Contents
- 1. User Manual
- 2. Regulatory Statement
User Manual
USER MANUAL
ROCKY POINT
2 3
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4 5
The Basics
6
Getting Started
7
Capturing Video and Time Lapse Photos
16
Accessing Camera Settings
20
Camera Icons
26
Camera Modes and Settings
28
Video Mode
30
Photo Mode
44
Multi-Shot Mode
47
Setup Mode
55
Protune™
66
Transferring Files to a Computer
70
Playing Back Video and Photos
72
Important Messages
74
The Frames
77
Using the Mounts
79
Battery
89
Troubleshooting
94
Customer Support
98
Regulatory Information
98
/ Table of Contents / Table of Contents
6 7
/ The Basics
1. Camera Status Screen
2. Shutter/Select Button [ ]
3. Microphone
4. Camera Status Light (red) /
Wireless Status Light (blue)
5. Micro USB Port
6. microSD Card Slot
7. Camera Status/Wireless
Button
/ Getting Started
CHARGING THE BATTERY
The integrated battery comes partially charged. No damage occurs to
the camera or battery if used before being fully charged.
To Charge the Battery:
1. Open the side door.2. Charge the battery using the
included USB cable.
6
7
For #3, show
dots like in first
drawing, but in
square pattern
(3 across,
3 down) Note: The battery cannot be removed from the camera.
8 9
/ Getting Started
The camera status lights (red) turn on during charging and turn
off when charging is complete. When charging the camera with a
computer, be sure that the computer is connected to a power source.
If the camera status lights do not turn on to indicate charging, use a
different USB port.
NOTICE: Using a wall charger other than a GoPro Wall Charger can
damage the battery. Only use USB charging adapters marked 5V 1A.
If you do not know the voltage and amperage of your charger, use the
included USB cable to charge the camera from your computer.
For more battery information, see Battery (page 89).
WARNING: Use caution when using your GoPro as part of your
active lifestyle. Always be aware of your surroundings to avoid
injury to yourself and others. Abide by all local laws when using
your GoPro and related mounts and accessories, including all
privacy laws, which may restrict recording in certain areas.
/ Getting Started
10 11
/ Getting Started
INSERTING + REMOVING MEMORY CARDS
Use brand name memory cards (sold separately) that meet these
requirements:
• microSD, microSDHC, or
microSDXC
• Class 10 or UHS-1 rating
• Capacity up to 64GB
For a list of the recommended
microSD cards, visit
gopro.com/support.
/ Getting Started
NOTICE: Use care when handling memory cards. Avoid liquids, dust,
and debris. As a precaution, power off the camera before inserting or
removing the card. Check manufacturer guidelines regarding use in
acceptable temperature ranges.
CAMERA SOFTWARE UPDATES
To get the latest features and best performance from your
HERO4 Session camera, make sure you are using the most current
camera soware. You can update your camera soware with the
GoPro App, GoPro Studio, or at gopro.com/getstarted.
12 13
/ Getting Started
POWERING ON + OFF
HERO4 Session automatically powers on when
you short press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to
begin capturing video or Time Lapse photos. When
you press the Shutter/Select button [ ] again to
stop recording, the camera automatically powers
off to conserve battery power.
PRO TIP: When carrying your camera in a bag or pocket, place the
camera upside down in a frame with the Shutter/Select button [ ]
covered to prevent the camera from accidentally powering on.
/ Getting Started
DISPLAYING THE CAMERA STATUS
Short press the Camera Status/Wireless button. The status screen
cycles through the information below, then automatically turns off.
1. Capture Mode/Soware Version
2. Available Memory/
Capture Mode Settings
3. Wireless (when on)
4. Battery Status
5. Wireless Connection
Confirmation
6. Current Wireless Option
7. Additional Wireless Options
Add “7” here
14 15
/ Getting Started
GEAR CHECK
Follow these guidelines to get the best performance from your
camera:
☑ The camera is waterproof to 30’ (10m)—no housing needed.
Ensure that the side door is closed before using the camera in or
around water, dirt, or sand.
☑ Before opening the side door, be sure the camera is free of water
or debris.
☑ If sand or debris hardens around the side door, soak the camera
in warm tap water for 15 minutes and then rinse thoroughly to
remove the debris before opening the door.
☑ For best audio performance, shake the camera to remove water
and debris from the microphone holes. (Blowing on the mic holes
does not remove water and debris.)
☑ Aer every use in salt water, rinse the camera with fresh water,
and dry with a so cloth.
☑ If the camera lens becomes foggy, let it sit until it dries.
PRO TIP: During water activities, tether your camera for added
security and use a Floaty to keep your camera afloat (sold separately).
For more information, visit gopro.com.
/ Getting Started
16 17
When your camera is not connected to the remote (sold separately)
or the GoPro App, two capture modes are available: Video and Time
Lapse. To access more modes or change camera settings, see
Accessing Camera Settings (page 20).
CAPTURING VIDEO
The default video resolution is 1080p48 SuperView.
To Start Recording Video:
Short press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. Your camera
automatically powers on, emits three beeps, and begins recording
video. The camera status lights blink while the camera is recording.
/ Capturing Video and Time Lapse Photos / Capturing Video and Time Lapse Photos
If the memory card is full or the battery is out of power, your camera
automatically stops recording and saves the video before powering
off.
To Stop Recording:
Short press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera
automatically stops recording (indicated by one beep), saves the file
(three beeps), and then powers off (seven beeps).
18 19
/ Capturing Video and Time Lapse Photos
Show rear 3/4 view with arrow pointing
to Wireless button (back bottom of
camera), not Shutter button
/ Capturing Video and Time Lapse Photos
HILIGHT TAGGING
You can mark specific moments in your video as they happen with
HiLight Tags. HiLight Tags make it easy to find the best moments to
share.
Note: HiLight Tags are visible during playback on the GoPro App or in GoPro Studio.
To Add HiLight Tags During Recording:
Short press the Camera Status/Wireless button.
PRO TIP: You can also add HiLight Tags during
recording with the GoPro App or the Smart Remote.
CAPTURING TIME LAPSE PHOTOS
The default interval for Time Lapse photos is 0.5 second.
To Start Capturing Time Lapse Photos:
Press and hold the Shutter/Select button [ ] for two seconds until
the Time Lapse photo icon [ ] appears on the camera status
screen. Your camera automatically powers on, emits two beeps, and
begins capturing Time Lapse photos. The camera status lights blink
while the camera is capturing photos.
To Stop Recording:
Short press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera
automatically stops recording (indicated by one beep), saves the file
(three beeps), and then powers off (seven beeps).
20 21
To access more modes or adjust camera settings, connect your
camera to the remote (sold separately) or the GoPro App. All modes
and settings that you select are saved aer you disconnect the
camera. However, only Video and Time Lapse modes can be accessed
when the camera is not connected to the remote or the app.
Note: HERO4 Session is compatible with the Smart Remote and the Wi-Fi Remote.
CONNECTING TO THE GOPRO APP
The GoPro App lets you adjust modes and camera settings remotely
using a smartphone or tablet. Features include full camera control,
live preview, playback and sharing of content, and camera soware
updates.
/ Accessing Camera Settings / Accessing Camera Settings
You can also use the GoPro App to see what your camera sees when
you mount HERO4 Session in hard-to-reach places. To learn more
about the app, see gopro.com/getstarted.
To Connect to the GoPro App:
1. Download the GoPro App to your smartphone/tablet from the
Apple© App Store, Google Play, or Windows© Phone marketplace.
2. Open the app.
3. Tap Connect Your Camera.
4. Follow the app’s on-screen instructions to connect your camera.
The default password for your camera is goprohero.
22 23
PAIRING WITH THE REMOTE
The Smart Remote lets you change capture modes and settings,
power your GoPro on/off, start/stop recording, and add HiLight Tags.
To Pair with the Remote:
1. On HERO4 Session, short press the Camera Status/Wireless
button repeatedly to cycle to Rem Ctrl, then short press the
Shutter/Select button [ ] to select it. The camera automatically
begins pairing.
2. Put the remote into pairing mode. For more information, see the
user manual for your remote at gopro.com/getstarted.
/ Accessing Camera Settings
CONNECTING AFTER PAIRING
Aer connecting your camera to the GoPro App or the remote for the
first time, you can connect in the future through the wireless menu.
To Connect Your Camera aer Pairing:
1. Short press the Camera Status/Wireless button to open the
wireless menu.
2. If needed, short press the Camera Status/Wireless button again
to display the setting that you want (GoPro App or Rem Ctrl), and
then short press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to select it.
The wireless status lights blink when wireless is on and the camera
is not recording.
Note: If your smartphone/tablet has Bluetooth© LE, the wireless options are combined as RC/App.
/ Accessing Camera Settings
24 25
TURNING WIRELESS ON/OFF
Aer you connect HERO4 Session to the GoPro App for the first time
or pair it with the remote, you can connect your camera in the future
using the Camera Status/Wireless button.
To Turn Wireless On:
1. Short press the Camera Status/Wireless button to open the
wireless menu.
2. If needed, short press the Camera Status/Wireless button again
to display the setting that you want (GoPro App or Rem Ctrl), and
then short press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to select it.
/ Accessing Camera Settings
The wireless status lights blink when wireless is on and the camera
is not recording.
Note: If your smartphone/tablet has Bluetooth LE, the wireless options are combined as RC/App.
To Turn Wireless Off:
1. Short press the Camera Status/Wireless button to open the
wireless menu.
2. Short press the Camera Status/Wireless button repeatedly to
cycle to Turn WiFi Off, and then short press the Shutter/Select
button [ ] to select it.
/ Accessing Camera Settings
26 27
/ Camera Icons
Beeps
Burst Photos
Date/Time
ICON Default Mode
Delete
Field of View
Frames Per Second
Interval
LEDs
Looping Video
Low Light
Megapixels
Orientation
Photo Mode
/ Camera Icons
Protune™
Rate
Setup Mode
Spot Meter
Time Lapse
Video Format
Video Mode
Video Resolution
Wireless
28 29
/ Camera Modes and Settings
Camera
Default
Add Interval icon as first
setting for Video
Add Protune icon
at the end of the
Video settings
group
/ Camera Modes and Settings
Camera
Default
Settings: 3rd icon on top should
be DFLT. For first icon on bottom,
use the one on p. 27. Last icon on
bottom should be RESET CAM.
30 31
/ Video Mode
VIDEO CAPTURE MODES
When you connect your camera to the GoPro App or remote, you can
access two capture modes in Video mode: Video and Looping Video.
Capture Mode Description
Video (default) Captures video.
Looping Video
Lets you continuously record and save only
the best moments, which helps to conserve
space on your microSD card.
CAPTURING VIDEO
1. Select Video mode [ ] on the GoPro App or the remote.
2. Select the desired capture mode (Video or Looping Video).
3. On the camera or remote, short press the Shutter/Select button
[ ]. On the app, tap the Record button. The camera beeps once
and the camera status lights flash while the camera is recording.
4. To stop capturing, short press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. On
the app, tap the Record button. The camera status lights flash three
times and the camera beeps three times.
Note: When your camera is connected to the GoPro App or the remote, it remains in standby mode
aer capturing video or photos.
/ Video Mode
32 33
PRO TIP: Videos captured at lower resolutions like 960p or 720p are
supported by more mobile devices, and are easier to share and upload
to the web.
VIDEO SETTINGS
You can change the video settings by connecting HERO4 Session to
the GoPro App or the remote. When you connect to the remote, the
capture mode that you select (Video or Looping Video) determines the
settings that appear when you press the Settings/Tag button [ ].
/ Video Mode / Video Mode
INTERVAL
The Interval setting applies to Looping Video. Interval determines the
length of a video loop segment.
Available intervals for Looping are 5, 20, 60, and 120 minutes. For
example, if you select a 5-minute interval, only the previous 5 minutes
is saved when you stop recording.
You can also select Max as the interval. With this option, the camera
records until the memory card is full, then overwrites the content if
you do not stop recording and save the footage.
Note: To use Looping, be sure that your microSD card has sufficient space to create the loop segment
baesd on the interval that you select. If the microSD card becomes full, Looping does not overwrite
the content.
Please check hierarchy of headings in
this section -- currently, both “VIDEO
SETTINGS” heading and the individual
setting names are in grey caps. But the
settings fall under VIDEO SETTINGS, so
seems like they should be formatted dif-
ferently. I’ll let you determine the Creative
call on this.
34 35
RESOLUTION, FPS, AND FOV
HERO4 Session feaures the video resolutions listed below. The default
video resolution is 1080p48 SuperView.
Video
Resolution
FPS
(NTSC/PAL) FOV Screen
Resolution
1440p 30/25 Ultra Wide 1920x1440, 4:3
1080p 60/50
30/25
Ultra Wide,
Medium 1920x1080, 16:9
1080p SuperView 48/48
30/25 Ultra Wide 1920x1080, 16:9
/ Video Mode
Video
Resolution
FPS
(NTSC/PAL) FOV Screen
Resolution
960p 60/50
30/25 Ultra Wide 1280x960, 4:3
720p
100/100
60/50
30/25
Ultra Wide,
Medium 1280x720, 16:9
720p SuperView 60/50
30/25 Ultra Wide 1280x720, 16:9
WVGA 120/100 Ultra Wide 848x480, 16:9
/ Video Mode
36 37
Resolution Best Use
1440p
Good for advanced users who want to
capture a full image and then edit to the
desired aspect ratio.
1080p Great for all shots. High resolution and frame
rate yield stunning results.
/ Video Mode
Resolution Best Use
1080p SuperView
SuperView delivers the world’s most
immersive field of view. Recommended for
body-or gear-mounted shots. More vertical
4:3 content is automatically stretched to full-
screen 16:9 for stunning widescreen playback
on your computer or TV.
/ Video Mode
38 39
Resolution Best Use
960p
Good for users who want to capture a full
image and then edit to the desired aspect
ratio.
720p
Good for handheld shots and when slow
motion is desired. 720p is optimal for sharing
on social media sites. 720p100 is great for
slow motion.
/ Video Mode
Resolution Best Use
720p SuperView
SuperView delivers the world’s most
immersive field of view. Good for body-or
gear-mounted shots. More vertical 4:3
content is automatically stretched to
full-screen 16:9 for stunning widescreen
playback on your computer or TV.
WVGA Good when super slow motion is desired
and standard definition is acceptable.
/ Video Mode
40 41
/ Video Mode
FOV Best Use
Ultra Wide (W)
Largest field of view. Recommended for
body-and gear-mounted shots. Good for
action shots where you want to capture as
much as possible within the frame.
Medium (M) Mid-range field of view.
PRO TIP: Easily create epic GoPro-style videos using free GoPro
Studio soware. Learn more at gopro.com/getstarted.
LOW LIGHT
Auto Low Light allows you to shoot in low-light environments or
when quickly transitioning in and out of low-light conditions. The
camera automatically adjusts fps according to lighting conditions to
achieve the optimal exposure and best results.
Auto Low Light is available at 48 fps and higher. Auto Low Light is
not availalbe for WVGA. The options for this setting are On (default)
and Off.
/ Video Mode
42 43
SPOT METER
Spot Meter is good for filming into a setting where the lighting is
different from where you are. Examples include filming the outdoors
from within a car or filming a shaded environment while standing in
the sun. Spot Meter automatically sets the exposure based on a single
spot in the middle of the image. The options for this setting are Off
(default) and On.
Note: Changes that you make to Spot Meter in Video settings apply only to video capture. To adjust
this setting for photo capture, adjust Spot Meter in Photo settings. To adjust this setting for multi-shot
capture, adjust Spot Meter in Multi-Shot settings.
/ Video Mode
PROTUNE
For details about Protune settings, see Protune (page 66).
/ Video Mode
44 45
PHOTO CAPTURE MODE
When you connect your camera to the GoPro App or remote, you can
access one capture mode in Photo mode: Single photo.
CAPTURING A SINGLE PHOTO
1. Select Single photo mode [ ] on the GoPro App or the remote.
2. Short press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera beeps
two times, the camera status lights flash and the counter on the
camera status screen increases by one.
Note: When your camera is connected to the GoPro App or the remote, it remains on in standby mode
aer capturing video or photos.
/ Photo Mode
PHOTO SETTINGS
You can change the photo settings by connecting HERO4 Session to
the GoPro App or the remote.
MEGAPIXELS
HERO4 Session captures photos at 8MP and 5MP.
8MP Ultra Wide
(default) Largest field of view. Good for action shots.
5MP Medium Mid-range field of view.
Note: Changes that you make to Megapixels in Photo settings apply only to photo capture. To adjust
this setting for multi-shot capture, adjust Spot Meter in Multi-Shot settings.
/ Photo Mode
46 47
SPOT METER
Spot Meter is good for capturing photos in a setting where the lighting
is different from where you are. Examples include capturing photos
of the outdoors from within a car or in a shaded environment while
standing in the sun. Spot Meter automatically sets the exposure based
on a single spot in the middle of the image. The options for this setting
are Off (default) and On.
Note: Changes that you make to Spot Meter in Photo settings apply only to photo capture. To adjust
this setting for video capture, adjust Spot Meter in Video settings. To adjust this setting for multi-shot
capture, adjust Spot Meter in Multi-Shot settings.
/ Photo Mode
MULTI-SHOT CAPTURE MODES
When you connect your camera to the GoPro App or remote, you
can access two capture modes in Multi-Shot mode: Burst and
Time Lapse.
Capture Mode Description
Burst
Captures up to 10 photos in 1 second. Burst is
perfect for capturing the definitive moment in
fast-action sports.
/ Multi-Shot Mode
48 49
Capture Mode Description
Time Lapse Photos
(default)
Captures a series of photos at specified
intervals. You can use Time Lapse to capture
photos of any activity, so you can choose the
best ones later.
CAPTURING BURST PHOTOS
1. Select Burst mode [ ] on the GoPro App or the remote.
2. Short press the Shutter/Select button. The camera status lights
flash and the camera beeps multiple times.
/ Multi-Shot Mode
CAPTURING TIME LAPSE PHOTOS
1. Select Time Lapse mode [ ] on the GoPro App or the remote.
2. Short press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera status
lights flash each time a photo is captured.
3. To stop capturing, short press the Shutter/Select button [ ].
The camera status lights flash three times and the camera beeps
three times.
Note: When your camera is connected to the GoPro App or the remote, it remains in standby mode
aer capturing video or photos.
PRO TIP: Create a video from your Time Lapse photos with free
GoPro Studio soware. Learn more at gopro.com/getstarted.
/ Multi-Shot Mode
50 51
MULTI-SHOT SETTINGS
You can change the Multi-Shot settings by connecting HERO4 Session
to the GoPro App or the remote. When you connect to the remote, the
capture mode that you select (Burst or Time Lapse) determines the
settings that appear when you press the Settings/Tag button [ ].
INTERVAL
The Interval setting applies to Time Lapse photos. Interval determines
the amount of time that passes between each captured frame.
/ Multi-Shot Mode
Please check hierarchy of head-
ings in this section -- currently,
both “MULTI-SHOT SETTINGS”
heading and the individual set-
ting names are in grey caps. But
the settings fall under MULTI-
SHOT SETTINGS, so seems
like they should be formatted
differently. I’ll let you determine
the Creative call on this.
Time Lapse Intervals
Available intervals range from 0.5 second (default) to 60 seconds.
Interval Examples
0.5-2 seconds Surfing, biking or other sports
2 seconds Busy street corner
5-10 seconds Sunset
10-60 seconds Lengthy activities, such as construction
projects
/ Multi-Shot Mode
52 53
Rate applies only to Burst photos. Photos can be captured at the
following rates:
3 photos in 1 second
5 photos in 1 second (default)
10 photos in 1 second
10 photos in 2 seconds
/ Multi-Shot Mode
MEGAPIXELS
HERO4 Session captures photos at 8MP and 5MP. Smaller megapixel
values take up less space on the microSD card.
Setting Description
8MP Ultra Wide
(default) Largest field of view. Good for action shots.
5MP Medium Mid-range field of view.
Note: Changes that you make to Megapixels in Multi-Shot settings apply only to multi-shot capture.
To adjust this setting for photo capture, adjust Megapixels in Photo settings.
/ Multi-Shot Mode
54 55
SPOT METER
Spot Meter is good for capturing photos in a setting where the lighting
is different from where you are. Examples include capturing photos
of the outdoors from within a car or in a shaded environment while
standing in the sun. Spot Meter automatically sets the exposure based
on a single spot in the middle of the image. The options for this setting
are Off (default) and On.
Note: Changes that you make to Spot Meter in Multi-Shot settings apply only to multi-shot capture.
To adjust this setting for video capture, adjust Spot Meter in Video settings. To adjust this setting for
photo capture, adjust Spot Meter in Photo settings.
/ Multi-Shot Mode
SETUP MODE SETTINGS
In Setup mode, you can change settings that apply to all camera
modes. To change a setting, your camera must be connected to
the GoPro App or the remote. For more information, see Accessing
Camera Settings (page 20).
When you disconnect your camera from the app or the remote, your
camera saves the settings and returns to two capture modes: Video
and Time Lapse.
/ Setup Mode
56 57
WIRELESS
This setting lets you connect your camera to the GoPro App or the
remote. When wireless is on, a wireless status icon appears on the
camera status screen and the blue wireless lights blink intermittently.
The blue wireless lights do not blink during recording.
/ Setup Mode
Setting Description
GoPro App
Connects the camera to the GoPro App.
When the connection is made, a checkmark
appears next to this option. For instructions
on connecting to this app, see Connecting to
the GoPro App (page 20).
Rem Ctrl
Connects the camera to the remote control.
When the connection is made, a checkmark
appears next to this option. For instructions
on pairing, see Pairing with the Remote (page
22).
/ Setup Mode
58 59
Setting Description
Turn WiFi Off
Turns off wireless. This option appears only
if wireless is on. Available capture modes on
the camera are Video and Time Lapse.
Add New
Pairs your camera with an additional remote
or with the GoPro App on an additional
smartphone/tablet.
PRO TIP: When you turn off your camera with the app or the remote,
wireless remains on so that you can quickly reconnect. To save
battery power, turn off wireless when you are finished using it.
/ Setup Mode
Resetting Your Camera’s Wireless Name and Password
1. Press and hold the Camera Status/Wireless button until the reset
options appear (about 8 seconds).
2. Short press the Camera Status/Wireless button again to highlight
Yes.
3. Short press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to select Yes and
reset your camera name and password. The default password is
goprohero.
/ Setup Mode
60 61
ORIENTATION
This setting eliminates the need to flip your video during editing when
the camera is mounted upside down.
Note: This setting applies only when capturing video.
Setting Description
Auto (default)
Camera automatically selects Up or Down,
based on the orientation of the camera when
recording begins.
Up Camera is used right-side up.
Down Camera is used upside down.
/ Setup Mode
ICON DEFAULT MODE
This setting applies only when HERO4 Session is connected to the
GoPro App or the remote. You can select the capture mode that
appears when the camera is powered on with the app or the remote.
The options are Video (default), Photo, Looping Video, Burst, and Time
Lapse photos.
/ Setup Mode
62 63
LED
This setting determines whether the camera status lights (red) are on
(default) or off.
BEEPS
You can set the volume for the sound indicators to be 100% (default),
70%, or Off.
/ Setup Mode
VIDEO FORMAT
The NTSC/PAL settings govern frame rates for recording and
playback when viewing video on a TV/HDTV.
Setting Description
NTSC (default) Viewing video on an NTSC TV/HDTV (most
televisions in North America)
PAL Viewing video on a PAL TV/HDTV (most
televisions outside of North America)
/ Setup Mode
64 65
DATE/TIME
Your camera’s date and time are automatically set when you connect
your camera to the GoPro App or GoPro Studio. This setting lets you
manually set the date and time, if needed.
DELETE
This setting lets you delete the last file, or delete all files and format
the memory card. The camera status lights blink until the operation
is complete.
NOTICE: If you select All/Format, the memory card is reformatted,
which deletes every video and photo file on your card.
/ Setup Mode
CAMERA RESET
With this setting, you can reset your camera’s settings to their default
values. This option does not reset the Date/Time setting, the camera’s
name and wireless password, or remote control pairing.
Note: If your camera is not responding but you do not want to lose your settings, press and hold the
Shutter/Select button until your camera powers off.
/ Setup Mode
66 67
PROTUNE BENEFITS
Protune unlocks the camera’s full potential, yielding stunning
image quality and cinema-caliber video optimized for professional
productions. Protune gives content creators more flexibility and
workflow efficiency than ever before.
Protune is compatible with professional color correction tools, GoPro
soware, and other video and photo editing soware.
Protune enables manual control of ISO Limit and Sharpness for
advanced control and customization of your video footage.
/ Protune
PROTUNE
The options for this setting are Off (default) and On. When Protune is
on, PT appears on the camera status screen. Protune is available for
these video resolutions: 1440p, 1080p, and 960p60/50.
/ Protune
68 69
ISO LIMIT
ISO Limit adjusts the camera’s sensitivity in low-light environments,
and creates a balance between brightness and resulting image noise.
Image noise refers to the degree of graininess in the image.
Setting Resulting Quality
1600 (default) Moderately bright video in low light,
moderate image noise
400 Darker video in low light, reduced
image noise
/ Protune
SHARPNESS
Sharpness controls the level of detail and contrast in your video.
Setting Resulting Quality
High (default) Ultra-sharp video
Medium Moderately sharp video
Low Soer video
/ Protune
70 71
To play back your video and photos on a computer, you must first
transfer these files to a computer. Transferring also frees up space on
your microSD card for new content.
To Transfer Files to a Computer
1. Download and install GoPro Studio from gopro.com/getstarted.
The HERO4 Session camera was designed to communicate with
GoPro Studio to help you easily locate and transfer your files.
2. Connect the camera to your computer using the included USB
cable.
/ Transferring Files to a Computer
3. Short press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to power on the
camera and open GoPro Studio Importer.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
PRO TIP: You can also transfer files to a computer using a card reader
(sold separately). Connect the card reader to your computer and insert
the microSD card into the reader. You can then transfer your files to
your computer or delete selected files on your card.
/ Transferring Files to a Computer
72 73
/ Playing Back Video and Photos
PLAYING BACK CONTENT ON A COMPUTER
1. Download and install GoPro Studio from gopro.com/getstarted.
The HERO4 Session camera was designed to communicate with
GoPro Studio to help you easily locate and transfer your files.
2. Transfer your files to your computer. For more information, see
Transferring Files to a Computer (page 70).
3. Use GoPro Studio to play back the files.
/ Playing Back Video and Photos
PLAYING BACK CONTENT ON A SMARTPHONE/TABLET
1. Connect your camera to the GoPro App. For more information, see
Connecting to the GoPro App (page 20).
2. Use the controls on the app to play back your footage on your
smartphone/tablet.
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MICROSD CARD MESSAGES
NO SD CARD
No card present. The camera requires a
microSD, microSDHC or microSDXC card to
capture videos and photos.
SD FULL Card is full. Delete files or swap card.
SD ERROR
Camera is unable to read card formatting.
Reformat the card in the camera.
NOTICE: If you select Yes to reformat the
card, all of the content on the card is deleted.
/ Important Messages
PRO TIP: Reformat your microSD card on a regular basis to ensure
that the card can continue to receive information from the camera.
REPAIRING FILE
If your last video file was corrupted during recording, the camera
displays REPAIRING FILE while it tries to repair the file. When this
process is finished, the camera powers off if it is not connected to the
GoPro App or the remote. If the camera is connected to one of these
devices, short press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to continue using
the camera when the repair is finished.
/ Important Messages
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TEMPERATURE ICON
The Temperature icon and CAMERA TOO HOT appear on
the camera status screen when the camera becomes
too hot and needs to cool down. Simply let it sit and cool
before attempting to use it again. Your camera was
designed to identify conditions of overheating and is
designed to respond accordingly.
/ Important Messages
Your HERO4 Session comes with two frames: the Standard Frame and
the Low-Profile Frame. Both frames work great in all scenarios. For
the most compact mounting, use the Low-Profile Frame.
Note: To prevent marks on the surface of your camera, leave the latch on the frame open if you are
storing your camera in a frame for a long period of time.
HERO4 Session camera is waterproof to 33’ (10m) with the side door
closed—no additional housing is needed when using the camera in or
around water.
NOTICE: The Standard Frame and the Low-Profile Frame do not
provide additional waterproof protection for your camera.
/ The Frames
78 79
TO SECURE THE CAMERA IN THE FRAME:
1. Open the latch.
2. Rotate the camera to the desired orientation, and then slide it into
the frame. The back of the frame has a raised edge. Be sure the
back of the camera sits flush against it.
3. Close the latch.
/ The Frames
ATTACHING YOUR CAMERA TO MOUNTS
To attach your HERO4 Session camera to a mount, you need a
Mounting Buckle, thumb screw, or hardware depending on the mount
you are using.
Mounting
Buckle Thumb Screw Frame Complete Unit
/ Using the Mounts
replace
thumbscrew in
first drawing
80 81
MOUNTING EXAMPLES
/ Using the Mounts
HORIZONTAL MOUNTING
VERTICAL MOUNTING
1
2
3
2
3
1
SIDE MOUNTING
PULL EXACT INFO FROM QSG -
MOUNTING EXAMPLES PANEL
(SAME EXAMPLES, SAME
COMPONENTS, INCLUDE NAMES OF
COMPONENTS IN EACH EXAMPLE,
ETC.)
SHOW #3 ON CHESTY
MOUNTING EXAMPLES
/ Using the Mounts
PRO TIP: If you mount your HERO4 Session upside down, the camera
automatically changes the orientation of your image to be right-side
up. For more information, see Orientation (page 60).
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USING CURVED + FLAT ADHESIVE MOUNTS
The Curved + Flat Adhesive Mounts make it easy to attach the camera
to curved and flat surfaces of helmets, vehicles, and gear. Using the
Mounting Buckle, the frame can be clicked on and off the secured
Curved or Flat Adhesive Mounts.
Flat Adhesive Mount Curved Adhesive Mount
/ Using the Mounts
MOUNTING GUIDELINES
Follow these guidelines when attaching mounts:
• Attach the adhesive mounts at least 24 hours before use. Allow 72
hours for complete adhesion.
• Adhesive mounts must be mounted only on smooth surfaces.
Porous or textured surfaces do not enable a proper bond. When
applying the mount, firmly press it into place and ensure full
contact over the entire surface.
• Apply adhesive mounts to clean surfaces only. Wax, oil, dirt, or
other debris reduce adhesion, which can result in a weak bond and
risk of losing the camera should the connection fail.
/ Using the Mounts
84 85
• Attach adhesive mounts in room temperature conditions.
Adhesives do not bond properly if applied in cold or damp
environments to cold or damp surfaces.
• Check state and local regulations and laws to ensure that
attaching a camera to equipment (such as hunting equipment) is
permitted. Always comply with regulations that restrict the use of
consumer electronics or cameras.
/ Using the Mounts
For more information on mounts, see gopro.com.
WARNING: If using your camera with a GoPro helmet mount or
strap, always select a helmet that meets the applicable safety
standard. Choose the right helmet for your particular sport or
activity and make sure that it is the right fit and size for you.
Inspect your helmet to ensure that it is in good condition, and
follow the helmet manufacturer's instructions on safe helmet
use. Any helmet that has sustained a major impact should be
replaced. No helmet can protect against injury in every accident.
/ Using the Mounts
86 87
SECURING LOCKING PLUGS
If you are using the HERO4 Session in high-impact sports such as
surfing or skiing where significant impact might occur, the integrated
locking plug securely locks the fingers on Ball Joint Mounting Buckle
and the Vertical Mounting Buckle into place. The locking plug helps to
prevent the frame from accidentally releasing from the mount.
The white locking plug is used with the Mounting Buckle. The circular
ring acts as a leash to prevent dropping or losing the plug.
WARNING: To avoid injury, do not use a tether when mounting
the camera on a helmet.
/ Using the Mounts
To Secure the Integrated Locking Plug:
1. Flip up the plug.
2. Insert the buckle into the mount.
3. Press the plug into place.
/ Using the Mounts
line drawing(s)?
88 89
To Attach the White Locking Plug:
1. Loop the circular ring over the thumbscrew. The circular ring acts
as a leash to prevent dropping or losing the locking plug.
2. Slide the Mounting Buckle into the mount until it clicks into place.
3. Press the U-shaped part of the plug into the U-shaped space in the
Mounting Buckle.
/ Using the Mounts
Steph: When we do
these drawings for
RP, can we get them
without the tether?
Your HERO4 Session camera and battery are integrated. You cannot
remove the battery from the camera.
The battery icon displayed in the camera status screen blinks
when the battery drops below 10%. If the battery reaches 0% while
recording, the camera saves the file and powers off.
MAXIMIZING BATTERY LIFE
Extreme cold temperatures can decrease battery life. To maximize
battery life in cold conditions, keep camera in a warm place prior to
use.
/ Battery
90 91
When you are not using HERO4 Session, rotate it in the frame so the
Shutter/Select button [ ] is covered to prevent the camera from
accidentally turning on.
CHARGING TIME
The battery charges to 80% in approximately one hour and 100% in
approximately two hours when using GoPro’s USB-compatible Wall
Charger, Auto Charger, or other USB charging adapter. Other chargers
might charge at a slower rate.
NOTICE: Using a wall charger other than a GoPro Wall Charger can
damage the GoPro battery. Only use USB charging adapters marked
5V 1A. If you do not know the voltage and amperage of your charger,
use the included USB cable to charge the camera from your computer.
/ Battery
USING THE CAMERA WHILE CHARGING
You can capture video and photos while the camera is plugged in to
a USB charging adapter, or the GoPro Wall Charger or Auto Charger
with the included USB cable. (You cannot record while charging the
camera through a computer.) When you stop recording, the camera
battery begins to charge. Performance of non-GoPro chargers cannot
be guaranteed.
Note: Because the side door is open, the camera is not waterproof during charging.
/ Battery
92 93
BATTERY STORAGE AND HANDLING
The camera contains sensitive components, including the battery.
Avoid exposing your camera to very cold or very hot temperatures.
Low or high temperature conditions may temporarily shorten the
battery life or cause the camera to temporarily stop working properly.
Avoid dramatic changes in temperature or humidity when using the
camera, as condensation may form on or within the camera.
/ Battery
Do not dry the camera or battery with an external heat source such
as a microwave oven or hair dryer. Damage to the camera or battery
caused by contact with liquid inside the camera is not covered under
the warranty.
WARNING: Do not drop, disassemble, open, crush, bend, deform,
puncture, shred, microwave, incinerate, or paint the camera.
Do not insert foreign objects into any opening on the camera,
such as the micro-USB port. Do not use the camera if it has been
damaged—for example, if cracked, punctured, or harmed by
water. Disassembling or puncturing the integrated battery can
cause an explosion or fire.
/ Battery
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MY GOPRO WON’T POWER ON
Make sure your GoPro is charged. To charge your camera, use the
included USB cable and a computer or other charging device.
MY GOPRO WON’T RESPOND WHEN I PRESS A BUTTON
Press and hold the
Shutter/Select button
[ ] for about eight
seconds until your camera powers off. This reset saves all of your
content and settings.
I WANT TO RESET MY GOPRO SETTINGS TO THE DEFAULTS
In Setup mode, select Camera Reset. This option does not reset the
Date/Time or your camera’s username and wireless password.
/ Troubleshooting
I FORGOT MY CAMERA’S USERNAME OR PASSWORD
See Resetting Your Camera’s Wireless Name and Password (page
59).
I POWERED OFF MY GOPRO, BUT THE BLUE LIGHT IS STILL
BLINKING
The blue light indicates that wireless is on. To turn off wireless, see
Turning Wireless On/Off (page 24).
MY PLAYBACK IS CHOPPY
Choppy playback is typically not a problem with the file. If your footage
skips, one of these situations is likely the cause:
• Using an incompatible video player. Not all video players support
/ Troubleshooting
96 97
/ Troubleshooting
the H.264 codec. For best results, use the latest GoPro Studio,
available for free at gopro.com/getstarted.
• The computer does not meet the minimum requirements for
HD playback. The higher the resolution and frame rate of your
video, the harder the computer has to work to play it back. If you
are using GoPro Studio to play back your files, be sure that your
computer meets the minimum system requirements, available on
gopro.com/getstarted.
• Playing content directly from your camera over a USB connection.
Transfer the file to the computer to play back. If your computer
does not meet the minimum requirements, record with Protune
off and make sure that all other programs on your computer are
/ Troubleshooting
closed.
For more help, see
gopro.com/support
.
98 99
/ Customer Support
GoPro is dedicated to providing the best possible
service. To reach GoPro Support, visit gopro.com/
support.
/ Regulatory Information
To see the complete list of country certifications, refer to the Important
Product Information Guide included with your camera.
GoPro, HERO, the GoPro logo, the GoPro Be a Hero logo, BacPac,
Protune, SuperView, and Wear It. Mount It. Love It. are trademarks
or registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc. in the US and internationally.
Other names and marks are the property of their respective owners.
/ Trademarks