet or rainy conditions. It is also shockproof and can withstand drops from up to 6.6 feet, making it a durable option that can handle the rigors of extreme sports.
The camera comes with a range of mounting accessories, including a helmet mount and adhesive mounts, giving you various options for attaching it to your gear. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily share your photos and videos on social media or transfer them to your smartphone or computer.
One downside of the Nikon Keymission 170 is its battery life, which may not last as long as some other action cameras on the market. However, the camera comes with a spare battery, which can be easily swapped out when needed.
| Nikon Keymission 170 Action | Features |
| Price: | $165 |
| Weight: | 4.5 ounces |
| Resolution: | 4k at 30fps |
| Battery Life: | 1 hour |
SJCAM SJ4000
The SJCAM SJ4000 is a budget-friendly action camera that offers good image and video quality for paragliders who want to capture their flights without breaking the bank. It comes with a range of features and accessories that make it a great option for those who are just starting out with action cameras.
One of the standout features of the SJCAM SJ4000 is its 12-megapixel camera, which can capture high-quality images and videos. It has a 170-degree wide-angle lens, which is ideal for capturing panoramic views of your surroundings while paragliding.
The camera is also waterproof up to a depth of 30 meters, making it a great choice for paragliders who may encounter wet or rainy conditions. It comes with a variety of mounting accessories, including a helmet mount, handlebar mount, and adhesive mounts, giving you various options for attaching it to your gear.
The SJCAM SJ4000 has a range of shooting modes, including time-lapse and burst modes, allowing you to capture unique and creative footage. It also has a built-in LCD screen, which makes it easy to frame your shots and review your footage on the go.
One downside of the SJCAM SJ4000 is its image stabilization, which is not as effective as some other action cameras on the market. This may result in shaky footage, particularly in turbulent conditions.
Another drawback of the SJCAM SJ4000 is its battery life, which may not last as long as some other cameras. However, it comes with two rechargeable batteries, which can be easily swapped out when needed.
| SJCAM SJ4000 | Features |
| Price: | $59 |
| Weight: | 14.1 ounces |
| Resolution: | 1080p at 30fps |
| Battery Life: | 90 minutes |
How to mount an action camera when paragliding
Capturing your paragliding adventures on an action camera is a great way to relive the exhilarating experience and share it with others. However, mounting your camera to your paraglider can be a daunting task, especially for beginners.
In this section, we will discuss the different mounting options available for action cameras and provide tips and tricks for securing your camera safely and securely while you fly. By the end of this section, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to capture stunning footage from your paraglider.
Tripod
Using a tripod mount is one of the most common ways to attach an action camera to a paraglider. A tripod mount typically consists of a small metal plate with a threaded screw hole in the center. This allows you to attach your camera to a variety of mounts and tripods, including those specifically designed for paragliding. When using a tripod mount, it’s important to ensure that it is securely attached to your paraglider and that your camera is properly fastened to the mount. This will help prevent the camera from shaking or falling off during flight, which can lead to damaged equipment or lost footage. Overall, a tripod mount is a simple and effective way to mount your action camera to your paraglider.
Helmet Mount
Using a helmet mount is another popular option for mounting an action camera while paragliding. A helmet mount allows you to capture footage from a first-person perspective, giving viewers a sense of what it’s like to be in the air. When using a helmet mount, it’s important to ensure that the mount is securely attached to your helmet and that the camera is properly fastened to the mount. This will help prevent the camera from becoming loose or detached during flight, which can be dangerous for both you and other paragliders. Additionally, it’s important to adjust the angle of the camera so that it captures the desired field of view. With a helmet mount, you can capture unique and immersive footage of your paragliding adventures that you can relive and share with others.
The Riser Mount
One option for getting a better angle to watch the pilot, such as when finding the first thermal, is to add a short extension part from a GoPro clamp set. This allows you to position the camera at a more optimal angle and capture footage without having to hold the camera yourself. However, there are some disadvantages to this method as well. The camera can tilt every time you turn, which can make the footage hard to watch unless you are gliding or soaring. Additionally, the extension can catch the lines on launch, which can be dangerous and take attention away from flying when you fiddle with the angle and operate the camera. Furthermore, the camera often isn’t pointed directly at the subject, resulting in an odd-looking bit of pod in the shot.
To solve the issue of the tilting horizon, you could use a 1-axis gimbal. Although I haven’t personally tested this unit, it is a suggestion for simplicity and compactness. Andre Bandarra has successfully used a 3-axis DJI Osmo X3 with this setup. However, it’s important to note that any gimbal requires a fair amount of technical fiddling and frustration. Despite these challenges, using a gimbal can greatly improve the stability and quality of your footage while paragliding, allowing you to capture smoother and more professional-looking videos.
The Pole
If you want to capture your control inputs and show off your takeoff and landing scenes, the best setup according to many paragliders is a 360 camera on a selfie stick. This setup not only provides stabilized footage, but also gives a floating effect by removing the presence of the stick through software. While this setup takes some time to master and requires bright sunlight for best results, it can add a unique element to your films.
One popular option is the Insta360 One, which is incredibly lightweight and can be held in one hand during takeoff and landing. In flight, the pole can be slipped into various places in the harness, with the over-the-shoulder angle being the most interesting. Alternatively, a GoPro Hero 7 on a pole can provide crisper visuals, but the pole will be visible and it’s trickier to operate since the camera needs to be perfectly level and the stabilization isn’t as good as a 360 camera’s locked horizon.
In the photo provided, you can see a hands-free moving pole shot setup used in the Ascension video, where the camera is secured on the karabiner and suspended on a short loop hung off the risers.
The Gimbal
When it comes to capturing air-to-air footage for wing reviews, it can be a challenging task. The camera’s little shakes and bad framing become more apparent when trying to film subjects in the distance. To get great footage, you need to be close to the other pilot, which can only be achieved with trusted friends who know you won’t cause a mid-air collision.
For professional-quality footage, using a gimbal such as the Karma Grip or Feiyu Tech G6 can keep your horizon level, but it requires flying one-handed while operating the camera with the other hand, making it a difficult task. However, gimbals are best used on the ground to capture action shots with camera movement, like gliders launching or soaring through flowers.
A GoPro Hero 10 is a game-changer with its excellent stabilization, enabling nice air-to-air footage while holding it in your hand, although it can be challenging to avoid tilting the horizon during turns and turbulence. For those who want better big-shake reduction and a rock-steady horizon without using a gimbal, the SteadXP is an excellent option.
The Chase Cam
When it comes to filming from your wing, suspending a camera from a line and towing it behind you can provide an interesting angle, but the shot can become fairly static once the chase camera is deployed, and it’s difficult to incorporate into most films. You’re limited to one long shot (until the camera dies, unless you use a remote camera control) and it’s best suited to paramotoring, where you can fly low over interesting terrain features. However, severe turbulence can lead to the camera tangling in your lines, posing a risk.
To achieve stable and high-resolution footage, a gimbal is necessary. However, this is a heavy and risky rig to fly with. DIY chase cam rigs using normal action cameras tend to be wobbly and lack level horizons. Instead, the Skybean Chasecam + GoPro, now with Hero 7 stabilization, provides good footage, although the horizon may tip. Alternatively, the Sony X3000 is also a suitable option.
The insta360 One is a great choice for its light weight and rock-solid stabilized footage, but its resolution may not be high enough as a chase cam. To avoid stitch lines crossing the pilot or wing, it needs to be carefully angled upright. If you’re willing to invest, the new One X or GoPro Fusion would be better options.
FAQs
What safety precautions should be taken when using an action camera while paragliding?
When using an action camera while paragliding, it is essential to take some safety precautions to ensure that you can fly safely and avoid any potential accidents. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Secure the camera: Make sure the camera is securely mounted to your helmet or harness using a suitable mount. The mount should be robust enough to withstand the forces of flight and should not obstruct your view.
- Check the camera settings: Before taking off, check that the camera settings are appropriate for the lighting conditions, framing, and resolution. Ensure that the camera is set to record in the correct mode, whether it be video or still images.
- Be aware of the camera’s weight: The weight of the camera can affect the handling of your wing, so be aware of this and adjust your flying style accordingly. It is also important to ensure that the camera’s weight does not throw off your balance.
- Don’t get distracted: The camera can be a distraction, so it’s essential to keep your focus on flying at all times. Do not get too engrossed in operating the camera and forget to monitor your surroundings.
- Check for interference: Some cameras, especially older models, can interfere with the radio frequency used for communication between the pilot and the ground crew. Check that your camera is not interfering with any radio communication before taking off.
- Avoid tangling: Ensure that the camera and its mounting system are not tangled in any way with your lines, harness, or clothing. It is also essential to make sure that the camera mount does not obstruct your emergency parachute deployment.
- Don’t compromise safety: Remember that your safety and that of others is the top priority. If using an action camera compromises your safety in any way, it’s better to avoid using it altogether.
By following these safety precautions, you can capture stunning footage while ensuring that you fly safely and avoid any potential accidents.
How can I edit and share my paragliding footage?
There are several software options available for editing and sharing your paragliding videos. Here are some popular ones:
- Adobe Premiere Pro – This is a professional-grade video editing software that is widely used in the film and TV industry. It has a wide range of features and tools for advanced video editing, including color correction, audio mixing, and special effects.
- Final Cut Pro X – This is another professional-grade video editing software that is popular among Mac users. It has a user-friendly interface and powerful editing tools, including advanced color grading and audio editing features.
- iMovie – This is a free video editing software that comes pre-installed on all Mac computers. It is a great option for beginners who want to do basic video editing, including trimming clips, adding music and text, and applying basic effects.
- Filmora – This is a beginner-friendly video editing software that is available for both Mac and Windows. It has a simple interface and a wide range of features for basic video editing, including color grading, audio mixing, and special effects.
- DaVinci Resolve – This is a free video editing software that is available for both Mac and Windows. It has a wide range of features for advanced video editing, including color grading, audio editing, and special effects. It is also popular among professional video editors.
When it comes to sharing your paragliding videos, you can upload them to social media platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook. You can also share them with friends and family using cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud.
What are the benefits of using an action camera for paragliding?
Using an action camera for paragliding has several benefits, including:
- Capturing memories: An action camera allows you to capture your paragliding adventures and relive them later. You can capture the beautiful landscapes, your take-off, your landing, and your in-flight experience.
- Improving your flying skills: By reviewing your footage, you can analyze your techniques, look for areas of improvement, and learn from your mistakes.
- Sharing with others: Sharing your footage with family and friends is an excellent way to show them what paragliding is all about. You can also share your footage on social media to inspire others to try paragliding.
- Promoting your brand: If you’re a professional paraglider or have a brand associated with the sport, you can use action camera footage to promote your brand or sponsorships.
- Creating content: If you’re interested in creating paragliding content, an action camera is an essential tool. You can use the footage to create engaging videos for YouTube, Vimeo, or other platforms.
Is the Steadxp good for paragliding?
Yes, the SteadXP can be good for paragliding if you want better big-shake reduction and rock-steady horizon without a gimbal and more control over the software stabilization. However, it is specifically recommended for use with the GoPro Hero 4 Black camera, and not the newer models like the Hero 5, 6, or 7. It is important to note that the SteadXP can add some weight and complexity to your setup, so it may not be suitable for every paragliding situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, action cameras have revolutionized the way paragliding is captured and shared. They allow pilots to document their flights from unique perspectives and share their experiences with others. With the advancement of technology, action cameras have become more compact, lightweight, and capable of capturing high-quality footage.
However, it is important for pilots to prioritize safety when using an action camera and take the necessary precautions to avoid distractions or equipment malfunctions during flight. With the right equipment and techniques, paragliding footage can be edited and shared using a variety of software and platforms to inspire and educate others about the beauty and thrill of this unique sport.
