Night photography and videography can be a fascinating and rewarding experience, especially when captured with an action camera like GoPro. With its small size, rugged build, and wide-angle lens, GoPro is a popular choice for adventurers, athletes, and filmmakers alike.
However, shooting at night can be challenging, as low light conditions often result in blurry and grainy images. Fortunately, GoPro offers several night vision modes that can help you capture stunning shots even in the dark.
In this article, we’ll explore the different night vision modes available on GoPro cameras, as well as the best camera settings, accessories, and tips for shooting videos and photos at night. Whether you’re capturing star trails, light painting, or vehicle light trails, this guide will help you make the most of your GoPro’s night vision capabilities.
Do GoPros have Night Vision?
While GoPro cameras do not have true night vision capabilities in the traditional sense, they offer several night vision modes that can help you capture better photos and videos in low light conditions. These modes include Night Lapse, Night Photo, Star Trails, Light Painting, and Vehicle Light Trails.
Each of these modes utilizes different camera settings and techniques to enhance the camera’s ability to capture images in low light conditions. Additionally, there are several accessories and camera settings that can further improve your GoPro’s night vision capabilities, which we’ll discuss in this article.
Night Lapse Mode
Night Lapse Mode is one of the night vision modes available on GoPro cameras, designed specifically for capturing time-lapse footage in low light conditions. This mode uses a longer shutter speed and lower frame rate to capture more light and create a smooth, cinematic effect.
To select Night Lapse Mode on your GoPro, simply turn on the camera and swipe left on the touchscreen until you see the shooting mode options. Then select “Night Lapse” from the list of available modes. From there, you can adjust the camera settings to best suit your shooting conditions, such as the shutter speed, interval, and exposure settings.
When shooting with Night Lapse Mode, it’s important to plan ahead and consider the amount of time you have available for your time-lapse footage. The longer the interval, the longer the overall footage will be, so it’s important to choose an appropriate interval based on the length of time you plan to shoot.
Another key factor to consider when shooting with Night Lapse Mode is the amount of external light available. While this mode is designed to capture low light conditions, having some external light can help enhance the overall quality of the footage. You may want to consider using an external light source, such as a flashlight or a portable LED light, to provide additional illumination.
Overall, Night Lapse Mode can be a powerful tool for capturing stunning time-lapse footage in low light conditions. With careful planning and attention to camera settings and external lighting, you can create truly breathtaking videos with your GoPro.
How to select Night Lapse Mode
To capture stunning night time-lapses on your GoPro, you need to enable the Night Lapse mode. Depending on the GoPro model you have, the process may vary slightly. If you own a HERO11/10/9/8 Black, you’ll need to swipe right until you reach Time Lapse Mode, tap the current Time Lapse preset, scroll down to Night Lapse, and then select Night Lapse Photo or Night Lapse Video depending on your preference.
For HERO7 Black users, swipe right on the touch screen to enter Time Lapse mode, tap the camera icon in the lower left corner, and then select Night Lapse Photo. HERO6 Black and HERO5 Black users can enable Night Photo by short-pressing the mode button until the camera enters Time Lapse Photo mode, tapping the camera icon in the lower left corner, and then selecting Night Lapse Photo.
Fusion users can press the mode button repeatedly until the Settings icon is displayed, press the shutter button to enter Settings, and then highlight “PHOTO” and press the shutter button repeatedly until “NIGHT” is displayed. For HERO5 Session users, enabling Night Photo requires selecting the Menu button until Camera Settings is selected, highlighting the Video icon using the shutter button, and then changing the mode to TL-NT.
Note that the Night Photo settings can be set and changed easily using the Quik App. Lastly, for HERO4 users, enabling Night Photo requires selecting the Photo mode, pressing the Settings/Tab button, and changing the Mode setting to Night.
Night Photo Mode
When I purchased my GoPro camera, I was excited to learn that it had a night photo mode that could capture stunning images in low light settings.
Using night photo mode on the GoPro is simple and easy, even for a beginner like me. To start, I navigated to the camera mode selection and selected the photo mode. Then, I accessed the settings and found the night photo option. From there, I could adjust the camera settings to my desired preference, including the ISO levels, aperture, and shutter speed.
I found that using a tripod was essential to get the best results with night photo mode. Since the camera takes longer exposures to capture more light, any movement can cause the image to become blurry. With a sturdy tripod, I could capture sharp and detailed images even in complete darkness.
One of my favorite aspects of night photo mode on the GoPro is the ability to capture star trails. By setting the camera to a longer exposure time, I could capture the movement of the stars across the sky, creating a beautiful and mesmerizing effect.
Overall, I have had a great experience using night photo mode on my GoPro. It has allowed me to capture stunning images of the night sky, landscapes, and even the Milky Way. With a little practice and experimentation, anyone can use this mode to capture their own unique and beautiful photos at night.
How to select Night Photo Mode
Using Night Photo mode on a GoPro camera is a great way to capture stunning low-light images. I’ve had first-hand experience using this mode on my HERO11, and the process is quite simple. To enable Night Photo, I swipe left until I reach Photo mode, tap the current [Photo Preset], and then scroll down to Night Photo. This is the same process if you are using the HERO10/9/8 Black as well.
For HERO7 Black, I swipe left on the touch screen and select [Photo]. Then, on the touch display, I tap the [camera icon] in the lower left corner and select [Night]. HERO6 Black and HERO5 Black work similarly, where I short-press the User-added image [Mode Button] until the camera enters Photo mode. Then, on the touch display, I tap the [camera icon] in the lower left corner and select [Night].
For the Fusion camera, I press the [Mode/Power button] (side) repeatedly until the Settings icon (wrench) is displayed, then press the [Shutter button] (front) to enter Settings. From there, I press the [Mode/Power button] once to bring up the photo mode settings and select “NIGHT” to enable Night Photo.
The process for HERO5 Session is a bit different, where I select the [Menu button] until Camera Settings is selected, then press the User-added image [Shutter button] to highlight the Video icon. After that, I press the User-added image [Shutter Button] again until a Photo icon appears, and then press the [Menu Button] again to highlight the word “Photo.” Finally, I press the User-added image [Shutter Button] to change the mode to “Night” photo.
Lastly, for HERO4, I select the User-added image [Mode Button] until Photo is selected, press the [Settings/Tab Button], and change the Mode setting to Night. Regardless of which GoPro camera you use, Night Photo settings can also be set and changed more easily when connected to the Quik App.
Star Trails Mode
As a professional photographer, I have had the opportunity to use the star trails mode on the GoPro on many occasions, and I must say it’s a fantastic feature. When done right, it can produce stunning images that capture the beauty of the night sky.
To activate the star trails mode on the GoPro, first, set your camera to Night Lapse mode, then select Star Trails. Set the interval to the desired time-lapse length and adjust the shutter speed as necessary. A longer exposure time will capture more stars, but it may also result in more noise in the image. It’s a good idea to experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when using the star trails mode on the GoPro is to find a dark and clear location with minimal light pollution. This will allow the camera to capture more stars, and the resulting images will be much clearer and more detailed.
Another tip is to use a sturdy tripod to keep the camera steady during the long exposure time. Even a slight movement can ruin the entire image, so it’s crucial to keep the camera as still as possible.
It’s also essential to review the images as you go along to ensure that the settings are producing the desired results. Don’t be afraid to adjust the settings as necessary to achieve the best possible image.
In terms of critiques, one common issue with star trail images is overexposure, which can result in bright and washed-out images. To avoid this, it’s important to adjust the exposure time and ISO settings to match the ambient lighting conditions.
Overall, my personal experience with the star trails mode on the GoPro has been very positive. I’ve captured some stunning images of the night sky that have been very well-received by clients and viewers alike. It’s a fantastic feature that adds a new dimension to astrophotography and is definitely worth exploring.
Star Trails Mode Default Settings
Star Trail files are recorded as HEVC, .mp4 files with 150 bit rate. The default settings are:
| Resolution | 4K |
| Shutter | 30 seconds |
| Interval | Auto |
| Digital Lens | Wide |
| Trail Length | Long |
| Scheduled Capture | Off |
| Duration Limit | No limit |
| Timer | 3 seconds |
Light Painting Mode
The light painting mode on a GoPro allows for creative and unique photographs. With this mode, you can use a light source to “paint” designs or shapes in the air, resulting in an abstract and visually stunning image.
To activate light painting mode on a GoPro, follow these steps:
- Turn on the camera and swipe left until you reach Photo mode.
- Tap the current photo preset, then scroll down to Light Painting.
- Tap the Light Painting preset.
Once you have activated light painting mode, you can experiment with different light sources and techniques to create your desired effect. Some popular light sources include flashlights, glow sticks, and sparklers.
When using a light source to paint, it’s important to keep the camera steady and in the same position throughout the entire exposure. This will ensure that the final image is sharp and clear.
One technique to try is to use a flashlight to “write” words or draw shapes in the air while moving the flashlight around. You can also try holding a sparkler or other light source while spinning around in a circle to create a circular light pattern.
It’s important to note that light painting mode works best in low-light environments. If there is too much ambient light, the light painting effect may not be as visible in the final image.
In my personal experience, light painting mode on a GoPro has allowed me to capture some truly unique and creative photographs. It takes some practice and experimentation to get the desired effect, but the results can be truly stunning. I have found that using a tripod or other stable surface to hold the camera steady is essential for achieving sharp and clear images. Overall, I highly recommend trying out light painting mode on your GoPro to add some creativity and artistic flair to your photography.
Light Painting Mode Default Settings
Light Painting files are recorded as HEVC, .mp4 files with 150 bit rate. The default settings are:
| Resolution | 4K |
| Shutter | .5 seconds |
| Interval | Auto |
| Digital Lens | Wide |
| Trail Length | Max |
| Scheduled Capture | Off |
| Duration Limit | No Limit |
| Timer | Off |
Vehicle Light Trails
The vehicle light trails mode on the GoPro captures stunning long exposures of light trails left by passing vehicles. To activate this mode, you need to select the Night Lapse photo mode and then select the Vehicle option. You can also adjust the shutter speed to control the exposure time and the amount of light captured.
During my experience using this mode, I found that the best results came from finding a location with a lot of vehicle traffic and positioning the camera at a higher elevation to capture a wider view. I also found that using a tripod or other stabilizing device helped to prevent any camera shake or blur during the long exposure.
One challenge I faced was the variation in brightness between different vehicle lights. Some headlights and taillights were much brighter than others, leading to overexposure in some areas of the image. However, adjusting the shutter speed and experimenting with different settings helped me to find the right balance and capture a balanced image with even exposure.
Overall, using the vehicle light trails mode on the GoPro was a unique and exciting way to capture the energy and movement of a busy city at night. With some experimentation and patience, it’s possible to capture stunning images of light trails and create a visual representation of the energy and motion of a bustling cityscape.
Vehicle Light Trails Mode Default Settings
Vehicle Lights Mode files are HEVC, .mp4 with 150 bit rate. The default settings are:
| Resolution | 4K |
| Shutter | 2 seconds |
| Interval | Auto |
| Digital Lens | Wide |
| Trail Length | Short |
| Scheduled Capture | Off |
| Duration Limit | No limit |
| Timer | Off |
Which GoPros have Night Vision modes?
Below I have attached a list of all GoPros with night vision capabilities:
| HERO11 Black | Yes |
| HERO11 Black Mini | Yes |
| HERO10 Black | Yes |
| HERO10 Black Bones Edition | Yes |
| HERO9 Black | Yes |
| HERO8 Black | Yes |
| MAX | Yes |
| HERO7 Black | Yes |
| HERO7 Silver | Yes |
| HERO7 White | Yes |
| Fusion | Yes |
| HERO6 Black | Yes |
| HERO (2018) | Yes |
| HERO5 Session | Yes |
| HERO Session | No |
| HERO+ LCD | No |
| HERO+ | No |
| HERO (2014) | No |
Best Action Camera Accessories for Night Photography
When shooting night photography with a GoPro, there are a few accessories that can enhance your shooting experience and help you capture even better photos and videos. Here are some of the best accessories to consider:
- Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for taking long exposures and keeping your GoPro steady. A tripod will also help you avoid shaky footage or blurry images.
- External Battery: Shooting at night requires longer exposures and more battery power. An external battery pack will help keep your GoPro powered up and prevent it from running out of juice in the middle of a shoot.
- Filters: A good filter can help you capture more vivid colors and reduce light pollution when shooting in the city. A neutral density (ND) filter can also help you take longer exposures without overexposing your shot.
- LED Lights: LED lights can be used to illuminate your subject or create unique lighting effects. They can also help you create a more balanced exposure when shooting in low light.
- Remote Control: Using a remote control will help you avoid touching the camera and introducing camera shake, especially when taking long exposures. A remote control will also allow you to take photos and videos from a distance.
Overall, investing in high-quality accessories can make a big difference when shooting night photography with a GoPro. Consider your shooting needs and invest in the accessories that will help you capture the best possible shots.
Tips For Shooting Videos at Night with GoPro
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is essential for taking your night photography to the next level. With a well-executed plan, the actual shoot becomes much easier, and you have a clear idea of what results you’re expecting.
Although plans may not always go 100% as intended, they still provide valuable insights on how to proceed if something goes wrong. When planning, it’s important to consider factors such as weather. While the night sky can be stunning, shooting in cloudy conditions may result in disappointing footage. To avoid this, check weather forecasts for the dates you plan to shoot to ensure optimal conditions.
Location is another critical factor to consider during the planning stage. Numerous apps are available that provide information on the best locations for capturing stars and celestial events. By utilizing these tools, you can save time and ensure that your chosen location offers ideal conditions for your shoot.
External Lighting
When shooting videos at night with a GoPro, it’s important to consider the lighting conditions. The camera’s sensor may not be able to capture enough light to produce a clear and high-quality video. One solution to this problem is to provide external lighting.
One option is to use a handheld flashlight or a headlamp to provide additional lighting. This can be particularly useful when shooting close-up shots or when you need to highlight a specific subject or area.
Another option is to use portable LED lights. These lights can be mounted on a tripod or attached to the GoPro using a mount. They come in a variety of sizes and brightness levels, so you can choose the right one depending on your needs.
If you’re shooting in a fixed location, you can also consider setting up external lighting sources such as floodlights or string lights. This can help provide a consistent and well-lit environment for your video.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that external lighting can also impact the natural ambiance and mood of your video. So, it’s essential to experiment with different lighting setups to find the right balance between visibility and atmosphere.
Use Max Resolution
Shooting at maximum resolution is important when capturing night photography with a GoPro. This allows you to capture more details, resulting in higher-quality images and videos. Shooting at a lower resolution might save storage space, but it can also reduce the quality of your final output.
When shooting at maximum resolution, it is also important to use the appropriate settings to achieve the best results. For instance, when shooting in low light conditions, it is recommended to use a low shutter speed to allow more light into the camera. This will help to brighten up the image and make it more visible, even in low light conditions.
Another thing to keep in mind when shooting at maximum resolution is the storage space required. Since high-resolution images and videos take up more space, it is important to make sure you have enough storage available on your GoPro or external storage device. It’s also a good idea to carry extra memory cards or a backup storage device, so you can continue shooting without worrying about running out of space.
In summary, shooting at maximum resolution when capturing night photography with a GoPro is crucial to achieving high-quality results. Just make sure to use the appropriate settings and have enough storage space available to avoid any issues during your shoot.
Stabilize your Action Camera
Stabilization is crucial when it comes to night photography and time-lapse videos. Due to the low light environment, it’s important to use a slower shutter speed to allow more light into the camera. However, this also increases the likelihood of camera shake and blur, which can ruin the entire shot.
To counteract this, it’s essential to stabilize your action camera. A shaky camera can be distracting and can take away from the beauty of your nighttime footage. Fortunately, there are many accessories available to help stabilize your camera, such as tripods, monopods, and gimbals.
A tripod is one of the most common accessories used for stabilization. It provides a sturdy base to keep the camera still and reduces the risk of any camera shake. It’s also great for time-lapse photography, as it allows the camera to remain in the same position for an extended period of time.
A monopod is another great option for stabilizing your camera. It’s a one-legged support system that provides some stability, but also allows for more flexibility and movement compared to a tripod. It’s a great option for shooting on the go.
A gimbal is a more advanced stabilization accessory that can help eliminate camera shake and create smooth, cinematic footage. It’s especially useful for capturing motion or tracking shots at night. A gimbal uses motors and sensors to keep the camera stable and can produce stunning results.
Use the GoPro App
Using the GoPro app can greatly improve your experience when capturing night photography and videos. The app allows you to remotely control your GoPro camera from your smartphone, giving you more flexibility and control over your shots.
One of the main benefits of using the GoPro app for night photography and videos is the ability to see what you are shooting in real-time. This can be especially helpful when you are setting up a shot in low light conditions, as you can use the app to adjust your camera settings and frame your shot without having to guess or rely on trial and error.
The GoPro app also provides access to additional features that can enhance your night photography and videos, such as the ability to adjust exposure and white balance, control ISO settings, and even create custom presets for your camera settings. These features can help you capture sharper and more vibrant images and videos, even in low light conditions.
Another advantage of using the GoPro app is the ability to transfer your photos and videos to your smartphone instantly. This can be especially useful when you are shooting time-lapse videos or long exposure shots, as you can monitor your progress and make adjustments to your settings in real-time.
Finally, the GoPro app also provides access to a wide range of editing tools, allowing you to fine-tune your night photography and videos even further. You can use the app to trim clips, add music and sound effects, and even apply filters and color correction to your shots.
In summary, using the GoPro app can greatly improve your night photography and videos by providing real-time control and access to advanced camera settings and editing tools. If you are looking to take your night photography and videos to the next level, be sure to take advantage of this powerful and user-friendly app.
Edit your Footage
Editing your footage is an essential part of the night photography and time-lapse process. It allows you to enhance and highlight the best parts of your footage while minimizing the weaker ones. Here are some tips for editing your night photography and time-lapse videos:
- Choose the right editing software: There are many editing software options available for video editing. Some popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. Choose the software that you feel most comfortable with and that meets your editing needs.
- Adjust the exposure: When shooting at night, the exposure can be challenging to get right. Fortunately, most editing software allows you to adjust the exposure of your footage. Make sure to adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation to achieve the best results.
- Stabilize your footage: If your footage is shaky, you can use the stabilizing feature in your editing software to reduce the motion blur. This will help your footage look smoother and more professional.
- Color grade your footage: Color grading is the process of adjusting the color and tone of your footage to achieve a specific look and feel. It can help to add contrast, saturation, and a specific color palette to your footage.
In conclusion, editing is a crucial step in the night photography and time-lapse process. It allows you to enhance the best parts of your footage and tell a compelling story. Follow these tips to create stunning night photography and time-lapse videos that are sure to impress.
Lower your LCD Brightness
When shooting videos in night lapse mode on your GoPro, it’s important to conserve battery life as much as possible. One simple way to do this is by lowering the brightness of your camera’s LCD screen.
By default, the LCD screen is set to a high brightness level, which can drain the battery quickly. Lowering the brightness of the screen can extend your camera’s battery life and allow you to shoot for longer periods of time.
To lower the brightness of the LCD screen on your GoPro, follow these steps:
- Go to your camera’s settings menu.
- Scroll down to “Preferences” and select it.
- Scroll down to “Touch Display” and select it.
- Scroll down to “Brightness” and adjust it to a lower level.
Lowering the brightness of the LCD screen may make it more difficult to see what you’re filming, especially in low-light conditions. However, if you’re using the night lapse mode, your camera will be stationary and you won’t need to monitor the footage in real-time.
Best Camera Settings for Night Photography
Night photography can be a daunting task for any photographer, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Capturing stunning images in low light conditions requires not only the right equipment but also the right camera settings.
With a plethora of options and settings available on the GoPro, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this section, we’ll discuss the best camera settings for night photography to help you capture stunning images and videos in low light conditions.
ISO Levels
Adjusting ISO levels is crucial when shooting night photography on a GoPro. ISO determines the camera’s sensitivity to light, and in low light conditions, increasing the ISO can brighten the image. However, a high ISO can also introduce noise, resulting in a grainy image. It’s important to find the right balance between ISO and image noise to achieve clear and well-exposed night photos. The GoPro’s ISO range varies depending on the model, but generally, it’s recommended to keep the ISO between 400-1600 for best results in low light conditions.
It’s also worth noting that higher-end models such as the HERO9 Black and MAX have improved low-light performance, allowing for better results at higher ISO levels. In the following sections, we will discuss the recommended camera settings for night photography on a GoPro, including ISO, shutter speed, and white balance.
Aperture
When shooting night photography with a GoPro, aperture is another important camera setting to consider. Aperture refers to the size of the opening in the lens that allows light to pass through to the camera sensor. The aperture setting is measured in f-stops, with lower f-stop values indicating a larger aperture and higher f-stop values indicating a smaller aperture.
For night photography, a larger aperture is generally recommended to allow more light to enter the camera sensor. However, it’s important to note that using too large of an aperture can lead to a shallow depth of field, which may result in parts of the image being out of focus.
A good starting point for aperture settings when shooting night photography on a GoPro is f/2.8 or lower. This will allow more light to enter the camera sensor and help capture more detail in low light conditions. However, depending on the specific lighting conditions and desired depth of field, you may need to adjust the aperture setting accordingly.
Shutter Speed
When it comes to night photography, shutter speed plays a crucial role in capturing sharp and clear images. Shutter speed refers to the length of time the camera’s shutter remains open to allow light to enter the lens and expose the camera’s sensor.
In low light situations, a longer shutter speed is required to allow more light to enter the camera and capture a properly exposed image. However, a longer shutter speed also increases the risk of camera shake and motion blur, which can result in blurry images.
To avoid camera shake, it’s recommended to use a tripod or other stabilizing device when shooting at slow shutter speeds. As a general rule of thumb, for night photography, a shutter speed of 5-30 seconds is recommended.
If you’re shooting a time-lapse video, you may want to use a faster shutter speed to capture movement more crisply. A shutter speed of 1-2 seconds is a good starting point for capturing light trails or star trails in a time-lapse video.
It’s important to note that the optimal shutter speed will depend on the specific lighting conditions, the desired effect, and the camera model being used. Experimenting with different shutter speeds can help you find the best settings for your specific needs.
SuperView Mode
SuperView is a mode available on some GoPro models that allows for a wider field of view. This can be particularly useful for night photography when trying to capture as much of the night sky as possible. With SuperView, you can capture more of the horizon and more of the stars, giving you a stunning final image or video.
However, it’s important to note that SuperView can cause some distortion in the image, particularly towards the edges. This can be more noticeable at night, as there are fewer visual elements to draw the eye away from the distortion. So, while SuperView can be a great tool for night photography, it’s important to experiment with it and adjust accordingly to avoid any unwanted distortion.
When using SuperView mode for night photography, it’s also recommended to keep the camera as steady as possible, as any movement can cause the distortion to become even more pronounced. Consider using a tripod or another stabilization device to keep the camera steady throughout the capture process.
Overall, SuperView can be a powerful tool for night photography on a GoPro, but it should be used thoughtfully and with an awareness of its potential limitations.
Interval for Timelapse Footage
When shooting timelapse footage using NightLapse mode on a GoPro, it’s essential to set the right interval to capture stunning footage. The interval is the duration between each photo that the camera captures. Choosing the correct interval is crucial to the outcome of your timelapse footage.
Generally, when shooting timelapse footage of the night sky, it’s recommended to set an interval of 10-30 seconds between each photo. This will give enough time for the camera to capture enough light and movement to create smooth and fluid footage.
If you set a shorter interval, such as 5 seconds, you may end up with too many photos, which can be time-consuming to sort through during post-production. Alternatively, if you set a longer interval, such as 1 minute, you may miss out on some crucial movements and changes in the night sky.
It’s important to remember that the interval will also depend on the length of your timelapse. If you’re shooting for a few hours, a longer interval may be appropriate. However, if you’re shooting for an entire night, a shorter interval is better suited to capturing more detail in the footage.
In summary, the interval you choose for timelapse footage using NightLapse mode will depend on the length of your shoot and the desired outcome. A general rule of thumb is to set an interval of 10-30 seconds to ensure smooth and fluid footage.
GoPro Color
GoPro Color is a color profile setting available on GoPro cameras that is specifically designed to enhance colors and make them more vibrant and lifelike. It’s a great feature to use when shooting night-time photos and videos as it can make your footage look more professional and visually appealing.
When shooting at night, lighting conditions can be challenging, and colors may appear dull or washed out. But by enabling the GoPro Color profile, you can help bring back some of the vibrancy that might have been lost in the low light.
The GoPro Color profile adds a bit of saturation and contrast to the footage, making the colors pop and the image look more dynamic. This can be especially helpful when shooting night landscapes or cityscapes, as it can make the city lights or stars in the sky really stand out.
To enable GoPro Color on your camera, go to the camera settings and select “Color.” From there, choose “GoPro Color” and your camera will apply the profile to your footage.
Keep in mind that the GoPro Color profile may not be suitable for all situations or lighting conditions. If you prefer a more natural look to your footage, you may want to consider using a different color profile or shooting in RAW format to give yourself more flexibility during the editing process. Experiment with different settings to find the one that works best for your style and the conditions you’re shooting in.
Best Night Photo Mode Settings for Different Scenarios
Capturing stunning night-time photography can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to adjusting the camera settings. Different scenarios call for different settings to get the best results. In this section, we will discuss the best night photo mode settings for different scenarios, so you can capture breathtaking images in any situation. Whether you’re photographing a city skyline, a starry night sky, or a dimly lit landscape, these settings will help you capture the perfect shot.
Dark Sky without Moon
| Mode | Night Photo |
| Shutter | 30s |
| ISO Min + Max | 1600 |
| Output | RAW |
Pro tip: When shooting action camera photos in a dark sky without moonlight, try to use a longer exposure time and a higher ISO setting. This will allow your camera to capture more light from the stars and celestial objects, resulting in a clearer and more vibrant image. However, keep in mind that longer exposure times can lead to motion blur, so it’s important to keep your camera stable using a tripod or other stabilizing device.
Dark Sky with dim Moon
| Mode | Night Photo |
| Shutter | 30s |
| ISO Min + Max | 1600 |
| Output | Raw |
Pro tip: When taking photos of the night sky with a dim moon, try using a longer exposure time to capture more light. However, be careful not to make the exposure time too long, as this can cause star trails to appear in your image. You can also try adjusting the ISO level to find the right balance between capturing enough light and avoiding noise or graininess in your image.
Dark Sky with bright Moon
| Mode | Night Photo |
| Shutter | 20s |
| ISO Min + Max | 1600 |
| Output | Raw |
Pro tip: When shooting with a bright moon in a dark sky, it’s important to adjust your settings accordingly to prevent overexposure. Start by setting your ISO to a lower level, around 100-200, and your shutter speed to a slower setting, around 15-30 seconds. Additionally, you may want to use a neutral density filter to further control the amount of light entering the lens. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired level of detail and clarity in your shots.
Best Night Lapse Mode Settings for Different Scenarios
Night Lapse mode is a powerful feature in GoPro cameras that allows you to capture stunning time-lapse footage of the night sky. However, getting the best results requires careful consideration of the settings. In this section, we’ll explore the best night lapse mode settings for different scenarios, including capturing star trails, cityscapes, and more. By following these tips, you’ll be able to create incredible time-lapse footage that captures the beauty of the night sky in all its glory.
Sunset/Sunrise Videos
| Mode | Night Lapse |
| Shutter | Auto |
| Interval | 4 seconds |
| White Balance | Auto |
| ISO Min + Max | 100 |
| Color | Natural |
| Sharpness | Low |
| Output | RAW/Video |
Pro tip: Experiment with different white balance settings to capture the perfect warm colors of the sunrise or sunset. Try using the “Cloudy” or “Shade” white balance settings to enhance the warm tones and create a more vibrant and captivating video.
Night Sky
| Mode | Night Lapse |
| Shutter | 15 seconds |
| Interval | Auto |
| While Balance | 4000K |
| ISO Min + Max | 800 |
| Color | Flat |
| Sharpness | Low |
| Output | RAW |
Pro tip: Shooting in RAW format instead of JPEG offers numerous advantages for capturing high-quality night-time photos. Therefore, it’s recommended to enable RAW in Protune settings while clicking pictures in low-light conditions. RAW files store more data than regular JPEG images, making them ideal for post-processing and producing outstanding results.
FAQs
Does GoPro have flash?
No, GoPro cameras do not have a built-in flash. They rely on available light for capturing photos and videos.
How long does a GoPro battery last in time-lapse mode?
Generally, a fully charged GoPro battery can last anywhere from 1-3 hours in time-lapse mode, depending on the specific model and the interval settings. For instance, a GoPro HERO8 Black can last for about 1 hour and 50 minutes with a 2-second interval and no additional battery-saving features turned on, while a GoPro HERO7 Black can last for up to 3 hours and 20 minutes with the same settings. However, it’s always recommended to carry extra batteries or an external power source when shooting in time-lapse mode to ensure that you don’t run out of power before completing your shoot.
Is GoPro good for time lapse?
Yes, GoPro is great for time lapse photography. It has a variety of time lapse modes, including time lapse video, night lapse video, and time lapse photo. The camera’s small size and durability make it ideal for capturing time lapse footage in a variety of settings, including outdoor and extreme sports environments. The camera also has long battery life and a wide range of customizable settings, allowing users to achieve the desired time lapse effect.
How long can a GoPro do a time lapse?
The duration of a time-lapse recording on a GoPro depends on various factors, such as the interval between shots, the resolution of the footage, and the battery life of the camera. Generally, a GoPro can do a time-lapse for several hours or even a whole day if the battery is charged and the camera is set up correctly. For example, if a GoPro HERO9 Black is set to take a photo every 10 seconds at 4K resolution with the screen turned off and the battery is fully charged, it can capture a time-lapse sequence for up to 2.5 hours. However, if the camera is connected to an external power source or battery pack, it can capture a time-lapse for an extended period.
How long does the GoPro light accessory last?
The GoPro Light Mod can last up to 6 hours at 50% brightness and up to 1.5 hours at full brightness. The GoPro Max Light can last up to 1 hour at full power and up to 2.5 hours at lower power settings. It’s always recommended to check the specific product’s specifications for more accurate battery life information.
Do you need a light for night vision camera?
Yes, you need a light for a night vision camera as it helps to illuminate the subject in low-light conditions, making it visible to the camera’s sensor. Night vision cameras can use infrared or visible light sources to provide illumination for capturing clear and detailed footage in the dark. Without a light source, the camera may struggle to capture clear footage in low-light conditions, resulting in poor image quality or no image at all.
Will night vision work in pitch black?
Night vision devices, including cameras, rely on some form of light to function. In pitch-black conditions, there is no ambient light available for night vision to work. However, some night vision devices, such as those that use infrared technology, can emit their own light and create a “night vision” effect even in complete darkness. So, whether night vision will work in pitch-black conditions depends on the specific technology used in the device.
Conclusion
In conclusion, night photography and time lapse videos can be challenging, but with the right equipment and settings, it can result in stunning and unique visuals. GoPro cameras are an excellent option for capturing these types of footage, especially with the various night modes and settings available.
From adjusting ISO levels to using the GoPro app for remote control and editing, there are plenty of techniques to enhance your night photography and time lapse videos. By following the tips and pro tricks mentioned in this article, you can improve your skills in capturing breathtaking visuals even in the darkest of nights.
