GoPro RAW (.GPR) files explained: which models and photo modes can shoot RAW, why SuperPhoto and HDR can't, the always-saved JPG, and what opens the files.
GoPro cameras save long recordings as a series of smaller chapter files. Here's how to use VideoProc Converter to join those chapters into a single video file.
GoPro has quietly killed off H.264 on newer cameras like the HERO13 and HERO12. If your computer is struggling to play your latest footage, or you are seeing a black screen with audio, the new HEVC standard is likely the culprit. Here is how to fix it.
The GoPro Magnetic Swivel Clip combines several different options for easily attaching your GoPro to a variety of places on the go.
Newer GoPros have "Webcam Mode," but the HERO7, 6, and 5 Black were left behind. Don't worry — their sensors are still top-tier. Here is how to unlock their webcam potential using the HDMI port.
A trigger grip puts the GoPro shutter under your index finger for one-handed shooting — and after years of testing through the surf, two have earned a permanent place in my kit. Here's how the Telesin, Freewell, and Suptig compare, and why they still work on the HERO13 Black.
Yes, most GoPro Black models since the HERO6 can zoom, but it's a digital crop, not a true optical zoom. Here's which models have it, how it actually works, and real side-by-side examples of the results.
One of the things I like most about shooting with GoPros is that they're fearless around water. Some of my favorite shots I've taken with them have involved water. Here are some tips I've learned along the way for getting better results when shooting with GoPro cameras in and around the water.
On the HERO6 Black and later, you can switch a GoPro between the 5GHz and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi bands. Here's where the setting is on each model, and when to use which.
If you're trying to reset your GoPro's wifi password or just look up what it is so you can connect, here are the steps model by model, from the HERO13 Black back to the HERO4.
Turning on a GoPro is usually very simple. But sometimes you can run into situations where your GoPro won't turn on. Here are some things to try.
The "Format" button has moved on newer GoPros, and it is confusingly hidden under the "Reset" menu. Here is how to find it, and why you should do it before every shoot to prevent data corruption.
The Burst Mode and Continuous Photo functions on GoPros are useful ways to capture fast-moving action. Here's a rundown of how they work, how they're different, and what options are available.
If you want to use the older GoPro WiFi Remote with your HERO7 Black or HERO6 Black, you can. But there is a trick to look out for. So here's a quick guide.
Here's my detailed breakdown of how the GoPro HERO6 Black compares with the newer HERO7 Black.
SuperView is GoPro's extra-tall, extra-wide field of view for video. Here's how it compares to Wide, with side-by-side examples.
GoPro claims that the new HyperSmooth in-camera electronic stabilization of the HERO7 Black is much improved over the previous generation in the HERO6 Black. So I've been putting it to the test. Here are some side-by-side examples.
How to convert GoPro RAW (.GPR) files to standard DNG for free — Adobe DNG Converter step by step, plus GoPro's gpr_tools for batch conversion — so any image app can open them.
A step-by-step guide to removing and replacing the lens cover on the GoPro HERO5 Black for replacing a scratched cover or using a SuperSuit diving housing.
Newer GoPro cameras give you a choice of JPG or RAW when shooting photos. So which is better, and when should you use it? Here's a quick explainer of what the difference is and when to use which format.
GoPro's QuikCapture feature is designed as a one-press way to power the camera up and start shooting immediately. There are a few tricks to using it, though.
The HERO (2018) and the HERO6 Black look the same, but there are lots of differences in features and capabilities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how they compare.
While there aren't a lot of options for external batteries for the GoPro HERO6 Black and HERO5 Black, there are some. Here are the best options I've come across for powering your GoPro for more than a couple of hours at a time.
Most GoPro Black models can run on USB power with the battery out. Which models work, what can go wrong, and how to keep the camera weather-resistant.
If you're getting an error message on your computer when you try to open a video shot on the GoPro HERO10, HERO9, HERO8, HERO7, or HERO6 Black, it might be because it isn't compatible with the HEVC (H.265) codec used in some of those cameras' video modes. Here are some workarounds.
If you're wondering why your image is suddenly cropped when you turn on the video stabilization feature, here's an explanation.
One of the headline features of the GoPro HERO6 Black is better in-camera video stabilization to smooth out shaky footage. Here are some side-by-side examples to illustrate its effectiveness.
A detailed comparison of how the GoPro HERO 5 Black compares with the HERO 6 Black in terms of specs, features, capabilities, and performance.
The GoPro HERO6 Black has headline features of 4K60 and 1080p240 video modes. While there's a lot of overlap with the HERO5 Black, there are also some new options and some that have gone away.
The HERO6 has a new processor and promises improved image quality over its predecessor, the HERO5 Black. Here are some side-by-side comparisons.
Among the Burst Mode options on newer GoPros is an Auto setting. It prioritizes better exposure over forcing the number of shots. Here's how it works.
A rundown of the photo modes available on the HERO6 Black.
Charging a GoPro used to be simple, but with high-amperage fast charging and new magnetic power doors, there’s a lot to get right. Here is my rundown of how to charge every model safely and quickly, including how to avoid common battery issues.
You can't use Linear FOV with GoPro RAW files, but here's a workaround that lets you get something very close to it using Lightroom.
If you're looking to get split photos of above and below the water line, a dome port is what you want. Here's a rundown of how they work with GoPros.
GoPros have a couple of different ways of setting the date and time, each with its advantages.
If you find that your GoPro's battery is draining quickly even when the camera is switched off, here's a troubleshooting checklist of things to try.
Whether you are filming a quiet stage performance or skittish wildlife, a beeping, flashing camera is a disaster. Here is how to silence your GoPro and turn off the lights for true discreet recording.
GoPros have never had particularly good battery life. So having spare batteries on hand, along with an external charger, can help you keep shooting.
Some newer GoPros have a new in-camera feature for something you could only do in post-production before: correcting fisheye in photos and videos. It's called Linear FOV.
Some GoPros, like the HERO9 Black, offer a choice between two color modes in the photo mode: GoPro and Flat. Here are some examples I've put together along with some suggestions on when I think they're best used.
Some GoPro models give you the option to choose between high, medium, and low levels of sharpening. Here are some examples to help demystify what these different settings do.
Photos taken with GoPro cameras have that distinctive fisheye look. But that might not be what you want all the time. Here's an effective and quick way to remove the fisheye look using Lightroom.
If you're looking to improve the sound quality of your GoPro videos, using an external mic will make a big difference. Here's a rundown of what mics will work with which GoPro.
Practical action cam help, tips, and troubleshooting.
My name is David Coleman, and this is my site.
I take photos for a living. Seven continents. Dozens of countries. Up mountains. Under water. And a bunch of places in between. I'm based in Washington DC.
I've been shooting with GoPros since the HERO2 and have personally owned nearly every model since then. I find them particularly interesting as go-anywhere cameras, and there's nearly always one in my camera bag when I head out on my travels.
All posts and reviews on this site are written by me. And I only review gear with which I have personal hands-on experience. More about me.
© 2009-2026 David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel LLC
Photos by David Coleman. Please contact me for licensing images. Images are registered with the U.S. Copyright Office.
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