Get ready, sky-gazers! An eclipse is one of nature’s most spectacular shows, and if you’re lucky enough to be in its path, you’ll want to capture every breathtaking moment. While professional photographers might lug around heavy DSLRs, many of us are looking for a more compact, versatile, and user-friendly way to immortalize the event. That’s where your trusty GoPro comes in!
You might be wondering, “What’s the best GoPro Hero 5 for the eclipse?” While the Hero 5 is an older model, it still packs a punch for many users, especially when paired with the right accessories. However, newer GoPro models offer significant advancements that can elevate your eclipse photography to a whole new level. This article isn’t just about the Hero 5; it’s about giving you a comprehensive guide to the top GoPro cameras and essential accessories that will help you record this incredible celestial event, no matter which model you have. From stunning 4K video to crucial protective gear, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into our top picks to help you make the most of your eclipse experience!
1. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
If you’re serious about capturing every nuance of the eclipse with the absolute best quality available in a GoPro, the HERO13 Black is your go-to. This beast isn’t a GoPro Hero 5 for the eclipse, but it’s the current flagship for a reason. Its unparalleled 5.3K60 video resolution ensures incredible detail, allowing you to zoom in on specific moments during post-production without losing clarity. The legendary durability means you won’t have to baby it, and new HB-Series Lenses combined with a more powerful battery make it ready for extended time-lapses or capturing the entire progression of the event. It’s perfect for anyone upgrading or looking for the most advanced features to document the solar phenomenon.
Key Features:
– Best-in-class 5.3K60 video resolution
– Legendary GoPro durability
– New HB-Series Lenses for enhanced optical performance
– More powerful battery for extended shooting
– Ideal for capturing high-detail time-lapses of the eclipse
Pros:
– Superior video quality for crisp eclipse footage
– Robust and reliable for outdoor use
– Advanced features for creative control
– Excellent battery life for longer recordings
Cons:
– Premium price point compared to older models
– Might be overkill for casual users
– Not specifically a “Hero 5” as per the keyword (but a top alternative)
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the HERO13 Black for its incredible video quality and impressive stabilization, making complex shots seem effortless. Many highlight its ease of use despite its advanced capabilities, stating it’s a game-changer for capturing action and detailed scenes alike. The improved battery life is a recurring positive, especially for longer shoots like a time-lapse of an eclipse.
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2. GoPro Hero5 Session (Renewed)
For those who love the compact form factor or are specifically looking for a GoPro Hero 5 for the eclipse on a budget, the Hero5 Session (Renewed) is an excellent choice. Don’t let its small size fool you; this little powerhouse can capture stunning 4K video and 10MP photos, making it perfectly capable of documenting the eclipse. Its durable, waterproof design means you don’t need an extra housing for basic protection. The beauty of the Session is its simplicity: a single press of the shutter button powers it on and starts recording automatically, allowing you to focus on the sky, not complicated settings. It’s a fantastic option for a secondary camera or for those who value portability above all else.
Key Features:
– Stunning 4K video and 10MP photos
– Durable design, waterproof to 33ft (10M) without a housing
– Simple one-button operation
– Compact and highly portable form factor
– Supports single, burst, and time-lapse modes
Pros:
– Very affordable, especially as a renewed model
– Extremely small and lightweight
– Easy to use for quick captures
– Decent video quality for its size and age
Cons:
– Lacks an LCD screen for real-time viewing (can be inconvenient for framing)
– Older generation technology (no HyperSmooth, etc.)
– Battery is integrated and not replaceable
User Impressions:
Customers appreciate the Hero5 Session’s small footprint and straightforward operation, often noting it’s perfect for “set it and forget it” situations. While some miss the LCD screen, many find the simplicity liberating. Its robustness and native waterproofing are frequently mentioned as major pluses for various adventures.
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3. GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action…
Ready to capture the eclipse like never before? The GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is engineered for epic, immersive footage. While not a GoPro Hero 5 for the eclipse, this specialized version of the HERO13 Black comes with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod already attached, boosting the field of view up to a staggering 177°. This means you can capture more of the sky and horizon in each shot, creating an incredibly engaging and immersive video narrative of the solar eclipse. Its Pro-Quality 4K60 Video and Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization ensure your footage is crisp, detailed, and incredibly smooth, even if you’re hand-holding or slightly moving. For a truly cinematic record of the event and its surrounding landscape, this is the top-tier choice.
Key Features:
– Ultra Wide Lens Mod pre-attached for a 177° field of view
– Pro-Quality 4K60 video capture
– Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization in every resolution
– Easy Vertical Capture for social media content
– Includes full accessory kit for immediate use
Pros:
– Unrivaled immersive wide-angle footage
– Top-tier stabilization for smooth video
– Excellent for capturing the entire sky during an eclipse
– High-quality video and photo capabilities
Cons:
– Premium price, even higher than the standard HERO13 Black
– Wide-angle might not be ideal for extreme close-ups of the sun (requires careful planning)
– More specialized, might not suit all general users
User Impressions:
Reviewers rave about the Ultra Wide Edition’s ability to capture “everything.” The expanded field of view is a consistent highlight, perfect for sprawling landscapes and dynamic POV shots. Users note the HyperSmooth stabilization truly makes footage “unbreakable,” even in challenging conditions. The convenience of easy vertical capture for social media is also a big win for many.
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4. FitStill 148FT/45M Waterproof Housing for Go Pro Hero…
Even if you’re not planning an underwater eclipse viewing (which would be quite a feat!), a robust protective housing is an invaluable accessory, especially if you’re bringing your GoPro Hero 5 for the eclipse into a crowded viewing area or simply want maximum peace of mind. The FitStill Waterproof Housing is specifically designed for the GoPro Hero 7 Black, Hero 6 Black, Hero 5 Black, and Hero HD (2018). It’s significantly stronger and thicker than standard housings, offering superior protection against bumps, scratches, and dust. Its large flat glass lens ensures maximum image sharpness both above and below water, so your eclipse footage remains crystal clear. While its 148FT/45M waterproof rating is overkill for an eclipse, its durability and clarity make it an excellent investment for protecting your valuable camera during any adventure.
Key Features:
– Specifically designed for GoPro Hero 7 Black/6 Black/5 Black/HD (2018)
– 0.4″ Bigger and 35% Thicker for enhanced durability
– Large Flat Glass Lens for maximum image sharpness
– Excellent PMMA material for robust protection
– Waterproof up to 148FT/45M, ideal for various activities
Pros:
– Provides extreme protection against physical damage and dust
– Maintains image clarity with its flat glass lens
– Ideal for general protection, not just water sports
– Stronger and thicker than many standard housings
Cons:
– Not compatible with Hero 7 Silver/White Edition
– Adds bulk to the camera
– Waterproof rating is likely unnecessary for eclipse viewing
User Impressions:
Customers frequently praise the FitStill housing for its robust build and reliable waterproof sealing. Many users report taking their GoPros to impressive depths without issues. The clear lens is often highlighted for not degrading image quality, and the overall feel of durability instills confidence in protecting their cameras.
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5. Sametop Case Frame Mount Housing Compatible with GoPro Hero…
When setting up your GoPro Hero 5 for the eclipse (specifically the Session models), flexibility and convenience are key. The Sametop Case Frame Mount Housing is the smallest and most lightweight way to attach your GoPro Hero Session camera to any GoPro mount. Made from strengthened PC material, it offers excellent heat dissipation, crucial if you’re doing a long time-lapse video of the eclipse progression, preventing your camera from overheating. Its humanized open design provides full-time access to the shutter button and camera ports, meaning you can keep your camera charged without removing it from the mount. For a stable, protected, and easily mountable setup, especially with a Hero 5 Session, this frame mount is an indispensable accessory.
Key Features:
– Smallest and lightweight frame for GoPro Hero Session cameras
– Made of strengthen PC material for durability and heat dissipation
– Wide compatibility with GoPro Hero5 Session, Hero4 Session, Hero Session
– Humanized open design for full access to ports and buttons
– Flexible angle for ultimate mounting versatility
Pros:
– Great for heat dissipation during long recordings
– Lightweight and compact, easy to transport
– Allows charging and button access while mounted
– Offers versatile mounting options for unique eclipse angles
Cons:
– Offers less physical protection than a full waterproof housing
– Only compatible with GoPro Session models
– Doesn’t protect against water
User Impressions:
Users love the Sametop frame for its minimalist design and effective heat dissipation, particularly for extended recording sessions. Its light weight and easy access to ports are frequently cited as benefits. Many find it ideal for activities where bulk is a concern but a bit of protection and mounting versatility are needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Capturing the Eclipse with Your GoPro
Q1: Can I use my GoPro Hero 5 to film a solar eclipse?
A1: Yes, absolutely! Your GoPro Hero 5 (or Hero5 Session) can certainly capture a solar eclipse. While newer models offer advanced features, the Hero 5 is capable of shooting 4K video and taking time-lapse photos, which are great for documenting the event. Remember to use proper solar filters to protect your camera’s sensor and achieve the best results.
Q2: Do I need a special filter for my GoPro to film an eclipse?
A2: Yes, it is critical to use a certified solar filter specifically designed for cameras when pointing your GoPro directly at the sun during an eclipse (especially the partial phases). Without one, you risk permanent damage to your camera’s sensor. Regular sunglasses or ND filters are NOT sufficient.
Q3: What are the best GoPro settings for an eclipse time-lapse?
A3: For a time-lapse, consider these settings:
* Mode: Time Lapse Video or Time Lapse Photo.
* Resolution: Highest available (e.g., 4K for Hero 5, 5.3K for Hero 13).
* Interval: Start with 1-2 seconds for the partial phases, and consider increasing to 0.5 seconds or continuous for totality if you want more frames.
* Field of View (FOV): Wide or SuperView is good for capturing the surrounding sky, while Linear might be better if you want less distortion.
* Protune: Turn it on! This allows manual control.
* Shutter: Experiment, but start with auto or a fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/240 or faster).
* ISO: Keep it low (e.g., ISO 100-400) during partial phases. During totality, you might increase it to ISO 800-1600.
* White Balance: Set to “Native” or “Daylight” for accurate colors.
* Exposure Compensation: Adjust as needed, usually slightly negative (-0.5 to -1.0) during bright phases.
Q4: How do I protect my GoPro during the eclipse viewing?
A4: Beyond the essential solar filter, consider using a protective case (like the FitStill Waterproof Housing mentioned above) to guard against accidental drops or bumps, especially in crowded viewing areas. For Session models, a frame mount like the Sametop provides some protection and crucial heat dissipation for long recordings.
Q5: Should I use a mount for my GoPro during the eclipse?
A5: Absolutely! A sturdy tripod or a reliable mount is highly recommended. This will keep your GoPro stable for time-lapses and ensure your footage is steady. Hand-holding your GoPro for extended periods will result in shaky footage.
Q6: What’s the main advantage of a newer GoPro (like HERO13) over a Hero 5 for eclipse photography?
A6: Newer GoPros like the HERO13 offer significant advantages including higher resolutions (e.g., 5.3K), much-improved image stabilization (HyperSmooth), better low-light performance, and often more robust battery life. These features contribute to sharper, smoother, and more detailed eclipse footage, particularly during the dimmer totality phase.
Q7: Can a GoPro capture the corona during a total solar eclipse?
A7: Yes, with the right settings and a lot of luck, a GoPro can capture the brighter parts of the corona during totality. However, because GoPros have small sensors and fixed apertures, they are not ideal for capturing the intricate details of the corona compared to a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens. The wide field of view is better for capturing the event rather than the fine solar details.
Q8: What’s the difference between a “renewed” GoPro Hero5 Session and a new one?
A8: A “renewed” GoPro Hero5 Session is a pre-owned product that has been professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned to work and look like new. It typically comes with a limited warranty. A brand new one would be fresh from the factory. Renewed options are great for saving money while still getting a functional device.
