Mounting Your GoPro So You Don't Look Like a Spaceman
The helmet mount for a GoPro setup is one you see all the time, and it is very easy to set up and use, but it does not give you the best video results for several reasons. The extra height takes away from the sense of speed, plus amplifies any motion of your head as it bobbles. Not to mention it just looks kind of odd, so let's look at the alternatives.
Side Mount
Mounting the camera to the side of your helmet looks less ridiculous, gives a more accurate POV, and does not amplify the head bobbles. Downside: You do have a slightly cut off view on one side of the image, and any turn of the head is amplified.
Chin Mount
The chin mount is most likely the closest you can get to the actual point of view you have from your eyes, without mounting a camera in front of your face. You get a better impression of speed, plus the camera follows the motion of your head, without exaggerating any bobs up or down as a top mount does. You can make your own, and several companies make strap on or adhesive mounts. Downside: You have to wear a full face helmet.
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Chest Mount
The chest mount camera may be the simplest way to get accurate POV shots on your ride. The lower angle looks much more natural on screen and gives a better impression of speed. GoPro makes an easy-to-wear strap setup, with adjustable angle mount, that is easy to get in and out of and takes up little room when you aren't wearing it. The added bonus is that every time you move your head, the camera stays pointed forward. You may have also noticed that you don't need to wear a helmet or even a shirt to use this mount. Downside: Always facing front, so it doesn't capture exactly what you are looking at.
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Shoulder Mount
The tactical-looking shoulder camera mount gives a nice stable platform, with no head turning or bobbles. It looks pretty neat, too, like a cross between a shoulder holster and a pirate's parrot perch. This and the chin mount give you the best chance of having your voice recorded without an extra microphone. Downside: If you wear a helmet, it may occasionally bump the camera.
>>Join the conversation about Places to Mount a GoPro right here in HD Forum!
Bike Mount
You could always mount the camera to the bike and forget wearing it on your person altogether. The highway bars, handlebars, and gas tank can all be used to hold a GoPro, as well as numerous other spots. One of the most popular options is a suction cup mount to the top of the tank, looking out over the headlight. There is a video shot from a tank mounted camera here.
If you go this route, be sure to test how the vibrations affect the quality of the video. Different mounts transmit more or less than others, and some cameras can eliminate it electronically better than others. This can be the best place to mount it as well if you are going to power it off the bikes electrical system. Downside: Don't forget to take the camera with you when you get off the bike.
>>Join the conversation about Places to Mount a GoPro right here in HD Forum!
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