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Unlock the Full Potential of Your GoPro Hero 8: A Guide on How to Change Date

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively...

What To Know

  • The easiest way to change the date on your GoPro Hero 8 is through the GoPro app.
  • While the GoPro app is the most convenient way to change the date, you can also do it directly on your GoPro Hero 8.
  • When you start recording a video or take a photo, the time stamp will appear on the screen.

Whether you’re capturing breathtaking mountain vistas or documenting epic adventures, your GoPro Hero 8 is there to capture every moment. But what about those precious memories? Do you ever find yourself wanting to know exactly when you captured that perfect shot? This is where knowing how to change the date on your GoPro Hero 8 comes in handy.

Date & Time: Your GoPro’s Time Capsule

Your GoPro Hero 8 is more than just a camera; it’s a time machine. The date and time settings are the key to unlocking the full potential of your GoPro’s built-in time capsule. By setting the date and time correctly, you can:

  • Organize your memories: Imagine scrolling through your GoPro footage and instantly knowing when each clip was taken. No more guessing or relying on fuzzy memories.
  • Share stories with precision: When you share your GoPro adventures with friends and family, the date and time stamp will add another layer of context, making your stories even more engaging.
  • Keep track of your progress: For those who use their GoPro for fitness or sports, the date and time stamp can help you track your progress and see how far you’ve come.

Getting Started with the GoPro App

The easiest way to change the date on your GoPro Hero 8 is through the GoPro app. This app is your one-stop shop for controlling your GoPro, editing footage, and managing your media.
Here’s how to change the date on your GoPro Hero 8 using the app:
1. Connect your GoPro: Make sure your GoPro Hero 8 is powered on and connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
2. Open the GoPro app: Launch the GoPro app on your smartphone.
3. Select your camera: If you have multiple GoPro cameras connected, choose the Hero 8 from the list.
4. Access the settings: Tap on the camera icon in the top left corner of the app.
5. Choose “Preferences”: Scroll down and tap on “Preferences.”
6. Adjust the date and time: You’ll see options to adjust the date and time. Simply tap on the current settings and enter the correct date and time.
7. Save your changes: Once you’ve made the adjustments, tap on the “Save” button.

Directly on Your GoPro: The On-Camera Method

While the GoPro app is the most convenient way to change the date, you can also do it directly on your GoPro Hero 8.
Here’s how:
1. Power on your GoPro: Turn on your GoPro Hero 8.
2. Navigate to the settings: Press the mode button to cycle through the various modes until you reach the “Settings” mode.
3. Select “Preferences”: Use the up and down buttons to navigate to “Preferences” and press the mode button to select it.
4. Adjust the date and time: Use the up and down buttons to navigate to the date and time settings. You can use the mode button to change the values.
5. Save your changes: Once you’ve made the adjustments, press the mode button to exit the settings menu.

Don’t Forget the Time Zone!

It’s not just about the date; the time zone is crucial too. You don’t want your GoPro recording videos with the wrong time stamp!
Here’s how to set the time zone:

  • Using the GoPro app: When you’re adjusting the date and time in the GoPro app, you’ll see an option to select your time zone. Choose the correct time zone for your location.
  • Directly on your GoPro: While navigating the “Preferences” menu on your GoPro, you’ll find an option to select your time zone. Use the up and down buttons to choose the correct time zone and confirm with the mode button.

Time for a Time Check

Once you’ve set the date and time on your GoPro, it’s always a good idea to double-check to make sure everything is correct.
You can do this by:

  • Looking at the time stamp: When you start recording a video or take a photo, the time stamp will appear on the screen. Make sure it reflects the accurate date and time.
  • Checking the GoPro app: Open the GoPro app and check the date and time displayed for your connected GoPro.

Beyond the Basics: Time Lapse and Time Stamping

The date and time settings on your GoPro Hero 8 are more than just about keeping track of your memories. They also play a crucial role in features like Time Lapse and Time Stamping.

  • Time Lapse: When you create a Time Lapse video, your GoPro automatically captures images at set intervals. The date and time settings ensure that the images are captured in chronological order, resulting in a smooth and accurate time lapse.
  • Time Stamping: If you want to add a time stamp to your videos or photos, you can enable this feature in the GoPro settings. The time stamp will be overlaid on your media, providing a precise record of when each clip was captured.

Final Thoughts: Your Memories, Time-Stamped

Knowing how to change the date on your GoPro Hero 8 is a simple yet powerful skill. It allows you to organize your memories, share your stories with precision, and even unlock the full potential of features like Time Lapse and Time Stamping. So go ahead, set the date and time, and start capturing those unforgettable moments!

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: What if I forget to set the date and time on my GoPro?
A: If you forget to set the date and time, you can still adjust it later through the GoPro app or directly on your GoPro. However, any footage captured before you set the date and time will have an inaccurate time stamp.
Q: Can I set a custom time format?
A: Unfortunately, you cannot set a custom time format on the GoPro Hero 8. The time format is fixed and cannot be changed.
Q: What if my GoPro’s internal clock loses time?
A: If your GoPro’s internal clock loses time, you’ll need to reset it by following the steps outlined above. It’s a good practice to check the time on your GoPro periodically to ensure it’s accurate.
Q: Can I use the date and time settings for other purposes?
A: While the primary purpose of the date and time settings is to track your memories, you can also use them for other purposes. For example, if you’re using your GoPro for time-lapse photography, the accurate date and time settings will ensure that your images are captured in chronological order.

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Lindsey

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively testing and reviewing Nikon's latest mirrorless cameras like the Z5, Z6, Z7 and Z50 on her blog. Through her writing on lindseyshoots.com, Lindsey aims to help other photographers make the transition from DSLRs to mirrorless. She shares detailed hands-on reviews, comparisons between different mirrorless camera models, tips for beginners, and photo tutorials. When she isn't testing cameras, Lindsey enjoys landscape, street and travel photography. Her work has been published in several magazines and online publications. Lindsey is also a member of the Nikon Professional Services program.
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