Understanding Slo-Mo in GoPro Cameras: Why Your GoPro Hero 5 Doesn’t Have It and How to Achieve It

When you first set up your GoPro Hero 5, you may notice that it doesn't offer the option for slo-mo (slow motion) directly. This isn't due to any technical limitation but a strategic decision by GoPro. Instead, these cameras provide very high frame rates, and you can use an editing software to achieve the desired effect. This article will help you understand why your GoPro Hero 5 doesn't have a built-in slo-mo mode and provide guidance on how to achieve it.

What is Slo-Mo and Why Does It Work Differently on GoPros?

Traditional slo-mo camera modes, commonly found in smartphones, are designed to provide instant slow-motion playback for a quick and easy point-and-shoot convenience. However, this type of functionality is not straightforwardly supported by all cameras due to the hardware and software limitations. The advantage that GoPros offer is in their high frame rate capabilities, allowing for more versatile and customizable slow-motion effects.

How GoPros Achieve High Frame Rate Videos without Built-in Slo-Mo

While GoPro cameras don't have a built-in slow-motion mode, they do offer incredibly high frame rates, often up to 240 fps. This frame rate is significantly higher than the standard 30 or 60 fps that many cameras operate at. When you play back a 60 fps video at 30 fps, the result is slow-motion, and the quality remains smooth because the video was recorded at a higher frame rate. Similarly, playing back a 90 fps video at 30 fps would create an 8x slow-motion effect, resulting in smoothness even at lower playback speeds.

GoPro cameras are designed with a variety of use cases in mind, from hobbyists and enthusiasts to professionals. While professional-grade cameras might offer better image quality, GoPros are often used in situations where the quality of the camera itself is less critical, or the camera is intended for dangerous or extreme conditions. The ability to record at high frame rates and then edit the footage to your liking provides a versatile and flexible solution for different types of shooting environments.

Why the GoPro Hero 5 Isn’t Capable of Built-In Slo-Mo

The GoPro Hero 5 is quite an old model in the lineup, and more recent models, such as the GoPro Hero 11, have advanced features, including higher frame rates and resolutions. For instance, the Hero 11 can record 1080p videos at up to 240 fps. This high frame rate not only enhances the quality of the video but also allows for more varied editing options, including instant slo-mo effects. To achieve this, you can record at a high frame rate and then use a video editor to slow down the playback, maintaining the smoothness of the video.

How to Achieve Slo-Mo Using Your GoPro Hero 5

If you want to use slo-mo effects with your GoPro Hero 5, here are the steps you should follow:

Set your GoPro to record at a high frame rate, such as 60 fps or higher. Record your video as usual, ensuring that the conditions and settings are optimal for your needs. Transfer the video to your computer or other editing device. Use a video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or OpenShot) to import the video file. In the editing software, select the segment of the video you want to slow down. Apply a slow-motion effect to the video clip, typically through the video effects or transitions panel. Adjust the playback speed until you achieve the desired slow-motion effect. Save and export the edited video, ensuring that the quality and frame rate are appropriate for your intended use.

Conclusion

The absence of a built-in slo-mo mode in the GoPro Hero 5 is not a limitation but rather a strategic design choice. By providing high frame rate capabilities, GoPros offer flexible and customizable video editing options. Understanding how to use these capabilities can help you achieve the perfect slow-motion effect, making your videos more dynamic and engaging.

For the latest GoPro models, such as the GoPro Hero 11, the process remains similar, but the available frame rates are even higher, allowing for more extensive and detailed editing. Whether you are a hobbyist, an enthusiast, or a professional, mastering the use of high frame rates can significantly enhance the quality and versatility of your videos.