Getting great footage with your GoPro Hero 3 can be a real thrill, but let’s be honest, capturing clear, vibrant video in challenging low-light conditions – like under towering stadium lights or during evening events – can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Older GoPro models, while still fantastic, simply don’t have the advanced low-light capabilities of their newer siblings. That’s where a dedicated video light comes into play!
A good external light can dramatically improve your GoPro Hero 3’s performance, reducing graininess, enhancing colors, and bringing out details that would otherwise be lost in the shadows. Whether you’re trying to capture the action on the field, a concert from the stands, or simply want to improve your night videography, finding the best lights for GoPro Hero 3 stadium lights and other dimly lit scenarios is crucial.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up 10 top-notch lighting solutions and essential accessories that can help your trusty Hero 3 shine. We’re talking about portable, powerful, and versatile lights designed to give your footage that extra pop, making them ideal GoPro Hero 3 accessories for any low-light adventure.
Reviews of the Top Lights & Accessories for Your GoPro Hero 3
Let’s dive into our top picks that can help you master those tricky lighting conditions, especially when you need the best lights for GoPro Hero 3 stadium lights setups.
Suptig LED Video Light, Portable Photography Compatible for…
This compact and incredibly versatile LED light from Suptig is a fantastic all-rounder for anyone looking to improve their GoPro Hero 3 footage in various low-light settings. What truly makes it stand out is its adjustable color temperature, allowing you to switch between white, natural, and warm light, which is super handy for matching different environments or creating a specific mood. Plus, its small size means you can take it anywhere, and it even doubles as a grip for your GoPro!
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Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 3, plus many other action cameras and DSLRs.
- Adjustable 3 light modes: 2500K (White), 5250K (Natural), 8000K (Warm).
- Built-in 1200mAh Lithium Battery with 60-120 minutes runtime.
- Can run indefinitely off external USB power (power bank, laptop).
- Compact size (2.55″ x 2.12″ x 0.59″) and lightweight.
- Attached mounting bracket functions as a GoPro grip.
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Pros:
- Excellent versatility with adjustable color temperatures.
- Very portable and can be used as a handheld grip.
- Option to run on continuous external power for long shoots.
- Good for general low-light improvement, not just specialized use.
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Cons:
- Brightness might be limited for very large, distant subjects.
- Not primarily designed for deep underwater use (though splash-resistant).
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User Impressions: Users love its compact size, the ability to change light tones, and how easy it is to set up and use. It’s often praised as a go-to portable video light for various scenarios.
See it on Amazon here
SOONSUN Rechargeable Diving Light – 450 Lumens High Power…
Don’t let the “diving light” in the name fool you – the SOONSUN light is a powerhouse that can significantly boost your GoPro Hero 3’s performance in any low-light environment, including capturing crisp video under challenging conditions like stadium lights. Its impressive 450 lumens of brightness and a whopping 9-hour battery life (at lower settings) mean you won’t miss a moment, whether you’re underwater or recording a night game. The ability to switch between spotlight, fill, and mixed light modes gives you incredible control over your illumination.
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Key Features:
- 450 Lumens High Power with 3 Dimmable Modes (Spotlight, Fill Light, Mixed Light) and 6 brightness levels.
- Dual Rechargeable Batteries (AABAT-001, also compatible with GoPro HERO 5/6/7 Black).
- Up to 9 hours runtime at 120 lumens.
- Waterproof up to 164ft (50M) with durable aluminum alloy shell.
- USB-C Charging Port for hassle-free charging.
- Includes cold shoe adapter for versatile mounting.
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Pros:
- Exceptional brightness and highly customizable light output.
- Phenomenal battery life for extended recording sessions.
- Robust waterproof design suitable for extreme conditions.
- Convenient USB-C charging and versatile battery compatibility.
- Can serve as a powerful fill light in challenging stadium environments.
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Cons:
- Physical design is optimized for diving, might feel bulky for casual non-underwater use.
- Initial cost might be higher than smaller, less powerful lights.
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User Impressions: Customers are consistently impressed by its brightness and incredible battery longevity, making it a favorite for long dives and demanding video shoots. Its durability is also a frequently highlighted plus.
See it on Amazon here
Suptig Underwater Light, Waterproof Light, Dimmable…
The Suptig Underwater Light is a solid, dependable choice if you need a light that can handle a splash and provide reliable illumination. While primarily designed for underwater adventures, its robust waterproof build and multiple light modes make it a handy companion for outdoor night shooting or adding extra light in challenging conditions. Its compatibility with your GoPro Hero 3 (and many others!) means you’re ready for action.
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Key Features:
- Perfectly compatible with GoPro Hero 3 and many other action cameras.
- Three modes of light: Normal (HI), Power Saving (LOW), Flash (SOS).
- Rechargeable 1050mAh battery.
- Running time: High light (1.5 hours); Low light (4 hours); SOS (6 hours).
- Waterproof up to 147ft (45 meters).
- Compact size (7.5 cm x 4.2 cm x 7 cm).
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Pros:
- Reliable waterproof rating for wet environments.
- Decent battery life for its size and power.
- Simple and straightforward operation with essential light modes.
- Good value for a durable, versatile light.
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Cons:
- Brightness might be insufficient for illuminating large areas like a whole stadium.
- Primarily marketed for underwater, though adaptable.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate its dependable performance and robust build, especially for snorkeling and basic diving. Many find it bright enough for their needs in dark situations.
See it on Amazon here
Suptig Diving Light – Waterproof Underwater Light for Gopro…
This Suptig Diving Light offers a lot of what you’d expect from a dedicated underwater light, but with a special bonus for GoPro Hero 3 owners: its rechargeable 1050mAh battery is removable and compatible with GoPro Hero 3/3+ batteries. This is a huge win for existing Hero 3 users, as it means you can potentially swap batteries between your camera and the light, or use your existing Hero 3 charging setup. It’s a great option for extending your shoot time, whether at a stadium or exploring underwater.
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Key Features:
- Great for underwater POV videos; 147ft (45M) waterproof.
- Three modes of light: Normal (HI), Power Saving (LOW), Flash (SOS).
- Rechargeable 1050mAh battery.
- Running time: High light (1.5 hours); Low light (4 hours); SOS (6 hours).
- Battery can be removed for replacement and is compatible with GoPro Hero 3/3+ batteries.
- Compact size (2.95″ x 1.65″ x 2.75″).
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Pros:
- Direct battery compatibility with GoPro Hero 3/3+ is a major convenience.
- Solid waterproof rating for aquatic adventures or wet weather.
- Good runtime for its size.
- Versatile for both night use and underwater shooting.
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Cons:
- Brightness may not be sufficient for lighting very expansive scenes.
- Still primarily geared towards underwater, though adaptable.
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User Impressions: Reviewers highly value the interchangeable battery feature, finding it incredibly convenient for managing power across their GoPro gear. Its waterproof capability is also consistently praised.
See it on Amazon here
Suptig Diving Light High Power Dimmable Waterproof LED…
If you’re looking for more punch in your portable lighting, this Suptig Diving Light steps up the game with 500 lumens and a wide-angle beam from 36 LEDs. This means a broader and brighter spread of light, which can be particularly useful when trying to illuminate a wider area for your GoPro Hero 3, even in environments with existing ambient light like a stadium. Like its sibling, it also features removable battery compatibility with Hero 3/3+ batteries, blending power with convenience.
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Key Features:
- 500 Lumen Max (5500K-6000K) from 36 LEDs for wide-angle illumination.
- Widely compatible with GoPro Hero 3 and many other action cameras.
- Waterproof up to 147ft (45M).
- Three modes of light: Normal (HI), Power Saving (LOW), Flash (SOS).
- Rechargeable 1050mAh battery, removable and compatible with GoPro Hero 3/3+ batteries.
- Running time: High light (1.5 hours); Low light (4 hours); SOS (6 hours).
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Pros:
- Higher brightness and wider beam coverage than many compact lights.
- Removable battery, with convenient GoPro Hero 3/3+ compatibility.
- Durable and waterproof for versatile use in various conditions.
- Excellent for capturing clearer, more vibrant low-light video.
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Cons:
- While brighter, it might still have limitations for massive, far-off subjects in large arenas.
- Predominantly marketed for diving.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the extra brightness and wide beam, noting that it makes a noticeable difference in their video quality, especially for underwater and low-light night shots. The removable battery is a continuous favorite feature.
See it on Amazon here
GEPULY Underwater Light Dive Lights 164FT 3 Modes High…
The GEPULY Underwater Light is another serious contender for those who need robust and long-lasting illumination. Its standout features include a very deep 164ft (50m) waterproof rating, and incredibly flexible lighting with 3 modes and 6 adjustable brightness levels, allowing you to fine-tune the output precisely. Best of all, it boasts an impressive 9 hours of runtime at its lowest setting, ensuring your GoPro Hero 3 won’t be left in the dark during extended events or night shoots.
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Key Features:
- Waterproof Up to 164ft (50 meters) with solid aluminum alloy housing.
- 3 Modes (Action Sports, Target Spot, Ambient) and 6 Grade Lumens Adjustable.
- Rechargeable by two Li-ion batteries, providing up to 9 hours runtime (120 lumen).
- Micro USB charging for convenience.
- Lightweight (8.5 ounces) and compact.
- Comes with dual-head mount and cold shoe mount adapter for versatile camera compatibility.
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Pros:
- Exceptional waterproof depth and durable construction.
- Highly customizable lighting output for various scenarios.
- Outstanding battery life for long filming sessions.
- Includes versatile mounting options for action cameras and DSLRs.
- Ideal for improving GoPro Hero 3 video quality in challenging low-light environments.
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Cons:
- Primarily designed for underwater, so its aesthetics might not be for everyone.
- Might be overkill for very casual general use.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the GEPULY light’s endurance and build quality. It’s consistently praised for its reliable performance in challenging conditions, making it a favorite for serious enthusiasts.
See it on Amazon here
GoPro Light Mod – Official GoPro Accessory
While designed with newer GoPros in mind (for Media Mod integration), the Official GoPro Light Mod is a fantastic standalone accessory for your GoPro Hero 3 when you need reliable, compact illumination. It delivers up to 200 lumens of crisp light and is built with GoPro’s signature toughness, including a 33ft (10m) waterproof rating. If you value seamless compatibility and the peace of mind that comes with an official product, this compact light is a great pick.
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Key Features:
- 4 levels of brightness, up to 200 lumens for crisp detail.
- Built tough and waterproof to 33ft (10m).
- Built-in rechargeable battery with up to 6 hours of runtime.
- Compact design for standalone use or with GoPro mounts/accessories.
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Pros:
- Official GoPro quality and reliability.
- Extremely compact and easy to carry.
- Decent battery life for its size.
- Simple to operate with consistent output.
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Cons:
- Lower max brightness compared to some third-party options.
- Requires Media Mod for full integration with Hero 8/9/10/11/12 (not directly relevant for Hero 3, but good to note).
- Generally a higher price point for its lumen output.
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User Impressions: Loyal GoPro users appreciate its compact form factor and seamless integration (where applicable). It’s seen as a reliable, if not intensely powerful, lighting solution for everyday use and light-duty scenarios.
See it on Amazon here
Suptig Waterproof High Power Dimmable Dual Battery Fill…
If extended recording is your game, especially when capturing long events like stadium games, this Suptig light with its dual battery setup is a true champion. Featuring two 1160mAh batteries (compatible with GoPro Hero 4 camera batteries, which can be adapted for Hero 3 users), it offers an astounding 3 hours of high-light runtime or up to 12 hours on SOS mode. This means you can keep your GoPro Hero 3 recording for much longer, ensuring you don’t miss any of the action due to a dying light.
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Key Features:
- Waterproof up to 147ft (45M) for versatile use.
- Three modes of light: Normal (HI), Power Saving (LOW), Flash (SOS).
- Rechargeable with 2x1160mAh batteries (compatible with GoPro Hero 4 camera batteries).
- Running time: High light (3 hours); Low light (8 hours); SOS (12 hours).
- Compact size (2.9″ x 2.2″ x 2.5″).
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Pros:
- Exceptional battery life thanks to the dual-battery design.
- Removable batteries offer flexibility.
- Robust waterproof construction.
- Provides consistent illumination for long recording periods.
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Cons:
- Battery compatibility is with Hero 4, not natively Hero 3 (though still provides ample power).
- Like other “diving” lights, its primary marketing focus isn’t general stadium use.
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User Impressions: The extended battery life is the biggest draw for users, making it a reliable choice for long shoots or multiple dives without needing to recharge. Its consistent light output is also highly regarded.
See it on Amazon here
Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for Gopro Hero…
Okay, this isn’t a light itself, but it’s an absolutely essential accessory for anyone looking to maximize their GoPro Hero 3’s recording time, especially when using power-hungry external lights for stadium events or long night shoots. This pack provides two high-capacity 1050mAh batteries and a convenient dual charger, ensuring your GoPro Hero 3 (or compatible Suptig lights) stays powered up and ready for action. Don’t let a dead battery cut your recording short!
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Key Features:
- 2x 1050mAh / 3.7V / 4.9Wh Li-ion batteries for extended life.
- Dual power charging: charges two batteries simultaneously.
- Compatible with GoPro HERO3 and HERO3+ models, and Suptig AHDBT-301/302 batteries.
- Versatile charging with MINI USB, MICRO USB, and iPhone 4 data cable interfaces.
- Incredibly compact charger (1.9″x1.77″x0.51″).
- Full charge in about 2.5-3 hours for two batteries.
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Pros:
- Crucial for extended shooting sessions, preventing downtime.
- Simultaneous dual charging saves time.
- Wide compatibility with Hero 3/3+ and various charging cables.
- Compact and portable for travel.
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Cons:
- Not a light source itself, so it doesn’t directly solve illumination issues but supports them.
- Requires an adapter (not included) for wall charging.
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User Impressions: Users universally praise this pack for its convenience and reliability, noting that it’s a “must-have” for anyone who uses their GoPro frequently and needs extra power on the go.
See it on Amazon here
Suptig Waterproof Light Underwater Light for Gopro Hero 13,…
Capping off our list is arguably one of the most powerful and robust lights from Suptig, boasting a fantastic 1300 lux brightness and an impressive 180ft (55m) waterproof rating. This light is built like a tank with stainless steel and ultra-durable PC material, making it ideal for the harshest conditions, whether deep underwater or tackling challenging outdoor night videography. Its 4 lighting modes and a built-in 2500mAh battery provide ample power for illuminating subjects for your GoPro Hero 3, even under vast stadium lights where extra punch is needed.
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Key Features:
- Perfectly compatible with GoPro Hero 3 and many other action cameras/DSLRs.
- 180ft Waterproof (55m) for extreme durability.
- Built-in rechargeable 2500mAh lithium battery.
- 30-LEDs high-brightness design, 1300 lux, Color temperature 5500k.
- 4 lighting modes: High (2.5 hours), Mid (3.5 hours), Low (5 hours), SOS (9 hours).
- Careful design with Stainless steel and ultra-durable PC material.
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Pros:
- Exceptional brightness (1300 lux) and wide beam.
- Deepest waterproof rating among the reviewed products.
- Long built-in battery life (up to 2.5 hours on high).
- Extremely durable construction for demanding environments.
- Provides significant illumination for improving GoPro Hero 3 footage in low light.
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Cons:
- Built-in battery means no hot-swapping like models with removable batteries.
- Slightly larger profile due to its power and battery.
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User Impressions: This light receives high marks for its raw power and ruggedness. Users are consistently impressed by how much light it throws, making it ideal for serious underwater videography and powerful illumination in very dark settings.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section: Illuminating Your GoPro Hero 3’s Potential
Q1: Why do I need an external light for my GoPro Hero 3, especially at stadium lights?
A1: Older GoPro models like the Hero 3 have smaller sensors and less advanced low-light processing compared to newer cameras. Even under bright stadium lights, your footage can appear grainy, dark, or lack detail due, to the camera’s inability to capture enough light efficiently. An external light acts as a fill light or primary illumination, adding necessary light to your subject, reducing digital noise, and improving overall video clarity and color.
Q2: Are “underwater lights” suitable for land-based stadium shooting?
A2: Absolutely! While marketed for underwater use, many of these lights are incredibly bright, durable, and offer long battery life – qualities that are just as valuable for land-based low-light shooting. Their robust, waterproof design also means they can handle accidental drops or unexpected weather, making them versatile for outdoor events like stadium games.
Q3: How do lumens relate to the effectiveness of a light for my GoPro Hero 3?
A3: Lumens measure the total amount of visible light from a source. Higher lumen counts generally mean a brighter light. For your GoPro Hero 3, especially in stadium environments, more lumens can help illuminate subjects further away or provide a stronger fill light. However, also consider the beam angle (wide vs. spot) and color temperature, as these also affect the light’s usability.
Q4: What’s the best way to mount an external light to my GoPro Hero 3?
A4: Most lights come with standard GoPro-compatible mounts (like a two-prong or cold shoe adapter). You can attach them directly to your existing GoPro mounts, selfie sticks, chest harnesses, or head straps. Some even have a cold shoe adapter to fit onto DSLR rigs. For the Hero 3, ensure the light’s mount is compatible with the GoPro quick-release buckle system.
Q5: How important is battery life when choosing a light for stadium events?
A5: Very important! Stadium events can be long, and you don’t want your light dying halfway through. Look for lights with at least 1.5-2 hours of runtime on their highest setting. Lights with larger built-in batteries or those that use removable/swappable batteries (especially if they’re compatible with your Hero 3 batteries) offer the most flexibility for extended shooting.
Q6: Can these lights improve the color quality of my GoPro Hero 3 video?
A6: Yes, definitely! Good lighting, especially lights with adjustable color temperatures, can drastically improve the color accuracy and vibrancy of your GoPro Hero 3 footage. By adding a balanced light source, you can minimize color shifts caused by insufficient ambient light and make your subjects pop with more natural and appealing hues.
Q7: Should I choose a light with removable batteries or a built-in battery?
A7: Both have pros and cons. Lights with removable batteries (like some Suptig models compatible with Hero 3/3+ batteries) offer the convenience of swapping out dead batteries for fresh ones, extending your shooting time without waiting for a recharge. Lights with built-in batteries often have higher capacities or sleeker designs, but require a charging break once depleted. Consider your typical shooting duration and preference for convenience.
Conclusion
Don’t let dim conditions or the massive scale of stadium lights hold back your GoPro Hero 3’s potential. By investing in one of the best lights for GoPro Hero 3 stadium lights and general low-light scenarios, you can transform your action camera’s capabilities, capturing brighter, clearer, and more vibrant footage than ever before. Whether you opt for a powerful diving light adaptable for land use or a compact, versatile LED, the right illumination accessory is key to unlocking your Hero 3’s true performance in challenging environments. Pick your favorite, power up, and go capture some amazing moments!
