Choosing a camera on your head

Thanks to the variety of modern gadgets, everyone can capture interesting and important moments. The action camera is designed specifically for shooting on the move and in extreme conditions. This is a small device that is often attached to the head to keep your hands free. How to choose the right model? It all depends on your needs and goals.

The first company to release an action camera was GoPro, and when the device gained popularity, other manufacturers followed in its footsteps, so there are now many offers on the market for every taste and wallet. You can pick up a gadget for filming underwater, for sports, hunting or any other extreme.

Classic cameras have a rectangular shape, on one side they have a lens, on the other - a screen, although some models do not have it. For additional protection, the devices are placed in a sealed box and attached to the head, motorcycle helmet, arm or body. Often, their functions can be expanded with various additional accessories, if the manufacturer has taken care of this. This option can be considered universal - suitable for fishing, sports activities, outdoor activities.

Glasses with a built-in action camera are a fashionable device, like the heroes of spy films. The electronic filling is securely hidden in the temples, and the lens is located in the middle, between the lenses. Such models are lighter than classic ones, they do not attract too much attention from others and allow you to shoot from the first person. This angle may be interesting for those who are recording videos for YouTube and want to create an atmosphere of complete immersion in the events taking place. Due to their lightness and ergonomics, the glasses are also popular with skiers, climbers, cyclists and divers.

Panoramic cameras are capable of shooting 360 degrees due to the operation of multiple lenses. Their number varies from 2 to 36. The viewing angle can also be different. Such gadgets are often used as hiking gadgets to take panoramas from a height, on special observation platforms. The head-mounted cameras with night mode have IR LEDs, which allows you to shoot even at night. Otherwise, according to the principle of operation, they are no different from other devices.

GoPro comes first when it comes to action cameras. The company regularly releases new items and takes into account the different needs of customers. Among the current models, several of the most interesting can be distinguished.

• Hero 7 Black. Has Hypersmooth Image Stabilization that can smooth out any shake and even works in 4K quality at 60fps. Allows you to take HDR photos, broadcast live, controlled via the touch screen.

• Hero 7 Silver. A good option for the average user who does not need professional features like the previous model. At the same time, it offers decent 4K quality, a waterproof case and an intuitive interface.

• Hero 7 White. An affordable and reliable model for beginners. Shoots in Full HD at 1440p / 60fps or 1080p / 60fps. It can be synchronized with a smartphone and send videos directly to social networks.

DJI Is a well-known manufacturer of quadcopters, which also offers cameras. Noteworthy is the flagship model Osmo Action. It has an interesting feature - a front screen that makes framing and shooting easier for selfies or vlogging.

The manufacturer Sony is consistently releasing original novelties.

• FDR-X3000R has a non-standard shape, but this allowed the use of Optical Steady Shot technology, which counteracts shaking and does not depend on the degree of illumination.

• HDR-AS300 fits comfortably on a bicycle or motorcycle helmet. It is lightweight and quite affordable, suitable for beginners.

The Xiaomi brand has become famous for its optimal combination of cost and technical characteristics. Cameras from this manufacturer can also be found.

• Mijia 4K Action has a large, comfortable screen, allows you to shoot in 4K and supports 6-axis image stabilization.

• Yi 4k + Action gives 4K / 60fps quality, runs on Ambarella H2 processor. If necessary, it can be placed in a special case for shooting underwater.

The models differ in technical characteristics, so it is worth deciding what functions and capabilities you need so as not to overpay for extra add-ons.

• First of all, you need to pay attention to the resolution. The quality of the video depends on it.
  • Full HD is considered the standard for modern devices, suitable for amateurs, athletes and extreme lovers. This is the best compromise between quality and space that the recording will take on a memory card.
  • HD 720p is present in budget models. This is fine if you're looking for a cheaper option, like an inexpensive baby camera.
  • 4K is a professional format with the highest quality, which is striking in its detail. Suitable for those who make money on video filming.
• Frames per second, or FPS. At a low frequency, the image will appear "jerky". The higher the indicator, the smoother the picture looks. For scenes at high speed, 50 fps is recommended, for a normal walk, 25 fps is enough, and if you want to create videos with a time dilation effect, then the best option is 120 fps and higher.
• Stabilization. During shooting, the user is actively moving, so shaking is inevitable. A stabilizer is needed to smooth out this effect. Optical ones give better results than digital ones.
• Viewing angle. The size of the shooting area depends on this parameter. Cameras with an angle of 140-160 degrees are considered universal. Some wearers prefer 90-120 degrees to minimize distortion and fisheye effect. There are also models with up to 360-degree capture for panoramic shooting.
• Communication modules. The ability to sync with a smartphone makes it easy to work with the camera. With Wi-Fi and a dedicated app, you can view videos, adjust shooting settings and compose shots. This eliminates the need to remove the memory card each time and insert it into another device. Some devices support not only Wi-Fi, but also NFC, Bluetooth.
• Memory card. To avoid running out of space at the most inopportune moment, for Full HD you need at least 32 GB, and if you shoot in 4K, then 128 GB or more. Most cameras allow the use of microSD and SD cards, but it is best to check the compatibility of the slots before purchasing.
• Protection. Action models are not afraid of dust, water splashes, light impacts. Some are designed specifically for submersion - they are rated IP67 and above.

It is not uncommon to choose a helmet or hard hat to place the camera, or put it on the forehead with the help of special straps. It is comfortable and allows you to keep your hands free. There are several types of mounts.

• Straps. Manufacturers produce special kits, samples of which allow you to attach equipment both to the head and to the helmet. The belts can have an additional anti-slip coating, the ability to adjust in size.

• Swivel mounts. Highly durable, suitable for high wind or high speed shooting. With them, the gadget is installed on the helmet, and this can be done not only from the front, but also from the side.

• Extension cords. These are special devices with a remote design. They are used by skiers. This mount allows the camera to capture everything that happens behind the user.

• Clips. They are put on the visor of a cap or hat to install the device directly on the headdress. Suitable for walking or trekking, where there is no strong shaking and high speed.

If your mount is secured with an adhesive backing, choose a smooth surface. Before installing, clean and degrease with an alcohol solution. Then remove the tape and press down to the selected spot as hard as possible. During the day, you should not use a helmet so that the glue has time to grab onto the surface. The choice of mount also depends on the environment in which you intend to use the camera. Remember to adjust the angle of view before shooting.

In the next video, you will find a detailed review of the Foream X1 action camera.