3 Simple Steps to Record Vertically on GoPro

3 Simple Steps to Record Vertically on GoPro

Harnessing the power of your GoPro camera, embark on a captivating adventure into the realm of vertical video recording. Whether you’re capturing breathtaking vistas, thrilling action sequences, or engaging interviews, the ability to record in this format opens up a world of possibilities. Transitioning from traditional horizontal filming, vertical recording aligns perfectly with the orientation of smartphones and social media platforms, ensuring maximum engagement and visual impact.

Unlike horizontal recording, vertical video creates a sense of intimacy and immersion. The narrow frame naturally guides the viewer’s attention, eliminating distractions and enhancing the emotional connection between subject and audience. By filming in vertical orientation, you can effectively showcase tall structures, sweeping landscapes, and human interactions in a manner that resonates with modern visual consumption habits. Moreover, this format seamlessly integrates with the aspect ratio of mobile devices, making it a perfect match for sharing on social media channels where vertical content thrives.

Embracing vertical recording with your GoPro camera empowers you to create captivating and shareable content. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker, an aspiring vlogger, or simply someone who wants to preserve memories in a dynamic format, the ability to record in vertical orientation offers a creative advantage in today’s digital landscape. As you embark on your vertical recording journey, experiment with different perspectives, angles, and compositions to discover the unique storytelling possibilities that this format has to offer.

Choosing the Correct Lens

Selecting the appropriate lens for vertical recording on a GoPro is crucial for capturing high-quality footage. GoPro cameras offer a range of lenses designed to meet different needs and preferences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:

Wide-Angle Lens:

  • Field of View (FOV): Approximately 170 degrees
  • Focal Length: Short, typically around 2.5mm
  • Pros: Captures a wide area, perfect for scenic landscapes, group shots, and action footage.
  • Cons: Can produce a fisheye effect, resulting in distorted edges.

Linear Lens:

  • FOV: Approximately 105 degrees
  • Focal Length: Longer than the wide-angle lens, around 4mm
  • Pros: Reduces the fisheye effect, providing a more natural perspective.
  • Cons: Narrower FOV, which may not be suitable for wide shots.

SuperView Lens:

  • FOV: Approximately 190 degrees
  • Focal Length: Shortest among the three lenses, typically around 2mm
  • Pros: Captures an extremely wide area, great for immersive experiences.
  • Cons: Pronounced fisheye effect, which can be distracting.

Recommended Lens for Vertical Recording:

Lens Type FOV Focal Length Ideal for
Linear Lens 105 degrees 4mm Vlogging, talking headshots, action sports
Wide-Angle Lens 170 degrees 2.5mm Expansive landscapes, group photos
SuperView Lens 190 degrees 2mm Extreme adventure activities, first-person perspectives

Remember, the best lens for you will depend on your specific recording needs and preferences. Experiment with different lenses to determine which one suits your style the best.

Adjusting Camera Settings

To record vertically on a GoPro, you’ll need to adjust some camera settings. Here’s how to do it:

Camera Mode:

Set the camera mode to “Video”.

Resolution and Frame Rate:

For vertical recording, you’ll want to choose a resolution and frame rate that best suits your needs. Here are some recommended settings:

Resolution Frame Rate
1080p 24, 30, or 60 fps
1440p 24, 30, or 60 fps
4K 24, 30, or 60 fps

Field of View:

For best results, choose the “Wide” field of view. This will give you a wider angle of view, which is ideal for vertical recording.

Video Stabilization:

If you’re using a GoPro Hero 5 or later, you can enable video stabilization. This will help to keep your footage smooth and stable, even if you’re moving around.

Vertical Flip:

On some GoPro models, you can enable “Vertical Flip”. This will flip the image vertically, so that it appears upright when you view it on your phone or computer.

Orientation Lock:

To prevent your camera from rotating when you turn it sideways, enable “Orientation Lock”. This will keep the camera in the vertical orientation, no matter how you hold it.

Enhancing Resolution and Stabilization

Maximizing the resolution and stability of your vertical GoPro recordings ensures crisp, professional-looking footage. Follow these steps to enhance both aspects:

Resolution

  1. Select the highest resolution available for your GoPro model.
  2. For 4K resolution, shoot at 30 frames per second (fps) for a balanced combination of quality and frame rate.
  3. For 1080p resolution, consider 60 fps for smoother, more fluid footage.

Stabilization

  1. Enable GoPro’s built-in HyperSmooth stabilization. This advanced software algorithm reduces camera shake and vibrations for steadier footage.
  2. Consider using an external gimbal stabilizer. These devices physically isolate the camera from hand motions, resulting in ultra-smooth, cinematic footage.
  3. Utilize the GoPro’s Protune mode, which allows for fine-tuning of stabilization settings. Choose the “High” or “Boost” option for maximum stability, especially when using a gimbal.
  4. Avoid holding the GoPro too rigidly. Instead, grip it loosely to allow the stabilization system to work effectively.
Resolution Frame Rate
4K 30 fps
1080p 60 fps

Utilizing the Vertical HyperSmooth Feature

Vertical HyperSmooth, a recent addition to GoPro’s lineup of stabilization features, is a game-changer for vertical video recording. Here’s how you can utilize this remarkable tool:

Step 1: Enable Vertical HyperSmooth

Ensure that your GoPro’s firmware is up to date. Once you’ve done that, navigate to the camera settings and look for the “Stabilization” option. Select “Vertical HyperSmooth” as your stabilization mode.

Step 2: Understanding the Modes

Mode Description
Smooth Provides basic stabilization, suitable for most situations.
High Enhanced stabilization, ideal for reducing camera shake.
Boost Extreme stabilization, recommended for high-impact activities.

Step 3: Optimizing for Vertical

Vertical HyperSmooth is specifically designed for vertical video capture, ensuring that your footage remains stable and free from unwanted vibrations. It also utilizes the camera’s full sensor, allowing for a wider field of view. To get the best results, hold your GoPro vertically with the lens facing the subject. Avoid tilting or rotating the camera while recording.

Step 4: Finding the Perfect Settings

Experiment with different stabilization modes and field-of-view settings to find the optimal setup for your specific needs. Vertical HyperSmooth’s three stabilization modes (Smooth, High, and Boost) provide a range of options to suit various recording scenarios. Additionally, you can adjust the field of view to achieve the desired framing for your vertical videos. Whether you’re capturing action-packed moments or creating captivating social media content, Vertical HyperSmooth empowers you to capture stunning vertical videos with professional-grade stability.

Shutter Speed

Shutter speed controls the duration for which the camera’s sensor is exposed to light. A faster shutter speed (e.g., 1/500 sec) freezes motion, while a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/60 sec) creates motion blur. For vertical videos, a faster shutter speed is generally recommended to minimize camera shake and blurred footage.

ISO

ISO measures the camera’s sensitivity to light. A higher ISO (e.g., 800) makes the sensor more sensitive, allowing you to shoot in low-light conditions. However, higher ISOs can also introduce noise or grain into your footage. For vertical videos, it’s best to start with a lower ISO (e.g., 100) and gradually increase it as needed to avoid grainy footage.

Creating Vertical Videos

To record in vertical on a GoPro, follow these steps:

  1. Turn on your GoPro and select the "Video" mode.
  2. Scroll down to the "Field of View" setting and select "Linear + Horizon Lock." This will provide a vertical field of view.
  3. Adjust the shutter speed and ISO settings as described above.
  4. Hold the GoPro vertically and begin recording.
  5. To ensure stable footage, consider using a tripod or other stabilizer. Additionally, you can enable the "Horizon Leveling" feature to automatically correct for camera tilt. This can be especially useful when shooting vertical videos while moving. A more detailed guide on using the Horizon Leveling feature is provided in the table below:
Horizon Leveling Setting Description
Enabled Automatically adjusts the camera’s orientation to keep the horizon level, even when the camera is tilted.
Horizon Only Only adjusts the camera’s orientation to keep the horizon level, without rotating the footage.
Off No horizon leveling is applied.

Optimizing Audio Recording

Microphone Settings:

Enable the Low Wind Filter to reduce wind noise in outdoor recordings. Adjust the Microphone Levels to optimize audio quality depending on your environment. Use an external microphone for enhanced audio capture.

Audio Presets:

Choose the appropriate audio preset based on your recording environment. The RAW preset captures uncompressed audio, ideal for post-production editing. The Music preset enhances audio for musical performances. The Speech preset optimizes audio for speech-heavy recordings.

Gain Control:

Adjust the audio gain levels to prevent clipping and ensure optimal volume. Monitor your audio levels using the live audio meter to ensure they stay within an appropriate range.

Noise Reduction:

Enable noise reduction to minimize background noise and improve audio clarity. The Go Pro offers two levels of noise reduction: Low and High. Choose High for noisy environments or Low for quiet surroundings.

External Audio Sources:

Connect an external microphone via the USB-C port or the 3.5mm audio adapter for improved audio quality. External microphones provide greater flexibility and allow you to capture audio from a specific direction or reduce unwanted noise.

Audio Monitoring:

Use headphones or an external speaker to monitor your audio during recording. This allows you to detect any potential issues, such as clipping or background noise, and make adjustments accordingly.

Audio Preset Description
RAW Uncompressed audio for maximum control in post-production
Music Enhanced audio for musical performances, with reduced noise and optimized EQ
Speech Optimized for speech-heavy recordings, with enhanced clarity and reduced background noise

Selecting an Appropriate Field of View

The field of view (FOV) determines how wide or narrow the angle of view is for your recording. When recording in vertical, you want to choose a FOV that will capture the desired amount of vertical space without creating an overly distorted or cropped image.

Here’s how to select an appropriate FOV for vertical recordings:

  • Wide FOV (Superview or Wide): Captures a wide angle of view, ideal for capturing expansive scenery or large groups. However, it can result in distorted edges or excessive fisheye effect.
  • Medium FOV (Medium or Linear): Provides a balanced FOV, capturing a good amount of vertical space without excessive distortion. Suitable for most general-purpose recordings.
  • Narrow FOV (Narrow or TelePhoto): Captures a narrow angle of view, focusing on a smaller area. Ideal for close-ups or capturing details without distracting surroundings.
  • Recommended FOVs for Vertical Recordings:

    Field of View Recommended Usage
    Superview Expansive scenery, large groups
    Medium General-purpose, balanced FOV
    Narrow Close-ups, details

    Using External Microphones

    Connecting an external microphone to your GoPro allows you to capture higher-quality audio. Here’s how to do it:

    1. Check if your GoPro model supports external microphones.
    2. Purchase an adapter compatible with your GoPro.
    3. Attach the adapter to your GoPro.
    4. Connect the microphone to the adapter.
    5. Turn on your GoPro and select the microphone as the audio input.
    6. Adjust the microphone’s settings as needed.
    7. Start recording your video.

    Microphone Positioning

    The placement of your microphone can significantly affect the quality of your audio. Here are a few tips for optimal positioning:

    • Position the microphone close to your subject, but avoid placing it directly in front of their mouth to minimize wind noise.
    • Use a windscreen or foam cover to reduce wind noise and other unwanted sounds.
    • If you’re using a lavalier microphone, conceal the cable as much as possible to maintain a clean and professional look.

    Recommended External Microphones

    Here are a few recommended external microphones for GoPro cameras:

    Microphone Features
    Rode VideoMicro Compact and lightweight, ideal for run-and-gun setups
    Shure MV88+ Video Kit Includes various accessories, including a windshield and lavalier microphone
    Sennheiser XS Lav Mobile Wireless lavalier microphone with excellent sound quality

    Post-Processing Techniques

    After capturing your vertical GoPro footage, you can enhance it with post-processing techniques to optimize the final product.

    Cropping and Resizing

    Crop the footage to remove unwanted areas or adjust the aspect ratio to fit specific platforms. Use a video editing software that supports vertical video editing.

    Color Grading and Lookup Tables (LUTs)

    Adjust the colors, contrast, and brightness of your footage to improve its aesthetic appeal. Use color grading tools or apply LUTs to achieve desired color profiles.

    Stabilization and Motion Smoothing

    If your footage is shaky or unsteady, apply stabilization effects to smooth it out. Consider using motion smoothing tools to eliminate jitters and create a more polished look.

    Transitions and Effects

    Incorporate transitions and effects to enhance the flow and visual interest of your video. Use fade-ins/fade-outs, crossfades, and slow-motion effects to create a dynamic and engaging experience.

    Titles and Text Overlays

    Add text overlays to provide context, callouts, or additional information. Create custom titles, captions, and lower thirds using video editing software that supports text editing.

    Audio Editing

    Improve the audio quality by removing unwanted noise, adjusting levels, and adding background music or sound effects. Use audio editing tools or plugins to enhance the audio experience.

    Metadata and Optimization

    Edit the video’s metadata, including title, description, and tags, to improve its visibility and discoverability. Optimize the video for different platforms by adjusting the resolution, file format, and bitrate.

    Sharing and Exporting

    Once you’re satisfied with your edited footage, export it to the desired file format and resolution. Choose the appropriate platform and settings for sharing your vertical GoPro video with others.

    How to Record in Vertical on GoPro

    With the rise of vertical video on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, many users are looking for ways to record vertically on their GoPro cameras. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

    Camera Settings

    1. Turn on your GoPro camera and navigate to the “Preferences” menu.
    2. Select “Field of View” and choose either “Vertical” or “Vertical Wide”.
    3. Ensure that “Stabilization” is set to “On”.

    Camera Position

    1. Hold the camera vertically, with the lens pointed at the intended subject.
    2. Use a stable grip or mount to minimize camera shake.

    Recording

    1. Start recording by pressing the shutter button.
    2. Keep the camera steady and focused on the subject.

    Framing

    1. Center the subject within the frame.
    2. Pay attention to the background and avoid distractions.

    Tips for Creating Visually Engaging Vertical Videos


    1. Choose Compelling Content

    Select captivating subjects and activities that are well-suited for a vertical format.

    2. Utilize Handheld Shots

    Handheld shots can create a sense of immediacy and authenticity. However, use them sparingly to avoid excessive camera shake.

    3. Incorporate Text and Overlays

    Add text or overlays to provide context, call to action, or branding. Limit the amount of text to maintain readability.

    4. Use Creative Transitions

    Experiment with wipes, fades, and jump cuts to create smooth and engaging transitions between shots.

    5. Edit Vertically

    Use video editing software that supports vertical formats. This enables precise trimming and transitions.

    6. Optimize for Social Media

    Adjust the video resolution and aspect ratio to suit the platform you intend to share it on.

    7. Consider Captions

    Add closed captions to enhance accessibility and reach a wider audience.

    8. Experiment with Filters and Effects

    Apply tasteful filters and effects to enhance the visual appeal of your videos.

    9. Maintain Consistency

    Establish a consistent style and theme across your vertical videos to create a recognizable brand.

    10. Capture Vertical Stills

    Use the “Continuous Capture” mode to snap a series of vertical stills that can be later converted into a vertical video. This technique offers more flexibility in editing and composing your videos.

    How To Record In Vertical On GoPro

    GoPro cameras are known for their ability to capture stunning footage, but what if you want to shoot in vertical format? Whether you’re creating content for social media or simply want to capture a different perspective, recording in vertical on a GoPro is easy to do.

    Here are the steps on how to record in vertical on GoPro:

    1. Turn on your GoPro.
    2. Swipe down from the top of the screen.
    3. Tap the "Settings" icon.
    4. Scroll down and tap "Video Mode."
    5. Select "Vertical."

    Your GoPro will now be set to record in vertical format. You can now start capturing footage by pressing the record button.

    People Also Ask

    How do I change the resolution of my GoPro videos?

    You can change the resolution of your GoPro videos by following these steps:

    1. Turn on your GoPro.
    2. Swipe down from the top of the screen.
    3. Tap the "Settings" icon.
    4. Scroll down and tap "Video Mode."
    5. Select the desired resolution.

    How do I turn on the grid lines on my GoPro?

    You can turn on the grid lines on your GoPro by following these steps:

    1. Turn on your GoPro.
    2. Swipe down from the top of the screen.
    3. Tap the "Settings" icon.
    4. Scroll down and tap "Preferences."
    5. Toggle the "Grid Lines" option to "On."

    How do I format my GoPro memory card?

    You can format your GoPro memory card by following these steps:

    1. Turn on your GoPro.
    2. Swipe down from the top of the screen.
    3. Tap the "Settings" icon.
    4. Scroll down and tap "Preferences."
    5. Tap "Format SD Card."
    6. Confirm that you want to format the card.