A Look at GoPro and the Action Photography Revolution

If you look at the earliest photographs, you'll see stiffly posed people grimacing in sepiatone. That's because the first cameras required long exposures, so people had to sit very still and hold one expression to prevent blurring. It wasn't fun, and there was no way to capture action photographs.

Action was the province of painting, not photography. Painters could capture anything they could imagine to get action down on canvas. One aspiring painter even had her husband's cavalry regiment charge her so she could capture the experience on canvas. Unfortunately, that wasn't always practical.

The development of modern cameras with fast film, and later digital photography changed everything. Pictures could be taken in a fraction of an eyeblink, moving action photography into the mainstream. Every sporting event sprouted forests of photographers, staring through viewfinders to catch the perfect shot of an athlete in action.

The only problem was that all these action photographs were taken from the outside looking in. Photographers could capture what the subject was doing, but the view through the viewfinder could never match the view through the athlete's eyes. It was sight without feeling, it lacked immersion because it was always clear that the photographer wasn't really experiencing it.

This is what led to the GoPro revolution. GoPro gave action photography the immediacy of a first-person shooter videogame, by taking pictures from the athlete's perspective. It wasn't just athletes, anyone doing anything could use a GoPro to capture the moment.

The GoPro's success comes from two factors, the lack of a viewfinder, and its ease of mounting. By removing the viewfinder, they were able to break the paradigm of looking through the camera at what was happening from the outside. Then they made it so you can put a GoPro anywhere, on your body, on your head, wherever you want it. The combination is what lets anyone put the GoPro into the heart of the action. It goes where you go.

The newest GoPro, the HERO3+ Black Edition takes everything GoPro is known for and takes it to the extreme.

    It supports 4K video at up to 15 frames per second
    It supports 2.7K video at 30 frames per second
    It shoots 12MP stills at 30 frames per second
    It's water resistant to 180 feet

This is a camera that counts 720P HD as its lowest video resolution, and only goes up from there. All you have to do is strap it on, turn it on, and live your life to the extreme. It will capture everything you do, and give others the next best thing to being there. The GoPro isn't your traditional camera, it's a way to share your experiences. There's no reason to let someone standing on the sidelines create your image when you can use a GoPro and share your vision.

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Appy Days - The GoPro App Is Finally Here

GoPro has long been at the forefront of the action camera market, developing cameras and accessories which continually push the boundaries of camera technology, while keeping the needs of its users a number one priority. GoPro is truly a part of action sport culture.

Last year we witnessed the launch of the GoPro HD Hero3 - the most powerful GoPro yet - and with that a host of new and exciting accessories. Perhaps the most exciting accessory of all, or at least the one which has attracted the most attention from media and action sports fans alike, is the GoPro Wi-Fi BacPac.

Released earlier this year, the Wi-Fi BacPac snaps on to the back of a GoPro HD Hero3 camera, much like earlier accessories in the range, like the LCD BacPac and Battery BacPac. Once attached, the Wi-Fi BacPac 'connects' the camera, which then can then be controlled by a Wi-Fi remote.

However, since the launch of the Wi-Fi BacPac, GoPro has been promising an accompanying mobile app, which would essentially eradicate the need for a remote, as users would be able to control the camera via their smartphone or tablet. It's been a long time coming, but finally the wait is over. So why all the fuss?

Using the free GoPro App, those who own both the GoPro HD Hero3 and GoPro Wi-Fi BacPac will be able to operate their cameras using their smartphone or tablet. As well as remote functions such as accessing and changing control settings, and monitoring battery life & memory capacity, the app will also turn a synced mobile device into a viewfinder for framing and lining up shots.

GoPro also has some cool features lined up for the app in the near future, such as the ability to preview recorded content, navigate and manage files, and control multiple cameras at once.

Currently the app is limited to iOS devices, which is good news for iPhone users, not so much for the Android community. The app is currently compatible on the following Apple devices:

iPhone 3GS, 4, 4S (iOS 4.3 & 5)
iPod Touch 4 (iOS 4.3 & 5)
iPad 1, 2 & 3 (iOS 4.3 & 5)

To connect a GoPro to a smart device, first the camera and Wi-Fi BacPac must be updated with the latest firmware, which can be downloaded from the official GoPro website. Once updated, the camera can then be synchronised.

To download the app itself, head to the iTunes App Store, and simply search for 'GoPro App'. Here you will also be able to find additional compatibility information, as well useful user reviews.

The GoPro App is the most eagerly anticipated launch the action camera world has seen for some time, and with such a cool array of features in its arsenal, it's not hard to see why. If you're a GoPro user, and have a Wi-Fi BacPac, be sure to download the app today. If you don't yet own a Wi-Fi BacPac, what are you waiting for?

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Three Awesome Diving Accessories for Your Action Camera

Recording underwater explorations has become common within the scuba diving community. As action camera technology has improved, and price tags have dropped, the world of HD videography has become accessible to just about anyone.

There are many different action cameras available for scuba diving; some are designed specifically for the sport, while other, multi-purpose cameras can be transformed into underwater cameras with use of additional accessories.

Listed below are three scuba accessories, for two different action cameras, the Drift HD and the GoPro HD.

Drift HD Waterproof Case

The Drift HD is one of the world's most versatile cameras; full HD recording, a wide angle lens and a built-in colour LCD screen are just a handful of features that make this camera so popular with action sports enthusiasts, world-over.

The Drift is typically associated with sports carried out on dirt or snow, such as cycling and skiing. However, those wanting to take advantage of all the Drift's features below the waves, can do so using the Drift HD Underwater Case.

Designed specifically for the Drift HD, this case will keep your camera safe to depths of 30 metres, and exterior rubber buttons allow you to play back footage or change settings while keeping your camera safe inside the housing. This is a must have accessory for Drift owners who like to get wet!

BlurFix Lens for GoPro HD

Arguably the most popular camera in the world, the GoPro HD is used for every sport imaginable, from skydiving to wakeboarding. The GoPro boasts full 1080p recording, a 170 degree wide angle lens and 11 megapixel still image capabilities.

The GoPro comes in three sport-specific packages, one of which, the GoPro HD Hero Surf Edition, lends itself perfectly to scuba diving. While the Surf Hero is a great scuba camera in its own right, there's an accessory available that's bound to excite those with a serious eye for underwater photography - the BlurFix Lens for GoPro HD.

Fitting any camera in the GoPro range, the BlurFix Lens is a professional-quality underwater lens which provides a greater clarity of footage, in any underwater situation. The lens can be used as deep as 40 metres, and accepts all 55mm camera filters including FLD, UV, and polarizing. Additionally, this lens will not fog, and can be used above water with no vignetting.

GoPro Dive Housing

A soon-to-be-released accessory for the GoPro HD is the much anticipated GoPro Dive Housing. This underwater housing will fit both the GoPro HD Hero and GoPro HD Hero  cameras, so is a must-have addition to any GoPro collection, old or new.

The GoPro Dive Housing has a large, glass flat lens, which maximizes underwater sharpness, taking full advantage of the GoPro's 1080p recording quality. The housing allows you to take your GoPro down to 60m, and shoots in all resolutions with no vignetting. So whether you're exploring caves, wrecks, or corals, quality underwater footage is guaranteed.

Submitted by Matt Taylor, Marketing Manager at Action Cameras. For more information about scuba diving cameras, and to pre-order your GoPro Dive Housing, Visit Here

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The Perks of Having an Action Camera With Built-In Wi-Fi

Imagine this. You are in a camera shop with the salesman presenting you a long list of the advantages and features of two different brands of action camera. Both have the same price and have specifications that can rival the other. Everything is almost the same except for one feature. The Wi-Fi. One has one while the other has an alternative control. What will your decision be?

Let us take a more specific example using the GoPro HERO3 and the Contour + 2. Both are good models and have features that are almost level to each other. Their only difference is that the GoPro is equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi while Contour + 2 has a GPS feature instead. Both are good extras and can be very useful in all the moments you will shoot your high-octane sports activities and hobbies. What will your choice be given the situation?

Here's my personal answer to this dilemma: Go for the one that comes with Wi-Fi.

Why you ask? Because of the advantages you can see below.

Wi-Fi makes access easy- Action camera models with built-in Wi-Fi usually come with a mobile device or a remote. These things can be very useful to the user since he can use it to control the camera without even touching it. This perk very much comes in handy during situations when the person can't really manually control his camera.

Provides Live Streaming- Getting action footages of hobbies is cool. Sharing them live to your friends as the action happens via devices like laptop, mobile phone, and tablet is much cooler. With built-in Wi-Fi, you can easily share your videos as they are.

Easy Sharing- People want to get footage of what they do because of one reason. They want to share it with other people. The presence of a Wi-Fi in an action camera makes this very easy because the user is already connected to the internet and feed his videos through various social networking sites. This is also very beneficial in terms of saving camera memory since the person can just upload and save his footage in the internet rather than save it on his memory instead.

Extras- Cameras with built-in Wi-Fi usually also come with other perks. The GoPro, for example, has a mobile application and a remote included to complement its Wi-Fi feature. Besides from just doing their original jobs, these accessories can also enable the user to control up to 50 GoPro cameras all at the same time. This can be very useful during moments when multiple angles need to be shot in a situation. In addition to this, the internet connection of the device can also be turned into a hotspot as well.

The Wi-Fi feature is now considered as the biggest development in the industry of action cameras. Its advantages lets an average action camera user expand what he can do with his gadget and opens up a brand new world of things to try with its presence. So if you're looking for a good action camera model right now, it is highly suggested that you go with those that have this feature.

Looking for a good action camera that makes it easy to transfer files to other devices through the Wi-Fi feature?

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Five Must Have Accessories For Your Camera

The Hero camera is one of the top rated products in its class for a very good reason, largely due to the varied and useful accessories that you can purchase and add to your picture and video taking experience. There are so many GoPro Hero accessories that can make your expedition or simple photo shoot easier, it is impossible to list them all, so here are five of the most useful and top rated.

1. Dive Housing

Rated for depths of up to one-hundred and ninety-seven feet, the GoPro hero accessory dive housing is a must have for anyone who wishes to get that perfect shot in any underwater situation. Protecting your camera is key, and this dive housing unit keeps your camera safe, and keeps your underwater pictures clear and focused.

2. WiFi Control

Now you can use your camera to take pictures anywhere, even when you are not behind it. This is one of those GoPro hero accessories you will wonder how you lived without, enabling you to use a simple control remote to take pictures, and connect to your computer without messy cords. You can even add the BacPac control system for even further Wi-Fi range.

3. LCD Screen

On or off your camera, the detachable LCD screen makes getting the perfect shot a breeze. Whether you are behind your camera or away from it, GoPro hero accessories don't get better than this. Now you can see exactly what your picture could look like, before you even shoot it.

4. 3D Picture

Now you can create your own 3D movie or picture, with this great accessory. By using two cameras, and taking footage simultaneously, you can build a 3D shot that will be the envy of every photographer. It even comes with its own 3D editing software, to make every facet of 3D footage as simple as any other picture.

5. Additional Batteries

You never know when, or for how long you are going to need your camera. That's what makes these GoPro hero accessories so great! No you can be sure you have all of the battery life you will need, in a small, energy-efficient package. These rechargeable batteries last about two and a half hours of total recording time, so always be sure to pack extras.

With so many awesome accessories, why not get the best product you can and make your photography experience extra special!

For more information on the amazing items offered by GoPro Visit Here today!

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The Photographer's Dream Camera

Finally, there is a camera that is designed for the photographer that will allow you to record videos and photos in 3D while you are recording in 2D simultaneously. You may wonder how this is possible. You can do this by combining into one single housing two of the 1080p HD HERO cameras making them into the GoPro 3D Hero system. There are three versions of this new system available that range in price from under two hundred dollars and up with each of them having their own special features. The GoPro 3D Hero is activated by plugging the synchronization cable plugs into both of the cameras rear HERO Port. This will enable the two cameras to join and record in perfect synchronization both photos and videos. This unique feature is only available from GoPro 3D. It makes 3D photos and videos professional looking.

GoPro 3D Hero System Cameras

• GoPro 3D Hero White Edition--$199.99

- The fps include 1080p30; 960p30; 720p60
- Has 3 fps/5 MP bursts
- Has built-in Wi-Fi
- It is Wi-Fi remote + app compatible

• GoPro 3D Hero Silver Edition--$299.99

- The fps include 1080p30; 960p48; 720p60
- Has 10 fbs/11 MP bursts
- Has built in Wi-Fi
- It is Wi-Fi remote + app compatible

• GoPro 3D Hero Black Edition--$399.99

- The fps include 1080p60;720p120;1440p48;4kp15;27kp30;WVGA-240
- Has 30 fps/12 MP bursts
- Has built in Wi-Fi
- It includes a Wi-Fi remote
- It is compatible with the GoPro App
- It is pro low-light performance

There are also many other accessories that you can purchase with your GoPro 3D Hero that include:

• Battery or LCD Touch BacPac
• A Wi-Fi remote for the Silver or White Edition
• A rechargeable battery
• A charging cable for your Wi-Fi remote
• Lens replacement kit

The GoPro 3D Hero is not only the world's smallest camera but is also one of the most versatile cameras on the market today. It is a great camera for professionals who need a small light-weight camera to attach to their helmet. Many times when the photographer uses a helmet camera all they seem to manage to capture is footage of the ground or the sky because they are hard to aim. This is not so with the GoPro 3D Hero because with this camera you can purchase the LDC BacPac, which is a LCD clip on that attaches to your back interface port on your 1080 HD Hero camera. This BacPac clip on will show you the battery life so your camera does not quit in the middle of an important photo shot. Using this accessory for the GoPro 3D Hero will also help to ensure that you will get what the camera is positioned to take pictures of. It even comes with a speaker.

To doubly ensure you do not run out of battery life you can also get the Battery BacPac which not only holds an extra battery but also has a small USB port to enable you to use it as an external battery charger.

As you can see, if you want professional 3D photos you need to purchase the GoPro 3D Hero.

The author of this article is professional photographer and likes using the GoPro Hero 3. Shop for accessories like GoPro microphone with convenient shopping and shipping at the website.

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Professional Looking Photographs With Gopro

Being a professional photographer, I don't always carry around "top-of-the-line" cameras, even when I'm gathering with friends, family and other loved ones. But what I do carry around is a GoPro Hero 3, or if I want to get "tricky", I'll take out the GoPro 3d Hero camera - it's the smallest 1080p 3d camera in the world.

I spend most days on the beach, not to sound snobbish but it's true. I live a truly magnificent life. Photography has brought my dreams to reality. To make sure that I never miss an opportunity, I always have GoPro replacement lenses nearby, usually in the trunk of a luxurious Cadillac Escalade.

The world's smallest 1080p 3d camera also has GoPro camera mounts you can purchase for that perfect shot you're looking for, but not just for the GoPro 3d camera, but for the GoPro Hero 3 as well.

I love taking pictures; it's what I live for. The more challenging the shot, the better I prefer it. I know, for a FACT, that these pictures that I shoot with the GoPro cameras are going to turn out great. There's no other piece of equipment I would rather work with.

Every professional photographer knows that great care comes with handling equipment. But it doesn't hurt to be ready for that day when accidents happen. That's why it's important to have a replacement lens nearby. A GoPro lens replacement is exactly what you'll need if an accident does happen. Because even accidents can happen to the world's smallest 1080p 3d cameras... trust me.

Amateur Surfing Contest

Nothing beats having the first photograph of an up and coming athlete, especially an amateur surfer. Setting up in the sand near water can risk damaging most professional cameras. Not with the GoPro and all of its unbelievable accessories that you're able to purchase online or at one of its nearby locations. You'll be surprised at how durable these cameras are and the kind of abuse it can take when taking spectacular shots. Once any photographer tries anything GoPro, they never try anything else - ever!

A Wedding in a Forest Preserve

Taking wedding photos is something that every professional photographer occasionally went through. They're tough gigs, but with the GoPro 3d hero camera you'll be able to capture all of your clients favorite moments in stunning quality. This unbelievable technology allows the photographer to use two HD Hero cameras in one single-housing frame. You'll be able to record videos and photos in 2D and 3D and also at the same time. All you have to do is plug a simple cable into the back of the camera in a port located on both of the cameras.

Scuba Diving on Vacation

You can also take videos and photos underwater up to 180 feet with the GoPro 3D HERO cameras and all of its accessories. The housing frame for the two cameras is amazingly waterproof, so all your underwater memories will be safe and sound.

The author of this article is professional photographer and likes using the GoPro Hero 3. Polar Pro Filters offers original GoPro products and accessories with convenient shopping and shipping.

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Tips on Choosing a Lens Filter

The art of taking photographs is such a tricky one that you need a number of accessories in order to get everything right. No matter whether you are an amateur or professional photographer, one of the best accessories you will ever need to buy is a camera lens filter. They come in different varieties and they generally add a great dimension to the clarity of the images you will take. Filters come in different styles and any buyer needs to known exactly what they require so as to properly address their specific photographic needs.

Function of the filter: Function is the first thing you must consider when trying to purchase a lens filter. This is because they can do different thing sin regards to your picture. While some are made in order to give you a good close up, others will filter out ultra violet rays, stars, create graduated filters, polarize the pictures or even make for a soft focus. You must therefore think about what you want to acquire first before selecting the camera filter that is right for your situation.

Size: The next thing you must give consideration when buying a filter is the size since they are always different. The size of your camera plays an important role here with the average size being ranging from 1 - 89 mm. You must know what range the camera you have falls into so that you get the correct one. In case you don't have an idea on the size of the camera, you only need to look at the manual. You should know that if you don't get the correct size, it will just not fit your camera and you may not have use for it.

Shape: Different cameras have lenses that are shaped differently and, as such, you also need to know the shape so that you buy the correct filter. The basic shapes for camera lenses are round and square and filters therefore come in these sizes. The great thing about camera lenses is that you can several of them when you are going out and what you use will be determined by the prevailing circumstance. Going out with different lenses enables you to fit snugly into any situation that could arise while you are out there.

The use of lens filters is such a positive thing that it takes care of different scenarios that occur when you are taking photos such as the glare that sometimes comes as a result of using an electronic flash. They can either provide a cooling or warming effect by modifying the light such as what comes from direct sunlight. Anyone who owns a camera must have spent a considerable sum of money and should therefore not have a problem buying a lens filter. The other benefit that is rarely mentioned is that fact that it will also protect your lens from dust accumulation as well as fingerprint marks thereby helping you to keep it for a longer period of time.

The author of this article is professional photographer and likes using the GoPro Hero 3. Polar Pro Filter's has the best pricing on GoPro replacement lenses.

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Tips on Cleaning Your Camera Lens

Once in a while you will notice that your digital camera's lens is so filled with smudges that the quality of your images is beginning to get affected. If you are especially new to photography or you spent a fortune to acquire you camera, you will definitely be afraid of touching the lens for fear that you will scratch it and expense yourself in making a replacement. All you need to do is to learn a few simple tips on cleaning your camera's lens.

One thing most camera owners don't realize is that cleaning the camera's lens is something that needs to be done on a regular basis since its part of your camera's maintenance regime. Even though great care needs to be taken when you are doing the cleaning, this is still something you can comfortably do on your own. However, remember that the best time to clean your camera's lens is when it has become dirty since handling the lens every day will end up doing more harm than good.

One of the best things you can do to ensure your lens is safe is to invest in a filter and make sure it is kept in place all the time. This is especially important if you have a high end filter that could be too expensive to replace, so that if there is any cleaning to be done, you will only be cleaning the filter. You can also invest in lens hoods and lens caps for the front end and back end of your lens.

The lens cleaning fluid if the first thing you need to acquire as a careful camera owner. This fluid quickly lifts smudges and finger prints without leaving any marks on the lens or filter. The secret is to remember to always use a small drop or two and always use a cleaning tissue working gently in a circular motion. There is also the alternative of breathing on the lens before wiping with a cloth since some cleaning fluids come with harsh chemicals that are not too safe.

Nowadays you will find some good microfiber cleaning cloth which works better than the ordinary cleaning cloth. Even though they are washable, they do a perfect job in lifting oils and dust with ease from the camera lens. Your only guarantee that it will work well for you is to make sure it the cloth is kept clean by washing regularly; other camera owners prefer to buy a new one every time they want to clean since it is affordable anyway.

You can also try using blowers, which should be found in most camera stores; you need to work extra carefully especially when blowing towards the inside of the camera. These blowers can do a great job cleaning the camera on the outside as well as the lens. It is important to remember to always squeeze the blower a few times before using it on your camera so as to blow away any dust it may be having on the inside. Finally, if there is so much dust and particles on your lens, you could try using some special brushes to gently get them off.

The author of this article is professional photographer and likes using the GoPro Hero 3. Shop for original GoPro Red Filter at the website.

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Tips and Tricks for GoPro Hero Cameras

My GoPro Tips

I have used every version of the GoPro Camera Systems in both professional and personal projects. There really is nothing like a GoPro, but as with any camera system, there are a few tricks of the trade to make sure that you lock in the perfect sequence that you have been dreaming of. Here are a few of my favorites.

Here are a few of my favorite GoPro Techniques:

Tip 1: If mounting your GoPro camera with the suction cup mount make sure that you clean the surface prior to adhering suction. Any particles or debris can cause the mount to fail.

Tip 2: When using the suction cup mount ALWAYS tie a thin string to tether the camera to something secure. For example, if your camera is on the hood of a car, tie a string to the windshield wiper arm. Make sure that your string is not too long and test the length to see if your string will catch your camera before hitting an object.

Note: the measuring is kind of critical here, don't have your camera become detached from the suction mount with the idea of it being saved by the string tied to it only to have the camera swing and hit something say like a tree. Which in my case cracked the casing. Ugg.

Tip 3: If you are going to mount the camera to an ATV, Motorcycle, or BMX bike I tend to like the adhesive mounts reinforced with a little duct-tape or Premium Grade Gaffers Tape (black). Gaffers tape unlike duct tape will NOT leave adhesive residue behind when removed.

Tip 4: Make sure that you change the position of your mounting locations. There is nothing more boring then finally editing your video only to find that you have maybe 1 or 2 good perspectives. Think about mounting the camera where you would never dream of with a traditional camera. Some GoPro creative ideas I have used:

Mounting the GoPro to a boom pole and telescoping up 10 ft. This works awesome for shooting bands and getting above the crowd. Some of my best footage when shooting live events comes from this technique. Note: If your going to attach this to a boom pole or for that matter any tripod you will need the GoPro Tripod Mount. These little suckers are good to have and I typically have several with me on any shoot.

Warning: watch the ceiling though when using a boom pole and ALWAYS use a non-conducting material like plastic or wood. Never metal as you could hit a wire or open light and electrocute yourself.

Mounting the Hero to a wheel well of a car or truck.

Mounting the Hero to the fork of your bicycle and aiming it up at you or behind you.

Tip 5: If you are using the camera on the water for surfing or for your jet ski you will want to think about something. Some rigs can sink fast depending on your setup. I highly recommend the GoPro Camera Floaty Back Door as this little orange lifeguard will save your camera from certain doom if it falls off during a wet shoot. Plus the orange color makes it very easy to see.

Tip 6: If you are planning to use your kick ass GoPro in the water, or for that matter in the snow, you will want to invest in the Anti Fog Inserts. You may not even realize it when the change of temp happens fog becomes a factor and a very unwelcome visitor. This has happened to me 2 times (I finally discovered these gems) and it is something that WILL ruin your entire shoot if not remedied.

Tip 7: The most popular tip on this page this month. Don't get caught on your shoot without a Wasabi Power Battery and Charger Kit There is a simple rule when shooting on location, make sure you have 3x the amount of power / batteries than you actually need. This is super important! Many factors drain power including fluctuations in temps and vibrational loss even with the replaceable lithium packs.

Tip 8: If you plan on shooting underwater footage (not just in and out of the water as in typical water shots) you need to have the GoPro Dive Housing to provide maximum photo and video sharpness underwater in all resolutions. Without this Dive Housing your imagery and videos will be blurry and the vignetting around the edges will make the footage unusable. Waterproof to 197'/60m, the Dive Housing is ideal for diving, snorkeling and any underwater filming scenario.

I recommend that if you have never tested this camera underwater you should do so before a shoot. It's not as easy to use as a professional rig but it's just a little tricky. The underwater footage you get will be worth every penny.

Visit my blog to learn more about GoPro Cameras Click Here

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