Action Cameras

Powerful and pocket-sized, action cameras are the ideal choice for adventurous video shooters. If you’ve ever watched point-of-view footage of an extreme sport like skydiving, windsurfing or mountain-bike racing, there’s a very good chance it was shot on an action camera.

Different action cameras can vary quite a bit in terms of their individual specs and capabilities. However, the key to the format is that they are capable of producing high-quality video from a very small body. This makes them easy to mount to more or less anything – a set of bike handlebars, a crash helmet or a compatible camera rig.  The point of an action camera is that it allows you to engage in intense activity and record it. This is something you can’t do with a mirrorless camera, a DSLR or even a smartphone.

Action Cameras

Action cameras are generally weatherproof and waterproof, designed for unforgiving environments without breaking. Be aware though that the level of waterproofing varies from camera to camera. Some models that otherwise fit the action camera definition don’t have it at all. It’s important to double-check the specs of your specific action camera before heading on a snorkeling trip with it!

Some action cameras also have compatible underwater housings that significantly extend their level of waterproofing. This makes them waterproof to submersion depths of 40m or more, , which is great for capturing footage of scuba diving.

In recent years, another feature has become near-ubiquitous on action cameras – powerful image stabilisation systems. Early action camera footage tended to be pretty jerky. Of course, that’s no surprise as the kinds of activities you’d record were action packed and fast-paced. Stabilisation systems iron out these unintended camera movements, resulting in smoother, more polished footage.

Many action cameras use digital stabilisation systems, which crop into the video footage from the edge of the frame. There are some that use optical stabilisation systems, which use motorised gimbal systems to deliver an ultra-smooth stabilising effect.

The original cuboid format of the action camera was popularised by GoPro, to the point where many people will automatically think “GoPro” when they see action camera footage. Plenty of other manufacturers have got in on the action, and these days the action camera aficionado has plenty of choices.

DJI, best known for its drones, produces a number of different action camera options in a variety of formats. Another significant player in the market is Insta360. As the name implies, this manufacturer offers a number of action cameras that are capable of capturing 360° footage.  This allows the creation of immersive VR content.

Action cameras are popular with lots of people,  from holidaying families to TikTok creators, and have even found their way into the professional broadcast industry. This means there are action camera options available for all budgets and skill levels. And, with plenty of mounts and accessories available, you can truly customise your action camera according to what you want to shoot.