GoPro For Snorkeling – Do We Recommend This Camera?
If you are wondering whether choosing a GoPro for snorkeling is a good idea, you came to the right place! We have been using GoPro cameras for more than eight years. Our first model was a Hero4 Black. We were amazed by the image and video quality that such a tiny camera can deliver, so we got caught instantly.
Our excitement is still the same every time there is a new release, and we can’t wait to see what upgrades a new series brings. These tiny devices have now become feature-packed market-leader action cameras, but they are not cheap. So, before getting one, you may want to know the differences between the latest series and the pros and cons to decide if it will meet your needs. In this article, we share our thoughts on what GoPro to use underwater (hint, we have the Hero12 Black and love it!) and how to take your footage to the next level!
Key Takeaway:
- Compact size, waterproofing, user-friendly interface, and high-quality footage – these features make a GoPro a perfect choice to record snorkeling adventures and for water activities in general
- Choose the latest model (Hero12 Black) as the first buyer
- If you have Hero 9, 8, or any older model, it is worth upgrading to Hero12 or 11 Black
- To boost your footage, use accessories such as a pole, dome port, or red filter
Why is GoPro a Good Camera for Snorkeling? – The Pros
GoPro cameras go beyond expectations in recording adventures, whether you explore under or above the water. You can be a beginner or a seasoned snorkeler, a freediver or a scuba diver, capturing stunning underwater footage is guaranteed using one of the latest models, such as the Hero12 or Hero11 Black.
But what makes these tiny devices suitable for use during water activities? Here is a list of features that make GoPros one of the most recommended options for snorkeling cameras!
Waterproofing
One of the most significant advantages of using a GoPro underwater camera for snorkeling is that these cameras are waterproof up to 33ft/10m and can be taken underwater, including saltwater, without using an additional case. This level of waterproofing is enough for snorkeling and casual skin diving, and if you want to go deeper with it, you can get a diving case for about 20 USD or less.
Hydrophobic lens coating
Shooting in wet environments brings up the problem of water droplets clinging to the lens, resulting in blur and dim areas in the images. The solution to such issues was using water-repellent lens protector foils, but they are not needed anymore as the latest GoPros (10, 11, and 12) have hydrophobic lens coating. This special layer keeps water droplets off the lens, helping you take clear images.
Compact, travel-friendly size
If you are looking for a lightweight action camera that fits even the most miniature carry-on bags, a GoPro is a must-have accessory for your next snorkeling or diving trip.
High-quality footage
The latest GoPro cameras offer extremely high-quality video and photo capabilities. For instance, Hero12 Black can capture High-Dynamic-Range 27MP photos and record 5.3K60fps/4K120fps videos. Advanced features such as HyperSmooth image stabilization and TimeWarp timelapse video stabilization support creating professional content above and under the water.
Durability
GoPro cameras are designed for extreme conditions, including saltwater environments. Thanks to their durable construction, they are built to last and withstand shocks and drops so you can use them for a long time.
User-friendly interface, advanced pre-set modes
Many people buy a GoPro instead of a waterproof snorkeling camera because it has pre-set modes that help you record clear and bright footage no matter the conditions. Using a GoPro for snorkeling or diving gives you outstanding image quality, even if you don’t know much about photography.
Customization
In addition to these awesome features, the wide variety of accessories available strengthens GoPro’s market position. While the camera is fully functioning and creates amazing footage on its own, it is a massive advantage that it is possible to make it even better with the use of pro accessories.
Mount it on a pole to achieve different angles, use lights to brighten up your footage, or get a dome port and take split photos; it is easy to get creative and stand out from the crowd with a GoPro!
Disadvantages Of Using GoPro Cameras for Snorkeling
A GoPro is undoubtedly one of the best action cameras to record your snorkeling adventures; however, it has some weak points you need to be aware of. Let’s see now the cons:
Overheating
Cameras with unique high-performance video modes use more power and become quickly warm. Overheating is one of the issues GoPro users complain the most about; this problem reduces battery life and even shuts down the camera when it gets too warm, which is not ideal when filming something unique and exciting.
So far, the only advice to avoid it was not to film in the highest-quality video settings. However, the latest model, Hero12 Black, has a new power management system that, besides extending the battery life, should improve the camera’s performance in cold and hot environments, so we expect this to solve the overheating issue.
No optical zoom (only zoom effect)
GoPros come with a fixed 170-degree lens with no zoom function. This wide-angle lens is excellent for filming large scenes, such as an extensive coral reef system with lots of life on it or large marine animals, but it is not good at capturing smaller objects or taking close-ups. Choosing a traditional camera with a good zoom function is the way to take such photos.
Challenging to take good still images
Action cameras are designed to record videos and not to shoot still images. First, the screen is small; you can’t frame the scenes well, and it is difficult to change the settings when the screen and your fingers are wet in the water. If taking still images is your priority, choose a compact snorkeling camera.
GoPro Hero12 Black – Is it The Best Hero Ever for Snorkeling?
5.3K60fps videos, 27MP superb sharp still photos, Emmy® Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization, HyperView digital lens, 10-bit color images, extended-life Enduro battery. If we didn’t tell you more about the new Hero12 Black, maybe these extreme features were already enough to convince you that the latest flagship model is a big deal if you are looking for the best GoPro for snorkeling or any other extreme activity, no matter it happens above or under the water. But let’s see the details!
The design with clear lines and well-known colors remained the same, making it easily recognizable among alternative action cameras. It weighs only 154 grams with a battery inserted and features 2 LCD screens (a super responsive rear touch screen and a full-color front touchscreen).
Hero12 comes with a 1/1.9″ image sensor that can deliver 8:7 aspect ratio perspectives (a 16% increase in the vertical field compared to the Hero 10), making cropping your photos/videos easy, depending on what social media platform you post them.
The quality for still snaps is up to 27MP with 24.7 frame grabs; the video quality is 5.3K/60fps, but now in High Dynamic Range (HDR).
The video stabilization was further improved; the HyperSmooth 6.0 dynamically controls the stabilization depending on the activity. As part of the HyperSmooth 6.0, the built-in 360° horizon lock keeps the shooting position and the horizon level steady even when the camera rotates 360 degrees.
Another cool thing about the GoPro 12 is that this is the first model that can be equipped with an ultra-wide angle digital lens that enables up to 177° field of view at 4K60. This accessory is the Max Lens Mod 2.0. This lens can be used even underwater since it is waterproof up to 16 ft/5 m!
One of the best features pros love about the 12 Black is the 10-bit color processing, which results in more detailed, natural footage with colors like those seen with your own eyes. This function was first introduced with Hero 11.
This might not seem a big deal for someone not into photography, but there is a big difference between 8-bit and 10-bit images. The color depth means how many numbers of colors can be stored in an image. With 10-bit color, your images and videos will have more color depth so they will be more vivid, natural, and life-like.
To support the performance, the 12 Black comes with the same 1720 mAh Enduro batteries as its predecessor, but it features a fully redesigned power management system that allows up to 2x longer runtimes. This means up to 70 minutes of recording at the highest performance setting, 5.3K60fps, and up to 155 minutes at 1080p30fps. Moreover, the camera functions better in low-temperature environments (while skiing or in cold ocean water, for example).
The built-in mounting solutions and the waterproof feature (33ft/10m) remain the same.
GoPro Hero 12
- 27MP still shots, 23MP frame grabs
- HyperView 6.0 with AutoBoost
- 1720 mAh Enduro battery
GoPro Hero12 Black Key Features:
- 27MP still shots, 24.7MP frame grabs
- 5.3K/60fps, 4K/120fps, 2.7K/240fps videos
- Up to 8x slow motion
- GP2 processor
- 1/1.9″ CMOS sensor, 8:7 aspect ratio
- Max HyperView with 177° field of view (Max Lens Mod 2.0)
- HyperSmooth 6.0 with AutoBoost
- 10-bit color images
- 360 degrees horizon lock at up to 5.3K
- 1720 mAh Enduro battery, advanced power management system
- Waterproof to 10m/33ft
- 154 grams
GoPro Hero 12 Black vs. Hero 11 Black – What’s New or Improved?
Although the Hero12 Black uses the same GP2 processor (introduced with the Hero10 series) and both cameras shoot 5.3K60/4K120/2.7K240 videos, you can enjoy a couple of refinements when choosing GoPro’s latest family member.
The main differences/improvements between GoPro Hero12 and Hero11 Black:
HDR videos: Hero 12 now supports HDR (High dynamic range) video capturing at up to 5.3K resolution, allowing you to record even more detailed high-contrast videos.
Upgraded power management: the redesigned power and heat management systems enable up to 2x longer runtime (up to 70 minutes at highest performance) and better performance in cold conditions.
Improved audio options: The GoPro 12 Black has Bluetooth support, so you can pair the camera with wireless devices such as headphones, microphones, or Apple AirPods.
HyperSmooth 6.0: first introduced with the GoPro HERO7, the electronic image stabilization is the best built-in camera stabilization that works like a gimbal and ensures that your footage is smooth and stable even when conditions are rough.
This function was already awesome in the predecessor 11 Black (called HyperSmooth 5.0), but now it has been further improved; with revised AutoBoost, the system dynamically manages how much stabilization is needed, so there is no more shaky footage!
HyperSmooth is an extremely useful option if you use your GoPro for snorkeling! One of the biggest challenges when filming underwater is to hold your camera steady to avoid blurry footage. Since there is no waterproof gimbal on the market, it is almost impossible to get smooth footage while swimming on the surface if there are waves, and it is even more difficult underwater.
Thanks to the improved HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization function, GoPro Hero12 Black is now one of the best GoPro cameras for underwater usage that provides you with stable and sharp footage in all conditions!
Max Lens Mod 2.0 Accessory: This accessory allows you to upgrade your camera and enjoy extra-wide-angle perceptions (36% wider field of view when capturing widescreen video and 48% taller field of view when capturing vertical video).
Timecode Sync: editing made easy! You can wirelessly synchronize an unlimited number of HERO12 Black cameras. The new function works with all leading editing apps.
GP-Log with available Look-Up Tables (LUTs): more possibilities when color-grading and editing.
New camera features: a new vertical capture mode, 8:7 aspect ration is now available across all video resolutions and also in Time Lapse, Time Warp, Night Lapse, and Night modes, and Night Effects are available with still images.
More user-friendly interface: simplified “Easy Controls” and customizable “Pro Controls”. With Easy Modes, you can select pre-set Auto modes, which is a massive help for non-professionals who don’t want to spend time studying the settings. Full customization is also possible of course, by switching to Pro Mode.
Conclusion – What is The Best GoPro for Snorkeling?
No question, GoPro introduced severe upgrades in the latest series and took their action camera line to the next level. The improvements and extra functions make all the models we discussed here a good choice for everyday users and content creators who have previously worked with compact cameras and DSLRs.
If you are about to buy a new GoPro for snorkeling, we believe the latest two models are worth buying. They feature similar image quality and are the same regarding waterproof capabilities (you can take them underwater up to 10m/33ft without housing).
If you want the best action camera for land and underwater use, today’s top choice is Hero12 Black. If we had to pick the one that gave the best value for money, it would be the Hero11 Black. The upgraded features of the 12 compared to the 11 are cool but not so significant that an everyday user should spend the extra bucks to have the latest version.
Find here a summary of what we think who should buy a Hero12 Black or a Hero11 Black:
Hero12 Black: recommended for pro users and those who expect excellent image quality and love playing around and capturing their moments using the best available techniques (in terms of action cameras).
Hero11 Black: a great choice if you look for a great all-rounder action camera at a fair price that the whole family can use in all situations from taking birthday photos to filming a vacation movie and capturing underwater scenes.
What if you already have a GoPro?
If you have a GoPro, you might ask if it is worth upgrading to the 12 Black. Well, it depends on your model.
If you own the previous versions, there is no need to buy the new one as the improvements are not so noticeable that the change is worth the hassle and money.
However, Hero11 and Hero12 received significant upgrades, including a new GP2 processor and many new features compared to the older models from 9 backward, so the upgrade is recommended and will definitely improve quality.
GoPro Snorkeling Tips – Tricks To Know and Accessories To Use
Owning one of the latest GoPros opens up endless possibilities to create incredible videos and still images, but you can further improve them by knowing some tricks. Here we share some tips and show you some GoPro underwater accessories that will help make your underwater footage even better!
Find the right frame rate and image resolution
The latest GoPros can record 5.3K or 4K videos, but you don’t necessarily need to use that high quality. Such videos take up too much space and require a strong PC to edit, so you can go lower unless you want professional footage. You should be absolutely fine recording in 2.7K; even 1080p Full HD delivers fantastic quality, moreover, it is the general resolution to share on social platforms, too.
You need to pay attention to the frame rate, though. Marine creatures are fast-moving and are always in motion, so you might want to slow down the videos later to look smoother. Using a 60fps frame rate will allow you to do this, up to approximately 50%, without sacrificing quality. If you want to create slow-motion clips, choose higher frame rates (120-240fps).
For still photos, you can use the highest quality available. Our tip is to choose burst mode when taking images of an exciting scene, creature, or yourself. Underwater photos often end up not sharp because of shaking or blurry because of splashing water, so it is good to have more images to choose from.
Be always ready to film – Use the QuikCapture function
The ocean is an environment where there is always some action, and sometimes creatures appear and disappear in seconds. We missed capturing many unique moments, such as interestingly behaving fish, a closely swimming shark, or a passing group of rays, because our camera was off, so here is our advice: keep your GoPro always ready to film!
This does not mean you must always keep it on because that would lead to overheating and fast battery draining, but using the QuikCapture function. By pressing the shutter button on the top of the camera, the GoPro powers up and starts recording immediately, so you won’t miss any cool moments!
Learn to skin dive and get close to marine life
When watching your videos, you may feel that the scene or creature you wanted to record was too far away, even if you thought you were filming from close. This happens because of the wide-angle lens, and since the camera can’t zoom in, you need to do the job if you want to take closer images.
Learn how to dive down (skin dive) and approach the creatures responsibly, not disturbing or scaring them away. Getting a longer, extendable selfie stick also helps. Another thing to remember is that your subject should not be closer than 12″ because the camera won’t be able to focus.
Stabilize your camera – Mount it on a GoPro snorkeling pole
Originally, GoPro didn’t come with a stick, so you needed to buy a pole to mount your camera on to avoid hand-holding. Like this, you can hold it more stable and won’t lose it if you accidentally let it go from your hand.
A wide selection is available, from the simplest floaty hand grips to telescopic poles and professional trays, so what will work best depends on your filming habits.
The most important thing is that if you use your GoPro for snorkeling, choose a waterproof selfie stick that can go into salty water. We had some cheap, normal sticks at the beginning but they started rusting and broke after a few uses in ocean water, so getting a waterproof one is worth the extra bucks.
Alternatively, you can mount your camera on a GoPro snorkeling mask too! This option is the best for those who use their hands for maneuvering while snorkeling.
Get creative – Take half-underwater photos with a dome port
It is so much fun to take over-under split photos with a GoPro camera! A half-underwater GoPro photo is a cool-looking shot when a certain part of the image shows the underwater scene while the other half displays the surroundings above the water level.
These images may seem challenging to take, but the truth is that they are not; you just need a dome port and learn some tricks so you can take split photos easily.
Restore natural colors – Use a color correction red filter
A GoPro underwater filter can significantly improve your underwater video quality instantly! Using a red or magenta filter is a fast and simple way of color correction.
We used underwater filters with our older GoPros, but our experience is that the new models auto-correct the colors very well while snorkeling on the surface. However, filters are still helpful at greater depths, for example, when skin diving or scuba diving, when there is not enough light to get natural colors. Attach the right filter to your GoPro SuperSuit case; you will get bright, naturally colored underwater footage.
Get underwater housing for extra security
Despite the camera being waterproof up to 33ft, we recommend using it in a diving case, even for snorkeling. We think it is a safer setup to prevent accidental leaking and water damage.
Use anti-fog inserts to prevent condensation
Condensation can form on the lens due to temperature differences, resulting in blurry images with dim areas. This phenomenon occurs pretty often when snorkeling, when you record long videos and the camera becomes warm while the ocean water is colder. To prevent this, it is best to use the camera in a housing with an anti-fog insert that will absorb the moisture.
Pack extra batteries
New GoPro cameras have a lot longer battery life than the earlier models. However, recording videos (especially when recording in extra high quality) drains the battery much faster than shooting still images. Pack some spare batteries and swap them between your snorkeling sessions to avoid the disappointment of not being able to film because of an empty battery.
Take care of your camera
GoPros are durable and built to last. When using them in a dirty and/or wet environment, clean them thoroughly to remove any stuck particles. Salty water is especially damaging to electronics, so rinse them with fresh water after each use. It is also good to learn some camera cleaning and maintenance tips to make your precious device last.
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GoPro Hero12 Black vs. 11 Black technical details: https://gopro.com/en/us/compare
