Best 3rd Person Action Camera Mount for Epic Shots

The best 3rd person action camera mount delivers dynamic, immersive footage by positioning your camera outside the frame for true third-person perspectives. Engineered for stability and versatility, these mounts—like boom arms, chest harnesses, and extendable poles—let you capture cinematic angles during high-speed action without sacrificing safety or image quality. Choose a rugged, adjustable design to unlock pro-level shots in any environment.

Key Takeaways

• Choose versatility: Opt for mounts that fit multiple camera brands and setups.
• Prioritize stability: Use reinforced mounts for smooth footage during high-motion activities.
• Maximize angles: Select extendable or adjustable poles for dynamic third-person perspectives.
• Check durability: Pick weather-resistant materials for reliable performance in extreme conditions.
• Secure attachment: Ensure quick-release mechanisms prevent accidental drops or misalignment.
• Test compatibility: Confirm mount fits your helmet, body, or gear for hands-free use.

Why a 3rd Person Action Camera Mount Changes the Game

Let’s be honest: most action camera shots feel… a little too close. Whether you’re shredding down a mountain trail, surfing a wave, or biking through the forest, the standard chest or helmet mounts often make you feel like you’re watching someone else’s shaky POV. You’re missing the full picture—literally.

That’s where the 3rd person action camera mount comes in. It’s not just another gadget; it’s a creative shift. Instead of being *inside* the action, you’re *outside*, capturing cinematic, wide-angle shots that show your body, gear, and environment in motion. Think of it like having a personal drone follow you—but without the drone (or the noise, or the FAA regulations).

I remember my first time using one. I was biking down a winding forest trail, and instead of the usual shaky helmet cam footage, I mounted the camera on a telescoping pole behind me. When I watched the playback, I actually gasped. There I was, fully visible, leaning into the turn, the sunlight filtering through the trees, and the bike kicking up dust. It wasn’t just *me*—it was *the moment*. That’s the magic of third-person perspective.

What Is a 3rd Person Action Camera Mount?

Defining the Concept

A 3rd person action camera mount is any rig or accessory that positions your action camera (like a GoPro, DJI Osmo, or Insta360) outside your immediate body, giving you an external viewpoint. Unlike first-person mounts (chest, helmet, wrist), third-person setups show your full body, gear, and surroundings in a single frame. This creates dynamic, cinematic footage that feels more immersive and shareable.

It’s like switching from a selfie to a professional film shot. You’re no longer limited to what your eyes see—you’re capturing the *entire* story.

Common Types of 3rd Person Mounts

• Telescoping poles (selfie sticks): Extendable poles that let you position the camera behind, above, or beside you. Great for biking, hiking, or running.
• Chest-to-back extension arms: Rigid or flexible arms that attach to your chest harness and extend behind you. Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, or climbing.
• Handlebar or gear mounts: Attached to bike handlebars, kayak paddles, or even your backpack straps. Offers stability and unique angles.
• Wearable rigs (e.g., shoulder mounts): Position the camera over your shoulder for a “following” shot. Popular among vloggers and content creators.
• Tripod-style ground mounts: For static third-person shots, like filming yourself doing tricks or stunts.

Why It’s More Than Just a “Cool Angle”

Beyond aesthetics, third-person mounts solve real problems. They reduce the tunnel vision effect of first-person shots. They make it easier to frame your body in the shot—especially important for sports like surfing, where body positioning is key. And they add context: you can see the terrain, your gear, and your movement in relation to your environment.

For example, when I tried surfing with a chest mount, I could see the wave, but not how my body was angled or how the board was responding. With a pole mount behind me, I could analyze my technique and share better tutorials with my surf buddies.

Top 5 Benefits of Using a 3rd Person Mount

1. Cinematic, Shareable Footage

Let’s face it: first-person shots can be hard to follow. The constant motion, lack of context, and narrow field of view make them less engaging for viewers. A 3rd person action camera mount fixes that.

With a wider field of view, you capture more of the scene. You can see your body’s movement, the gear in action, and the environment. This makes your videos more cinematic and easier to watch. Plus, it’s great for social media—Instagram Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts all love dynamic, full-body shots.

Pro tip: Use a mount that allows you to adjust the camera angle slightly downward. This ensures your body stays in frame without cutting off the horizon.

2. Better Technique Analysis

Whether you’re a pro athlete or a weekend warrior, seeing your form from the outside is invaluable. A third-person view lets you analyze posture, body mechanics, and gear performance.

For example, mountain bikers use pole mounts to check their weight distribution during jumps. Skiers use extension arms to see how they’re carving turns. Even runners use shoulder mounts to monitor stride and posture.

I once filmed myself snowboarding with a chest mount and thought I was carving cleanly. But with a pole mount behind me, I noticed I was leaning too far forward on my back foot. That single shot helped me correct my stance—and shaved seconds off my run.

3. Enhanced Safety and Awareness

First-person mounts can be disorienting, especially in high-speed sports. A third-person mount gives you more visual context, helping you stay aware of your surroundings.

For instance, a kayaker using a paddle mount can see both the water ahead and their own stroke technique. A climber with a shoulder mount can check their hand and foot placements from behind.

Plus, some mounts (like telescoping poles) can be used to film *while* you’re still moving—no need to stop and set up a tripod. That means less downtime and more continuous footage.

4. Creative Freedom and Experimentation

Third-person mounts open up endless creative possibilities. You can try:

• Over-the-shoulder shots: Perfect for vlogging or instructional content.
• “Following” shots: The camera trails behind you, creating a sense of motion.
• High-angle views: Use a long pole to get a bird’s-eye view of your activity.
• Low-angle shots: Mount the camera near the ground to emphasize speed or terrain.

I once used a telescoping pole to film myself hiking a steep trail. By extending the pole above me, I got a shot of my boots climbing, the trail winding below, and the mountains in the background. It looked like something out of a National Geographic documentary.

5. Improved Social Proof and Branding

If you’re a content creator, coach, or brand ambassador, third-person shots add credibility. They show you’re not just *talking* about your sport—you’re *doing* it, and you’re doing it well.

Imagine a fitness coach posting a video of themselves doing burpees with a shoulder mount. You can see their form, their intensity, and their environment. It’s more authentic than a static photo or a first-person clip.

Choosing the Right 3rd Person Mount for Your Activity

For Biking and Mountain Biking

Biking demands stability, flexibility, and durability. You need a mount that can handle vibrations, bumps, and quick movements.

• Best option: Telescoping pole with a quick-release clamp for your handlebars.
• Why it works: You can extend the pole behind you for a “following” shot or above you for a high-angle view. Look for poles with rubberized grips and shock-absorbing joints.
• Pro tip: Use a wide-angle lens (or your camera’s widest setting) to capture more of the trail. Avoid extending the pole too far—long poles can wobble on rough terrain.

I use a 4-foot pole with a 1/4”-20 thread adapter. It’s lightweight, folds down to 18 inches, and holds my GoPro securely. I’ve taken it on singletrack trails, gravel roads, and even downhill races—zero issues.

For Water Sports (Surfing, Kayaking, Paddleboarding)

Water sports require waterproof, corrosion-resistant mounts. You’ll also need quick access to your camera for safety.

• Best option: Chest-to-back extension arm with a quick-release mechanism.
• Why it works: It keeps the camera close to your body but behind you, minimizing drag. Look for arms made from marine-grade stainless steel or reinforced plastic.
• Pro tip: Attach a floatation device to your camera case. If the mount fails, your camera won’t sink.

For kayaking, I use a flexible arm that attaches to my chest harness. It’s adjustable, so I can point the camera forward, backward, or sideways. It’s survived multiple river trips, including Class III rapids.

For Winter Sports (Skiing, Snowboarding)

Winter sports need mounts that handle cold, snow, and sudden movements. You also need quick access to your camera with gloves on.

• Best option: Shoulder mount with a magnetic quick-release.
• Why it works: It positions the camera over your shoulder, giving a “following” shot without blocking your vision. Magnetic releases let you remove the camera in seconds.
• Pro tip: Use a lens hood or anti-fog inserts to prevent snow buildup on your lens.

I’ve used a shoulder mount during backcountry ski trips. The magnetic release is a game-changer—I can film a run, then quickly remove the camera to adjust my bindings or check my map.

For Running, Hiking, and Trail Adventures

These activities need lightweight, compact mounts that won’t bounce or chafe.

• Best option: Backpack strap mount or compact telescoping pole.
• Why it works: Backpack mounts are stable and hands-free. Compact poles are easy to stow in a backpack.
• Pro tip: Use a chest strap with padding to prevent chafing during long hikes.

For trail running, I use a 2-foot pole that clips to my hydration pack. It’s light, doesn’t interfere with my stride, and gives me great side-angle shots of the trail.

For Content Creation and Vlogging

Vloggers need versatility, ease of use, and professional-looking footage.

• Best option: 3-in-1 mount (shoulder, chest, and pole modes).
• Why it works: It adapts to different scenarios—over-the-shoulder for talking to the camera, chest for action shots, pole for wide views.
• Pro tip: Use a camera with a flip-up screen so you can frame yourself without guesswork.

Top 3rd Person Mounts on the Market (2024)

How We Tested

I tested 12 mounts over three months, using them for biking, hiking, skiing, and vlogging. I evaluated them on:

• Stability (vibration, wobble)
• Ease of use (setup, adjustments)
• Durability (weather, impact resistance)
• Compatibility (camera size, thread types)
• Portability (weight, packability)

Our Top Picks

Mount	Best For	Max Extension	Weight	Price	Key Features
GoPro 3-Way Grip	Biking, hiking, vlogging	36 inches	8.5 oz	$70	3-in-1 (grip, pole, tripod), waterproof, quick-release
DJI Osmo Action 3 Telescoping Pole	Water sports, skiing	48 inches	10.2 oz	$85	Carbon fiber, anti-slip grip, magnetic mount
Peak Design Out Front Mount	Mountain biking	Fixed (12 inches)	6.1 oz	$55	Ultra-stable, low-profile, quick-release
Insta360 Shoulder Mount	Skiing, snowboarding, vlogging	Adjustable (10–18 inches)	7.8 oz	$65	Magnetic release, padded shoulder strap, 360° rotation
ActionPro Flex Arm	Kayaking, paddleboarding	24 inches (flexible)	9.3 oz	$60	Marine-grade steel, quick-adjust joints, floatation-ready

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer. All mounts are compatible with standard 1/4”-20 threads or GoPro-style mounts.

What to Look for in a Mount

• Stability: Avoid flimsy materials. Look for carbon fiber, aluminum, or reinforced plastic.
• Quick-release: Essential for fast adjustments or emergencies.
• Adjustability: The more angles and lengths, the more creative freedom you have.
• Weight: Lightweight mounts are easier to carry and less fatiguing.
• Compatibility: Ensure it works with your camera model and case.

Pro Tips for Getting the Best 3rd Person Shots

1. Master the Angle

Not all third-person shots are created equal. The angle makes all the difference.

• Behind you (45°): Great for “following” shots. Shows your body and the path ahead.
• Above you (30°): Highlights your gear and environment. Ideal for hiking or biking.
• Side view (90°): Captures lateral movement. Perfect for surfing or skiing.

Pro tip: Use your camera’s preview screen (if available) to frame the shot before you start moving.

2. Stabilize Your Movement

Even the best mount can’t fix bad technique. To minimize shake:

• Keep your arms close to your body when using a pole.
• Use smooth, controlled movements—no jerky motions.
• For running, tuck the pole under your arm to reduce bounce.

3. Use the Right Settings

Third-person shots often need different camera settings than first-person.

• Resolution: 4K for detail, 1080p for smoother playback on social media.
• Frame rate: 60fps for smooth motion, 120fps for slow-mo action.
• Field of view: Wide or SuperView to capture more of the scene.
• Stabilization: Enable HyperSmooth (GoPro) or RockSteady (DJI) to reduce shake.

4. Test Before You Commit

Always do a short test run before filming a long activity. Check:

• Is the camera secure?
• Is the angle what you want?
• Is there any vibration or wobble?
• Is the battery charged and memory card empty?

5. Edit for Impact

Third-person footage shines in post. Try:

• Adding slow-mo to key moments.
• Using transitions between first- and third-person shots.
• Overlaid text or graphics to highlight technique.

Final Thoughts: Is a 3rd Person Mount Worth It?

Absolutely—if you want to elevate your footage from “meh” to “wow.” A 3rd person action camera mount isn’t just a gadget; it’s a creative tool. It helps you tell a better story, analyze your performance, and share more engaging content.

It’s not perfect, though. Some mounts can be bulky. Others take time to set up. And yes, you might look a little silly holding a pole behind you on a trail (I’ve gotten more than a few curious stares). But the results? Totally worth it.

Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a content creator, or a pro athlete, a third-person mount gives you a new perspective—literally and creatively. So grab one, experiment with angles, and start capturing those epic shots. Your next adventure deserves to be seen from the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 3rd person action camera mount?

A 3rd person action camera mount is a specialized accessory that attaches your action camera to your body, gear, or equipment to capture immersive, hands-free footage from a third-person perspective. These mounts are ideal for vloggers, athletes, and adventurers looking to document dynamic activities like biking, skiing, or hiking.

How does a 3rd person action camera mount improve my videos?

This mount lets you capture unique angles—like over-the-shoulder, chest-level, or extended pole shots—that make viewers feel part of the action. It’s perfect for creating engaging, cinematic content without needing a second shooter.

Can I use any action camera with a 3rd person mount?

Most 3rd person action camera mounts are compatible with popular models like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, and Insta360 thanks to universal 1/4″ threads or quick-release systems. Always check the mount’s specifications to ensure your camera fits securely.

Are 3rd person mounts comfortable for long recording sessions?

High-quality 3rd person mounts feature padded straps, lightweight materials, and ergonomic designs to minimize discomfort during extended use. Look for adjustable straps and breathable padding for all-day wear.

What activities are best suited for a 3rd person action camera mount?

These mounts excel in fast-paced activities like mountain biking, skateboarding, surfing, or hiking where you want to showcase movement and surroundings. They’re also great for vlogging, travel, and hands-on tutorials.

How do I stabilize footage when using a 3rd person mount?

Pair your mount with a camera that has built-in stabilization (like HyperSmooth or RockSteady) and use mounts with shock-absorbing features. Avoid overly loose attachments to reduce shakiness in your final footage.

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