What is an action camera: what is it for and how to choose the right one - Setafi

We can say about the action camera that this is a special type of digital device that is used to filming in conditions of sharp turns, under water, in severe frost, bright sun or, conversely, twilight lighting. Because of this, the device has several requirements. The most important features and selection criteria are described in this article.

Device description

First you need to understand what an action camera is. This is the name of one of the types of digital cameras that are specially designed for filming in particularly difficult conditions:

• movement at high speed;
• sharp maneuvers, turns;
• driving on rough roads;
• performing tricks with a camera mounted on the head;
• different weather conditions (precipitation, frost, heat);
• lots of dust and dirt.

We can say that an action camera is a device for capturing fast, spectacular movements, i.e. action, hence its name. Such a device is mounted directly on the clothes or headgear of the user who is shooting:

• directly on the head with convenient clamps;
• on the helmet;
• on any item of clothing;
• directly on the body.

We can say about the action camera that this is a device that removes the action completely without human intervention. The device does not need to be held or constantly reconfigured - just turn it on and attach it to a helmet or clothing.

Purpose and features

If we talk about the purpose of an action camera, what it is and what it is used for, we can say that it is most often used by athletes and extreme sportsmen. The device provides high-quality shooting even with sudden movements. This is possible due to several design features:

• small size and very light weight;
• case made of extra strong materials with high-quality fasteners;
• sealed connections that provide the ability to shoot in the water (not all models);
• special fasteners with which the device can be fixed in different places.

Main selection criteria

Now it’s clear what an action camera is and in what cases it is used. It remains to deal with the technical and other parameters. To make the right choice, it is recommended to consider several criteria.

Hull properties

If you know what the action camera is used for, it becomes clear what you should pay attention to. Since the device is used outdoors in almost any weather, the case must have several properties:

• water resistance - for underwater shooting (can be a sealed case or an additional box);
• low temperature protection;
• additional sun protection
• dust protection;
• protection against mechanical damage.

Focusing on what you need an action camera for, you need to select a really suitable model. For example, if you do not intend to use the device under water, it is better not to take cameras with a sealed housing. It will not allow you to replace the battery or other parts if necessary.

Maximum Resolution

It should be understood that an action camera is a typical digital model that makes very high-quality shooting. A common option is HD resolution, although it is only suitable for amateur videos. If you need a professional level, you should choose a device with Full-HD.

There are even more advanced models that support 4K resolution. If we describe in simple terms what an action camera is, we can say that this is a digital device that is designed to shoot on the move, in water, in frost and in other extreme conditions. Moreover, thanks to the high resolution, the frames are very detailed, as is the case with professional shooting.

Matrix size

Any camera has a certain light sensitivity, which determines the quality of the video in low light conditions. This parameter is related to the dimensions of the matrix. If shooting is carried out only during the day, 1/3 or 1/4 inch matrices are quite suitable, but for shooting at dusk or underwater, models with a matrix of 1 inch or more are suitable. Here's what an action camera means for different lighting levels.

Number of frames

Another important parameter that affects the quality of the video. Typically, low-cost models have a frame rate of 30 frames per second. They work fine when driving at not very high speed. But in order to shoot with high quality during sharp maneuvering, it is better to consider devices with an indicator of 120 frames per second.

Viewing angle

If you understand why you need an action camera, it is easy to guess that one of the main selection criteria will be the viewing angle. It is quite clear that the larger this parameter, the more you can cover in one frame.

On the other hand, if the angle is at its maximum, straight lines from each edge may be distorted. Therefore, only those devices that have a wide-angle lens should be considered. The optimal range is 110-140 degrees.

Image stabilization type

Based on what an action camera is for, it will not be superfluous to study such a parameter as the type of image stabilization:

1. Optical - in this case, the lens moves during the shooting process, which makes it possible to smooth out jerks.
2. Digital does not smooth the video when shooting, but does it after it with the help of special software.

Extra options

Additional criteria may also be considered. For example, if you need an action camera with night shooting, the device must be equipped with IR illumination. For convenient control, you should choose models with a display, as well as a wireless communication function. It will not be superfluous to study the package, for example, a set of mounts for various items (steering wheel, helmet, windshield, backpack strap, and others).

It is quite clear what the action camera is used for, and in what conditions the shooting is carried out. As a rule, such devices are used by professional athletes and amateurs to obtain spectacular shots. Therefore, choosing a suitable model, the greatest attention is paid to the quality of the shooting.