Can You Take Pictures With an Action Camera Here Is How

Yes, you can absolutely take high-quality pictures with an action camera—modern models like the GoPro Hero and DJI Osmo Action are designed not just for video, but also for sharp, vibrant still photos. With features like high megapixel sensors, RAW mode, and burst shooting, action cameras are versatile tools for capturing dynamic moments, whether you’re hiking, diving, or chasing adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, action cameras can take high-quality photos: Ideal for action shots with fast shutter speeds.
• Use burst mode: Capture fast-moving subjects with rapid sequential shots.
• Adjust resolution settings: Higher megapixels yield sharper, more detailed images.
• Leverage wide-angle lenses: Perfect for immersive landscapes and dynamic scenes.
• Stabilize your shots: Use mounts or electronic stabilization for crisp photos.
• Optimize lighting: Shoot in natural light or use external LED for clarity.

Can You Take Pictures With an Action Camera? Here’s How

Imagine this: You’re hiking up a mountain trail at sunrise, the golden light spilling over the peaks. You want to capture the moment—not just record a video, but freeze that exact second in time. Your phone is in your pocket, but you’re already filming the climb with your trusty action camera. Then it hits you: Can you take pictures with an action camera? The short answer is a resounding yes, and you’ve probably been overlooking this feature all along.

Action cameras have long been associated with high-octane videos—mountain biking, surfing, skydiving, you name it. They’re compact, tough, and built for motion. But here’s the secret: most modern action cameras are also excellent still cameras. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a content creator, or someone who just loves snapping memories on the go, your action cam can do way more than you think. From stunning time-lapses to crisp single shots, these little powerhouses can capture still moments with surprising clarity and creativity. So if you’ve ever wondered whether you can ditch the DSLR or smartphone for a quick photo op, this guide is for you.

Why Action Cameras Are More Than Just Video Machines

It’s easy to assume that an action camera’s job is to record. After all, that’s what they’re famous for. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that today’s models are built with photography in mind too. Think of them as Swiss Army knives of the imaging world—small, versatile, and ready for anything.

The Evolution of Action Cameras

In the early days, action cams were basic. They recorded low-resolution video and had limited photo modes. But over the last decade, brands like GoPro, DJI, Insta360, and Akaso have packed their devices with advanced sensors, image processors, and software features. Now, many models offer 12MP to 20MP still photos, RAW format support, HDR modes, and even night photography capabilities. For example, the GoPro HERO12 Black captures 27MP photos, while the DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers 12MP with improved low-light performance.

What Makes Action Cameras Great for Photos?

• Wide-angle lenses capture sweeping landscapes and dynamic group shots without needing to step back.
• Compact size means you can mount them almost anywhere—on a helmet, chest strap, or even a selfie stick for unique perspectives.
• Durability allows you to take photos in rain, snow, or dusty environments where a smartphone or DSLR might not survive.
• Quick access—with voice commands or a single button press, you can snap a shot without fumbling with settings.

Take my friend Sarah, for instance. She used her GoPro during a kayaking trip in Norway. While the video footage was incredible, the real standout was a single photo she took from a cliffside—wide-angle, sharp, with the fjord stretching into the horizon. She didn’t even plan to use the photo mode. But when the moment hit, her action cam was ready.

Common Misconceptions

Some people assume action cameras are only good for video, or that photos will be blurry or low quality. But that’s outdated thinking. While they may not match a full-frame DSLR in low light or bokeh effects, action cameras excel in real-world usability. They’re designed for fast-paced environments where convenience and speed matter more than pixel perfection. Plus, with post-processing tools, you can enhance photos just like you would with any other device.

How to Take Still Photos With an Action Camera

Now that we’ve established action cameras *can* take photos, let’s talk about *how* to do it effectively. The process is simpler than you think—but knowing a few tricks can make a big difference in your results.

Step-by-Step: Taking a Single Photo

1. Switch to Photo Mode: On most action cameras, press the mode button (usually on the side or top) until you see the photo icon. On GoPro, it’s a camera symbol; on DJI, it’s a circle with a dot.
2. Frame Your Shot: Use the rear screen or your smartphone via Wi-Fi/Bluetooth to preview. If you’re using a mount, check the angle before shooting.
3. Adjust Settings (Optional): Tap the screen to access exposure, white balance, or resolution. For quick shots, leave it on auto.
4. Press the Shutter: The large button on top acts as the shutter. One press = one photo. Hold it for burst mode (more on that below).
5. Review and Save: Check the photo on the screen. If it’s blurry or poorly lit, try again with adjusted settings.

Pro tip: If your camera supports voice commands (like “GoPro, take a photo”), use them when your hands are busy—say, while rock climbing or holding a baby.

Using Burst Mode for Fast Action

Burst mode lets you take multiple photos in quick succession—perfect for capturing a surfer mid-air or a dog jumping into a pool. Most action cameras offer 3, 5, or 10 shots per second. For example, the Insta360 ONE RS can shoot 25 burst frames at 48MP (in 1-inch sensor mode).

To use it:

• Switch to Burst mode in the settings.
• Frame your subject and press the shutter.
• Later, review the sequence and pick the best frame.

I once used burst mode to capture my nephew blowing out birthday candles. Out of 10 shots, one was perfect—eyes wide, flames flickering, everyone laughing. Without burst, I would’ve missed it.

Night and Low-Light Photography

Low light is tricky for any small-sensor camera, but newer models have improved. Use these tips:

• Enable Night Photo mode (available on GoPro HERO11 and up, DJI Action 4).
• Mount the camera on a tripod or stable surface to avoid blur.
• Use a longer exposure (2–10 seconds) for cityscapes or star trails.
• Keep ISO low (800 or below) to reduce noise.

Note: You won’t get DSLR-level night shots, but for social media or travel journals, action cam night photos are more than sufficient.

Time-Lapse and Photo Sequences

Time-lapse isn’t just for videos. Many action cameras let you create time-lapse photos, where each frame is saved as a still image. This is great for:

• Sunset/sunrise sequences
• Plant growth (if you’re into nature)
• Construction projects
• Traffic patterns

Set the interval (e.g., 2 seconds, 5 seconds), start the capture, and let the camera do the work. Later, you can compile the images into a video or keep them as individual photos.

Best Action Cameras for Photography in 2024

Not all action cameras are created equal when it comes to still photos. Some prioritize video, while others offer excellent photo features. Here’s a breakdown of the top models for photography in 2024, based on real-world performance and user feedback.

Top Picks for Still Photos

Camera Model	Max Photo Resolution	Key Photo Features	Best For
GoPro HERO12 Black	27MP	HDR, RAW support, SuperPhoto, Night Photo mode	Travel, adventure, social media
DJI Osmo Action 4	12MP (larger sensor)	Low-light optimization, D-Cinelike color profile, HDR	Night shots, vlogging, underwater
Insta360 ONE RS (1-Inch Edition)	48MP (1-inch sensor)	Large sensor, 360° photo mode, AI editing	High-res landscapes, creative angles
GoPro HERO11 Black	24.7MP	HyperSmooth stabilization, SuperPhoto, 10-bit color	Action shots, video-photo hybrid
Akaso Brave 7 LE	20MP	Dual screens, touch controls, budget-friendly	Beginners, casual use

What to Look For

• Sensor Size: Larger sensors (like the 1-inch in Insta360) capture more light and detail. But even small sensors have improved significantly.
• RAW Support: If you plan to edit photos, RAW gives you more flexibility in post-processing. GoPro and DJI support this.
• Stabilization: Good stabilization reduces blur, especially in handheld or moving shots.
• Screen Quality: A bright, responsive touchscreen makes framing easier, especially in sunlight.

For example, the DJI Osmo Action 4 has a larger sensor than most competitors, which means better dynamic range and less noise in photos. But if you want ultra-wide shots or 360° photos, the Insta360 ONE RS is the way to go.

When to Choose Video Over Photo Mode

Even the best action cameras have trade-offs. In some cases, video stills (extracting a frame from a video) can be better than dedicated photos. Why?

• Higher frame rates (e.g., 120fps) allow for super-smooth slow-motion, and you can pull a sharp frame from it.
• You don’t need to switch modes—just start recording and grab a still later.
• Some cameras (like GoPro) automatically save a photo when you start recording.

So if you’re at a fast-paced event—like a concert or a sports game—recording a video and pulling a still might give you a better result than a single photo.

Creative Ways to Use Your Action Camera for Photos

Action cameras aren’t just for point-and-shoot moments. With a little creativity, you can use them to capture unique, eye-catching photos that stand out.

Unique Angles and Mounts

The biggest advantage of action cameras is their mounting flexibility. You can attach them to:

• Helmets (for first-person views)
• Chest straps (for immersive POV shots)
• Bike handlebars (for trail photography)
• Tripods or mini tripods (for group photos or self-portraits)
• Selfie sticks (with waterproof options)

My favorite? The chest mount. It gives you a human-level perspective—great for hiking, skiing, or even walking through a market. One time, I used it to capture a photo of a street performer. The angle made it feel like I was right there, watching the show.

Underwater and Weatherproof Photography

Most action cameras are waterproof out of the box (up to 10–16 feet), and with a housing, they can go much deeper. This makes them perfect for:

• Snorkeling or scuba diving
• Rainy-day city walks
• Beach vacations
• Waterfall exploration

Just remember: underwater, colors shift (reds disappear first). Use a red filter or edit in post to restore natural tones. Also, keep the lens clean—salt, sand, and algae can ruin a shot.

Group Photos and Self-Portraits

Forget selfie sticks and awkward arm stretches. Use your action camera’s wide-angle lens to include everyone in the frame. Set it on a rock, a table, or a tripod, then use the timer (usually 2, 5, or 10 seconds). Some cameras even have voice commands, so you can say “GoPro, take a photo” and step into the frame.

Bonus: The wide lens captures more background, so your group photos feel more immersive.

Time-Lapse Photography for Storytelling

Time-lapse photos aren’t just for videos. Save each frame as a JPEG, and you’ve got a photo series that tells a story. For example:

• A day in the life of a mountain (morning fog, midday sun, sunset)
• A busy street at different times
• A plant growing over a week

You can even print them as a photo strip or create a digital slideshow.

Tips to Improve Your Action Camera Photos

You don’t need fancy gear to take great photos. A few simple tips can take your action cam shots from “meh” to “wow.”

Master the Basics: Composition and Framing

• Rule of Thirds: Imagine a 3×3 grid on your screen. Place key elements (like a person or landmark) at the intersections.
• Leading Lines: Use roads, rivers, or trails to guide the viewer’s eye into the photo.
• Negative Space: Don’t fill the frame. Sometimes a small subject in a large landscape is more powerful.

For example, when photographing a surfer, leave space in front of them so they’re “moving” into the frame, not out of it.

Use the Right Settings

• Resolution: Choose the highest available (e.g., 27MP on GoPro) for maximum detail.
• Photo Format: Use JPEG for quick sharing, RAW for editing.
• Exposure: Tap on the screen to adjust brightness. Avoid over- or under-exposing.
• White Balance: Use “Auto” most of the time, but switch to “Cloudy” or “Shade” for warm tones.

Stabilize Your Camera

Even with built-in stabilization, movement can blur photos. Use:

• Mounts or tripods
• Two hands (if handheld)
• A higher shutter speed (if your camera allows manual settings)

Edit Like a Pro

Most action cameras come with companion apps (like GoPro Quik or DJI Mimo) that let you edit photos on your phone. Use them to:

• Adjust brightness and contrast
• Boost saturation (especially for landscapes)
• Crop and straighten
• Add filters or text

Don’t overdo it—simple edits often look more natural.

Clean Your Lens

A smudged lens = blurry photos. Wipe it with a microfiber cloth before each shoot. Keep a spare in your bag.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—And You Should

So, can you take pictures with an action camera? Absolutely. And not just any pictures—photos that are sharp, creative, and full of life. Whether you’re capturing a mountain sunrise, a child’s first steps, or a wild animal in motion, your action camera is more than capable.

It’s not about replacing your DSLR or smartphone. It’s about expanding your creative toolkit. Action cameras offer a unique blend of portability, durability, and versatility that few other devices can match. They let you go where traditional cameras can’t—underwater, on a bike, in the rain—and still come back with stunning photos.

Next time you head out on an adventure, don’t just hit record. Take a moment to switch to photo mode. Frame the shot. Press the shutter. You might be surprised at what you capture. After all, the best photos aren’t always planned—they’re seized in the moment. And with an action camera in your pocket, you’re always ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take pictures with an action camera?

Yes, you can take pictures with an action camera. Most models, like GoPro or DJI Osmo Action, offer high-resolution photo modes alongside video recording.

How do you capture photos using an action camera?

To capture photos, switch your action camera to “Photo Mode” and press the shutter button. Many cameras also support burst mode or time-lapse for creative shots.

What image quality can you expect from an action camera?

Modern action cameras deliver excellent image quality, often shooting in 12MP or higher. Advanced sensors and image stabilization ensure sharp, vibrant photos even in motion.

Can you take pictures with an action camera in low light?

Yes, but results vary by model. High-end action cameras feature night modes or larger sensors to improve low-light photo quality.

Do action cameras support RAW photo formats?

Many premium action cameras, like the GoPro Hero12, support RAW (e.g., GPR) for better editing flexibility. Check your camera’s settings for this option.

Are action cameras better for photos or videos?

Action cameras excel at both, but they’re optimized for video. However, their compact size and wide-angle lenses make them great for dynamic still photography too.