Dreaming of those mesmerizing star trails or vibrant cityscapes captured over time? Your GoPro Hero 5 is a fantastic little camera, and while it might not be the latest model, it’s still perfectly capable of producing breathtaking night lapse videos. The secret? Pairing it with the right gear!
Creating truly captivating night lapse footage with your GoPro Hero 5 isn’t just about pressing a button; it’s about optimizing your setup for stability, power, and low-light performance. Whether you’re aiming for a celestial dance of stars or the bustling blur of urban lights, having the best gear for night lapse GoPro Hero 5 in your kit makes all the difference.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive list of top-notch products that will elevate your night lapse game, from essential accessories to cameras that offer a significant upgrade if you’re ready to take the leap. Let’s dive in!
1. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
While your trusty GoPro Hero 5 is a fantastic starting point, if you’re looking to seriously elevate your night lapse and overall action camera game, the brand new GoPro HERO13 Black is a powerhouse. This isn’t an accessory for your Hero 5, but rather an ultimate upgrade option. Its advanced sensor and processing capabilities mean vastly improved low-light performance, crucial for capturing crisp details in night scenes. Plus, its legendary durability ensures it can handle any adventure you throw at it, making it an excellent long-term investment for all your creative endeavors.
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video: Super high resolution for incredible detail.
- Legendary durability: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
- New HB-Series Lenses1: Advanced optics for better image quality.
- More powerful battery: Essential for extended shooting, like night lapses.
Pros:
– Exceptional video quality, especially in low light compared to older models.
– Robust and waterproof design.
– Extended battery life ideal for long night lapse sessions.
– Top-tier stabilization for smooth footage if you’re also shooting video.
Cons:
– Significant investment compared to accessories.
– Not a direct accessory for your Hero 5.
– Might be overkill if you only need night lapse improvements for an existing Hero 5.
User Impressions: Users rave about the HERO13 Black’s incredible image quality and rugged build. Many highlight the noticeable improvements in low-light scenarios and its long-lasting battery, making it a favorite for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.
2. Luxebell Accessories Kit for AKASO EK5000 EK7000 4K WiFi…
When it comes to night lapse photography, stability is king, and a good accessory kit can provide all the mounting solutions you need. This Luxebell kit offers a comprehensive range of mounts, many of which are essential for keeping your GoPro Hero 5 steady during those long night exposures. From adjustable chest straps (great for unique POV time-lapses) to floating grips (maybe not for night lapse, but useful for other adventures!) and, most importantly, tripods and suction cups, this kit helps you secure your camera in just the right spot for that perfect shot. It’s a versatile bundle that adds a lot of utility for various shooting scenarios.
- Adjustable chest strap mount: For immersive, hands-free perspectives.
- Floating Handle Grip+Mount Adapter: Keeps camera buoyant and easy to find.
- Head strap Mount: Ideal for POV shots, adjustable and compact.
- Selfie Stick/Extension Pole: Popular for everyday adventures, adds reach.
- Suction cup mount: Securely attaches to smooth surfaces like car windows.
- Wrist strap mount: For on-the-go capture while surfing or biking.
- Great Travel Tripod: Flexible tripod for wrapping around objects.
- Removable suction cup mount: Industrial strength for vehicles, boats, etc.
Pros:
– Wide variety of mounts for diverse shooting needs.
– Includes essential items like a flexible tripod for stability.
– Good value for money with many components.
– Compatible with GoPro Hero series cameras, including Hero 5.
Cons:
– Some mounts may be less relevant for night lapse specific needs.
– Quality might not be as premium as official GoPro accessories.
– Can feel overwhelming with so many pieces.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the sheer volume of accessories for the price, finding it a great starter kit for various action camera activities. They often note the utility of the different mounts for creative shots.
3. GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action…
Yet another top-tier upgrade option, the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is for those who truly want to capture epic landscapes and immersive scenes, especially important for expansive night sky shots. Already equipped with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod, this camera offers an incredibly broad field of view, letting you encompass more stars, more horizon, and more of the grandeur of the night. Its Pro-Quality 4K60 Video and Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization also contribute to stunning night lapse footage, ensuring your time-lapses are smooth and detailed, even if there’s any subtle camera movement. This is definitely one of the best for night lapse if you’re considering moving beyond the GoPro Hero 5.
- Ultra Wide Lens Mod included: Boosts FOV up to 177° for hyper-immersive footage.
- Pro-Quality 4K60 Video: Crisp detail and exacting image quality.
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization: Next-level in-camera video stabilization.
- Easy Vertical Capture: Perfect for social media platforms.
- What’s Included: HERO13 Black Camera, Ultra Wide Lens Mod, Enduro Battery, etc.
Pros:
– Unparalleled field of view for grand night sky captures.
– Superior video quality and stabilization.
– Excellent low-light performance due to advanced sensor.
– Ideal for capturing large-scale night time-lapses.
Cons:
– Premium price point.
– Not an accessory for the Hero 5, but a full camera upgrade.
– The ultra-wide perspective might not be desired for all night lapse subjects.
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the immersive quality of the Ultra Wide Edition, particularly for landscapes and POV footage. The robust stabilization and impressive video quality are frequently highlighted as major advantages.
4. GoPro Light Mod – Official GoPro Accessory
While you typically want dark for night lapse, having a light source can be incredibly useful for setting up your shot, focusing, or adding foreground illumination to a scene (light painting!). The official GoPro Light Mod offers exactly that: a compact, powerful, and waterproof solution. With adjustable brightness levels, you can use it to subtly illuminate elements in your foreground without washing out the night sky, or simply to see what you’re doing in the dark. It’s a handy accessory to have, even if it’s not directly part of the night lapse capture itself, but rather an aid to it.
- 4 levels of brightness: Up to 200 lumens for crisp detail.
- Built tough and waterproof: To 33ft (10m).
- Built-in rechargeable battery: Up to 6 hours of runtime.
- Compact design: Can be used alone or connected to Media Mod (sold separately).
Pros:
– Provides essential light for setting up shots in the dark.
– Durable and waterproof.
– Good battery life for extended use.
– Compact and easily mountable with other GoPro accessories.
Cons:
– Not directly used during night lapse capture (which relies on existing light sources).
– Requires Media Mod for direct camera attachment (for Hero 8/9/10/11/12, not Hero 5).
– Can be bright if not used carefully, potentially interfering with dark adaptation.
User Impressions: Customers find the Light Mod incredibly useful for vlogging and low-light video, praising its brightness and portability. Many highlight its robust build quality, typical of official GoPro accessories.
5. GoPro MAX — Waterproof 360 + Traditional Action Camera…
For the adventurous night lapse photographer who wants to experiment with unique perspectives, the GoPro MAX offers a truly versatile approach. This camera, while also an upgrade from the Hero 5, captures immersive 5.6K30 spherical video. This means you can record an entire 360-degree scene and then “reframe” your night lapse later in the GoPro Quik app, choosing the perfect conventional frame from the full spherical capture. Imagine capturing the entire night sky and then panning across it in your time-lapse! Its single-lens (HERO) mode also allows for traditional video and time-lapse, making it a flexible option if you want ultimate creative freedom.
- Ultra Versatile 360 Video: Captures 5.6K30 spherical video, no need to frame.
- Easy 360 Editing With the GoPro Quik App: Reframe footage, grab photos, add effects.
- Stealth Mounting: Pole vanishes in 360 footage for incredible self-capture.
- Single Lens Video, Photo + Time Lapse: Capture standard video, photos, and time-lapse.
- What’s Included: GoPro MAX Camera, Enduro Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, etc.
Pros:
– Unprecedented creative freedom with 360-degree capture and reframing.
– Excellent stabilization (Max HyperSmooth).
– Versatile for both 360 and traditional footage.
– Can produce very unique night lapse effects by panning/tilting digitally.
Cons:
– Higher price point compared to Hero 5.
– 360 footage requires more post-processing.
– Might be overly complex if you only need basic night lapse.
User Impressions: Users are fascinated by the MAX’s 360 capabilities and the freedom it offers in post-production. The ability to reframe and get unique angles from a single capture is a consistent highlight.
6. GoPro Hero5 Session (Renewed)
If you’re already a fan of the Hero 5 ecosystem but perhaps need a more compact or backup camera for your night lapse adventures, a renewed GoPro Hero5 Session could be a fantastic choice. This smaller, cube-shaped GoPro retains the Hero 5’s core capabilities, including stunning 4K video and 10MP photos with single, burst, and time-lapse modes. Its durable, waterproof design means you don’t need extra housing for basic protection. The Hero5 Session’s simple one-button operation makes it incredibly easy to start recording your night lapse, perfect for quick setup in the dark. This is a truly affordable way to get another capable best for night lapse GoPro Hero 5 camera.
- Stunning 4K video and 10MP photos: In single, burst, and time-lapse modes.
- Durable by design, waterproof to 33ft (10M): Without a housing.
- No LCD screen for real-time video viewing: Simpler, more compact design.
- Single press of the shutter button: Powers camera on and starts recording automatically.
Pros:
– Extremely compact and lightweight.
– Fully waterproof without external housing.
– Simple one-button operation, great for quick deployment.
– More affordable as a renewed unit.
Cons:
– No LCD screen, making framing and settings adjustments less intuitive on the device itself.
– Smaller battery compared to the Hero5 Black, meaning shorter night lapse durations without external power.
– Older model, so lower image quality than newer GoPros.
User Impressions: Users love the Hero5 Session’s minimalist design and ease of use. It’s often praised as a go-to for grab-and-go action, and the 4K video quality is generally well-regarded for its size.
7. Suptig Accessories Kit Compatible for GoPro Hero…
Another robust and comprehensive accessory kit, the Suptig 47-in-1 package is a treasure trove for any GoPro owner looking to expand their creative possibilities, especially for night lapse. The inclusion of an adjustable chest strap, head strap mount, and a highly stable suction cup mount means you have myriad options for securely placing your GoPro Hero 5. The true gem for night lapse here is the inclusion of a sturdy carrying case, ensuring all your valuable gear, including your GoPro Hero 5, is protected during transport to those remote, dark locations perfect for star gazing. Having the right mounts is key to getting steady, blur-free night lapse shots.
- 47 In 1 Accessories kit: Meets various action camera sports types.
- ADJUSTABLE CHEST STRAP Mount: Captures wonderful video/photo at different angles.
- HEAD STRAP MOUNT: Can be used on head and helmets, anti-slip swirls for grip.
- SUCTION CUP: Provides broad range of motion and stability on smooth surfaces.
- DURABLE POLYESTER LANYARD/NECK LANYARD: For action cameras, phones, keys.
- PROTECTION CARRYING CASE: Specially designed for GoPro Hero and accessories.
Pros:
– Huge variety of accessories for excellent value.
– Includes a protective carrying case, vital for gear transport.
– Multiple stable mounting options like suction cups and head/chest straps.
– Broad compatibility across GoPro Hero series, including Hero 5.
Cons:
– Some accessories might be less relevant for night lapse specific photography.
– Build quality might not match official GoPro accessories perfectly.
– Can be overwhelming with the sheer number of items.
User Impressions: Reviewers frequently highlight the excellent value for money and the wide array of useful mounts for diverse activities. The carrying case is often a praised inclusion for keeping everything organized.
8. GoPro HERO13 (Hero 13) Black – Waterproof Action Camera…
This version of the GoPro HERO13 Black emphasizes its impressive technical specifications, making it a compelling upgrade for anyone serious about high-quality footage, including night lapse. Its 27MP photos and 5.3K video capabilities, combined with a larger 1/1.9″ sensor, mean significantly improved low-light performance over the Hero 5. HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock are fantastic for smooth footage, even if you’re doing a moving night lapse. Plus, the extended battery life from the 1900mAh Enduro battery is an absolute game-changer for long night shoots, making it one of the best for night lapse GoPro Hero 5 alternative cameras available. This bundle also throws in a massive accessory kit and microSD card, making it a complete package.
- 27MP Photos and 5.3K Video: High-quality capture, UHD 5.3K60, 4K120, 2.7K240.
- 1/1.9″ sensor, HDR/HLG options, GP-Log color depth: For professional visuals.
- HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization & AutoBoost: Steady footage, 360° Horizon Lock.
- Versatile Recording Options & Battery Life: Widescreen, vertical, full-frame capture; 1900mAh Enduro battery.
- Waterproof up to 33′: Without a housing.
- Bluetooth Audio & Enhanced Connectivity: Wireless mics/headphones, Wi-Fi 6, GoPro Quik app, timecode sync.
- Bundle Includes: Camera, 50 in 1 Go Pro Accessory Kit, 64gb microSDXC Card, Microfiber Cloth.
Pros:
– Drastically improved low-light performance and image quality over Hero 5.
– Superior stabilization for any motion in your night lapse.
– Extended battery life, crucial for long night shoots.
– Comprehensive bundle with many accessories and a large SD card.
Cons:
– A significant financial investment for an upgrade.
– Overkill for casual users who only occasionally do night lapse.
– More complex features might have a steeper learning curve.
User Impressions: Users praise this HERO13 Black bundle for its comprehensive nature and the camera’s exceptional performance across the board, particularly the stunning video quality and improved battery. The inclusion of an accessory kit and SD card is a major plus.
9. GoPro HERO5 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera w/ 4K…
Sometimes, the best for night lapse GoPro Hero 5 is… another GoPro Hero 5! A certified refurbished GoPro HERO5 Black offers a fantastic balance of capability and affordability. This model provides stunning 4K video and 12MP photos with dedicated Time Lapse modes and customizable intervals (down to 0.5 seconds, which is great for fast-moving events at night or for star trails). Being waterproof to 33ft without a housing means fewer worries if you’re out in unpredictable weather. With its built-in LCD screen, you can easily preview your shots and adjust settings on the fly – a huge advantage for framing those precise night lapse compositions.
- Certified Refurbished product: Tested and certified to look and work like new.
- Stunning 4K video and 12MP photos: In Single, Burst, and Time Lapse modes.
- Durable by design, waterproof to 33ft (10m): Without a housing.
- Time Lapse Photo Intervals: 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 seconds.
- Preview and playback shots, change settings, trim footage: All on your GoPro.
Pros:
– Full functionality of the original HERO5 Black at a lower price.
– Dedicated Time Lapse modes with adjustable intervals.
– LCD screen for easy framing and settings adjustments in the field.
– Waterproof without additional housing.
Cons:
– Still an older model compared to newer GoPros, so low-light performance isn’t cutting-edge.
– Battery life can be limiting for very long night lapses without external power.
– May arrive in a generic box (as it’s refurbished).
User Impressions: Customers are generally pleased with refurbished HERO5 Black units, noting that they perform just like new ones at a fraction of the cost. The waterproof design and user-friendly interface are frequently highlighted.
10. GoPro Volta – Official GoPro Accessory
For truly epic night lapse sessions, power is paramount. The GoPro Volta is an absolute game-changer, addressing the biggest challenge of extended night photography: battery life. This official GoPro accessory is more than just a battery grip; it effectively triples your camera’s battery life, allowing you to capture full nights of star trails or city movements without interruption. Its integrated camera buttons provide easy one-handed control, which is incredibly useful in the dark. Crucially, it features flip-out tripod legs, offering a stable shooting platform without needing to carry a separate tripod. For any serious night lapse enthusiast with a compatible GoPro (including Hero 5 with the right USB-C adapter or if using a newer camera), the Volta is a must-have.
- Built-in 4900 mAh battery: Triples camera’s standard battery life.
- Integrated camera buttons: Easy one-handed control.
- Flip-out tripod legs: Provides a stable shooting platform.
- Wireless control: Turns Volta into a remote control for your camera (up to 98ft).
- Weather-resistant construction: Protected from splashing water, snow, and rain.
- LED indicators: Easy to check battery life and camera mode.
- Retractable mounting fingers & Standard 1/4-20 mount: Versatile mounting options.
- Swivel mounting fingers: Rotate and tilt camera for optimal angles.
- Media Mod compatible: For vlogging and enhanced audio (if using newer cameras).
Pros:
– Massively extends battery life, critical for long night lapses.
– Integrated tripod legs eliminate the need for a separate tripod.
– Ergonomic design with easy camera controls.
– Weather-resistant and versatile mounting options.
Cons:
– Can add bulk and weight to your setup.
– Primarily designed for newer GoPros (HERO8 Black onwards) for direct power passthrough; Hero 5 would need a USB-C adapter if it has Micro-USB for power input. However, its tripod function and remote control can still be beneficial.
– A significant investment for a battery grip.
User Impressions: Users universally praise the Volta for its incredible battery extension and the convenience of the built-in tripod. It’s considered an essential accessory for long shoots and vlogging, and its robust build quality receives high marks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Night Lapse with GoPro Hero 5
Q1: How do I set up my GoPro Hero 5 for night lapse?
A1: To set up your GoPro Hero 5 for night lapse, go to the “Modes” menu, select “Time Lapse,” then choose “Night Lapse Photo.” You’ll then be able to adjust settings like “Interval” (how often a photo is taken, e.g., 30 seconds for stars), “Shutter” (exposure time, typically 20-30 seconds for night), “Protune” (on for more control), “White Balance” (e.g., 3000K or 4000K), and “ISO Min/Max” (keep ISO low to reduce noise, e.g., 400-800). Ensure your camera is mounted on a very stable tripod!
Q2: What are the best settings for capturing star trails with GoPro Hero 5?
A2: For star trails, use “Night Lapse Photo” mode. Set your “Interval” to 30 seconds (or 15-20s if you have a lot of foreground light). Set “Shutter” to 30 seconds. Keep “ISO Min” at 100 or 400 and “ISO Max” around 800-1600 (experiment to find a balance between brightness and noise). Set “White Balance” to Auto or a cooler temperature like 3000K. Make sure Protune is on. The longer the recording, the longer your star trails will be!
Q3: Do I need extra light for night lapse photography?
A3: Generally, no, not for the main subject like stars or city lights. Night lapse relies on existing ambient light and long exposures. However, a small light (like the GoPro Light Mod) can be very useful for:
* Helping you see and set up your camera in the dark.
* Achieving focus on a foreground object before starting the lapse.
* Light painting in your foreground during some of the exposures.
Q4: How can I extend my GoPro Hero 5 battery life for long night lapse sessions?
A4: Battery life is a major challenge for long night lapses. Here are key strategies:
* External Power Bank: Connect a high-capacity USB power bank to your GoPro via the USB-C port (ensure it’s compatible and can charge while recording).
* GoPro Volta: As reviewed, this accessory triples battery life and provides a stable tripod.
* Keep it Warm: Cold weather drastically reduces battery life. Keep your camera and batteries insulated (e.g., in a hand warmer pouch) if shooting in chilly conditions.
* Turn off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: Disable wireless features you’re not using to save power.
Q5: What essential accessories are crucial for the best night lapse GoPro Hero 5 results?
A5: For the best night lapse GoPro Hero 5 results, you absolutely need:
* A sturdy tripod: Essential for stability during long exposures. Flexible tripods or full-size camera tripods work.
* External power source: A high-capacity power bank or the GoPro Volta.
* Large-capacity, fast SD card: Night lapses generate many large photo files.
* Lens cleaning cloth: Keep that lens spotless for clear shots.
* Optional: A light mod for setup/light painting, a protective case for transport.
Q6: Can I use newer GoPro accessories with my Hero 5?
A6: Many standard GoPro accessories, especially mounts (like tripod mounts, chest mounts, head straps, suction cups), are compatible across generations because they use the same mounting finger system. However, newer accessories designed for specific features (like the Media Mod for Hero 8+, or direct power passthrough on Volta with newer USB-C ports) might not offer full functionality or direct compatibility with the Hero 5 without adapters or workarounds. Always check product descriptions for specific compatibility.
Q7: What’s the difference between “Time Lapse Video” and “Night Lapse Photo” modes on GoPro Hero 5?
A7:
* Time Lapse Video: Captures a series of photos (or video frames) at set intervals and stitches them in-camera into a video file. This is quick and easy, but offers less control over individual frames and can struggle in very low light.
* Night Lapse Photo: Captures a series of individual high-resolution photos with customizable long exposure times (up to 30 seconds). These photos are then stitched together into a video using editing software on your computer (e.g., GoPro Quik, Lightroom, Photoshop). This mode is superior for night lapse as it allows for much better low-light performance, less noise, and greater flexibility in post-processing.
Capturing the magic of the night sky or the dynamic energy of a city after dark with your GoPro Hero 5 is an incredibly rewarding experience. By investing in the best gear for night lapse GoPro Hero 5, whether it’s a super-stable tripod, an extended battery solution, or even considering an upgrade to a newer, more capable model, you’re setting yourself up for truly stunning results. So, grab your gear, find a dark spot, and start creating those breathtaking night lapse sequences! Happy shooting!
