If you are someone who has a passion for paddle boarding and wants to get some awesome footage while out on the water, then you should consider purchasing a GoPro and getting out on the water.
In this article, we will answer all your questions related to GoPros and how to mount them to your SUP.
The Different Types Of GoPro Mounts For Your Paddle Board
As we discussed earlier, GoPro cameras are super versatile. These small cameras can enable you to capture all your favorite moments even in harsh weather conditions. As you will have the option to choose from different types of accessories, you can get the one that supports your endeavor. You can change the angle of your camera to get the best views for your special moments.
Also, GoPro cameras are waterproof, and this feature makes them a great choice for water adventures. You can have one while enjoying your paddle boarding. You just need to know how and where to mount it. For this, first, you will have to figure out the action that you want to capture, and then you can decide accordingly.
There are many different types of mounting options. In the following, we are going to cover some popular types. You need to check every option to understand the features and benefits. After going through all of them, you will be certainly in a better position to decide on the right one.
- Bite Mount
- Headband Mount
- Wrist Mount
- Chest Mount
- Surfboard Mount
- Suction Cup Mount
All these types can be suitable for some specific actions. As they will be mounted on different parts, you can expect different results. When some will be ideal for back viewing, others can be perfect for surrounding. Let’s cover more details.
GoPro Bite Mount
Bite mount is one of the popular mounting options. It is a conventional way and can be a great choice if you want a hand-free operation. From the name itself, you might have realized that you will have to mount the camera in your mouth. Yes, the camera will be attached to your mouth. The users will have to hold the small camera with their teeth. By doing so, they can capture anything that they want without any additional effort.
All you need to do to move your head in the desired direction so that your camera can record the things you want. Many users move their eyes instead of heads. If you do so, you might not get the best shot. So, make sure that you are moving your head in the right direction while recording something. You will have to do a conscious effort to turn your head. Otherwise, you are not going to achieve the expected result.
There are many benefits of the bite mount option. With this mounting, you can expect hands-free operation and first-person OPV. Also, it features a Hi-Vis floaty case. Hands-free operation is considered the key benefit since it will enable you to manage your camera efficiently without using your hands. Your attention will not be diverted. You can capture all the desired moments without any distraction and interruption.
Also, the bite mount will have a high-visibility case. That means this mounting accessory will float in the water if you drop it accidentally while enjoying your water adventure. The high visibility will enable you to spot the accessory instantly. So, you will not have to be worried about losing your accessories while capturing the beauties of water.
There is a first-person POV feature. It will enable users to capture from their perspective as well as from the perspectives of the family and friends. They can see what you are exploring. They can enjoy the live scenarios and enable you to get the best view.
These are the key benefits of the bite mount. However, there will be some downsides as well. As you will have to insert the accessory in your mouth, you cannot talk to others while using it. You might not like this especially when you are paddling with your friends. They will be sharing their experiences. You will have to only concentrate on the recording. You cannot even move your head as it will change the direction of the recording. Also, it cannot be a great option for snorkeling and scuba. Biting a camera for a long time will not be easy and comfortable. So, you will have to weigh both positives and negatives to know it is a suitable option for you or not.
GoPro Headband Mount
You will not find many differences between the bite mount and headband mount. Both these will serve the same purpose while offering hands-free operation. You will get the first-person point of view as well. In addition to the above, it will come with a handy QuickClip. Therefore, you can expect many additional features to get optimal viewing.
The headband is adjustable fully. You will not have to be worried much about the size of your head. You can get the best fitting regardless of your head size. It will stay securely on the head of users. You can simply put your camera on the headband. The benefit is that you can capture what you want without using your hands. Your hands will be free to operate the paddle board.
There are different types of paddle boards. Some models might demand more attention. If you are a beginner and you do not know which paddle board can be perfect for you, you can consider visiting Paddle Board Nation. You will be aware of different types of paddle boards and their positives and negatives. The Paddle Board Nation can help both beginners and experienced to find the best paddle board depending on their experience level.
With a headband mount, you will have the option to closely view the objects that you want to capture. Once you have this mounting accessory, you will be confident to capture any view. You will have to turn your head like the previous one to capture the action.
You will be recording everything without even realizing that you have a camera. You will not have to restrict your mouth like the previous one. You can enjoy your water fun with your friends and capture all the possible moments. The best part about the headband mount is that you can use it even if you are wearing a cap. What will you do? You just need to use the QuickClip. You can use the clip to attach the mount to your head.
The QuickClip will offer many suitable options to attach your camera. You can use the clip to mount your camera in your belt as well. You might be thinking that you will not be able to use a headband mount if you are bald. You can wear the headband even if you are bald. You can apply a sunscreen lotion on your head before wearing the headband. You can also consider wearing any other cap, and then you can use the QuickClip to attach the headband.
GoPro Wrist Mount
If you are looking for the most versatile mount, you should not look beyond the wrist mount. It will take your paddle boarding adventure to the next level. You do not need to move your head. It is simple to use and the most effective one. You might be thinking, why?
The mount will be attached to a strap. The best thing is that you can rotate the camera at a 360 degree angle to get unparalleled actions. The mount is versatile and can be a great addition to capture all your favorite moments. You can point the camera wherever you want by simply moving your hand. However, it will not offer hands-free operation. It can be the best for a first-person view and selfie. You can use it to record back and down.
When it comes to the downside, it will restrict your wrist. You will have to move your wrist in the direction you want to capture. You will have to keep your hand up if you want to take a selfie. When you will paddle, your recording will be interrupted, and you will not get the best shot. If you want a first-person POV, you need to stop and start your video more often.
GoPro Chest Mount
From the name itself, you might have realized that it will offer hands-free operation like bite and headband mount options. You can mount your GoPro on your chest and enjoy the hands-free operation.
You might be thinking about how to mount it. It is simple. You will have to mount it just like your vest. You can mount it with or without your shirt. The chest mount will help users with a first-person perspective and hands-free option.
There will be many benefits. First of all, it will not restrict your mouth as well as your hands. You will be free to enjoy your water adventure without any restriction. You can paddle and start talking to your friends. You will not have the discomfort that you might experience while holding your camera in your mouth. The downside is that you will not get the hyper-realistic recording that is possible with bite mount.
Many people prefer chest mount since they find this mounting option comfortable. However, if you wear it over your cloth, you will not be motivated to wear the mount for a long time. Your cloth will start to bunch up, and that is going to cause a lot of discomforts. Also, it will not come with a floaty case. You will have to spend extra if you want this additional accessory. As it will be securely fastened to the chest, you might not need a floaty case. But, you should not take the risk especially when the product is a bit expensive.
GoPro Surfboard Mount
There will be some mounting options that will not feature first-person recording. We can take the example of surfboard mounts. It will be attached to the paddle board’s front. It will help with two different POVs. The first one will help users to capture the water and other front views. The second option will help you with the second-person perspective. That means you can record the things behind you. In brief, we can say that you can record both your front and back views.
GoPro Suction Cup Mount
From the name, you might have an idea about this type of mounting option. It is just like a suction cup that can be attached to the paddle board. You will have the option to attach it wherever you want. The attaching flexibility will enable you to choose the desired position whenever you want to get an ideal view. It features industrial-grade strength. Therefore, you will not have to be worried about losing it.
Does the Type of Paddle Board Decide the Mounting Option?
Yes, the type of the paddle board will be the deciding factor. As stated earlier, all the mounting accessories are different. They will have some specific features to become a great choice for some particular types of the paddle board.
In the current condition, you can get many different types of paddle boards. All of them will have some features and strengths. You can check the Paddle Board Nation to know about different types of paddle boards. You will get all the genuine information, and that is certainly going to help you to choose the best paddle board.
When it comes to the types, you can expect four different types. These are surf paddleboard, all-round paddle board, flatwater paddleboard, and race paddleboard. In all these four types, you can expect inflatable and solid versions. However, you need to understand both these versions to know which one can be the right choice.
The inflatable versions are preferred due to some unique benefits. They are less expensive, lighter, and can be easily accommodated. You can pack down them when not in use. Though the inflatable options are lighter and affordable, they might not be the best option for attaching a surfboard mount. The surfboard mount can be a perfect option for solid paddle boards. So, if you want to use surfboard mounts, you will have to consider solid paddle boards. The adhesive pads of the surfboard mount offer a great mounting. These are noninvasive and strong enough to support your adventure.
Another benefit of the surfboard mount is that it features an anchor, and that will offer additional security when the camera accidentally comes out. Therefore, you can expect better protection. As it comes with adhesive pads, it does not offer the required versatility. Once it is fixed, you cannot change the angle to get the desired view.
Most of the other mounting options will suit inflatable versions regardless of the type you are using. If it is hands-free, you are going to use it for a long time. You can wear them whenever you want and enjoy your water adventure. However, you might experience some discomforts and restrictions depending on the type of mounting you are using.
For example, if you want to explore the water life with your friends, you should avoid the bite mount. It might help you to get the best views. But the problem is that you cannot communicate with your friends. If you cannot have fun with your friends, there is no point in venturing with a group.
Unique GoPro Mounting Alternatives
All the above mounting options are highly appreciated by most users. These are convenient and can be a great option to use your GoPro while enjoying your water adventure. These are the best mounting options available in the current condition. However, if you do not find them suitable, you can consider some unique alternatives. Let’s know what can replace the above mounting options.
There are a few other unique ways to mount your GoPro camera to the paddleboard. You can install your camera in some other possible places. It is worth mentioning that the following options are versatile. But you cannot use them on your body. Therefore, you might not expect the best viewing. Here are some alternatives that worth your money and time.
GoPro Large Tube Mount
If you are interested to capture from the paddle perspective, you can consider buying a large tube mount. You do not need to mount it on your body, as stated earlier. You will have to mount it on your paddle and that will enable you to capture things from the viewpoint of the paddle.
The large tube mount will come with a wide clamp. All you need to do is to tighten the clamp anywhere you want along the paddle pole. It will be adjusted quickly. Also, you will have the option to rotate your camera at a 360 degree angle with a single push of the button.
The benefit is that you can get two great shots. It will help you to get perfect views towards you or water. You just need to make some camera adjustments depending on the view you want. For example, you will have to rotate your camera towards the water if you want a water view.
You will have to rotate your camera towards yourself so that you will be able to capture yourself as well as the background views. Change the view if you want to record the paddle cuts. When your camera will be attached to your paddle, you can record inspiring views from the water and background. When you will be out of the water, adjust the camera towards yourself and record your surrounding and wide-angled shots of yours.
GoPro Mini Port
Some mini ports are available to help you with mounting. These devices can enable users to attach cameras and take views while enjoying the water life. Another alternative is ram mount. It is also versatile and can enable users to add a lot of accessories.
You can consider any of the above types depending on your convenience. Before going ahead with your decision, you will have to do your research and know the purpose of usage. For example, if you are a beginner, you should go with the one that ensures a hands-free operation. The reason is that first, you will have to understand the water life and how a paddle board operates. Once you are familiar with the process, you can choose any that you find the best one to capture all the moments that you want to cherish forever.
Additional Ways to Boost Your GoPro Recording Experience
Now you are aware of the mounting options. You know which type can support some specific interests. If you want some more additions to take your experience to the next level, you can consider the following. We will focus on some other accessories that can enable you to enjoy your water fun the most.
Water Protection Devices
You might be thinking that why you will need to spend extra on water protection devices. We know that a GoPro camera is not floatable. Some mounting options come with a flotation case. However, if you are thoroughly experienced and you want to explore something different and unique, you should certainly consider some floating devices. Some of them are designed to support your water adventure.
Get a floating device for your GoPro camera. GoPro will have different options to help you with the best possible solution. Know the version you have, and then you can decide on the type of device you want for your camera.
For the Hero 8 Black, you can consider buying Floaty. Floaty is a flotation device, and it will allow your camera to float. It will give the right protection in the water. If you have other GoPro models, you can try the Floaty Backdoor mount. Both these types of floatation devices are designed to give the best protection to your cameras. These devices feature additional padding to maximize the benefits. Also, the orange color of the device will offer high visibility and you will have no problem spotting your camera. The benefit of the floatation device is that it will enable you to enjoy the open water. Also, even if your camera lands on the back, it will not be damaged. The extra layer will offer the added protection.
Anti-frog Inserts
You can also consider buying anti-frog inserts. Just imagine what will happen if you find the lens fogged after spending all your day recording your adventure. You are going to regret it a lot. You can avoid this possibility by spending on anti-frog inserts. These are easily accessible.
You can use GoPro cameras in wet environments. It is one of the key benefits of the GoPro. However, you can find everything fogged. You can use anti-frog inserts to be confident while recording. These devices will create a waterproof housing and prevent fogging inside the camera.
Once you start using these inserts, you will not have to be worried about the fog anymore. Whenever you will check your footage, you can get clear views without any trace of fog. The best thing about these anti-fog inserts is that they are reusable. You can use a device around four times. All you need to do is to put the inserts in a pan in your oven for five minutes after using them. The temperature should be 300�. During the process, the insets will be dried up, and you can reuse them for your next water adventure.
Wrapping Up
Now you are armed with all the required information. You have the list of mounting options. Also, you know which accessories can be helpful to prevent an unpredictable situation. You can consider hands-free options or paddle board mounting options depending on your convenience. Take all the factors into your consideration and choose the one that fits your lifestyle.
As you know, GoPro cameras enable users to utilize their full potential. Use your creativity and explore the water fun to create some lifetime memories.
