The BEST GoPro Settings for LOW LIGHT & Indoors | Hero 13, Hero 12 & older

Summary

This tutorial offers insights on optimizing GoPro footage in low light scenarios. It advises setting up a custom preset, avoiding HDR profiles, and choosing 4K resolution over 5.3K for better image quality. The importance of frame rate, shutter speed, and ISO adjustment for optimal exposure is emphasized. Tips include using natural light, embracing the darkness for a natural look, and considering additional light sources. The video also touches on stabilization challenges in low light and the use of tripods or gimbals for better results.

Takeaways

• 📸 GoPros are not naturally strong in low light conditions, but with the right settings, good footage can still be achieved.
• 🔧 Creating a custom preset for low light conditions allows for quick adjustments when needed.
• 📹 The GoPro Hero 12, used in the video, has settings applicable to most GoPro models for low light filming.
• 🎥 An HDR profile is not suitable for low light; the standard profile should be used instead.
• 📊 In low light, a resolution of 4K is recommended over the maximum 5.3k for better image quality.
• 🔁 A lower frame rate, like 24 or 25 fps, is better in low light as it allows more time for light exposure.
• 📉 Manually setting exposure is crucial; the key factors are shutter speed, ISO, and aperture (though the latter is fixed on GoPros).
• 🕰 For optimal motion blur and stabilization, the shutter speed should be double the frame rate, but this can introduce blur.
• 🔩 Using a tripod or gimbal is recommended for stabilization in low light conditions to counteract the limitations of electronic stabilization.
• 🌐 Adjusting ISO carefully is key to balancing brightness and image noise; values above 1600 can significantly degrade quality.
• 📈 For indoor shooting, make use of available natural light and consider additional light sources to enhance the scene.

Q & A

What is the main challenge when shooting with a GoPro in low light conditions?

The main challenge is that GoPros, including the GoPro Hero 12, are not optimized for low light conditions, which can result in poor image quality due to increased noise and artifacts.

How does creating a custom preset for low light conditions help when using a GoPro?

Creating a custom preset allows you to optimize and save specific settings for low light conditions, so you can quickly apply them when needed without having to adjust settings each time.

Why is the HDR profile not recommended for low light situations with a GoPro?

The HDR profile is designed for situations with mixed lighting, but it can negatively impact image quality in low light by not being able to effectively reduce noise, which is a common issue in such conditions.

What resolution is suggested for shooting with a GoPro in low light conditions?

A resolution of 4K is recommended over the maximum 5.3K because GoPros handle noise reduction better at 4K, resulting in significantly better image quality in low light.

How does frame rate affect low light shooting with a GoPro, and what frame rate is recommended?

High frame rates can lead to less light being captured per frame, which is detrimental in low light. A frame rate of 24 frames per second is recommended, or 25 for the PAL region, to allow more time for light exposure.

What is the ideal shutter speed setting for low light conditions on a GoPro?

The ideal shutter speed in low light should be as slow as possible to allow more light to hit the sensor. It is suggested to set the shutter speed to one forty-eighth of a second at 24 frames per second or one fiftieth of a second at 25 frames per second.

How does ISO value impact image quality in low light with a GoPro, and what ISO range is recommended?

A higher ISO value makes the image brighter but also increases noise. Up to ISO 400, the image quality is good, while above 800 noise becomes noticeable. It's recommended to keep the ISO value as low as possible, with 800 being quite usable and 1600 showing strong noise.

What role does the electronic stabilization play in low light conditions, and how can it be optimized?

Electronic stabilization can be less effective in low light due to the need for sharp images to work well. Using a tripod or a gimbal is recommended for optimal stabilization. If movement is required, increasing the shutter speed to at least 1/96 or 1/100 can help, though it may reduce image brightness.

What are some additional tips for enhancing low light footage with a GoPro?

Tips include using available light effectively, such as positioning subjects near windows for natural light, accepting that low light shots may appear darker, and bringing additional light sources if necessary.

Why is it important to set the BitRate to high and consider a 10-Bit depth when shooting with a GoPro in low light?

A high BitRate ensures that as much data as possible is saved, improving image quality. A 10-Bit depth is advantageous for color grading, providing more flexibility and slightly improving dynamic range, although it's not specifically beneficial in low light conditions.

What is the significance of setting Anti-Flicker to 50 Hz for PAL region users when shooting in low light?

Setting Anti-Flicker to 50 Hz helps to avoid flickering issues with artificial light sources, which is particularly important when shooting at 25 frames per second, the standard frame rate for the PAL region.