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| The chest mount |
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| vented helmet mount, quick release |
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| vented helmet mount |
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| head strap mount |
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| seatpost mount |
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| under stem off of spacer using bar mount |
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| my front mount with homemade stabilization braces |
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| tripod mount |
The best camera for videoing your world from a bicycle is without a doubt the HD Hero camera from GoProCamera. Of course proof is in the pudding, or video as they say. Check my humbly submitted video samples at the bottom of this post and scan the information below and decide for yourself. Note: my videos where recorded with the Hero HD camera and since that time the GoPro has released the Hero2 and now the Hero3. While my video quality is quite good - as you can see for yourself - the current Hero3's (soon to be your multipurpose video camera) video quality is significantly better.
This camera is hands free (or hands on if you prefer) and extremely versatile. It can be used far beyond just videoing and photographing cycling, ranging all the way from scuba-diving to skydiving, standard photography, time lapse photography and beyond. On this post you will find a detailed list of the HD Hero's stats and abilities, and several images showing a range of different mounting methods that I use for this camera (there are many more, especially if you are clever). I also have sample videos that I have produced from this camera using different mounts as references for videoing from a bicycle, and a couple videos showing this camera's ability to do live and wireless feeds, and the latest video display device that just came available.
Just click any of the GoPro links to buy the world's most versatile high definition multipurpose camera from the parent company GoPro® HD Helmet HERO™ Camera
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At the very minimum I recommend watching the last video on this post. It's absolutely amazing! It's produced by the GoPro folks and it shows a bunch of different examples of what the camera can be used for.
Update: GoProCamera has just released a new Hero3 camera that includes a built in Wi-Fi that enables remote control via remote or live video preview and remote control on smartphones and tablets running the free GoPro app, high speed high definition recording (1440p48/1080p60/720p120 fps), 30% smaller, 25% lighter, 2x more powerful than previous models (Hero & Hero2). Also the new cameras include Built-in Wi-Fi which enables remote control via Wi-Fi Remote or live video preview and remote control on smartphones and tablets running the free GoPro app.
Below is a video produced by the folks at GoProCamera describing some of the features in their latest release of their Hero3 camera:
A recent update: GoProCamera has developed and released an attachable/removable LCD video screen with a built in speaker for live viewing, and instant playback of videos (with sound) and photos. (see below).
Another update: GoPro Camera has added a 3D Hero System. It's the worlds smallest 3D High Definition Camera! (see below)
Another update: GoPro Camera has just added a Wi-Fi bacPac and Remote. This will allow wireless live streaming videos and photos for viewing on the internet or smartphone. And a long range remote control of up to 50 separate cameras.
I understand that most folks want an awesome cheap camera. Here's the thing...... GoProCamera's are just that. In the last decade a high definition video camera cost literally a couple thousand dollars (or more) and were quite large, and couldn't touch the abilities of the GoPro. The technology vs cost factors are now at a premium for buyers. Inflation will not allow these (or any other camera for that matter) to become any cheaper. So if you are waiting for cheaper you will NEVER buy any camera because they will only rise in price. If you are looking for better, look no further because there honestly isn't anything better than a GoProCamera. The old saying, "You get what you pay for", holds true with GoProCameras.
GoPro's only real competitor is the HD Contour camera and GoPro honestly blows them out of the water. First of all the GoPro is more affordable because they include a waterproof case. With the Contour you have to pay extra. The video quality is the same because they both use the exact same technology however The GoPro is far superior because of their clever design for mounting systems and their expansion bus for accessories. Specifically the expansion port allows the attachment of a LCD video monitor for playback with sound. It turns the camera into a powerful everyday camera.
Currently only the best version of the camera is available (there has been several increasingly improved versions): The Hero 3, that comes in three flavors:
- White Edition for $199.99, 5MP camera, 3 fps burst, video: 1080p30 / 960p30 / 720fps, Wi-Fi Built-in, Wi-Fi Remote + App compatible
- Black Edition for #399.99, 12MP camera, 30 fps burst, video: 1080p60 / 720p120 / 1440p48 fps, Wi-Fi Built-in, Wi-Fi Remote included, GoPro App Compatible, Pro Low-Light Performance
- Silver Edition for $299.99, 11MP camera, 10 fps burst, video: 1080p30 / 960p30 / 720fps, Wi-Fi Built-in, Wi-Fi Remote + App compatible
The Wi-Fi enabled HERO3: Black Edition is the most advanced GoPro, ever. No expense was spared during its development, resulting in a GoPro that is 30% smaller, 25% lighter and 2x more powerful than previous models. Wearable and gear mountable, waterproof to 197' (60m), capable of capturing ultra-wide 1440p 48fps, 1080p 60 fps and 720p 120 fps video and 12MP photos at a rate of 30 photos per second, the HERO3: Black Edition is the world's most versatile camera. Built-in Wi-Fi, GoPro App compatibility and the included Wi-Fi Remote (normally a separate $79.99 accessory) make the HERO3: Black Edition all the more versatile, still.
Record up to 1.5 hours (with the Black Edition; 3 hours with the White Edition) on a single charge and up to 9 hours total on a 32GB SD card (not included). Add the optional battery BacPac and double the battery life (cost: $49.99).
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| Battery Life for Hero3 video camera at different settings |
The Black Edition's camera can also shoot automatic 12, 7, and 5MP photos at .5/1/2/5/10/30 and 60 second intervals during your activity, hands free. Press the shutter button once at the start of your activity and record up to 3 hours (with battery BacPac) of poster-print quality photos of you and your friends, living it up.
Included are mounts for attaching the camera to three helmets and two pieces of gear or vehicles, as well as a head strap allowing you to wear the camera like a headlamp. You can also pull this strap over helmets for easy camera sharing between friends. One of the above mentioned helmet mounts is a lace-through strap-mount designed for vented helmets.
The HD Helmet HERO is compatible with all other GoPro Hero camera mounting accessories, so it's very easy to expand the functionality of your camera to also suction cup to vehicles, clamp to bike handlebars and seat posts, mount to surfboards, and even be worn on the wrist or chest.
Waterproof to 197'/60m and protected from rocks and other hazards thanks to its removable polycarbonate housing. Replacement housings and lens kits are available, making repairs or refurbishing your HD HERO camera affordable and convenient. It's a GoPro... go for it. (TM)
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| Camera comparison between the Hero3 White Edition, Silver Edition, and Black Edition |
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| Camera comparison between the Hero3 White Edition, Silver Edition, and Black Edition |
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| Camera comparison between the Hero3 White Edition, Silver Edition, and Black Edition |
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| Camera comparison between the Hero3 White Edition, Silver Edition, and Black Edition |
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| Camera comparison between the Hero3 White Edition, Silver Edition, and Black Edition |
What's Included (Black Editon):
* 1 HD HERO Camera (12 megapixels)
* 1 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
* 1 Waterproof Quick-Release Housing (197'/60m)
* 1 Curved, 3M (TM) Adhesive Mounts
* 1 Flat, 3M Adhesive Mounts
* 1 Three-Way Pivoting Side Arm Assembly
* 1 Quick-Release Buckles\
* 1 USB Cable
* Assorted Mounts and Hardware
* Warranty: One Year
Camera Optics (HD Hero3 Black edition):
*2x Better low-light performance
* ultra sharp f/2.8 6-element aspherical glass lens
*170 degree FOV (including 1080p)
*90 degree FOV
Audio (Standard HD Hero)
* Microphone: Built-in, mono with AGC (automatic gain control)
* Audio Format: 48 kHz, AAC audio compression
* Supports optional 3.5mm stereo mic adapter
Camera Connectors & Cables
* PC Connection: USB 2.0 (data connection and battery charging)
* HDTV Out: HD NTSC & PAL (component cable incl.)
* Audio Out: Combo 2.5mm jack with stereo audio and composite video out
* PC Compatibility: Windows Vista, Windows 7; Mac OS X 10.5 and later
Power & Battery
* Battery Type: Rechargable 1100 mAh lithium-ion
* Battery Life: see battery life charts above
* Charging: via USB to computer or optional power adapter
* Charge Time: 80% capacity after 1 hour with optional power adapter; or 2 hours with a computer's USB port
Waterproof Camera Housing
* Depth Rating: Up to 197 feet / 60 meters
* Construction: Polycarbonate and stainless steel
* Hardware: Stainless steel
Size & Weight
* Dimensions (H x W x D): 1.6" x 2.4" x 1.2" (42mm x 60mm x 30mm)
* Weight: 3.3 oz (94g) including battery / 5.9 oz (167g) including housing
This blog site is dedicated to road bicycle racing, tips, training/racing information and of course lots of videoing of racing. I am completely blown away at how cool this camera is. The video quality is awesome, the camera is small and mounts in a ton of ways. I still can't believe how smooth the video picture is during rough filming. This camera is simply amazing. (check my videos for proof).
Below are samples of mounting methods for the HD Hero Camera that I have personally used.
The above video shows how this camera is excellent to record a bike trip.
This is a video I shot using the both the seatpost mount and the under the stem mount that is pictured above. The video settings was 960p (1280x960 pixels) on each camera.
This video I shot with the chest mount (also at 960p), oh, and a seatpost mount also at 960
I have a blog post that describes how to use Adobe Premiere Elements 8 software for editing. I spent many an hour learning this software. If you are new to video editing, my post can save you lots of time and frustration. Keep in mind, there are many, many other different video editing software products out there. This is just the one that I use and am most familiar with.
The above video is a good demonstration of the helmet mount while mountain biking. It is also notable that the temperature was only 6 degrees above zero Fahrenheit, and on snowy and icy trails. This was my first video with the HD Hero camera (I have since produced 80 or so more). My biggest lesson was to make sure that the camera is securely fastened. Later in the video the camera angle drops after and sudden and powerful jolt. (not exactly a masterpiece, but it still turned out pretty good)
To purchase your HD HERO Camera, just click the "Get Yours" button on this page. This takes you to the mother ship. Click on "HD Helmet HERO" helmet camera image (bottom left of the screen) then "ADD to Cart". You can easily pay with MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Paypal. Shipping is usually within 24 hours. Own your own amazing, adaptable, waterproof, bombproof, high tech, high definition camera.
GoPro App Tutorial
Lastly, below is a video produced by the GoProCamera guys that shows a multitude of other sports that this video camera can easily be adapted to.
Now The HD Hero camera has a handy video monitor with audio that can be attached or removed by your command. It makes this already incredible camera even more incredible.
I have to throw in this video too because it's soooo much fun to watch and pure GoPro.
