Can a GoPro Hero5 Black replace an APS-C/DSLR for still photos at the beach or on a boat?
Asked 4/23/2017
72 views
2 answers
0
I already use several DSLR and mirrorless cameras, but I’m considering a GoPro Hero5 Black for beach/boat use because it’s compact and waterproof. I’m mainly interested in how reliable it is for still photography, especially RAW files, dynamic range, and ISO/noise performance.
Can the Hero5 produce photo quality anywhere near an APS-C camera for serious stills, or is it mainly useful only for situations where a conventional camera would be impractical? I’m particularly concerned about low-light performance and whether the ultra-wide/fisheye look is difficult to correct in post.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
4
After having tested Hero 5, the conclusion is that "No, Gopro is by no means fit for being compared with a DSLR".
Although the video performance of Gopro is impressive, the bad low light performance due to the small sensor size of the camera is very tangible. Hero 5 has a very good dynamic range though and I can say that the dynamic range can be match to Nikon D750 as I could recover darkest shadows and a bit of highlights. However the ISO performance is a downside which is very poor (Max good ISO is 400).
The fish-eye effect as expressed in the comments has also been an issue which is hard to recover. However, I think that the camera can be useful for taking shots that cannot be taken using DSLR and the output would be acceptable.
Originally by user48400. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user48400
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The Hero5 Black is not a realistic replacement for an APS-C camera or DSLR for serious still photography.
Based on the reported testing, its strengths are convenience, waterproofing, and the ability to get shots you might not risk with larger cameras. Its dynamic range is described as surprisingly good, with decent shadow recovery and some highlight recovery from RAW files.
The main weakness is image quality at higher ISO. Low-light performance is clearly much worse than a DSLR or APS-C camera because of the much smaller sensor, and ISO 400 is about the highest setting reported as still looking good. The ultra-wide/fisheye rendering is another limitation and can be difficult to correct fully in post.
So: for bright daylight, action, boats, beaches, and angles that are hard or risky with a larger camera, the Hero5 can deliver acceptable stills. But if your goal is “pro” photo quality similar to a D7100/EOS M-class camera, especially in low light or when you want more natural perspective, it won’t match them.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI9y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Will a full-frame Canon body show more detail than APS-C with the EF 180mm f/3.5L Macro?
What focal length do I need to capture a 12-foot-wide scene from 3 feet away?
How much image quality difference is there between APS-C and full-frame today?
Should I use an iPhone SE or a GoPro Hero4 Black for travel photos?
Which prime lenses make a practical full-frame kit for travel, landscapes, and events?