Thinking about capturing incredible photos with a GoPro, and maybe your mind jumps to the classic GoPro Hero 3? You’re not alone! The Hero 3 was a groundbreaking camera in its time, truly revolutionizing action photography. However, technology marches on, and if you’re looking for the absolute best GoPro for photos today, especially when it comes to image quality, advanced features, and sheer versatility, the newer models blow the Hero 3 out of the water.
While the GoPro Hero 3 might hold a special place in your heart (and certainly did its job well for its era!), modern GoPros offer resolutions, stabilization, and smart features that deliver truly professional-grade images. If you’re serious about taking your GoPro photography to the next level, or even if you’re still rocking a Hero 3 and need essential gear, you’ll want to check out these top picks. We’ve rounded up the best GoPro cameras and a must-have accessory that will help you capture breathtaking stills, no matter your adventure!
1. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
The GoPro HERO13 Black isn’t just a video powerhouse; it’s a phenomenal tool for photography, designed to capture incredible still images. Its best-in-class 5.3K60 video capability means you can pull ultra-high-resolution 24.7MP stills directly from your footage, ensuring you never miss a moment. Combined with new HB-Series Lenses1 and a more powerful battery, this camera is engineered for creators who demand top-tier image quality and legendary durability in any environment.
Key Features:
– Best-in-class 5.3K60 video resolution
– Capable of pulling high-resolution stills from video
– Features new HB-Series Lenses1 for improved optics
– More powerful battery for extended shooting
– Legendary GoPro durability and waterproofing
Pros:
– Unmatched image quality for an action camera
– High-resolution video allows for excellent frame grabs
– New lenses offer superior optical performance
– Extended battery life is great for long shoots
– Extremely rugged and waterproof design
Cons:
– Premium price point
– Can be complex for absolute beginners due to advanced features
– Large file sizes require ample storage
User Impressions:
Users rave about the HERO13 Black’s incredible image fidelity and stabilization. Many highlight the ease of extracting sharp photos from 5.3K video, calling it a “game-changer” for capturing fleeting moments. The improved battery life is also a frequently praised feature, letting users shoot for longer without interruption.
2. Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for GoPro Hero…
Even the best GoPro for photos is useless if it runs out of juice! That’s where the Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger come in as an absolute essential, especially for anyone still using a GoPro Hero 3 or a newer model. This kit ensures you have enough power to keep shooting, capturing every epic sunset, fast-paced action shot, or serene landscape without worrying about your camera dying mid-adventure. The convenience of charging two batteries simultaneously, along with its compact size, makes it an indispensable accessory for any GoPro enthusiast.
Key Features:
– Two high-tech 1050mAh lithium-ion batteries included
– Dual power charger charges two batteries simultaneously
– Unique PCB safety circuit design for secure charging
– Compatible with GoPro HERO3 and HERO3+ models (and Suptig AHDBT-301/302 batteries)
– Compact charger size (1.9×1.77×0.51 in)
– Multiple charging interface compatibility (MINI USB, MICRO USB, iPhone4 data cable)
Pros:
– Extends shooting time significantly
– Charges two batteries at once, saving time
– Compact and easy to carry on trips
– Good value for money with two batteries included
– Broad compatibility with charging cables
Cons:
– Not compatible with newer GoPro battery types (e.g., Hero 12/13 Enduro)
– Requires a separate 1A adapter (not included) for fastest charging
– Build quality might not be as premium as OEM products
User Impressions:
Customers love the Suptig battery pack for its reliability and convenience, especially those with older GoPro models like the Hero 3. They frequently mention the joy of having extra power during long shooting sessions and the efficiency of the dual charger. It’s often cited as a “must-have” for any serious GoPro user.
3. GoPro HERO12 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
The GoPro HERO12 Black elevates your photography game by introducing High Dynamic Range (HDR) for both videos and photos, pushing its best-in-class image quality even further. This feature is a game-changer for photos, capturing subtle details in both shadows and bright areas that might otherwise be lost, resulting in true-to-life colors and precision. With the ability to take stunning 27MP photos and grab amazing 24.7MP stills from its 5.3K video, the HERO12 Black ensures your still images are just as breathtaking as your cinematic footage. Its Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization also ensures your shots are steady, even when things get shaky.
Key Features:
– High Dynamic Range (HDR) for videos and photos
– 27MP still photo resolution
– Can grab 24.7MP photos from 5.3K video
– Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization
– Rugged + Waterproof to 33ft (10m)
– Includes Enduro Rechargeable Battery
Pros:
– Exceptional image quality with HDR for improved dynamic range
– High-resolution photos and video frame grabs
– Unbeatable stabilization for sharp images, even handheld
– Extremely durable and ready for any adventure
– Enduro battery offers enhanced cold weather performance and longer life
Cons:
– Still a significant investment
– HDR might not be ideal for all scenarios
– File sizes can be large, requiring ample storage
User Impressions:
Photographers are particularly impressed with the HERO12 Black’s HDR capabilities, noting a significant improvement in detail and color accuracy in challenging lighting conditions. The stabilization is universally praised, making it easier to capture crisp action photos. Many also appreciate the high megapixel count for detailed stills.
4. GoPro Hero – Compact Waterproof Action Camera with 4K…
For those who want a fantastic entry into GoPro photography without all the bells and whistles (or the higher price tag) of the absolute top-tier models, this compact GoPro Hero is an excellent choice. It’s tiny, incredibly easy to use, and yet still delivers impressive 4K video capabilities, which translates into high-quality still photos. Its rugged, super-light design makes it the perfect grab-and-go camera for capturing spontaneous moments, whether you’re at the beach, on a hike, or just enjoying a day out. It’s a great step up in photo quality if you’re coming from an older camera like the GoPro Hero 3.
Key Features:
– Compact and lightweight design
– Easy-to-use, simplified controls
– 4K video recording capability (allowing for quality photo grabs)
– Rugged and durable build
– Waterproof without additional housing
Pros:
– More affordable entry point into GoPro ecosystem
– Extremely portable and easy to carry
– Simple interface makes it user-friendly for all skill levels
– Delivers sharp 4K video and good quality still images
– Built-in waterproofing for immediate use in aquatic environments
Cons:
– Lacks advanced features found in Black series (e.g., higher frame rates, more complex photo modes)
– Lower photo megapixel count compared to premium models
– Battery life might be shorter than top-tier models
User Impressions:
Users commend this GoPro Hero for its simplicity and robustness. It’s often recommended for beginners or as a secondary “throw-around” camera due to its ease of use and ability to capture solid photos and videos without fuss. Its compact size is a consistent highlight.
5. GoPro Hero (Go Pro Hero) Black Compact – Waterproof…
This particular GoPro Hero Black Compact package offers an incredible value, combining a high-quality camera with essential accessories perfect for anyone aiming to enhance their photos. The camera itself captures stunning UHD 4K30 video and crisp 12MP photos, providing a significant leap in image quality from older models like the GoPro Hero 3. With HyperSmooth Video Stabilization, your 12MP photos will be consistently sharp, even in dynamic situations. The inclusion of a 50-in-1 accessory kit and two 64GB Micro SDXC cards means you’re ready to shoot right out of the box, offering unmatched versatility for various photography scenarios.
Key Features:
– High-Quality 4K30 video and 12MP photos
– HyperSmooth Video Stabilization for smooth footage and sharp stills
– Hands-Free Voice Control (8 commands, 11 languages)
– Wireless Connectivity (Wi-Fi) for easy sharing
– Rugged and waterproof up to 33ft without housing
– Includes a 50-in-1 Action Accessory Kit and two 64GB Micro SDXC Cards
Pros:
– Excellent value with comprehensive accessory bundle
– Great photo and video quality (12MP photos, 4K video)
– Superb HyperSmooth stabilization for clear shots
– Convenient voice control and wireless sharing
– Durable, waterproof design
– Comes with ample storage right away
Cons:
– Photo resolution (12MP) is lower than the flagship models
– Battery life (1 hour at highest settings) might require frequent recharging without the included extra accessories
– Accessory kit quality can vary (third-party items)
User Impressions:
Reviewers frequently praise this bundle as an amazing deal, providing everything a new or upgrading GoPro user needs. The camera’s photo quality and HyperSmooth stabilization are highly regarded, making it a reliable choice for capturing action and everyday moments. The vast array of accessories is a huge plus for expanding creative options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the GoPro Hero 3 still good for photos in 2024?
A1: While the GoPro Hero 3 was revolutionary in its time, its photo capabilities are quite basic by modern standards. Newer GoPro models offer significantly higher resolution (27MP vs. 12MP), advanced dynamic range, better low-light performance, and superior in-camera stabilization, resulting in much clearer, sharper, and more vibrant photos. For casual use, it might still work, but for high-quality photos, it’s best to upgrade.
Q2: What should I look for in a GoPro for the best photo quality?
A2: For the best photo quality, prioritize models with high megapixel counts (e.g., 27MP), HDR (High Dynamic Range) capabilities, and advanced stabilization (like HyperSmooth). Features that allow you to pull high-resolution stills from video (e.g., 5.3K video) are also a huge plus. Good low-light performance and versatile photo modes (like Burst, Night Photo, Time Lapse) are also beneficial.
Q3: Can I use older GoPro accessories, like those for the Hero 3, with newer GoPro models?
A3: Many older GoPro mounting accessories are still compatible with newer models, especially those that use the standard two-prong mount. However, specific accessories like batteries, backdoor housings, and sometimes even charging cables are often model-specific and may not work across different generations. Always check compatibility before purchasing.
Q4: How important is video resolution when considering a GoPro for photos?
A4: Very important! Modern GoPros capture incredibly high-resolution video (like 5.3K or even 8K on some models). This means you can often “frame grab” or “extract” still images directly from your video footage with excellent quality. It ensures you never miss a perfect shot, as you can simply pick the best frame after recording.
Q5: What’s the benefit of having HDR for photos on a GoPro?
A5: HDR (High Dynamic Range) helps your photos capture more detail in both the brightest and darkest parts of an image. In scenes with high contrast (like a sunny day with deep shadows), HDR ensures that highlights aren’t overexposed and shadows aren’t completely crushed, resulting in a more balanced, true-to-life image with richer colors.
Q6: What’s the difference between taking a photo and grabbing a still from video?
A6: Taking a photo uses the camera’s dedicated photo mode, often capturing the highest possible resolution and specific photo enhancements. Grabbing a still from video means extracting a single frame from your recorded footage. While dedicated photos might offer slightly better detail or specific effects, grabbing stills from high-resolution video is incredibly convenient for capturing unmissable moments, especially in fast-paced action where timing a perfect photo is difficult.
Q7: How can I improve my GoPro photos in challenging conditions like low light?
A7: For low light, use models with better low-light sensors (often found in newer, higher-end GoPros). You can also use specific “Night Photo” or “Night Lapse” modes if available. Adjusting settings like ISO sensitivity (if your model allows) can help, but always aim for as much ambient light as possible. Post-processing can also significantly improve low-light shots.
