Are you an adventure enthusiast who loves kayaking? Do you want to capture your thrilling moments on water using your GoPro? Mounting your GoPro properly is crucial to ensure the best possible shots while protecting your camera from accidental drops. In this article, we will guide you through different mounting options and provide some tips to enhance the quality of your kayaking videos.
Key Takeaways
Front Middle Mount
The front middle mount is an excellent option for capturing captivating shots while paddling. By mounting your GoPro on the bow of your kayak, you can record footage facing forward, capturing the bow of your kayak as you glide through the water. Alternatively, you can flip the camera around and capture self-portraits while kayaking. This versatile setup works well for both videos and photos.
To set up the front middle mount, you will need the GoPro Vented Helmet Strap Mount. This mount is attached to the kayak by running straps through the eyelets on the bow. Make sure to follow the steps in this video tutorial for a detailed demonstration.
Additional tips for this mount include using the floaty backdoor kit for added security. If the mount or camera accidentally detaches, the floaty backdoor kit will keep it afloat. Furthermore, for extra stability, you can tie a small piece of rope onto the loop and secure it to the eyelet of the kayak. This ensures that even if the camera falls into the water, it will remain attached to your kayak.
Over the Shoulder Mount
If you prefer not to have yourself in the camera shot and instead want to capture the breathtaking scenery, the over the shoulder mount is an ideal choice. This mounting position provides a unique perspective, showing only your back and the stunning views ahead.
For this mount, we recommend the YakAttack PanFish. It can be easily attached to the existing tracks on many sit-on-top kayaks. Alternatively, you can add a Yak-Attack Mighty mount that will securely hook the PanFish onto your kayak without the need for any tools. For detailed instructions on tightening the PanFish and adjusting its position, refer to the manufacturer’s website here.
If you prefer not to mount your GoPro directly onto your kayak, there is an alternative solution: the Stuntman Pack Mount. This mount allows you to turn the shoulder strap of your backpack into a stable and comfortable GoPro mount. Designed for outdoor activities like kayaking, surfing, and motocross, the Stuntman Pack Mount offers flexibility and allows you to capture stunning footage wherever your adventures take you.
GoPro Helmet Mount
For kayakers engaging in whitewater kayaking or seeking a more immersive experience, the GoPro Helmet Front + Side Mount is an ideal choice. This official GoPro mount offers maximum adjustability, allowing you to mount your GoPro to the front or side of your helmet. The included Swivel Mount assembly enables easy adjustment, rotation, and aiming of the camera even while it is mounted.
This mount provides stability and reliability, ensuring that your camera remains securely attached during intense kayaking sessions. The versatility of this mount makes it compatible with a wide range of helmets.
GoPro Suction Cup Mount
For those looking for a quick and easy mounting solution, the GoPro suction cup mount provides a secure and reliable option. It is lightweight, has a slim profile, and comes with a dedicated GoPro fitting. Although the hinges on this mount only work on a single plane, making adjustments slightly more cumbersome, the convenience and portability of this mount make it a popular choice among kayakers.
The GoPro suction cup mount is designed for versatility and can be attached to cars, boats, motorcycles, and more. Its industrial-strength construction ensures stability and a broad range of motion, making it suitable for capturing action-packed kayaking footage. For maximum holding strength, ensure that the suction cup is attached to a clean surface.
Tips for Improving Your GoPro Videos
To make your GoPro videos more engaging and captivating, consider incorporating these tips:
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Try some Creative Angles: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add variety to your footage. Capture different aspects of your kayaking adventure to make your video more dynamic and visually appealing.
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Do a Voice Over: Provide insights, describe the scene, and share your emotions through a voice-over. This will create a more immersive experience for your viewers and help them understand the context behind your footage.
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Keep it Short: Attention spans are shorter than ever, especially on social media platforms. Grab your audience’s attention within the first few seconds and aim for a video length of 2-5 minutes. This ensures that your videos are easily consumable and shareable.
For more inspiration and ideas on how to enhance your GoPro videos, check out this video.
Conclusion
Mounting your GoPro correctly is essential to capture stunning shots while kayaking. We have explored various mounting options, such as the front middle mount, over the shoulder mount, helmet mount, and suction cup mount. Each option offers unique advantages and is suited for different preferences and filming styles.
Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each mount and consider additional tips such as using the floaty backdoor kit and securing the mount with a piece of rope. By employing creative angles, doing voice-overs, and keeping your videos concise, you can create captivating footage that will impress your audience.
Happy kayaking, and may you capture unforgettable moments with your GoPro!
