Action Camera Accessories How to Use for Epic Shots

Mastering action camera accessories is the key to unlocking jaw-dropping, professional-grade footage in any environment. From stabilizing gimbals and versatile mounts to external mics and filters, knowing how and when to use each tool transforms shaky clips into cinematic adventures. Elevate your storytelling by pairing the right gear with smart techniques for truly epic shots.

Key Takeaways

• Use mounts wisely: Secure your camera with the right mount for stable, dynamic shots.
• Filters enhance footage: Add ND or polarizing filters to manage light and reduce glare.
• Stabilize handheld shots: A gimbal or grip minimizes shake for smoother videos.
• Extend battery life: Carry spares or use portable power banks for longer adventures.
• Waterproof cases matter: Protect your camera and shoot underwater with confidence.
• Audio upgrades essential: Use external mics for clear sound in noisy environments.

Action Camera Accessories: Your Gateway to Epic Shots

Let’s face it—your action camera is already a powerhouse. It captures 4K footage, survives underwater dives, and sticks to your helmet like a loyal sidekick. But here’s the secret most pros won’t tell you: the real magic happens when you pair it with the right accessories. Whether you’re shredding mountain trails, chasing waves, or filming a vlog in your backyard, the right gear can turn a good shot into a jaw-dropping masterpiece.

I learned this the hard way. Early in my content creation journey, I relied solely on my camera’s default mounts. The result? Footage that was shaky, poorly framed, and—let’s be honest—kind of boring. Then I discovered the world of action camera accessories. Suddenly, my videos had cinematic angles, smooth motion, and immersive depth. Today, I’m sharing my hard-earned tips so you can skip the trial-and-error phase and start capturing epic shots right away.

1. Mounts: The Foundation of Every Shot

Mounts are the unsung heroes of action camera accessories. They’re what let you place your camera exactly where you want it—whether that’s on your chest, a surfboard, or a drone. But not all mounts are created equal. Let’s break down the essentials.

Chest Mounts for Immersive POV

Chest mounts are a game-changer for hands-free POV footage. They’re perfect for hiking, cycling, or any activity where you want to capture your movement naturally. Here’s how to use one:

• Adjust the straps so the mount sits snugly against your chest. It shouldn’t bounce or shift during movement.
• Position the camera slightly below your line of sight. This gives a more natural perspective (think: “this is what I’m seeing”).
• Test it out with a short walk or run. Check the footage to ensure the horizon is level and the frame isn’t obstructed.

Pro Tip: Chest mounts work best with wide-angle lenses. If your camera has a narrow field of view, you might end up with a tunnel-vision effect.

Helmet Mounts for Dynamic Angles

Helmet mounts are ideal for capturing head-turning action—literally. They’re a staple for skiers, bikers, and skydivers. Here’s how to nail it:

• Choose the right type: Adhesive mounts work for smooth helmets, while strap mounts are better for vented or textured surfaces.
• Clean the helmet surface with rubbing alcohol before attaching. This prevents the mount from peeling off mid-adventure.
• Angle the camera slightly downward to capture your hands or gear in the shot. For example, a downward tilt on a bike helmet shows your handlebars and front wheel.

Real-World Example: I once filmed a mountain bike descent using a helmet mount. The footage felt like a first-person rollercoaster ride—because the camera moved with my head as I looked around corners.

Handlebar and Roll Bar Mounts for Vehicles

Want to film your ATV ride, motorcycle trip, or even a car chase (safely, of course)? Handlebar mounts are your best bet. They clamp onto tubes, bars, or rails with rubberized grips to prevent slipping.

• Secure the clamp tightly but don’t overtighten—it could damage the bar or the mount.
• Use a vibration dampener (like a foam sleeve) if you’re filming on rough terrain. This reduces shake in your footage.
• Point the camera slightly ahead to capture the path in front of you. A 10–20° upward tilt works well for vehicles.

2. Stabilization: Smooth Footage, Every Time

Even the best action cameras can’t eliminate shake from running, jumping, or riding over bumps. That’s where stabilization accessories come in. They’re the difference between “cool” and “cinematic.”

Handheld Gimbals for Pro-Grade Stability

Gimbals use motors to counteract hand movement, giving you buttery-smooth footage. They’re a must-have for vloggers, filmmakers, and anyone who wants to look like a pro.

• Balance the camera before turning on the gimbal. Adjust the sliding arms until the camera stays level without power.

< Choose the right mode:

• Follow Mode: The gimbal follows your hand movements slowly—great for walking shots.
• Lock Mode: The camera stays fixed in one direction—ideal for tracking a subject.
• Use a remote or smartphone app to control the gimbal without touching it. This prevents shake when starting/stopping recording.

Pro Tip: Gimbals add bulk, so they’re best for planned shots. For spontaneous action, stick to mounts.

Tripods and Selfie Sticks for Versatile Angles

Tripods aren’t just for DSLRs. A compact tripod or selfie stick can help you capture:

• Timelapses (e.g., clouds moving, sunsets).
• Group shots (no more asking strangers to hold your camera).
• Low-angle shots (e.g., placing the camera on the ground to film a skateboard trick).

Real-World Example: I used a mini tripod to film a 360° timelapse of a campsite. The result? A stunning, stabilized video that looked like it was shot by a drone.

3. Audio: Because Great Video Needs Great Sound

Action cameras are notorious for poor audio. Wind noise, muffled voices, and ambient chaos can ruin even the most epic visuals. Here’s how to fix it.

External Microphones for Crisp Audio

External mics (like lavalier or shotgun mics) capture clear sound by getting closer to the source. They’re essential for interviews, vlogs, or narration.

• Use a windscreen or deadcat to reduce wind noise. This is non-negotiable for outdoor shooting.
• Position the mic close to the speaker—ideally within 6–12 inches. For vlogs, clip a lavalier mic to your collar.
• Test audio levels before filming. Most cameras let you monitor audio via headphones or a smartphone app.

Pro Tip: Some action cameras (like GoPro) have built-in mic ports. For others, you’ll need a USB-C or 3.5mm adapter.

Audio Recorders for High-Quality Sound

For professional-grade audio, pair your camera with a portable recorder (like a Zoom H1n). Sync the audio in post-production using clapboards or software.

• Set the recorder to high sample rates (e.g., 48kHz) for better clarity.
• Place the recorder near the sound source (e.g., on a table for interviews, in a pocket for narration).
• Use a separate mic if the recorder’s built-in mics aren’t enough.

4. Lighting: Brighten Up Your Shots

Action cameras struggle in low light. Grainy footage, washed-out colors, and motion blur are common issues. Lighting accessories fix this.

On-Camera Lights for Fill Light

Compact LED lights (like the GoPro Light Mod) attach directly to your camera. They’re great for:

• Nighttime adventures (e.g., night hikes, campfires).
• Backlit scenes (e.g., silhouettes against a sunset).
• Indoor vlogging (e.g., filming in a dimly lit room).

Pro Tip: Use a diffuser (a soft plastic cover) to avoid harsh, direct light. This creates a more natural look.

Portable Ring Lights for Even Illumination

Ring lights are a vlogger’s best friend. They provide soft, shadow-free light—perfect for face-forward shots.

• Place the ring light 1–2 feet from your face for a flattering glow.
• Adjust the color temperature (warm vs. cool) to match the environment.
• Use a stand or tripod to position it at eye level.

5. Power and Storage: Never Run Out Mid-Shoot

There’s nothing worse than your camera dying during a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Here’s how to stay powered and ready.

Extra Batteries and Charging Hubs

Action camera batteries typically last 1–2 hours. Always carry spares.

• Use a multi-battery charger to charge several batteries at once.
• Label batteries as “charged” or “used” to avoid confusion.
• Keep batteries warm in cold weather. Cold drains battery life fast.

External Power Banks for Extended Shooting

For long shoots (e.g., all-day hikes), use a power bank with a USB-C or micro-USB cable.

• Choose a power bank with 10,000mAh+ capacity for multiple charges.
• Use a waterproof case if you’re filming near water.
• Connect the power bank to your camera via a cable. Some mounts have built-in power bank slots.

High-Capacity Memory Cards

4K/60fps footage eats up storage fast. Use a high-speed, high-capacity card (e.g., 128GB+ UHS-I U3).

• Format cards in-camera to avoid errors.
• Carry multiple cards and swap them when full.
• Back up footage daily to a laptop or cloud storage.

6. Specialty Accessories for Unique Shots

Want to take your footage to the next level? These niche accessories unlock creative possibilities.

Underwater Housings for Diving

Most action cameras are waterproof, but housings add extra protection and depth ratings (e.g., 100m+).

• Check the housing’s seals before diving.
• Use a red filter to restore natural colors underwater.
• Attach a wrist strap to prevent losing your camera.

Dome Ports for Over/Under Shots

Dome ports let you film half-above, half-below the waterline—like a pro surfer’s POV.

• Keep the dome clean with a microfiber cloth.
• Use a floating handle to keep the camera afloat.

Drone Mounts for Aerial Footage

Attach your action camera to a drone for stunning aerial shots. Use a gimbal mount to stabilize the footage.

Accessory	Best For	Pro Tip
Chest Mount	Hiking, cycling, POV	Angle the camera slightly downward
Helmet Mount	Skating, skiing, skydiving	Clean helmet surface first
Handheld Gimbal	Walking shots, vlogging	Balance the camera before powering on
External Mic	Interviews, narration	Use a deadcat for windy conditions
LED Light	Night shots, backlighting	Add a diffuser for soft light

Final Thoughts: Your Shot Starts with the Right Tools

Here’s the truth: action camera accessories aren’t just extras—they’re essential tools. They’re what let you tell stories, capture emotions, and share your adventures in ways that feel real and immersive. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, the right gear can transform your footage from “meh” to “mind-blowing.”

Remember: Start small. Pick one or two accessories that align with your most frequent activities. A chest mount for hiking? A gimbal for vlogging? Master those first, then expand your kit as needed. And always—always—test your gear before the big shoot. Nothing kills the vibe like a failed mount or a dead battery.

Now get out there. The next epic shot is waiting for you—and your action camera accessories are the key to capturing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-have action camera accessories for beginners?

Essential accessories include a durable waterproof case, a versatile head or chest mount, and a reliable tripod or selfie stick. These tools help you capture stable, hands-free footage in any environment while protecting your camera from damage.

How do I use a gimbal with my action camera for smooth footage?

Mount your action camera securely on the gimbal, balance it properly using the adjustment knobs, and power it on. The gimbal’s motorized stabilization will eliminate shakes and jitters, delivering buttery-smooth video even during high-motion activities.

How can I improve audio quality using action camera accessories?

Use an external microphone (like a lavalier or shotgun mic) paired with a compatible adapter for clearer sound. Wind noise can be reduced with a deadcat (furry mic cover), especially when filming outdoors or during fast-paced action.

What’s the best way to use a suction cup mount for action camera accessories?

Clean the mounting surface thoroughly, press the suction cup firmly, and lock the lever to create a vacuum seal. Ideal for cars, helmets, or smooth surfaces, this accessory offers dynamic angles—just ensure it’s secured before use.

How do I use an ND filter with my action camera for better video?

Attach the ND filter to your camera lens in bright conditions to reduce light intake and prevent overexposure. This helps achieve cinematic motion blur in your shots, especially when filming in daylight or high-contrast scenes.

How can I extend battery life with action camera accessories?

Carry spare batteries or use a dual-battery charger to swap them mid-adventure. For longer shoots, connect your camera to a power bank using a USB extension cable—this keeps your action camera accessories powered without interruptions.