Planning a skydiving adventure at West Plains? Why not capture the thrill with a GoPro? Skydiving is one of the most exhilarating experiences, and recording it lets you relive those heart-pounding moments. But before you leap out of the plane, let’s make sure you’re ready to get the best footage with your GoPro. Here’s a step-by-step guide to capturing your jump like a pro!
Why a GoPro is Perfect for Skydiving
GoPros are built for action! They’re small, durable, and offer high-quality video, making them perfect for skydiving. Whether you’re falling at 120 mph or floating down with your parachute, the GoPro captures it all with wide-angle shots and incredible detail.
Step 1: Pick the Right GoPro
For the best footage, use a GoPro model that’s up for the challenge. The Hero 9, 10, or 11 are top choices because they offer high-resolution video, HyperSmooth stabilization, and rugged durability. These cameras can handle the extreme conditions of a skydive and still deliver top-notch footage.
Step 2: Choose a Mount
You’ll need a good mount to capture the jump. The two most popular options are:
- Helmet Mount: Provides a first-person view of the experience.
- Wrist Mount: Allows flexibility to point the camera in different directions during the jump.
Step 3: Secure the GoPro
Before your jump, double-check the mount to ensure the GoPro is secure. You’ll be flying through the air at high speeds, so make sure the straps or clips are tight to avoid losing your camera mid-jump!
Step 4: Set Up the Camera
Make sure your GoPro settings are dialed in for skydiving:
- Resolution: Shoot in 1080p or 4K for crisp footage.
- Frame Rate: Use 60fps to capture smooth video.
- Wide-Angle Lens: Select “Wide” or “SuperView” to capture the full experience.
- Stabilization: Enable HyperSmooth for steady footage during freefall.
Step 5: Check Battery Life
Don’t let a dead battery ruin your footage! Fully charge your GoPro the night before and turn off unnecessary features like Wi-Fi to preserve power.
Step 6: Practice Before the Jump
Test your GoPro in windy conditions or while riding a bike to get used to filming while moving. This will help you feel confident with the camera when it’s time to skydive.
Step 7: Plan Your Shots
Think about the type of footage you want. Are you more interested in capturing the view or your reaction? Planning ahead will help you focus on getting the best shots during your dive.
Step 8: Coordinate with Your Instructor
If it’s a tandem jump, talk to your instructor about your GoPro plans. They can help you position yourself for optimal shots and offer advice on how to get the best angles.
Step 9: Start Recording Early
Don’t wait until you’re jumping out of the plane to hit record. Start filming a minute or two before the jump to capture the entire experience, including your excitement and the view from the plane.
Step 10: Capture the Freefall
The freefall is where the magic happens! Stay stable to avoid too much camera shake, and let the wide-angle lens capture the vast sky and the ground rushing toward you.
Step 11: Film the Parachute Descent
Once the parachute opens, the pace slows down. Take this time to capture the breathtaking view of West Plains from above. The peaceful descent makes for some great contrast to the fast-paced freefall.
Step 12: Don’t Forget the Landing
Your landing is just as much a part of the experience as the jump! Keep recording until you touch down to complete your skydiving story.
Step 13: Edit Your Footage
Once you’ve got your footage, it’s time to edit! Trim the clips, add music, and maybe include some slow-motion effects to highlight key moments. GoPro’s Quik app is a great tool for editing on the go.
Step 14: Share Your Adventure
Show off your skydiving footage to friends, family, or on social media! With a well-shot GoPro video, you’ll give everyone a taste of the adrenaline rush you felt in the sky.
Step 15: Relive the Moment Anytime
Now that you’ve captured your jump, you can relive that thrilling experience anytime you want. It’s a perfect keepsake that lets you experience the excitement again and again.
Conclusion
Skydiving at West Plains is an unforgettable experience, and capturing it with a GoPro makes it even more special. By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure that every heart-stopping moment is recorded in stunning detail. Now, gear up, get your GoPro ready, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!