A GoPro camera is something that I've never really been interested in, in the past. However, I'm due to take my first solo filght in my flying training in a few weeks and would like to capture the event on video. What's a good GoPro alternative that won't break the bank? I guess 4k would be nice and I don't want something that's too cheap and shit. Waterproof would be good for future use. Are DJI cameras any good? They seem to be much cheaper than GoPro.
Any help appreciated.
I guess I could but I kind of want one now but I don't want to spend too much.
2nd hand market is flooded with 3,4,5,6 variants that would be easily good quality for your needs.
There are earlier variants that can be had for not too much on Marketplace, but you really want the GoPro Hero 7 Black or newer, as they vastly improved the image stabilisation on those, and the earlier versions have a very fish-eye look to their photos.
+1 for 2nd hand GoPro. After the flight you'll be upset that you didn't splurge for the image quality and stabilisation.
Fair enough. So what's a good, recent model?
The wiki page has a breakdown of all the model specs: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GoPro
Generally a 6, 7 or 8 Black would be good. 8 or 9 if you want to splurge.
I've just been researching this too. As Hy6Bo mentions above, you really want a 7 Black or newer for the far superior image stabilization. You'll need it on your flight unless you're using a chest mount.
Also avoid the 8 unless it's a refurb. They were plagued with random issues.
A decent budget cam ~$100 is SJcam C200. Available on eBay and Ali. Make sure you run the firmware update. A GoPro is still leagues better tho and would strongly recommend spending the coin.
Thanks for all the comments and ideas.
I ended up going for a Hero 11 Black - the Black Friday deal was so good. With all the discounts, the camera, an SD card and a whole heap of accessories, it ended up at $611 - which I felt was a fantastic price. I will keep this camera for many years and it will be great for travelling and recording flights in future.
Just got to do my solo now - should be in a few weeks, depending on weather.
borrow someone's?