What To Know
- The GoPro Hero 3 comes equipped with a standard micro-USB port and an HDMI port, making it easy to connect to your computer or TV for transferring footage and viewing your adventures.
- The HDMI port allows you to connect your GoPro to an HDTV for a high-definition display of your videos and photos.
- The GoPro Hero 3 is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including mounts, housings, and other tools that allow you to capture footage from unique perspectives and in various environments.
The GoPro Hero 3 was a game-changer in the action camera world, offering incredible image quality and durability. But to truly maximize its potential, you need to understand how to connect GoPro Hero 3 to camera and other devices. This guide will walk you through the various ways to connect your Hero 3, from basic USB and HDMI connections to more advanced Wi-Fi and remote control options.
Essential Connections: USB and HDMI
The GoPro Hero 3 comes equipped with a standard micro-USB port and an HDMI port, making it easy to connect to your computer or TV for transferring footage and viewing your adventures.
USB Connection:
- Transferring Footage: The USB port is the primary way to transfer your GoPro footage to your computer. Simply connect the Hero 3 to your computer using a micro-USB cable (included with the camera). Your computer should recognize the GoPro as a removable drive, allowing you to copy files to your hard drive.
- Charging: You can also use the USB port to charge your GoPro’s battery. Connect it to a computer or a USB wall adapter.
HDMI Connection:
- High-Definition Viewing: The HDMI port allows you to connect your GoPro to an HDTV for a high-definition display of your videos and photos. Simply use an HDMI cable (sold separately) to connect the GoPro to your TV.
Wireless Freedom: The GoPro Wi-Fi Remote
The GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition introduced Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly control your camera and preview footage on your smartphone or tablet. This feature significantly enhances your shooting experience, giving you more control and flexibility.
Connecting to Wi-Fi:
1. Download the App: Download the GoPro app on your smartphone or tablet (available for iOS and Android).
2. Enable Wi-Fi: Turn on Wi-Fi on your GoPro and select the “GoPro” network from your device’s Wi-Fi settings.
3. Connect to the App: Open the GoPro app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your camera.
Using the Wi-Fi Remote:
- Remote Control: The app allows you to control your GoPro remotely, including starting and stopping recording, taking photos, changing settings, and more.
- Live Preview: You can preview live footage from your GoPro on your device’s screen, making it easier to frame shots and adjust settings.
- Transferring Files: The app also allows you to transfer photos and videos from your GoPro to your device wirelessly.
The Power of External Microphones
The GoPro Hero 3 offers a 3.5mm microphone jack, enabling you to connect external microphones for improved audio quality. This is especially important for capturing clear sound in noisy environments or for adding a professional touch to your videos.
Choosing the Right Microphone:
- Shotgun Microphones: These microphones are designed to pick up sound from a specific direction, making them ideal for capturing dialogue or sound from a specific source.
- Lavalier Microphones: These small, clip-on microphones are great for capturing close-up audio, often used for interviews and vlogging.
- Wireless Microphones: For situations where you need to move around freely while recording, wireless microphones offer the ultimate freedom.
Connecting the Microphone:
1. Plug in the Microphone: Simply plug the 3.5mm jack of your chosen microphone into the microphone jack on your GoPro Hero 3.
2. Adjust Settings: Some microphones may require additional settings adjustments on your GoPro. Refer to your microphone’s manual for specific instructions.
Expanding Your Capabilities: GoPro Accessories
The GoPro Hero 3 is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including mounts, housings, and other tools that allow you to capture footage from unique perspectives and in various environments.
Popular Accessories:
- Head Mounts: Capture a first-person perspective by mounting your GoPro to your head using a helmet mount or a headband.
- Chest Mounts: Get a chest-level view of your adventures by attaching your GoPro to your chest using a chest harness.
- Hand Grips: Use a hand grip to stabilize your camera and make it easier to shoot handheld footage.
- Waterproof Housings: Protect your GoPro from water damage and take it underwater with a waterproof housing.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Connections
For more advanced users, the GoPro Hero 3 also offers options for connecting to external devices like monitors and computers for live video output.
HDMI Output:
- Live Video: Connect your GoPro to a monitor or television via HDMI to view live footage directly on a larger screen. This is helpful for framing shots and monitoring your recording.
- External Recording: You can also use an HDMI capture card to record the GoPro’s live video feed to your computer.
USB Output:
- Live Streaming: While not directly supported by the GoPro Hero 3, you can use a USB capture card to stream live video from your GoPro to a computer or streaming platform.
Mastering Your GoPro Hero 3: A Final Thought
Understanding how to connect GoPro Hero 3 to camera and other devices is essential for unleashing the full potential of your action camera. Whether you’re connecting to your computer for footage transfer, using the Wi-Fi remote for wireless control, or exploring advanced connections for live video output, the Hero 3 offers various options to enhance your shooting experience. Experiment with different connections and accessories to find the perfect setup for your needs and capture incredible footage of your adventures.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Can I connect my GoPro Hero 3 to my smartphone using a USB cable?
No, you can’t directly connect your GoPro Hero 3 to your smartphone using a USB cable. The camera’s USB port is primarily for transferring footage to a computer or charging the battery.
2. What is the maximum resolution for recording video with the GoPro Hero 3?
The GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition can record video at a maximum resolution of 1440p at 48fps (frames per second). The standard Hero 3 models have a maximum resolution of 1080p at 30fps.
3. Can I use a GoPro Hero 3 with a drone?
Yes, you can use a GoPro Hero 3 with a drone. However, ensure your drone is compatible with the Hero 3’s size and weight. You may need to purchase a specific mount or adapter for your drone.
4. How do I connect my GoPro Hero 3 to a computer for live video output?
You can use an HDMI capture card to connect your GoPro Hero 3 to a computer for live video output. The capture card captures the HDMI signal from the GoPro and sends it to your computer, allowing you to view and record the live feed.
5. Is there a way to use my GoPro Hero 3 as a webcam?
While the GoPro Hero 3 is not designed to be a webcam, you can use a USB capture card to connect it to your computer and use it as a webcam. This will allow you to use the GoPro’s high-quality video for video calls and streaming.
