Contents
- 1. User Manual 1
- 2. User Manual 2
User Manual 1
V 4 (MB)
September 4
HERO3 Silver Edition
TITLE PAGE
HERO3 | User Manual + Warranty Info
PROMO PAGE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
[CREATE ToC ONCE CONTENT FINAL]
ACCESSORY PAGES
[CREATE ONCE CONTENT FINAL]
HERO3
1. LED Indicator Lights (Red1)
2. Shutter/Select Button [S graphic]
3. LCD Status Screen
4. Wi-Fi Indicator Light (Blue2) [W graphic]
5. HDMI Port (cable not included)
6. microSD Card Slot (card not included)
7. Power/Mode Button [mode graphic]
8. HERO Port
9. USB Port (composite A/C cable/3.5mm stereo mic adapter/file
transfer/charge/playback accessory connection)
10. Battery Door
11. Sound Indicator (located bottom of camera)
12. Wi-Fi ON/OFF
CAMERA UPDATES
GoPro periodically releases updates and new features to its HERO line. Check to see
if an update is available for your camera. Visit gopro.com/update to download the
latest firmware.
1 Red flashes during capture; solid when charging
2 Blue flashes when connected to Wi-Fi
USING YOUR HERO3: BASICS
GETTING STARTED
>>camera image with memory card inserted/battery being placed into camera
1. Insert microSD, microSDHC or microSDXC into card slot with label facing
forward, narrowest part of card first. Speed Class 4 or higher rating
recommended.
2. Place battery into camera.
3. Charge battery. Included lithium-ion battery comes partially charged.
Connect included USB cable to camera; connect other end of cable to power
source such as computer, GoPro wall or auto charger.
· Red Indicator Lights are solid while charging.
· Red Indicator Lights turns off when fully charged.
> See BATTERY LIFE for more information.
DEFAULT SETTINGS
The HERO3 camera has been configured to start with the following default settings:
Video Resolution Video 960p-30fps (NTSC)
Photo Resolution 11 Megapixels (MP)
Time Lapse Interval 0.5 seconds
Power Up Mode Video
Protune Off
Wi-Fi Off
> See SETTINGS menu to make changes to how the camera captures video and
photos.
POWERING ON AND OFF
To power ON:
Press and release [mode]. The red LED Indicator Lights will flash three times and
the Sound Indicator will emit three beeps.
To power OFF:
Press [mode] for two seconds, then release. The red LED Indicator Lights will flash
several times and the Sound Indicator will emit seven beeps.
Pro Tip: Need one-touch ON operation that starts video record immediately? Set
camera to One Button mode.
USING YOUR HERO3: CAMERA MODES
OVERVIEW
The HERO3 features several camera operation modes. Most modes may be changed
in the Settings menu.
Video Record video
Photo Capture single photo
Photo Burst Capture up to 10 photos in 1 second3
Time Lapse Capture 1 photo every 0.5 seconds4
Settings Change camera settings
Playback5 View photos and videos on LCD Touch, TV/HDTV (via
micro-HDMI cable)
> See ENTERING SETTINGS MENU for more information.
RECORDING VIDEO [video icon]
Verify camera is in Video mode. If it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it
appears. The default video setting is 960p-30fps (NTSC).
The LCD screen displays [video icon], FOV, video resolution setting, fps, number of
videos stored on the memory card, balance of time remaining on card before full,
and battery capacity.
To start recording:
Press and release [S]. The camera will emit one beep and the red LED Indicator
Lights will flash while recording.
To stop recording:
Press and release [S]. The red LED Indicator Lights will flash three times and the
camera will emit three beeps.
The HERO3 automatically stops recording when memory card is full or battery is
out of power. Video is saved before the camera powers off.
3 Settings include: take 3 photos in 1 second, 5 photos in 1 second, 10 photos in 1 second, 10 photos in 2 seconds
4 Settings include: take 1 photo every .5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 or 60 seconds
5 Playback icon displayed only when GoPro LCD BacPac or other viewing device is connected
PRO TIP: Activate One Button mode to have camera automatically begin recording
when powered ON. To halt recording and keep camera on, press and hold [S] for
two seconds. To halt recording and turn camera off, press and hold [mode] for two
seconds.
>See One Button mode for more information.
TAKING A PHOTO [photo icon]
Verify camera is in Photo mode. If it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it
appears. The default photo size is 11 MP Wide.
The LCD screen displays [photo icon], FOV, photo resolution size (MP), number of
photos stored on the memory card, number of photos that can be taken before full,
and battery capacity.
To take a photo:
Press and release [S]. The camera will beep one time and the red LED Indicator
Lights will flash.
PHOTO BURST MODE [burst icon]
In Photo Burst mode the camera will take multiple photos in a short period of time.
The default setting is 10 photos in 1 second.
Verify camera is in Photo Burst mode. If it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly
until it appears.
The LCD screen displays [burst icon], FOV, photo resolution size (MP), the Photo
Burst setting, number of photos stored on the memory card, number of photos that
can be taken before full, and battery capacity.
To take Photo Burst mode series:
Press and release [S]. The red LED Indicator Lights will flash and the camera will
beep 10 times.
Pro Tip: Tracking fast action subjects and want to improve your chance for nailing a
sharp shot? Set camera to Photo Burst and select best from the series.
TIME LAPSE PHOTO [time lapse icon]
Time Lapse Photo mode captures a series of photos at 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 or 60
second intervals. When using 0.5 seconds, it is recommended to use Speed Class 10
or higher memory card. The default Time Lapse setting is 0.5 seconds.
Verify camera is in Time Lapse mode. If not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until
it appears.
The LCD screen display [time lapse icon], FOV, photo resolution size (MP), the
Time Lapse setting, number of photos stored on the memory card, number of
photos that can be taken before full, and battery capacity.
To take Time Lapse photos:
Press and release[S]. The camera will initiate countdown and red LED Indicator
Lights will flash each time a photo is taken.
To stop Time Lapse photos:
Press and release [S]. The red LED Indicator Lights will flash three times and the
camera will emit three beeps to indicate Time Lapse has stopped.
>See Time Lapse for instructions on how to change interval settings.
CHANGING CAMERA MODES/SETTINGS
ENTERING SETTINGS MENU [settings icon]
The HERO3 offers options to customize and adjust how video and photos are
captured. Navigate to Settings menu to make changes.
[settings icon] Verify camera is in Settings menu:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through various Settings.
3. Press [S] to select desired option. Some Settings offer multiple options.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
5. Press [S] to select highlighted option.
6. To exit after making selection, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT].
7. Press [S].
PRO TIP: Want to return to camera default settings? Press and hold [S] for two
seconds.
VIDEO RESOLUTION MODES
The HERO3 camera produces in the following video resolutions:
Resolution
FPS
Field of View
Best Use
1080p
30
Ultra Wide
TBD – revise with best istances
1080p
24
Ultra Wide
960p
48*default
Ultra Wide
960p
30
Ultra Wide
High quality action 4:3 video, crop to best shot
720p
60
Ultra Wide
Highest quality action, slow motion post edit, playback
720p
30
Ultra Wide
General use, all around
WVGA
120
Ultra Wide
Lower power, slow motion post edit, playback
With Protune mode activated, the following video resolutions are available:
Resolution/FPS
Field of View
Screen Resolution
Bitrate
Best Use
1080p/30T
Ultra Wide
1920x1080
Professional
Highest quality, best for
professional video editing
1080/24T
Ultra Wide
1920x1080
Professional
Highest quality, best for
professional video editing
960p/48T
Ultra Wide
1280x960
Professional
Highest quality, best for
professional video editing
960p/30T
Ultra Wide
1280x960
Professional
Highest quality, best for
professional video editing
720p/60T
Ultra Wide
1280x720
Professional
Highest quality, best for
professional video editing
The HERO3 camera supports Protune in both NTSC and PAL settings.
VIDEO SETTINGS [video icon]
Customize the HERO3 Resolution, Frames Per Second (FPS) and Field of View
(FOV) settings for video recording.
[settings icon] To change video capture, verify camera is in Settings menu. If not
showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings menu to locate [video icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Video menu.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
5. Press [S] to select highlighted option.
6. To exit after making selections, use [mode] to highlight [EXIT].
7. Press [S].
8. To exit Settings, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
Note: Certain combinations of Resolution, FPS and FOV are not possible. See
gopro.com/support for additional information.
PHOTO RESOLUTION [photo icon]
The HERO3 can take photos in 11 MP, 8 MP and 5 MP resolutions. Any change to
the resolution affects photos taken in Photo, Burst and Time Lapse modes.
[TABLE]
11 MP Wide (default)
8 MP Medium
8 MP Wide
5 MP Medium
[settings icon] To change Photo resolution, verify camera is in Settings menu. If
not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings menu to locate [photo icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Photo menu.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
5. Press [S] to select highlighted option.
6. To exit after making selection, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT].
7. Press [S].
PHOTO BURST [burst icon]
Photo Burst mode produces a rapid-fire series of photos and can operate in one of
four different combinations.
[TABLE]
3 photos in 1 second
5 photos in 1 second
10 photos in 1 second (default)
10 photos in 2 seconds
[settings icon] To change Photo Burst mode, verify camera is in Settings mode. If
it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings menu to locate [burst icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Burst menu.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
5. Press [S] to select highlighted option.
6. To exit after making selection, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT].
7. Press [S].
TIME LAPSE [time lapse icon]
Several time interval settings are available for Time Lapse mode photos, including
0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 and 60 seconds. After selecting the interval, specify whether to
optimize for VIDEO or STILLS6.
6 The recommend setting for videos is ON; for still photos is OFF
[settings icon] To change Time Lapse mode, verify camera is in Settings menu. If
not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings menu to locate [Time Lapse icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Time Lapse menu.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
5. Press [S] to select highlighted option.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through sub-menu options VIDEO and STILLS; press [S]
to select highlighted.
7. To exit after making selection, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT].
8. Press [S].
DELETE FILES [delete icon]
Delete the last file or all files on the memory card. During DELETE LAST or All, the
LED Indicator Lights will blink until formatting is complete.
[TABLE]
CANCEL (default)
LAST
ALL/FORMAT
[settings icon] To DELETE LAST or ALL, verify camera is in Settings menu. If it is
not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings and locate [delete icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Delete.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
5. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
6. To exit Delete, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
CAMERA ORIENTATION [camera orientation up down icon]
Mounting the camera upside down but wish files to appear upright when viewing or
transferring? This setting eliminates the need to flip the video or photo.
[settings icon] To change Camera Orientation, verify camera is in Settings menu.
If not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings menu to locate [Capture Settings
icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Capture Settings.
4. Use [mode] to locate [camera orientation up down icon].
5. Press [S] to enter Camera Orientation sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted by pressing [S].
8. To exit Camera Orientation sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then
press [S].
9. To exit Settings, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
SPOT METER [spot meter icon]
Turn on Spot Meter when filming from within a dark space pointing the camera
into a brighter setting, such as filming the outdoors from inside a car. When set to
ON, the [spot meter icon] appears in the LCD window.
[settings icon] To change Spot Meter, verify camera is in Settings menu. If not
showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings menu to locate [Capture Settings
icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Capture Settings.
4. Use [mode] to locate [spot meter icon].
5. Press [S] to enter Spot Meter sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options and select highlighted by pressing [S].
7. To exit Spot Meter sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
8. To exit Capture Settings, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
VIDEO LOOPING [video looping icon]
Not certain when desired action will happen, but want to be sure its captured on
video? Set camera to Video Looping to continuously record and over-write until
[S] is pressed.
Off (default)
Max Camera records until memory card is full, then over-writes with new
video. *
5 min Camera records for 5 minutes, then over-writes and begins a new
video.
20 min Camera records for 20 minutes, then over-writes and begins a new
video.
60 min Camera records for 60 minutes, then over-writes and begins a new
video.
120 min Camera records for 120 minutes, then over-writes and begins a new
video.
Note: Multiple chapter files are written to the memory card. This allows for small
segments of content to be over-written during loop recording.
[settings icon] To turn Video Looping on, verify camera is in Settings menu. If not
showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings menu to locate [Capture Settings].
3. Press [S] to enter Capture Settings.
4. Use [mode] to locate [video looping icon].
5. Press [S] to enter Video Looping sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options and select highlighted option by
pressing [S].
7. To exit Video Looping sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press
[S].
8. To exit Capture Settings, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
Protune
[protune icon] The HERO3 camera can record video in Protune mode. Protune
enables video recording at a higher 35Mbps data rate, and shooting at 24fps, for
easier intercut to other source files. Protune also improves color profiling for work
on professional quality video created using major post-production platforms.
Turning Protune ON affects several settings and features, such as Video Resolution,
Frames Per Second (FPS) and Field of View (FOV). It cannot be used during
simultaneous recording or during playback to a smart device.
> See Protune for more information.
Protune - NTSC
1080p/30T default
1080p/24T
960p/48T
960p/30T
720p/60T
Protune – PAL
1080p/25T default
1080p/24T
960p/50T
960p25T
720p/50T
[settings icon] To turn Protune ON, verify camera is in Settings menu. If it is not
showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter the Settings menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through the Settings menu to locate Capture Settings.
3. Press [S] to enter Capture Settings sub-menu.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through the menu to locate Protune.
5. Press [S] to enter Protune sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
8. To exit Set Up sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
WHITE BALANCE [WB icon]
Adjust how the HERO3 handles White Balance. The default setting is AUTO white
balance. When ON, the [WB icon] appears in the upper right hand of LCD.
AUTO (default)
3000K
5500K
6500K
Cam RAW
Note: Cam RAW is the full native file as captured and processed by the image sensor.
Additional software may be needed to convert and work with RAW files.
[settings icon] To adjust White Balance, verify camera is in Settings menu. If not
showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings to locate [Capture Settings icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Capture Settings.
4. Use [mode] to locate [WB icon].
5. Press [S] to enter White Balance sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
8. To exit White Balance sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press
[S].
9. To exit Capture Settings menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press
[S].
PRO TIP: Consider manually setting White Balance when operating in the
following conditions:
3000K for incandescent or sunrise/sunset lighting
5500K for daylight or sunlit shooting
6500K for cool white fluorescent skylight lighting
Cam RAW for full file information
STARTUP DEFAULT [default icon]
Set which camera mode is immediately active when camera is powered ON.
[icon] Video (default)
[icon] Photo
[icon] Photo Burst
[icon] Time Lapse
[icon] Last
[settings icon] To adjust Default mode, verify camera is in Settings menu. If not
showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings to locate [set up icon].
3. Press [S] to enter Set Up.
4. Use [mode] to locate [default icon].
5. Press [S] to enter Default sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
8. To exit Default sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
9. To exit Set Up menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
The option LAST configures camera to start up in mode active when camera was
last powered OFF.
ONE BUTTON [one button icon]
With One Button mode selected, the camera automatically begins recording video
as soon as powered ON.
[settings icon] To change One Button mode, verify camera is in Settings mode. If it
is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through the Settings to locate [Set Up].
3. Press [S] to enter Set Up.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through to locate [one button icon].
5. Press [S] to enter One Button sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
8. To exit One Button sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
9. To exit Set Up, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
Note: When in One Button mode, camera will start taking video as soon as turned
on. To halt recording and keep camera on, press and hold [S] for two seconds. To
halt recording and turn camera off, press and hold [mode] for two seconds.
To turn One Button Mode OFF while the camera is operation (remember, since the
camera is in One Button mode it will be recording):
1. Press and hold the [S] until [icon] shows in the LCD window.
2. Press [S] once again.
3. Use the [mode] button to highlight OFF.
4. Select OFF by pressing [S].
NTSC/PAL
The NTSC and PAL settings govern video recording frame rate and playback when
viewing video on a TV/HDTV. Select NTSC when viewing on a TV in North America.
Select PAL if viewing on a PAL TV (most televisions outside of North America) or if
viewing on a PAL TV in any region.
NTSC default
1080p/30
1080p/24
960p/48
960p/30
720p/60
720p/30
WVGA/120
PAL
1080p/25
1080p/24
960p/50
960p/25
720p/50
720p/25
WVGA/120
ONSCREEN DISPLAY (OSD) [OSD icon]
To display or hide recording icons and file information on a video or viewing screen
during playback, turn Onscreen Display to ON or OFF.
[settings icon] To change Onscreen Display, verify camera is in Settings menu. If
it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through the Settings to locate [Set Up].
3. Press [S] to enter Set Up.
4. Use [mode] to locate [OSD icon].
5. Press [S] to enter OSD sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
8. To exit OSD sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
9. To exit Set Up, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
LED LIGHTS [LED icon]
Keep all four LED Indicator Lights active, only two active (front and back) or turn
OFF all lights.
4 (default)
2
OFF
[settings icon] To change LED Lights display, verify camera is in Settings menu. If
it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through the Settings to locate [Set Up].
3. Press [S] to enter Set Up.
4. Use [mode] to locate [LED icon].
5. Press [S] to enter LED Lights sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
9. To exit LED Lights sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
10. To exit the Set Up, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
CAMERA SOUND [sound icon]
Adjust the volume or turn off the camera Sound Indicator.
100% (default)
70%
OFF
[settings icon] To change CAMERA SOUND, verify that the camera is in Settings
menu. If it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through the Settings to locate [Set Up].
3. Press [S] to enter Set Up.
4. Use [mode] to cycle through locate [sound icon].
5. Press [S] to enter Camera Sound sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
8. To exit Camera Sound sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press
[S].
9. To exit Set Up, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
MANUAL OFF [on/off icon]
The camera can be configured to automatically turn off after a specific period of
inactivity (when no videos or photos are being taken and no buttons have been
pressed).
[TABLE]
MANUAL (default)
60 sec
120 sec
300 sec
[settings icon] To change Manual OFF, verify camera is in Settings menu. If it is
not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through Settings to locate [Set Up].
3. Press [S] to enter Set Up.
4. Use [mode] to locate [Manual off icon].
5. Press [S] to enter Manual off sub-menu.
6. Use [mode] to cycle through options.
7. Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
8. To exit Manual off sub-menu, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
9. To exit Set Up, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
SETTING DATE AND TIME [date icon]
Set the cameras clock to ensure that video and photo files are saved with correct
date/time.
[settings icon] To change Date/Time/Month, verify camera is in Settings menu. If
it is not showing, press [mode] repeatedly until it appears:
1. Press [S] to enter [settings icon] menu.
2. Use [mode] to cycle through the Settings to locate [Set Up].
3. Press [S] to enter Set Up.
4. Use [mode] to locate [date icon].
5. Press [S] to enter [date icon] sub-menu; the Month will be highlighted.
6. Press [S] to access the list of months (1 to 12).
7. Use [mode] to cycle through the list until the desired selection is highlighted.
8. Press [S] to select highlighted selection; the Date/Time/Month setting
menu will again appear on the LCD again.
9. Press [mode] to move through all selections; use [S] to select and change any
highlighted selection.
10. To exit the Date/Time/Month sub-menu, go to MM (minutes) and press
[mode].
11. Use [mode] to cycle to EXIT, then press [S].
12. To exit Set Up, use [mode] to cycle to [EXIT], then press [S].
Note: If the battery is removed from the camera for an extended period of time the
date/time information will need to be set again.
STORAGE/MICROSD CARDS
The HERO3 camera is compatible with 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB
capacity microSD, microSDHC and microSDXC memory cards. All speed class
ratings are compatible. GoPro recommends higher rated cards (labeled as Class 4 or
higher) when shooting video or Time Lapse. GoPro recommends using name brand
memory cards for maximum reliability.
To insert memory card:
1. Slide memory card into card slot with label facing front of camera.
2. Card will click into place when fully inserted.
To remove memory card:
1. Place fingernail against edge of memory card and press further into camera.
2. Card will spring out far enough to be removed.
Note: Use care when handling memory cards. Avoid liquids, dust and debris. As a
precaution, turn off camera before inserting or removing. Check manufacturer
guidelines regarding use in acceptable temperature ranges.
COMPUTER SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
The HERO3 camera is compatible with Microsoft® XP (Service Pack 2) or later and
Mac OS X 10.4.11 or later.
Windows requirements:
Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or later) or Vista
3.2 GHz Pentium 4 or faster
Direct X 9.0c or later
At least 1GB of system RAM
Video card with at least 256MB of RAM
Mac Requirements:
Mac OS X v10.4.11 or later
2.0 GHz Intel Core Duo or faster
At least 1GB of system RAM
Video card with at least 128MB of RAM
TRANSFERRING FILES
PC:
1. Connect camera to computer using included USB cable.
2. Press [mode] to turn on camera.
3. Double click My Computer and locate Removable Disk.
4. If Removable Disk Is not showing, close My Computer folder and reopen
it. The Removable Disk icon should appear.
5. Double click the Removable Disk icon.
6. Double click the DCIM folder icon.
7. Double click the GOPRO icon to view all photo and video files.
8. Copy/move files to the computer or external hard drive.
Mac:
1. Connect camera to Mac using included USB cable.
2. Press [mode] to turn on camera.
3. The Mac will recognize the camera as an external hard drive. Double click
icon for external drive to access files.
4. Copy/move files to computer or external hard drive.
Important tip for Mac users: When deleting files from memory card, empty the
trash before removing the memory card or unplugging the camera. Failure to do so
will result in all files being erased from the memory card.
VIEW VIDEOS AND PHOTOS ON TV/HDTV
[playback icon] Connect HERO3 to TV/HDTV using accessory cable such as micro-
HDMI cable or mini-USB-to-composite cable (not included).
Once connected:
With the camera powered ON, navigate to Playback using [mode]. Press [S]
to enter the Playback menu.
The HERO3 will display thumbnail previews of all videos and photos on the
card. Photo sets taken in Burst Mode or Time Lapse will display the first
photo in the series as thumbnail for entire set.
Within thumbnail screen, use to [mode] toggle through the thumbnails and
[S] to start playback or view highlighted file. Use NEXT and PREVIOUS to
navigate to additional thumbnail screens.
Sorting Thumbnails Using Sort By
[sort icon] Quickly find files of the same type using sorting function. From
thumbnails screen:
Using [mode], cycle through thumbnails until cursor is on [sort icon]
Select [sort icon] by pressing [S]
Use [mode] to cycle through ALL, Video, Photo, XXX
Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
To cycle through selections, use [mode].
Select highlighted option by pressing [S].
Xxxxx
PLAYBACK OF VIDEO FILES
Select the thumbnail of the video to be viewed. The video playback screen appears
with video paused and Play button highlighted. Press [S] to begin playback.
While video is playing, the on screen icons shown include: PAUSE, REWIND, FAST
FORWARD, [SLOW ICON NAME] and RETURN TO THUMBNAILS.
To REWIND or FAST FORWARD, highlight the icon with [mode] then press
and hold [S]. Release [S] when you want to return to regular playback.
To play video in slow motion, highlight [ICON NAME] and press [S].
While the video is paused, you can use [mode] to cycle throughthe icons for the
NEXT file on the microSD card, the PREVIOUS file, [SLOW ICON NAME] or RETURN
TO THUMBNAILS. Press [S] to select the highlighted option.
PLAYBACK OF SINGLE PHOTO FILES
After selecting a photo file thumbnail with [S], your photo will display along with
on-screen buttons to select the NEXT file on the microSD card, the PREVIOUS file,
AUTO-PLAY and RETURN TO THUMBNAILS. Use [mode] to cycle through the icons
then press [S] to select the highlighted option.
See AUTO PLAY for information about using the Auto Play slideshow mode.
PLAYBACK OF BURST AND TIME LAPSE FILES
After selecting a Burst or Time Lapse file thumbnail with [S], the first image in the
sequence to display with VIEW highlighted. Press [S] to view the first photo in the
series and access the individual playback controls, NEXT or PREVIOUS to move to
other files on your microSD card, or THUMBNAILS to return to the thumbnail menu.
On the individual playback screen, you can select PLAY to view each photo in the
series, NEXT or PREVIOUS to access other photos in the series, or BACK to return to
the previous screen.
CONFIRM Auto Play
Auto Play plays back photo and video files in a continuous slideshow.
From thumbnails playback screen:
Select OPTION menu
Select Auto Play
Select ALL, PHOTOS or VIDEOS. The option PHOTOS includes photos taken in
Photo, Burst and Time Lapse modes.
During Auto Play, the slide show may be PLAY/PAUSE the slideshow, move to the
NEXT or PREVIOUS files on the microSD card, FAST FORWARD or REWIND (during
video playback), and EXIT Auto Play to return to thumbnails.
NOTE: For camera to work properly with TV, ensure camera is set to the correct
video setting: NTSC (North America) or PAL (outside North America). A memory
card with recorded information must be inserted into the HERO3 camera. If no
video or photo files are present on the card, the message No Video, No Photo or No
Files will appear.
BATTERY
A fully charged HERO3 battery provides approximately two hours of video
recording time at 720p-60fps. If using the HERO3 with LCD BacPac, the battery
provides approximately XX hours of video recording time at 720p-60fps. The LCD
displays the battery meter in every camera mode.
CHARGING BATTERY
The battery icon as displayed in the LCD will blink when battery drops below xx%. If
recording is occurring when the battery reaches xx%, the camera will save the file
and turn off.
To charge battery:
1. Connect camera to computer via USB cord or USB power supply.
2. Front red LED Activity Light remains on while the battery is charging.
3. Front red LED Activity Light turns off when battery is fully charged.
The camera battery will charge to 80% in one to two hours and 100% in four hours
(depending on USB power output). Battery will charge to 80% in one hour and
100% in two hours when using GoPro 1000mAh USB-compatible wall or auto
charger.
USING CAMERA WHILE CHARGING
The battery may be charged within the camera while recording video or taking
photos. Simply plug the camera into any USB-based wall, car, or phone charger to
charge the HERO3 camera. The GoPro 1 amp (1000mAh) charger offers maximum
charging performance.
No damage will occur to camera or battery is used together prior to a full charge.
REMOVING BATTERY
The HERO3 battery enclosure area provides a snug fit to maximize battery
connection and reliability when camera is used in high vibration activities.
To remove battery:
1. Remove battery door by placing thumb on indentation in camera and sliding
switch to left, toward HERO Port on back of camera.
2. Grab pull-tab on battery and remove.
Spare batteries and additional accessories are available at gopro.com and from
authorized GoPro resellers.
IMPORTANT WARNING MESSAGES
Camera Operation Messages
BUSY
OTHER
Temperature Warning
The temperature warning icon will appear on the LCD when the camera becomes
too hot and needs to cool. Allow camera to sit idle until warning icon disappears.
The camera will not overheat.
microSD Card Messages
NO SD No card present. The HERO3 requires microSD, microSDHC or
microSDXC card to record video or take photos.
SD FULL Card is full. Delete files or replace card.
SD ERROR Camera unable to access card.
SD LOCKED Card is locked. No video or photo files can be stored on it.
HOUSING AND LATCH
Protect the Camera
To protect GoPro camera, place within the ultra-durable stainless steel and
polycarbonate housing and close securely.
Pro Tip: Have only one hand free? Try pinching the locking latch slide and the front
corner of the latch to quickly open. Place thumb on front left corner of the latch and
place index finger to slide latch toward the left (in direction of arrow). Once slid
over, the latch should easily lift by applying upward pressure.
CAMERA HOUSING BACKDOORS
The HERO3 housing comes with two types of backdoors—Skeleton and Standard.
Skeleton
The Skeleton backdoor (non-waterproof) provides protection to the camera while
allowing access to operation buttons. Use this backdoor if audio capture is desired.
Standard
The Standard backdoor (waterproof) protects the camera to a depth of 197 feet / 60
meters. Employ when camera may be used in and around water or other
environmental hazards.
Pro Tip: When using camera in rain or water, apply RAIN-X or similar anti-beading
solution to housing lens to prevent water spots from forming. When RAIN-X is not
available, periodically licking the lens may help.
To swap out backdoor:
1. Open backdoor so that it hangs downward.
2. Gently pull downward on the backdoor until it snaps free from hinge.
3. Line up replacement backdoor into hinge opening.
4. Push upwards on backdoor until it clicks into place.
PROTECTING THE CAMERA
The rubber seal lining the camera housing door forms a waterproof barrier that
protects the HERO3 in wet and underwater conditions. Keep the rubber seal clean
and locked tight when closed; a single hair or grain of sand can cause a leak.
After every use in salt water, rinse housing and rubber door seal with non-salt water.
Pat case dry, avoiding contact with seal; allow seal to air dry. Drying this area with a
cloth can leave lint which may compromise the closure.
WARNING: Failure to follow these steps when using the HERO3 can result in leaks
that may damage the camera. Failure to properly clean the housing after each use
may cause corrosion of the hinge pin, and salt build-up in the seal which could
compromise waterproof soundness. Water damage due to user error is not covered
by the warranty.
ATTACHING CAMERA TO MOUNTS
Attach the HERO3 to curved or flat surfaces using one of the many GoPro mount
accessories. The HERO3 camera, attachment buckle, proper mount and thumb screw
are all it takes.
USING CURVED OR FLAT ADHESIVE MOUNTS
Attaching the camera to a helmet, surfboard, vehicle or other just about anything is
fast and easy. The attachment buckle permits the camera to be clicked ON/OFF a
secured adhesive mount in an instant.
LOCKING PLUG
Using the camera in high impact sports such as surfing or skiing where significant
vibration may occur? Use the special locking plug (optional purchase) which
securely locks attachment buckle fingers into place--helping prevent accidental
housing release from the mount.
Pro Tip: Attaching Adhesive Mount
Apply to clean surface only. Carefully clean surface where mount will be attached.
Wax, oil, dirt or other debris will reduce adhesion, which can result in a weak bond
and risk of losing camera should connection fail.
Attach mount in room temperature conditions. The mounts adhesive will not
bond properly if applied in cold or damp environments.
Surfaces. Adhesive mounts can only be mounted to smooth surfaces; porous or
textured surfaces will not enable a proper bond. When applying mount, firmly press
into place and ensure full contact over entire surface.
Drying time. For best results, attach the mount a minimum of 24 hours prior to use.
For more information on mounts, visit gopro.com/support.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
GoPro is dedicated to providing the best possible service. To reach the GoPro
Customer Support Team, see: gopro.com/support.