gopro.jpgGoPro recently announced the launch of their latest model, the Hero+ LCD, which is only the second GoPro ever to have an LCD touchscreen on which you can manage settings and also review your footage and images. With this release GoPro has reaffirmed its position as the leader in the action camera market.

Today I’m going to look at some of the features that have kept GoPro at the top, and a few tips on how to capture some awesome photos and videos this summer.

Small Is Beautiful

The first thing that will strike you about a GoPro is the size; they are absolutely tiny. I noticed a couple posing near a garbage can the other day and I thought ‘What are they doing?’. It took me a minute to notice the GoPro sitting on top of the garbage can! I love small cameras because I’m much more inclined grab them on the way out the door and carry them around on a regular basis.

Waterproof to 40m

Another great feature of the GoPros is the waterproof, dustproof and shockproof housing. The housing is optional, in that it’s removeable, if you want to travel as light as possible. The housing makes the camera waterproof to 40m, and if I recall correctly from my dive course on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia (sadly before the first GoPro was released) the deepest you can go as a novice diver is 15m. For the average user though, waterproofing means you can take the camera to the beach or the lake without a worry.

First-Person Perspective

There are a few spots around Vancouver where I’ve seen some people cliff jumping. I’m way too scared of heights to attempt something like that, but I’d love to see a first-person perspective video of some of those jumps! I should point out that GoPros don’t float, so if you are using it in deep water you may want to consider investing in a Floaty Backdoor.

Lots Of Mounts And Accessories

Like all the , it’s totally affordable which is another reason for the success of the GoPro range. And there are so many varieties of mounts and accessories, no matter what you’re planning this summer, GoPro’s got you covered. One of the simplest and most versatile of the mounts is the Head Strap with QuickClip, which will give you a great perspective in almost any situation, and you can actually put a hat on top of it for extra security.

See Your Dog’s Perspective

Of course you have the Chest Mount too, and also the awesome Fetch Dog Harness for your canine bestie. If your dog is one of those who likes to chase sticks into the water, you could get some great footage, and if you have the whole family waiting at the shore when he comes back you even get some footage for the family highlight reel! The thing about the GoPro accessories is that there’s endless opportunities to create amazing videos—you really are only limited by your imagination.

You’ll find a great selection of GoPro cameras and GoPro accessories at Best Buy.

Justin Morrison
I am a professional photographer, working in motion and stills. I create portrait, lifestyle and documentary work, and I strive to tell real and authentic stories. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia.