Action cameras: what should you keep in mind?
Choose an action camera
If you plan to buy an action camera, you should pay attention to the following features:
- Do you want to film in HD Ready, Full HD, or 4k? The higher the resolution, the higher the image quality
- Check whether the action camera has slow motion or timelapse functions
- Choose a 360-degree camera for 360-degree footage
- Choose a waterproof action camera for underwater recordings
- Does the action camera have WiFi to quickly share your recordings?
- Choose the right accessory to mount your action cam on
- GoPro or another brand?
Image quality
The quality of the images you record with an action camera is determined by the size of the image sensor. The larger the image sensor, the better the image quality. Most action camera's record in HD Ready or Full HD quality. There are also cameras available that let you record in 4K; 4 times sharper than Full HD. 4K is slowly becoming the new standard in television and movie quality.
Video functionality: what can I do with an action camera?
Slow motion
Most action cameras let you record in creative ways in addition to normal recording. You can, for instance, make slow-motion videos. Whether you can create a slow-motion video with your action camera, depends on the number of frames per second (fps) that it can handle. 60 fps allows you to play back a video slowed down significantly, creating a proper slow-motion effect. Many action cameras are equipped with a pre-programmed slow-motion mode. If you use that, you don't have to set the number of fps manually.
Time-lapse
You can record a time-lapse video by reducing the number of frames per second and than playing back the video at normal speed. You can use this to, for instance, create a cool video of the rising sun. Just like with the slow-motion mode, many camera's have a special function for creating a time-lapse video. You can also choose to set the fps manually afterwards. Don't forget to get a tripod if you plan on making time-lapse videos, as the camera will record for a long time.
360 degrees
If you want to make a 360-degree recording capturing everything around you, you need a 360-degree camera. The action cameras described in this article won't let you make 360-degree recordings. On the other hand, you can't make other types of videos with 360-degree cameras. That makes a 360 degree camera more of a nice gimmick.
Waterproof
Generally, you use an action camera to capture a sports action or some other rough activity. This means that these cameras have to be able to take a beating. That's why most models don't have an LCD screen. Most action cameras are also waterproof. Want to use the camera to record water sports? Make sure the product is waterproof and not just splash proof.
Connectivity: how do you share your videos
Because an action camera isn't ideal to play back your recordings, most of the models have apps available to do that. Such apps also let you change the settings of your camera, meaning you don't have to bother with the tiny buttons. In most cases, the app also serves as a remote. If you want to use an app, the action camera needs to have WiFi connectivity.
Usage: what do I use to mount an action camera?
When recording your action, you don't want to have to hold an action camera in your hand. That's why the camera comes with an attachment that lets you attach it to a mount. There are mounts available to mount your action camera on a motorcycle, car, or surfboard for instance. In order to create stable recordings, you can use a chest mount to mount the camera on your chests. There are also mounts available that let you mount your camera on your head or helmet.
Accessories: what extras should I get?
If you're looking for a waterproof action camera, you can either choose a waterproof model or get a waterproof casing. This makes the camera waterproof. In addition, there are casings that make your action camera float or suitable for professional diving adventures. A lens filter us used to correct the colors in the image. A tripod makes it easier to hold the camera or place it somewhere. A bag is used to protect it.
