Capturing breathtaking moments on your GoPro Hero 4 is incredibly rewarding, but let’s be honest: when the sun dips or you venture into dim environments, that amazing footage can quickly turn grainy and underexposed. Action cameras, while fantastic for daylight and bright conditions, often struggle with low light performance. That’s where external lighting comes in!
If you’re wondering how to get clearer, more vibrant shots in challenging lighting conditions, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve scouted the market to bring you the best lights for GoPro Hero 4 low light scenarios, helping you elevate your footage from murky to magnificent. We’ll also touch on how the Hero 4’s native features can play a role. Get ready to banish that dreaded darkness from your adventures!
1. GoPro Light Mod – Official GoPro Accessory
The GoPro Light Mod is your go-to if you want an official accessory that seamlessly integrates with your GoPro ecosystem. This compact powerhouse is designed to work with newer GoPro models via the Media Mod, but its versatility means it can also be used as a standalone light or attached to other mounts, making it surprisingly effective for your Hero 4 with the right adapters. It’s perfect for adding that crucial bit of fill light for vlogging or improving visibility in moderately dim settings, ensuring your GoPro Hero 4 low light footage gets a much-needed boost in clarity.
Key Features:
* 4 levels of brightness—up to 200 lumens—for crisp detail
* Built tough and waterproof to 33ft (10m)
* Built-in rechargeable battery with up to 6 hours of runtime
* Compact design is perfect to use by itself, connect to the HERO12 Black/HERO11 Black/HERO10 Black/HERO9 Black/HERO8 Black via Media Mod (sold separately), or attach to various GoPro Mounts plus Accessories (sold separately).
Pros:
* Official GoPro quality and durability
* Excellent brightness for its size
* Good battery life for extended shoots
* Waterproof for worry-free use near water
Cons:
* Requires additional mounts or adapters for direct Hero 4 attachment
* Can be a bit pricey compared to third-party options
User Impressions:
Users love its small size and powerful output, often praising its robust build quality. Many appreciate the flexibility to use it on its own or with other GoPro gear, making it a versatile option for various shooting scenarios.
2. Suptig LED Video Light, Portable Photography Compatible for…
When it comes to universal compatibility and diverse lighting options, the Suptig LED Video Light really shines. This little gadget isn’t just for GoPro; it plays nice with a whole host of action cameras and even DSLRs, making it an incredibly versatile addition to any creator’s kit. Its ability to switch between three different color temperatures means you can adapt your lighting to suit various environments, from bright daylight to ambient evening shots, giving your GoPro Hero 4 low light videos a professional touch. Plus, its compact size means it won’t weigh down your setup.
Key Features:
* Perfect compatibility for Gopro Hero 13/12/11/10/9/8/7/6/5/4/3/3+/Session, DJI OSMO, AKASO, Campark, Smart phone, Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Panasonic, SONY, Samsung and Olympus Digital SLR Cameras.
* Adjustable 3 light modes: 2500K (White lights), 5250K (Natural), 8000K (Warm) with adjustable Hi-light brightness and low light.
* Built-in 1200mAh Lithium Battery with up to 60-120 minutes runtime, can run indefinitely off of external power via USB.
* Convenient to carry compact size: 2.55inch x 2.12inch x 0.59 inch.
* Attached mounting bracket can be used as a GoPro grip or action cameras grip.
Pros:
* Extremely wide compatibility
* Adjustable color temperature for different moods
* Can be powered externally for unlimited run time
* Very portable and comes with a useful mounting bracket
Cons:
* Not explicitly waterproof, unlike diving-specific lights
* Maximum brightness might not be enough for extremely dark conditions
User Impressions:
Customers frequently highlight its excellent value for money and the surprisingly bright output for its size. The adjustable color temperatures are a big hit, offering flexibility for different shooting environments.
3. GoPro Hero4 Black (Leveraging Native Features for Low Light)
While not an external light source, it’s crucial to acknowledge the GoPro Hero4 Black itself as a key tool for improving GoPro Hero 4 low light footage. This camera, a powerhouse in its day, offered advanced settings that allow users more control over their shots in challenging conditions. Features like Protune give you access to manual controls such as ISO limit, shutter speed, and white balance, which are vital for optimizing your camera’s performance when light is scarce. Understanding and utilizing these built-in capabilities, alongside external lights, forms a comprehensive strategy for superior low light video and photography.
Key Features:
* Professional 4k30, 2.7k60 and 1080P120 video for high-resolution and slow-motion capture
* 720P240 video for super slow motion playback (can help brighten dark scenes in post)
* Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for GoPro app and Smart Remote control
* Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
* Protune with SuperView delivers cinema-quality capture and advanced manual control for photos and video
* Night Photo and Night Lapse offer customizable exposure settings for nighttime shooting
Pros:
* Access to Protune for manual control over ISO, shutter, etc.
* Night Photo and Night Lapse modes are specifically designed for low light stills
* High frame rates (like 120fps/240fps) can be useful for brightening footage in post-production if slightly overexposed
* Still a highly capable action camera for its age
Cons:
* Limited by sensor size – external light is often necessary for true clarity
* No built-in light source
* Older model, may not be as readily available new
User Impressions:
Owners often praise the Hero4 Black for its versatility and the quality of footage it produced, especially when Protune was utilized. Its advanced features for the time made it a favorite for those wanting more control over their shooting.
See GoPro Hero4 Black on Amazon here
4. Suptig Diving Light – Waterproof Underwater Light for Gopro…
For adventurers who take their GoPro Hero 4 beneath the waves, the Suptig Diving Light is an absolute game-changer. Water absorbs light, making underwater environments inherently challenging for action cameras. This durable, waterproof light is designed to cut through that murkiness, allowing your Hero 4 to capture vibrant colors and clear details even at depths of up to 147ft. Whether you’re snorkeling, scuba diving, or just exploring a murky lake, this light ensures your GoPro Hero 4 low light underwater footage is truly captivating.
Key Features:
* Great for diving, snorkel, scuba, or general underwater use (waterproof to 147ft / 45M)
* Three modes of light: Normal (HI), Power saving (LOW), Flash (SOS)
* Compact size: 2.95 in(L) x 1.65 in(W) x 2.75 in(H)
* Rechargeable 1050mAh battery (compatible with GoPro Hero 3/3+ batteries)
* Running time: High light (1.5 hours); Low light (4 hours); SOS (6 hours)
* Wide compatibility with GoPro Hero series (13-4, Session, Fusion, Max), DJI Action, Insta360, Akaso.
Pros:
* Exceptional waterproof rating for deep dives
* Good battery life, with interchangeable battery option
* Three useful lighting modes
* Specifically designed to restore color and clarity underwater
Cons:
* Might be overkill if you only need a general-purpose light
* Brightness might not be suitable for very large, dark areas underwater
User Impressions:
Divers and snorkelers rave about how this light transforms their underwater videos, bringing back lost colors and details. Its robust waterproof design is a particular highlight for those venturing into deeper waters.
5. Suptig Diving Light High Power Dimmable Waterproof LED…
Building on the success of their other diving lights, this high-power Suptig Dimmable Waterproof LED light offers an even brighter solution for serious underwater videographers. With 500 lumens and 36 LEDs, it delivers a more intense and wider beam, which is crucial for illuminating larger areas or cutting through thicker underwater murk. This light is not just for diving; its robust, waterproof design makes it an excellent choice for any extreme adventure where light is scarce and durability is paramount. It’s a powerful accessory to ensure your GoPro Hero 4 low light captures are always well-lit, no matter the environment.
Key Features:
* Widely used: Perfect compatibility with Gopro Hero 13/12/11/10/9/8/7/6/5/4/3/2/1 and Dji osmo, insta 360, Akaso Other Action Camera.
* GREAT DIVING LIGHTS: Waterproof tested to 147ft (45M) from the Suptig factory.
* WIDE-ANGLE 500Lumen Max. (5500K-6000K) by 36 LEDs, offering a bright, wide beam.
* THREE MODES OF LIGHT: Normal(HI), Power saving(LOW), Flash(SOS).
* Compact Size: 2.95 in(L) x 1.65 in(W) x 2.75 in(H).
* RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: 1050mAh. Running time: High light (1.5 hours); Low light (4 hours); SOS (6 hours). Battery can be removed for replacement (compatible with Gopro hero 3/3 + batteries).
Pros:
* Higher lumen output (500lm) and more LEDs for brighter, wider illumination
* Excellent waterproof rating for serious underwater use
* Durable construction suitable for harsh environments
* Removable and compatible battery for extended use
Cons:
* Might be overkill for casual use
* Still uses the same battery capacity as the previous model despite higher output, meaning shorter runtime on high.
User Impressions:
Reviewers praise its powerful illumination and wide beam, noting a significant improvement in footage quality, especially in dark underwater scenes. Its reliability and ease of use under challenging conditions are frequently highlighted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is low light so challenging for action cameras like the GoPro Hero 4?
A1: Action cameras like the GoPro Hero 4 have relatively small image sensors compared to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. Smaller sensors gather less light, leading to noisier, grainier, and darker footage in low-light conditions. This is why external lighting is often essential.
Q2: What settings should I adjust on my GoPro Hero 4 for better low light performance?
A2: For better GoPro Hero 4 low light results, use Protune mode. Adjust your ISO to a lower setting (e.g., 400 or 800) to minimize noise, and set a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/30 or 1/60 for video, or longer for stills) to allow more light in. Be mindful that slower shutter speeds can introduce motion blur, so use a steady hand or a tripod.
Q3: Can I use any external light with my GoPro Hero 4?
A3: Most external LED video lights that feature a standard cold shoe mount or a 1/4″-20 screw thread can be used with the GoPro Hero 4, often requiring a compatible GoPro mount adapter. Ensure the light provides sufficient brightness (lumens) for your needs and has adequate battery life.
Q4: Are waterproof lights necessary for underwater low light shooting?
A4: Absolutely! If you plan to shoot underwater, a truly waterproof light (with a high IPX rating or a specified depth rating) is non-negotiable. Standard lights will fail and potentially damage your camera if exposed to water. Underwater lights also help restore colors that are lost at depth.
Q5: How does battery life affect my choice of external light for the GoPro Hero 4?
A5: Battery life is crucial, especially for longer shoots or remote adventures. Consider lights with good battery runtime, or those that allow for external power (like a power bank) or swappable batteries. A light’s brightness often correlates with faster battery drain, so balance your needs.
Q6: Beyond lights, what else can improve my GoPro Hero 4 low light footage?
A6: Besides external lights and camera settings, consider using a stable mount or gimbal to minimize shake, as camera shake is more noticeable in low light. Post-processing tools can also help reduce noise and slightly brighten underexposed footage, but a well-lit shot is always the best starting point.
Q7: Is the GoPro Hero 4 still good for low light in 2024?
A7: While newer GoPro models have improved low-light sensors, the GoPro Hero 4 can still produce decent low-light footage, especially when paired with the right external lighting and optimized settings. It requires more effort than a modern flagship but remains a capable action camera for many scenarios.
