how to mount an action camera to a helmet

Are you an adrenaline junkie, an intrepid explorer, or simply someone who loves to capture life’s most thrilling moments from a unique perspective? If so, then learning how to mount an action camera to a helmet is an absolute game-changer. Imagine hurtling down a mountain trail, carving through fresh powder, or navigating challenging urban landscapes – all while your camera captures every exhilarating second exactly as you see it. This immersive, first-person point-of-view (POV) footage isn’t just cool; it tells a story that no other camera angle can.

However, getting that perfect shot isn’t as simple as just sticking a camera on your head. A poorly mounted camera can result in shaky footage, an obstructed view, or even the loss of your precious gear. The key lies in understanding the various mounting options, choosing the right placement for your activity, and ensuring everything is secure. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting the best mount to optimizing your camera settings, ensuring you capture stable, stunning footage every single time you embark on an adventure.

Whether you’re using a GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360, or any other action camera, this guide will empower you with the knowledge and actionable steps to confidently and securely mount an action camera to a helmet. Get ready to elevate your content and share your adventures like never before!

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Where’s the best place to mount an action camera on my helmet for the best shot?

For that classic first-person perspective, the top or chin of your helmet are top picks. Side mounting can offer a unique angle, but remember to consider balance and aerodynamics.

What kind of mounts do I need to attach my action camera to my helmet?

You’ll typically need an adhesive mount (often curved or flat, depending on your helmet’s surface), which usually comes with your action camera. Some prefer a vented helmet strap mount for quick changes, though it’s less secure.

How do I make sure my action camera stays securely attached to my helmet?

Always clean the helmet surface with rubbing alcohol before applying an adhesive mount, then press firmly for at least 30 seconds. Allow the adhesive to cure for a full 24 hours before you put your action camera through any action!

Will mounting an action camera affect my helmet’s safety or comfort?

When done properly, mounting an action camera shouldn’t compromise your helmet’s safety features or significantly impact comfort. Just ensure the action camera doesn’t obstruct your vision or snag on anything.

How can I ensure my action camera is pointing in the right direction when I mount it on my helmet?

Most action cameras offer a live view feature through a smartphone app, which is super handy! Use this to fine-tune your angle and ensure your action camera is perfectly aimed on your helmet before you hit record.

Why Helmet Mounting? The Advantages of First-Person Perspective

Before diving into the “how-to,” let’s explore why mounting your action camera to a helmet is often the preferred choice for many adventurers.

Immersive Storytelling

There’s nothing quite like footage that puts the viewer directly in your shoes. A helmet camera setup offers an unparalleled first-person perspective, allowing your audience to experience the thrill, speed, and emotion of your adventure as if they were right there with you. This creates a much more engaging and relatable viewing experience, making your videos truly stand out.

Unmatched Stability

When securely attached, a camera on your helmet moves with your head, which often provides surprisingly stable footage, especially during fast-paced activities. Your head naturally acts as a stabilizer, smoothing out many of the minor bumps and shakes that might plague handheld or chest-mounted footage. Modern action cameras with advanced electronic image stabilization (EIS) or optical image stabilization (OIS) further enhance this inherent stability, delivering butter-smooth results even in challenging environments.

Hands-Free Operation

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages is the ability to operate completely hands-free. Whether you’re gripping handlebars, holding ski poles, or scaling a rock face, a helmet-mounted camera allows you to focus 100% on your activity without compromising your safety or performance. This freedom ensures you can perform at your best while still capturing incredible footage.

Essential Gear: What You Need Before You Start

To successfully mount an action camera to a helmet, you’ll need more than just the camera itself. Here’s a rundown of the essential components:

Your Action Camera

Of course, the star of the show! Popular choices include:

• GoPro: Hero series (Hero 12, 11, 10, etc.) are industry leaders with a vast ecosystem of mounts.
• DJI Osmo Action: Known for its dual screens and excellent stabilization.
• Insta360: Offering unique features like FlowState stabilization and modular designs (e.g., Insta360 ONE R/RS).
• Other brands: Sony Action Cam, Akaso, etc.

Ensure your camera is fully charged and has an empty memory card before heading out!

Helmet Type

The type of helmet you wear will largely dictate the best mounting options:

• Full-Face Helmets (Motorcycle, Downhill MTB): These offer solid, smooth surfaces, ideal for adhesive or dedicated chin mounts.
• Open-Face Helmets (BMX, Skate): Can use adhesive mounts on top or side, or strap mounts for vented designs.
• Vented Helmets (Road Cycling, Mountain Biking): Strap mounts are often the go-to, as adhesive space is limited.
• Ski/Snowboard Helmets: Often have smooth surfaces for adhesive mounts or integrated goggle strap clips.

Mount Types

This is where things get specific when you want to mount an action camera to a helmet:

• Adhesive Mounts: These typically use strong 3M VHB (Very High Bond) tape. They come in flat and curved versions to match your helmet’s contours. Extremely secure when applied correctly.
• Strap Mounts: Designed for helmets with vents, these thread through the vents and secure with adjustable straps. Common for cycling and climbing helmets.
• Chin Mounts: Specifically designed to attach to the chin bar of full-face helmets, often using a combination of adhesive pads and straps. Considered the best for true POV.
• Side Mounts: Adhesive mounts placed on the side of the helmet. Good for showing more of the environment or your face.
• Top Mounts: Adhesive mounts placed on the very top of the helmet, giving an “astronaut” or “bird’s eye” view.
• Goggle Strap Mounts: Often integrated into ski/snowboard goggle straps or attach to them.

Accessories for Your Action Camera Helmet Mount

• Extension Arms: Crucial for adjusting the camera’s angle and distance from the helmet, especially for chin mounts to avoid seeing the helmet in the frame.
• J-Hooks and Buckles: Standard quick-release attachments that connect your camera to the mount.
• Safety Tether: A small wire or strong string that acts as a backup, connecting your camera to your helmet in case the main mount fails. Absolutely essential for expensive cameras!
• Anti-Fog Inserts: For cold or humid conditions, these prevent your camera’s lens from fogging up.
• Extra Batteries & SD Cards: Always be prepared to keep shooting!

Choosing the Right Mount Position: Top, Side, Chin, and More

The placement of your camera dramatically impacts the footage. Understanding the pros and cons of each position is key to capturing the desired perspective when you mount an action camera to a helmet.

The Top Mount: “Astronaut View”

Pros:

• Good for capturing a wide, elevated view of your surroundings.
• Relatively unobstructed view, showing much of the path ahead.
• Often provides a sense of speed.

Cons:

• Can make your head feel top-heavy, especially with heavier cameras.
• Camera is exposed and can catch on branches or obstacles in tight spaces.
• Less of a true POV than a chin mount, as it sits higher than your eyes.
• Increased wind resistance, potentially affecting stability at high speeds.

Best For: Skiing, snowboarding, general scenic overviews, casual cycling.
Mount Type: Curved adhesive mount.

The Side Mount: Dynamic Angles

Pros:

• Captures a dynamic angle, often showing part of your face and the environment simultaneously.
• Good for showcasing specific actions, like looking over your shoulder.
• Less wind resistance than a top mount.

Cons:

• Can feel unbalanced.
• Camera is vulnerable to side impacts.
• Footage might feel off-center or asymmetrical.
• Can be difficult to frame shots accurately without a reference.

Best For: Mountain biking, snowboarding, activities where you want to show your interaction with the environment.
Mount Type: Curved adhesive mount, often with extension arms.

The Chin Mount: The Gold Standard for POV

Pros:

• Mimics your eye line most closely, offering the most authentic first-person perspective.
• Excellent stability as it’s centered and low on the helmet.
• Protected position, less likely to snag on obstacles.
• Minimal wind resistance compared to top or side mounts.
• Often captures handlebars, dashboard, or other relevant foreground elements that ground the shot.

Cons:

• Primarily for full-face helmets.
• Can sometimes feel slightly intrusive if not positioned correctly.
• May require extension arms to clear the chin bar and avoid seeing it in the frame.

Best For: Motorcycle riding, downhill mountain biking, ATV/off-roading, anything where true POV is desired.
Mount Type: Dedicated chin mount or a combination of curved/flat adhesive mounts and extension arms.

Vented Helmet Mounts: For Cycling & Climbing

Pros:

• Specifically designed for helmets with vents, where adhesive options are limited.
• Versatile for various activities.
• Relatively easy to install and remove.

Cons:

• May not be as rock-solid as adhesive mounts, potentially introducing more vibration.
• Can obstruct helmet ventilation.
• Requires careful tightening to ensure stability.

Best For: Road cycling, cross-country mountain biking, climbing, kayaking.
Mount Type: Strap mount.

Goggle Strap Mounts: For Snow Sports

Pros:

• Quick and easy to attach/detach.
• Can be integrated directly into goggle straps or clipped on.
• Keeps the camera fairly centered and low-profile.

Cons:

• Only suitable for activities requiring goggles.
• May cause the goggles to feel slightly heavier or pull.
• Can sometimes pick up goggle reflections.

Best For: Skiing, snowboarding.
Mount Type: Goggle strap mount or clip.

Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Helmet Mounting

Now that you know the gear and positions, let’s get down to the practical steps of how to mount an action camera to a helmet securely.

1. Prepare Your Helmet Surface (for Adhesive Mounts)

1. Clean Thoroughly: Use isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to clean the area where you intend to place the adhesive mount. This removes dirt, grease, and residue. Let it air dry completely. This step is critical for the 3M VHB tape to bond properly.
2. Test Placement: Before peeling off the adhesive backing, temporarily place the mount to check for proper fit and desired camera angle. Consider your field of view and where the camera will point.

2. Applying Adhesive Mounts

1. Peel and Press: Carefully peel the backing from the 3M adhesive pad. Position the mount precisely and press down firmly for at least 30-60 seconds. Apply consistent pressure across the entire surface.
2. Cure Time: This is often overlooked but extremely important. 3M VHB adhesive reaches its maximum bond strength after 24-72 hours. While it feels secure quickly, avoid putting any weight or stress on the mount for at least 24 hours. If you’re going to extreme temperatures or high speeds, 72 hours is recommended.

3. Attaching Strap Mounts

1. Thread the Straps: Feed the straps through the appropriate vents on your helmet. Ensure they are routed in a way that provides maximum contact and stability.
2. Position and Tighten: Place the camera base in your desired position (usually top or front). Pull the straps tight, making sure the mount is snug and doesn’t wiggle. Check both the horizontal and vertical stability.
3. Secure Excess Straps: Tuck away or cut any excess strap material to prevent it from flapping in the wind or interfering with your activity.

4. Using Extension Arms and J-Hooks

Once your base mount is secure, attach the J-hook buckle to the mount. Then, connect your camera. You’ll likely need to use one or more extension arms to get the camera into the perfect position, especially for chin mounts where you need to clear the helmet’s visor or chin bar. Experiment with different arm lengths and angles until the camera captures the view you want without the helmet appearing in the frame (unless desired).

5. The Importance of a Safety Tether

This cannot be stressed enough: ALWAYS use a safety tether. Action camera mounts, while strong, can fail under extreme conditions (impacts, vibrations, or just poor application). A safety tether provides a backup, ensuring your camera doesn’t get lost or damaged if the primary mount gives way. Most action cameras come with tether points, and you can attach a small, strong cord or wire tether to a secure point on your helmet (e.g., another vent, a helmet strap buckle) and then to your camera or mount.

Optimizing Your Shot: Camera Settings and Best Practices

Mounting is only half the battle. To get truly cinematic footage, you also need to consider your camera settings and some best practices.

Field of View (FOV) Explained

Most action cameras offer various FOV settings (e.g., SuperView, Wide, Linear, Narrow).

• Wide/SuperView: Captures the most expansive view, giving a great sense of speed and environment, but can introduce significant fisheye distortion.
• Linear: Corrects the fisheye effect, providing a more natural, traditional video look, but crops the frame more.

For helmet mounting, Wide or SuperView is often preferred as it captures more of the action and surroundings, making the POV more immersive.

Resolution and Frame Rate

• Resolution (e.g., 4K, 2.7K, 1080p): Higher resolution means more detail. 4K is great for future-proofing and cropping, but consumes more battery and storage.
• Frame Rate (e.g., 24fps, 30fps, 60fps, 120fps):
  • 24/30fps: Standard cinematic look, good for everyday footage.
  • 60fps: Smoother motion, ideal for fast-paced action. Allows for slight slow-motion in post-production.
  • 120fps+: Excellent for dramatic slow-motion effects, perfect for showcasing tricks or intense moments.

Image Stabilization

Ensure your camera’s image stabilization (HyperSmooth, FlowState, RockSteady, etc.) is turned ON. This is crucial for helmet-mounted footage to combat vibrations and bumps, delivering incredibly smooth results.

Pre-Shot Check: Angle and Frame

Before you hit record, always do a quick check:

• Camera Angle: Use your camera’s screen or a connected smartphone app to verify the angle. Are you pointing too high or too low? Is it centered?
• Clear the Frame: Make sure no part of your helmet, visor, or body is unintentionally blocking the lens. Adjust extension arms as needed.

Battery Life and Storage Management

Action cameras, especially when recording in high resolution or with stabilization, can drain batteries quickly. Always carry spare batteries and plenty of high-speed SD cards. Plan your recording sessions to maximize battery life, or consider external power banks if your activity allows.

Troubleshooting Common Helmet Mounting Issues & Pro Tips

Even with the best preparation, you might encounter issues. Here’s how to tackle them and some extra tips.

Dealing with Vibration and Jiggle

• Check Mount Tightness: Ensure all screws, buckles, and straps are cinched down firmly. Any play will lead to shaky footage.
• Add Dampening: For very high vibration activities (e.g., dirt biking), try adding a small piece of rubber or foam between the mount and the helmet surface (ensure it doesn’t compromise adhesive bond).
• Stabilization Settings: Double-check that your camera’s electronic image stabilization is enabled and set to its highest level.
• Stronger Mounts: If consistent issues, consider investing in higher-quality or more robust third-party mounts designed for extreme conditions.

Preventing Camera Loss

• The Tether is Your Best Friend: Seriously, use one!
• Adhesive Curing Time: Adhere to the 24-72 hour cure time religiously. Don’t rush it.
• Inspect Before Each Ride: Quickly check that your mount is still firmly attached and all connections are tight before every adventure.
• Avoid Cheap Imitations: While tempting, off-brand mounts and adhesives may not offer the same reliability as reputable brands like GoPro or leading third-party accessory makers.

Audio Quality on Helmets

Wind noise is the arch-nemesis of helmet-mounted audio.

• Wind Muffs: Apply small foam or fur wind muffs over your camera’s microphones.
• External Mic: For professional results, consider using an external microphone with a wind filter, placed inside your helmet or in a less exposed area, connected via a mic adapter.
• Post-Production: Use audio editing software to reduce wind noise during editing.

Mount Durability and Maintenance

• Clean Regularly: After muddy rides or salty adventures, clean your mounts and camera to prevent corrosion and debris buildup.
• Check for Wear: Periodically inspect plastic mounts for cracks, especially around stress points. Replace worn parts.
• Adhesive Longevity: While 3M VHB is strong, extreme temperature fluctuations or prolonged sun exposure can degrade it over time. If you notice edges lifting, replace the adhesive pad.

Ethical Considerations and Local Regulations

Always be mindful of privacy and safety.

• Privacy: Be respectful of others. Avoid filming people in private settings without their consent.
• Regulations: Some public spaces, events, or trail systems may have rules against helmet-mounted cameras or filming. Always check local regulations.
• Safety: Ensure your camera and mount don’t obstruct your vision, create dangerous snag points, or compromise the structural integrity of your helmet.

Here’s a quick comparison of popular helmet mount options:

Mount Type	Typical POV	Stability	Ease of Installation	Recommended Activities
Adhesive Chin Mount	True First-Person	Excellent	Moderate (requires careful placement & cure time)	Motorcycling, Downhill MTB, Off-roading
Adhesive Top Mount	Elevated Wide View	Good	Easy (requires careful placement & cure time)	Skiing, Snowboarding, Casual Cycling
Adhesive Side Mount	Dynamic Side View	Good	Moderate (requires careful placement & cure time)	Mountain Biking, Snowboarding, Exploring
Vented Helmet Strap Mount	Adjustable (Top/Front)	Fair to Good (depends on tightness)	Easy	Road Cycling, XC Mountain Biking, Climbing
Goggle Strap Mount	Eye-level (with goggles)	Good	Easy	Skiing, Snowboarding

Mastering how to mount an action camera to a helmet is an essential skill for anyone looking to document their adventures from a truly immersive perspective. By following the advice in this guide – from selecting the perfect mount and position to optimizing your camera settings and adhering to best practices – you’ll be well on your way to capturing incredible, stable, and captivating POV footage that tells your story like never before.

Remember, preparation is key. Take the time to clean your helmet, allow adhesive mounts to cure, and always, always use a safety tether. Experiment with different angles and settings to find what works best for your specific activity and camera. Once you’ve got your action camera helmet mount dialed in, you’ll be free to focus on the thrill of the moment, knowing your camera is reliably capturing every exhilarating second.

So, gear up, get out there, and start creating breathtaking content that brings your audience along for the ride. The world is waiting to see your adventures through your eyes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to mount an action camera on my helmet for optimal footage?

Generally, the top-center or chin-bar position offers the most stable and immersive first-person perspective. The top mount provides a higher vantage point, while the chin-bar offers a view closer to your line of sight, often capturing your handlebars or dashboard.

What kind of mounts are best for attaching an action camera to a helmet?

Adhesive mounts, like those from GoPro or other action camera brands, are very popular and secure when applied correctly to a clean, flat surface. For helmets without a flat surface, strap mounts or dedicated chin-bar mounts might be necessary to securely attach your action camera.

How can I ensure my action camera stays securely attached to my helmet?

Always clean the helmet surface thoroughly with alcohol before applying adhesive mounts and allow the adhesive to cure for at least 24 hours. For extra security, you can use a safety tether, which provides a backup if the primary mount fails during intense activities.

Are there any safety concerns when mounting an action camera to a helmet?

While generally safe, consider how the mount might affect the helmet’s integrity in a crash, especially for rigid mounts that could create pressure points. Ensure the camera and mount don’t obstruct your vision or snag on obstacles, and comply with any helmet manufacturer guidelines.

How do I remove an adhesive action camera mount from my helmet without causing damage?

To remove an adhesive mount, gently heat the adhesive pad with a hairdryer on a low setting for about 30-60 seconds. Once warm, carefully peel back the mount slowly and steadily. Any leftover residue can usually be rubbed off with your thumb or a little rubbing alcohol.

What are some tips for getting the best footage when my action camera is mounted to my helmet?

Ensure your lens is clean and the camera is level with the horizon before you start recording. Experiment with different camera angles to find the most engaging shot, and utilize your action camera’s stabilization features to minimize shaky footage.