GoPro Hero 3 Black - Problems Solved?

[harrygilbert]

I'm considering purchasing a GoPro video camera -- their "latest and best" is the Hero 3 Black. But many of the reviews really pan the device for poor battery life, overheating, freezing up, and other issues. Some reviewers say the issues have been resolved with a firmware upgrade; others say they still have problems.

Have the issues noted above been fixed? Is the more basic GoPro HD Hero Naked a better option? My goal is to mount the GoPro on top of my DSLR so I can record video of wildlife while getting closeups on the DSLR with tele lens.


Would appreciate feedback from people who have experience with these models.

 

[harrygilbert]

Having gotten zero replies to my post, I took the plunge and bought a GoPro Hero3.

FWIW, it is working flawlessly. The firmware upgrade proceeded smoothly; I can easily acquire wireless contact with the included remote and the iPhone App; and I found that After Effects can eliminate the optical distortion caused by the Hero's very wide FOV.

 

[Sean Nelson]

harrygilbert wrote:
...I found that After Effects can eliminate the optical distortion caused by the Hero's very wide FOV.

Very useful tip, thanks!

 

[jordanzs]

The battery life still sucks, but tfewer eyeing issue has been fixed with a firmware update. I had to do an offline update to get mine to take it.

and do not get a Sandisk ultra card. Get the Sandisk extreme pro, it makes the buffer times bearable

 

[Bluephotons]

All good info ,I'm also about to get the Go pro black, Thanks.

 

[Xico]

I have the Gopro 3. Update installed with no problems. The camera stopped working 3 times since i have it (2 months). Removed the battery and that solved the problem. The battery lifespan is poor to say the least. Same with the remote. Buying a spare battery or the back pack is a must. Navigating the menu is a little bit of a pain. But you get used to it. Easier if you link it with your smart phone. But the quality you get from that little thing is just great.

 

[harrygilbert]

I too found it easier to set up the camera using the iPhone app. But beware: if you leave WiFi turned on, battery life will be poor. After setup, I turn off WiFi and get much longer battery life on the GoPro.