Home > Motorcycle Community > Tips for Motorcycle Riders > Pros, Cons, and How to Use an Action Camera
Have you ever wondered how to capture the thrill of wind-whipped rides and breathtaking twists and turns on your motorcycle? Dive into the exhilarating world of action cameras mounted on helmets, where every twist of the throttle and scenic route comes alive. Discover the art of securing that perfect shot while navigating the open road. Let’s explore the ins and outs of motorcycle action camera setups, from securing mounts on uneven helmet surfaces to framing the perfect ride.
When considering action cameras, several options cater to diverse preferences and needs. The GoPro stands out as a popular choice, renowned for its compact design, high-quality footage, and versatile mounting options. Sony Action Cam offers competitive features, boasting excellent image stabilization and advanced shooting modes, ideal for capturing smooth and immersive footage during rides. Insta360 presents a unique perspective with its 360-degree capability, enabling riders to record panoramic views and immersive footage, providing a different dimension to the riding experience. Each camera offers distinct features and functionalities, catering to riders seeking various levels of image quality, stabilization, and innovative shooting perspectives for their motorcycle adventures.
significantly enhance the riding experience while fostering safety, skill improvement, and community engagement among riders.
As riders explore the advantages of helmet-mounted action cameras, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks. While these devices offer various benefits, understanding and balancing the accompanying cons is crucial for a well-informed decision.
Beyond physical implications, the psychological awareness of being filmed presents a nuanced concern. Some riders, conscious of the recording, might succumb to the temptation of showcasing daring maneuvers or pushing their limits to capture exhilarating footage. This heightened focus on creating compelling content can lead to unsafe riding behaviors, prioritizing cinematic moments over personal safety.
Moreover, legal implications might impact your ability to install a camera on your helmet. Certain jurisdictions might prohibit or restrict the use of modifications to safety gear like helmets. This presents the possibility of the camera’s installation being deemed unlawful. Understanding and complying with these legal frameworks is crucial to avoid accidental violations and associated penalties.
To mount a helmet action camera effectively, take several test runs while seated on your bike on a level surface. Then, review the footage. This process not only aids in fine-tuning the mount’s position using adjustment knobs but also helps you acclimate to the camera’s feel on your helmet, ensuring a comfortable and well-positioned setup for your rides.
Selecting the ideal mounting location for your motorcycle action camera on the helmet is crucial in capturing dynamic footage and perspectives during rides.
Despite their advantages, chin mounts come with drawbacks. Some users report discomfort, especially during extended use, while wind noise may affect audio quality. The footage can also look a bit chaotic if you move your head around quickly or a lot. Compatibility issues with certain helmet types also warrant attention before purchase.
Footage from side-mounted cameras often provides an engaging perspective, highlighting the wearer’s interactions, surroundings, and actions. However, potential downsides include the possibility of the camera protruding and potentially snagging on objects or being more exposed to impacts in case of a fall. If you do not hold your head level, you can end up with slanted, off-kilter footage. Despite the potential drawbacks of exposure and protrusion, the lateral viewpoint offers a unique angle, adding depth and dynamism to the captured footage.
The irregular and curved surface, combined with the inability to drill into the helmet, means you have to get creative when mounting your camera. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s also smart to use a safety tether as an added safeguard against potential mount failures to prevent the camera from detaching during use.
Always stop the bike before operating the camera controls. Managing the camera while riding poses a significant safety risk. This caution becomes even more critical if you wear gloves, as it hampers your ability to feel and locate the controls accurately.
Using a motorcycle action camera on your motorcycle helmet transforms riding experiences by capturing thrilling moments and ensuring safety documentation. Whether opting for chin, side, or top mounts, understanding proper attachment methods and considering the best positioning for unique perspectives greatly enhances footage quality. However, while cameras offer an extra layer of security in documenting rides, having comprehensive motorcycle insurance remains crucial for overall protection on the road. In unforeseen events, insurance provides financial and legal safeguards. Speak with an agent today to ensure you have the right motorcycle insurance coverage tailored to your needs.