Capturing stunning footage or photos after dark with your action camera can be a real challenge. Especially if you’re still rocking the legendary GoPro Hero 4 Black, you know it’s a powerful camera, but low-light performance can always use a boost! Whether you’re aiming for epic night lapses of the stars, capturing a bonfire party, or just want clearer videos in dim conditions, having the right gear is key.
This guide dives deep into the best gear for GoPro Hero 4 Black at night, exploring not just accessories that directly help with illumination, but also crucial components that keep your camera running smoothly and open up new possibilities. We’ve scoured the options to bring you a selection of products that can seriously enhance your night photography and videography experience, even offering a peek at what newer models bring to the table if you’re considering an upgrade. Let’s get your Hero 4 Black ready to conquer the darkness!
1. GoPro Hero4 Black
The original GoPro Hero4 Black isn’t just a camera; it’s the foundation for your night-time adventures. What truly makes it stand out for night shooting, especially back in its day, is its dedicated “Night Photo” and “Night Lapse” modes. These features allow for customizable exposure settings, meaning you can dial in longer shutter speeds to capture more light in dimly lit environments. This capability, built right into the camera, is your primary tool for amazing low-light shots.
- Professional 4k30, 2.7k60 and 1080P120 video, 720P240 video for super slow motion playback
- 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support the GoPro app, Smart Remote, and more
- Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
- Protune with SuperView delivers cinema quality capture and advanced manual control
- Night Photo and Night Lapse offer customizable exposure settings for nighttime shooting
Pros:
– Dedicated night modes for long exposure photography.
– Protune offers manual control over settings like ISO and shutter speed.
– High video resolutions for detailed capture.
Cons:
– Older sensor technology compared to newer models, can introduce noise in very low light.
– Battery life can be an issue with extended night lapse sessions.
User Impressions: Users often praise the Hero 4 Black’s robust build and its groundbreaking (for its time) 4K capabilities. For night shooting, many appreciated the flexibility of Night Photo/Lapse, though some noted that pushing ISO too high could result in grainy footage, a common limitation for action cameras in the dark.
2. Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for GoPro Hero…
When you’re shooting long exposures or extended night lapses, battery life becomes a critical factor. The Suptig Battery 2-Pack with a Dual Charger is a game-changer, ensuring your GoPro Hero 4 Black won’t die on you mid-star trail capture. Having extra batteries ready to go is simply indispensable for any serious night photographer, as low-light shooting often drains power faster. This kit ensures you’re never left in the dark, literally!
- Using high-tech lithium battery technology: Battery capacity 1160mAh / 3.8V / 4.4Wh / Li-ion for longer battery life.
- Dual battery charger: one charger can simultaneously charge two batteries with PCB safety circuit design.
- Compatible with the HERO4 Black and HERO4 Silver models; works for GoPro batteries or Suptig AHDBT-401 Batteries.
- Incredibly Compact: The Suptig dual battery charger Size:(2.1×1.7×0.78 in).
- Charges two batteries fully in about 2:30-3 hours with a 1A adapter (not included).
- What You Get: 1x Suptig dual battery charger, 2x batteries, 1x MINI USB Cable.
Pros:
– Essential for extending shooting time, especially crucial for night lapses.
– Dual charger saves time by charging two batteries simultaneously.
– Compact design makes it easy to carry.
– Compatible with both Suptig and original GoPro batteries.
Cons:
– 1A adapter is not included, requires a separate purchase or existing one.
– Battery capacity (1160mAh) is standard, not significantly higher than original.
User Impressions: Customers frequently commend this kit for its value and reliability. Many found the extra batteries and the dual charger to be a lifesaver, especially for longer shoots or when traveling. The compact size of the charger also earned positive remarks.
3. GoPro HERO4 Black Edition Camera (Renewed)
Getting a renewed GoPro HERO4 Black Edition Camera is an excellent way to get your hands on this capable device at a potentially lower price. It offers all the same fantastic features as a new unit, including those vital Night Photo and Night Lapse modes, which are absolutely essential for any aspiring low-light photographer. A renewed model is a smart choice if you’re looking to replace a lost Hero 4 or want a secondary camera without breaking the bank, ensuring you still have the core capabilities for amazing night shots.
- Professional 4K30, 2.7K60 and 1080p120 video, 720p240 video for super slow-motion playback
- 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for GoPro App, Smart Remote, etc.
- Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
- Protune with SuperView delivers cinema-quality capture and advanced manual control
- Night Photo and Night Lapse offer customizable exposure settings for nighttime shooting
Pros:
– More affordable way to acquire the Hero 4 Black’s night capabilities.
– Rigorously tested and certified to work like new.
– Access to all original features, including night modes.
Cons:
– Might not come with all original accessories (check seller specifics).
– Limited warranty compared to a new product.
User Impressions: Renewed products generally receive positive feedback when they meet the “like new” promise. Users appreciate getting a fully functional camera at a reduced cost, allowing them to experience the Hero 4 Black’s night features without the full retail price.
4. GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Housing Case with Bracket…
While not directly enhancing light, a good frame mount like the GEPULY Protective Housing is incredibly useful for GoPro Hero 4 Black users, especially for night shooting scenarios. Its open design allows direct access to the camera’s USB port, which is crucial if you plan to power your GoPro externally for super long night lapses (e.g., connected to a power bank). Plus, the included lens cap is a lifesaver for protecting your lens when you’re not shooting in the dark.
- All Buttons and Slots Fully Accessible: Reserved holes for all buttons and slots, allowing full-time access to USB and HDMI ports for charging, data offload, and live-feed video.
- Ultra-big Side Opening Design: Allows installing/uninstalling the USB side door without removing the frame, enabling optimal audio capture.
- Compact & Lightweight: Specially designed for standard size GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, HERO4 Black/Silver cameras.
- Included Lens Cap & Tripod Adapter: Silicone lens cap protects the lens; tripod adapter connects to tripods and monopods.
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with GoPro Hero3, Hero 3+, Hero4 Black/Silver cameras.
Pros:
– Allows external power access, essential for long night lapse sessions.
– Open design prevents overheating during prolonged use.
– Included lens cap protects valuable camera lens from scratches and dust.
– Maintains lightweight profile compared to full waterproof housings.
Cons:
– Offers less protection than a full waterproof housing for extreme conditions.
– Cannot be used with Bacpac LCD screen or Battery extension.
User Impressions: Users value this frame for its functionality and slim profile. The ability to access ports without removing the camera is a big plus, and the lens cap is a welcome addition for everyday protection.
5. SOONSUN USB Side Door Cover Replacement Repair Part for…
This might seem like a small detail, but a functional USB side door cover is more important than you think, especially when your GoPro Hero 4 Black is out in the elements during night shoots. Whether it’s to protect against dew, light rain, or just dust while on a tripod for a long night lapse, this replacement part ensures your ports are sealed and your camera’s internals are safe. It’s about maintaining your camera’s integrity so it can continue to perform optimally at night.
- The surface of the USB side door cover feels good and smooth.
- 100% brand new and precision manufactured.
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 4 Black and Silver camera perfectly.
- Come with U Shape Silicone Rubber Locking Plug.
Pros:
– Essential for maintaining dust and splash resistance.
– Ensures the longevity and reliability of your camera.
– Easy to install replacement for a lost or damaged original.
Cons:
– Doesn’t directly enhance low-light performance, but rather protects the camera.
– Small part, easy to misplace if not careful.
User Impressions: Simple yet effective, users who needed a replacement found this part to be a perfect fit and appreciated its quality, which allowed them to keep their Hero 4 Black protected and fully functional.
6. GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action…
Important Note: While this is a fantastic camera, the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is a newer camera model and not an accessory for the GoPro Hero 4 Black. If you’re looking for the absolute best in low-light performance and a significant upgrade from your Hero 4 Black, this camera is a strong contender. Its advanced sensor, HyperSmooth stabilization, and enhanced low-light capabilities far surpass what the Hero 4 Black can do, especially with its impressive Ultra Wide Lens Mod for epic, immersive nightscapes.
- Ultra Wide = Ultra Immersive: Comes with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod already attached, boosting field of view up to 177°.
- Pro-Quality 4K60 Video: Captures in 4K60 with crisp detail and choice of five digital lenses.
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization: Takes stabilization to the next level in every resolution.
- Easy Vertical Capture: Simplifies shooting for social media platforms.
- What’s Included: HERO13 Black Camera, Ultra Wide Lens Mod, Standard Lens Cover, Enduro Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, Mounting Buckle + Thumb Screw, USB-C Cable, Camera Case.
Pros:
– Significantly superior low-light performance compared to Hero 4 Black due to newer sensor and processing.
– Unbeatable HyperSmooth stabilization for smooth night footage.
– Ultra Wide Lens Mod is perfect for capturing expansive night scenes like star trails or cityscapes.
– Easy vertical capture is a bonus for social media sharing.
Cons:
– Not compatible with Hero 4 Black accessories (requires new mounts, batteries etc.).
– A significant investment as it’s a completely new camera, not an accessory.
– Far exceeds the “for GoPro Hero 4 Black” search criteria.
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the clarity and stabilization of the latest GoPros. The Ultra Wide lens is a particular hit for its immersive quality, making it ideal for capturing vast night skies or intricate urban nightscapes with incredible detail and minimal shake.
7. GoPro Light Mod – Official GoPro Accessory
This is perhaps one of the most direct answers to improving your GoPro Hero 4 Black’s performance at night. The GoPro Light Mod provides powerful, portable illumination for your scenes. While primarily designed for newer GoPros (via Media Mod), you can absolutely use this light independently or mount it alongside your Hero 4 Black using standard GoPro mounts. It’s fantastic for illuminating close-up subjects, adding fill light to dark scenes, or even creating unique lighting effects for your night photography and videography.
- 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 is perfect to use by itself, connect to Media Mod (sold separately for newer GoPros), or attach to various GoPro Mounts plus Accessories (sold separately).
Pros:
– Provides direct illumination for low-light shooting.
– Waterproof and durable, suitable for outdoor night adventures.
– Versatile, can be used standalone or mounted with your Hero 4 Black.
– Excellent battery life for extended use.
Cons:
– Max 200 lumens might not be enough for very large, dark scenes.
– Requires separate mounting if not using Media Mod.
User Impressions: Users love the convenience and robustness of the Light Mod. It’s praised for being surprisingly bright for its size and its waterproof design adds to its utility for diverse shooting conditions, including those tricky night and underwater scenarios.
8. GoPro Hero12 Black E-Commerce Package – Waterproof Action…
Important Note: Like the Hero 13, the GoPro Hero12 Black is a brand-new camera model, not an accessory for the GoPro Hero 4 Black. However, it represents a monumental leap in performance, especially for challenging conditions like night shooting. If you’re serious about getting the absolute best for GoPro Hero 4 Black at night by way of an upgrade, the Hero12 Black offers unparalleled low-light capabilities with its improved sensor, 5.3K video, HDR, and the revolutionary HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization. It’s an investment in superior night capture.
- What’s Included: Hero12 Black Camera, Enduro battery, USB-C charging cable, curved adhesive mount, mounting buckle, and thumb screw.
- Rugged & Waterproof to 33ft (10m).
- 2x Longer Runtime: Up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K60 with improved Enduro battery efficiency.
- Unbelievable 5.3K Video & 27MP Photos: Captures stunning detail with High Dynamic Range (HDR) Video & Photo.
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock.
- Extra-Large Field of View and Up to 8x Slo-Mo.
- Bluetooth Audio Connectivity for external microphones.
Pros:
– Dramatically superior low-light video and photo quality (5.3K, HDR).
– Unmatched in-camera stabilization (HyperSmooth 6.0) is crucial for crisp night shots.
– Extended battery life with Enduro battery, great for night lapses.
– HDR captures more detail in shadows and highlights, perfect for contrasting night scenes.
– Excellent as a full upgrade path for advanced night shooting.
Cons:
– This is a new camera, not an accessory for Hero 4 Black.
– Requires a significant budget.
– Your existing Hero 4 Black accessories (batteries, some mounts) will not be compatible.
User Impressions: The Hero12 Black consistently receives rave reviews for its image quality, especially in challenging lighting, and its incredibly stable footage. Users often highlight the HDR feature as a major improvement for capturing detail in both bright and dark areas of a scene.
9. Front Cover Faceplate Frame Housing Replacement Repair Part…
Just like the USB side door, maintaining the physical integrity of your GoPro Hero 4 Black is crucial for its overall performance, especially if you plan to use it for night photography and video outdoors. A scratched or broken front faceplate can impact buttons, screen visibility, or even introduce dust and moisture. This replacement part ensures your camera stays in top shape, letting you focus on getting those perfect night shots without worrying about your gear.
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 4 Black and Silver.
- Perfect fit for repairing your scratched or broken faceplate.
- Comes with pry tool.
- Well packed with hard plastic box.
- Package includes: Front cover without mode button x 1, pry tool x 1.
Pros:
– Restores the aesthetic and protective integrity of your camera.
– Essential for long-term use and maintaining camera value.
– Comes with a pry tool for easy installation.
Cons:
– A repair part, not an accessory that enhances features.
– Requires some DIY skill to install.
User Impressions: Customers needing to repair their Hero 4 Black found this replacement part to be exactly what they needed. The inclusion of the pry tool was a common positive, making the repair process much smoother.
10. SmallRig Hero 13 / Hero12 / Hero11 / Hero 10…
Important Note: This SmallRig Cage is designed for newer GoPro models (Hero 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Black) and is NOT compatible with the GoPro Hero 4 Black. While it offers excellent functionality for modern GoPros by providing multiple cold shoe mounts for accessories like lights and microphones, it simply won’t fit your Hero 4 Black. If you ever upgrade to a newer GoPro for enhanced night shooting capabilities, a cage like this would be incredibly useful for mounting the GoPro Light Mod or an external microphone.
- For GoPro Hero13 / 12 / 11 / 10 / 9 Black.
- All-in-one full cage compatible with microphones, LED lights, providing a perfect Vlog filming solution.
- Dual Cold Shoe Mount: Top and right side mounts for GoPro Light Mod, microphones, LED video lights.
- Moulded Design: Fits the camera without blocking screen, buttons, or USB-C port.
- Compatible with Audio Adapter: Bottom bracket for original microphone adapter; side plate supports audio recording while charging.
- Quick Installation & Removal: Easy installation on original GoPro accessories.
Pros:
– Provides versatile mounting points for essential night shooting accessories (lights, mics) for compatible cameras.
– Robust protection for newer GoPro models.
– Allows external audio solutions, which can be useful for ambient night sounds.
Cons:
– CRITICAL: Not compatible with GoPro Hero 4 Black.
– Only beneficial if you upgrade to a newer GoPro model.
– Adds bulk compared to a frame mount for compatible cameras.
User Impressions: SmallRig products are generally highly regarded for their build quality and thoughtful design. Users of newer GoPros find this cage to be an invaluable tool for expanding their setup, particularly for vlogging and adding external lighting/audio in low-light conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can the GoPro Hero 4 Black actually shoot good video/photos at night?
A1: Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Black has dedicated “Night Photo” and “Night Lapse” modes which allow for longer exposure times. This is crucial for gathering enough light in dark environments. While it won’t match the low-light performance of newer, larger-sensor cameras, it can capture surprisingly good results with the right settings and potentially some external lighting.
Q2: What settings are best for night shooting on a GoPro Hero 4 Black?
A2: For photos, use “Night Photo” mode and experiment with longer shutter speeds (e.g., 2 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, or even 30 seconds for very dark scenes like astrophotography). For videos, activate “Protune” and manually set the ISO to a lower value (e.g., 400 or 800) and try to use the lowest possible frame rate (like 24fps or 30fps) as higher frame rates require more light. Keeping the camera steady is paramount.
Q3: Do I need an external light source for night shooting with my Hero 4 Black?
A3: It depends on what you’re shooting. For long exposure night lapse of stars or stationary cityscapes, the camera’s built-in night modes are enough. However, if you want to illuminate a subject in a dark scene, like a person or an object, an external light source like the GoPro Light Mod is incredibly helpful.
Q4: How can I improve battery life during long night lapse sessions?
A4: Night lapses can be battery intensive due to long exposure times. Using external power, like a portable power bank connected to your GoPro via its USB port (possible with a frame mount like the GEPULY), is the best way to extend shooting time indefinitely. Otherwise, having multiple spare batteries (like the Suptig 2-pack) is essential.
Q5: Is it worth upgrading from a Hero 4 Black for better night performance?
A5: If night photography and videography are a primary focus, upgrading to a newer GoPro model like the Hero12 Black or Hero13 Black will offer significantly better low-light performance due to larger sensors, improved image processing, and advanced stabilization (HyperSmooth). These newer cameras handle noise much better and offer features like HDR which enhance dark scenes.
Q6: Are there any specific mounts that help with night shooting?
A6: Any stable mount is beneficial for night shooting, as long exposures require the camera to be absolutely still. Tripods are ideal. For handheld shots or unique angles, a stable grip or mini-tripod can help. A frame mount (like the GEPULY) is useful if you plan to connect external power.
Q7: How do I minimize noise (graininess) in my GoPro Hero 4 Black night footage?
A7: The best way to reduce noise is to ensure your camera gets as much light as possible. Use longer shutter speeds (in Night Photo/Lapse), keep ISO as low as possible (use Protune), and use an external light source if feasible. Post-processing software can also help reduce noise, but starting with the best possible image from the camera is always preferable.
