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It’s great to see your kids in action on the soccer field. But capturing those memories in video footage to watch later and reminisce is even better. One such option is the GoPro, which has become the preferred choice for capturing fast-action video footage that’s crisp and clear.
Here’s what you’ll discover today;
- Why use GoPro to record a soccer game
- How to use a GoPro
- Tips to get the best GoPro video footage
- GoPro specifications
- Best GoPros
- Uploading and editing
Read on to learn more about any or all of the above in this comprehensive guide.
Why Use a GoPro To Record a Soccer Game?
Most folks might use a DSLR to record youth sports because of the larger lenses, but size doesn’t always matter when recording video. Despite the compact size of the GoPro, it has become the favorite for pro videographers, and for a good reason.
One is because, unlike DSLRs, they have been designed to capture both still imagery and video and have to compromise on the latter’s quality. GoPros have a single purpose – to capture fast action video footage.
Then, there’s also the issue of video quality. You will want it to be pristine when capturing memories in a video. This can be a problem if you’re using a DSLR or even a 360 camera, mainly because when it comes to a 360 camera, the 4k is split by the total 360 views, affecting the overall quality.
Regarding DSLRs, while the 18MP APS-C sensor cameras have a maximum resolution of 5184 × 3456 that can take excellent still images, a DLSR can only record video at 1080p/2.1MP, not 4K resolution.
RECORD SOCCER – GOPRO SOLUTIONS
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On the other hand, when using a GoPro, you can record up to 48 minutes of 4K (60fps) and 1 hour of video footage at 1080p (120fps). If you want to create shorter video clips using your GoPro, that’s not a problem.
A 128GB memory card can hold around 76 GoPro videos at 4K resolution (60fps) and a standard video time of 3 minutes each.
One of the best reasons to use a GoPro to record a soccer game is its compact and convenient size, which can accentuate the perspective of the fisheye lens. Since it is not as bulky as a DSLR or as confusing as a 360 camera, you can easily capture high-resolution 4K video with relative ease.
Most GoPros come in the standard Hero size, but you can find even smaller ones than that. The truth is that GoPros have constantly improved in camera quality by the year, so going for the latest GoPro in the market will give you more bang for your buck in video quality.
tips For Using a GoPro to Record a Soccer Game
Those who will be using GoPro for the first time to record a soccer game will need to do the following;
- Make sure the battery is charged. If the battery is not inserted, stick the battery in the battery terminal after lining the connection points. (it should be fully charged in a few hours)
- Remove the screen protector.
- Format the microSD memory card. You’re good to go if you’re using the one that came in the GoPro bundle!
- To power on the GoPro, press the Power/Mode button once. This is located in front of the device. You must wait a few seconds for the camera to turn on. Once it does, the red color “camera status” lights will flash three times. You will also hear three beeps indicating that the GoPro has been switched on.
- Select your language preference.
- Accept the terms.
- Download the GoPro app.
- Set your preferences on the GoPro app. This will include slow motion, lens, zoom, and boost. You also get to choose the frame rate and resolution. It is important to note that some resolution options may require HEVC support for a smartphone or laptop.
- Other settings include HindSight, scheduled captures, HyperSmooth stabilization, zoom, filming duration, and timers.
- Once that’s done, you only have to point and shoot your video footage. You can also make tweaks and adjustments along the way while you’re recording.
Have a Plan
Now that you have your GoPro all set and ready to go, it’s time to visualize how your film will appear when it’s finished. Consider the soccer field. From which angle do you think you’ll be able to record most effectively?
This is generally the highest point on the field, with a view of the field’s center.
Settings and GoPro Video Formats
There are two main file formats that GoPros uses: HEVC and MP4. Many GoPro HERO models record in the AVC format with h.264 video codec. H.264/AVC videos use a .mp4 file extension and an MP4 file container. This can be viewed using almost any media player or editing software later. For recording sports with a GoPro, it is recommended to keep the settings at:
- 1080p 4K resolution
- 120fps Frame Rate (FPS)
- “Wide” Field of View (FOV)
Here are the main video formats that GoPro cameras can record in:
- MP4 – MP4 is the default format that most GoPro cameras record in. It is universally compatible.
- HEVC/H.265 – High Efficiency Video Coding offers higher compression than traditional formats like H.264 for smaller file sizes. Only supported on newer GoPro models.
- MOV – QuickTime file format, often used for higher resolution video on Mac systems.
- WMV – Windows Media Video format mainly used on Windows systems and not widely supported.
- AVI – Audio Video Interleave format used on Windows. Also, it’s not as compatible as MP4.
- AVCHD – Format used by Panasonic camcorders, only supported on a few older GoPro models.
- FLV/F4V – Adobe Flash Video formats, used for uploading videos to websites like YouTube.
- MKV – Matroska multimedia container format that can support 4K and higher resolutions.
- WEBM – Open video format for HTML5, similar to MP4, but uses open codecs.
While GoPros support multiple formats, MP4 and HEVC/H.265 are generally the most compatible choices that will play back on most systems and devices.
Does the Quality Matter?
The quality must be good to make a video of your soccer game that will be treasured for a lifetime. If you don’t like your video, you’re less likely to want to recreate the experience and share it with your friends or child.
Whether the goal of your video is to analyze a game or create memories, it must be of high quality. Also, the footage’s quality will be critical if you aim to produce a recruiting highlight film for your athlete. So, either way, you will need a GoPro to capture high-impact, fast-action video footage. Using the tips above should help you do just that.
Make Good Use of the Tripod
You’ll need to elevate your camera because most fields are flat, and there won’t be any bleachers. Luckily, there are plenty of options for tripod camera mount kits explicitly designed for GoPro.
Using the standard tripod mount, you can mount the GoPro to a regular tripod. You can even use the quick-release tripod mount with the GoPro. You can easily find a lightweight Mini Tripod that connects straight to your GoPro’s frame (or housing), making quick mounting when needed.
How Near Is Too Near?
You don’t want to spend hours recording only to have the players crash into you and your video gear or record hours of just the soccer ball. This is why you need to prepare ahead of time and arrive on time. This should also allow you to get the best field position before other parents arrive and will give you time to think of the best angles and distances to record your footage.
Keep It Steady
Try to ensure you don’t zoom in too much when recording. You don’t want to give your viewers motion sickness later on. If at all possible, stay away from a shaky video. You may also shoot from a vantage point that does not require the camera to move.
This is a straightforward method, although it isn’t inspiring. However, you might want to experiment with different gadgets and viewpoints points. If you have lots of footage, you could use an editing program to clip and add various exciting portions of the game later.
Practice Filming Runs
Perform several practice runs before shooting the actual game. Take your kids and your soccer equipment to the park or the soccer field. Practice putting up the camera and filming the youngsters in motion. Do this as many times as you can before the big day. You may also inquire about recording a video with your child’s coach during practice.
Make Your Subject Comfortable
Practicing with your kid or adult will allow them to become accustomed to being watched by a camera. To begin, they might try to play with the camera. This may draw their attention away from the actual game.
However, if they acclimate to the camera beforehand, they’ll probably forget it’s there. Sit and examine your video critically after each of your practice runs. What might be made better? You’ll be able to correct faults caused throughout your examinations if you notice them before game day.
Slow-Motion Footage with A Go Pro
Here are some tips for capturing great slow-motion footage with a GoPro:
- Use a high resolution and frame rate like 4K60 or 2.7K120/240. This will allow you to slow the footage down further while maintaining quality.
- Make sure slow motion is enabled in the camera settings. On newer models, you can select different levels of slow-mo.
- Attach the GoPro securely so the footage is smooth. A chesty helmet or tripod mount works well for slow-mo shots.
- Shoot in a bright, well-lit environment for the best quality when slowed down.
- Frame your shot tightly on the main action. Slow-mo works best for highlight moments, not wide-establishing shots.
- Use a higher shutter speed, like 1/120 or 1/240 to freeze motion, which will look smooth in slow-mo.
- Review your footage right after shooting to ensure you captured the money shot!
- When editing, slow down the speed gradually for impact. Export at 23.976fps or 29.97fps for natural playback.
With the right settings and technique, GoPro easily captures dramatic moments frame-by-frame in slow motion.
Capturing Audio
Here are some tips for capturing good audio when recording a soccer game with a GoPro:
- Use an external microphone mounted on the GoPro housing or attached to your body. GoPro’s built-in mic will pick up too much ambient noise from the crowd and field.
- Opt for a microphone with good wind protection, like the GoPro WindSmart Mic. The noise from the wind can overwhelm audio on the soccer field.
- To minimize compression, turn on Audio Recording in the GoPro settings and select a high-quality audio setting like WAV. Check audio levels before recording.
- Mount the GoPro in a location with a good vantage point, but avoid pointing it directly into the sun to maintain audio clarity.
- Record closer to the action for better quality audio pickup of player communication and sounds of the game. Far shots may be too muffled.
- Wear weatherproof clothing to block outdoor noise, and close your mouth to the mic when commenting.
- Consider a separate external recorder paired with the GoPro for higher-quality audio if capturing commentary, too.
Proper audio setup is key for soccer videos. Test your mic positioning and levels before the game.
Weather Conditions
Here are some tips for recording soccer games with a GoPro in different weather conditions:
- Rain: Use a waterproof housing and mount the GoPro securely. Consider the GoPro Suction Cup or 3-Way Arm to prevent shakes. Use an external mic with wind protection like the GoPro WindMic.
- Snow: Mount the GoPro closer to the action rather than far away for clarity. Use a lens cover to prevent snow buildup on the lens. Check battery life, as cold drains it faster.
- Sunny/Bright: Face the lens away from direct sunlight to avoid glare and overexposure. Use a ND filter for the brightest conditions. Mount higher up or use a wider lens view.
- Low Light: Use the highest ISO possible, like 6400-12800, to maintain shutter speed. A light like the Kupton fits on mounts to illuminate the subject. Enable all available lighting modes in settings.
- Windy: Besides a wind-resistant mic, use a waterproof housing and tight mounts to prevent shaking. Turn on wind noise reduction in audio settings if available.
- Extreme Cold: Keep spare batteries inside your clothing to keep them warm. Cold drastically shortens battery life. Consider hand or chest mounts close to body heat.
Proper mounting, housing, mic, and settings can help GoPro capture quality footage at your kid’s soccer game despite less-than-ideal weather.
Best Camera Angles
Choosing the best camera angles to capture soccer action is crucial for creating engaging and informative footage. Whether you’re recording a match for analysis, broadcasting, or personal enjoyment, the right angles can make a significant difference. Here are some tips for selecting the best camera angles:
1. Elevated Wide-Angle Shots
- Purpose: Capture the entire field and track all players’ movements.
- Placement: Position cameras high up in the stands or use a drone for aerial shots.
- Benefits: Provides a tactical overview, showing formations, spacing, and player positioning.
2. Sideline Views
- Purpose: Offer a closer view of the action along the longest side of the field.
- Placement: Place cameras at mid-field on the sideline for a balanced view of both halves.
- Benefits: Ideal for analyzing team shapes and player interactions in specific areas of the pitch.
3. Behind-the-Goal Angles
- Purpose: Focus on penalty area action, set-pieces, and goal-scoring opportunities.
- Placement: Behind each goal, either at ground level or slightly elevated.
- Benefits: Great for analyzing goalkeeper positioning, defensive setups during corners or free-kicks, and attacking plays.
4. Player-Specific Angles
- Purpose: Highlight individual player performances.
- Placement: Follow the player using handheld cameras or stabilized mobile devices.
- Benefits: Useful for coaching, showcasing player skills, or creating highlight reels.
5. Corner Flag Angles
- Purpose: Capture close-up action in the corners and along the touchlines.
- Placement: Near the corner flags, at a slightly elevated angle.
- Benefits: Offers a unique perspective on corner kicks, throw-ins, and one-on-one duels.
6. Over-the-Shoulder Shots
- Purpose: Provide a player’s perspective, especially for goalkeepers or forwards.
- Placement: Over the shoulder of a player, using wearable camera technology.
- Benefits: Immersive view that captures the intensity and decision-making process of players.
7. Dynamic Sideline Movements
- Purpose: Follow the flow of the game more closely.
- Placement: Camera operators moving along the sidelines, parallel to the action.
- Benefits: Captures the speed and fluidity of play, ideal for broadcasting and engaging viewers.
Additional Tips
- Multiple Cameras: Use a combination of angles for comprehensive coverage. Switch between angles to highlight different aspects of the game.
- Stabilization: Ensure cameras are well-stabilized to avoid shaky footage, especially for dynamic shots.
- Zoom Capabilities: Cameras with good zoom lenses can capture close-up action without losing quality.
- Lighting Considerations: Be mindful of the sun’s position and stadium lighting to avoid glare or shadows affecting the footage quality.
- Test and Experiment: Before the game, test different angles to see which ones offer the best view and coverage of key areas.
The best camera angles for capturing soccer action depend on the purpose of the footage. Combining various angles can provide a comprehensive and engaging portrayal of the game, whether for tactical analysis, player highlights, or general viewing. Always consider the technical capabilities of your equipment and the specific requirements of your audience or analysis needs.
Recommended Go Pro Models for Recording Soccer Games
GoPro Hero12 Black
The GoPro Hero12 is a cutting-edge action camera with many features tailored to capture high-quality footage in various settings. With its advanced capabilities and compact design, the Hero12 is a versatile tool for professionals and enthusiasts. Here are some key specifications and features of the GoPro Hero12:
- Sensor: Equipped with a 27-megapixel sensor for capturing detailed images and videos.
- Video Resolution: You can record videos at resolutions up to 5.3K at 60 frames per second, delivering smooth and high-definition footage.
- Compact Design: The camera measures 71.8mm x 50.8mm x 33.6mm and weighs 154g, making it highly portable and suitable for on-the-go recording.
- Advanced Features: Offers 8x slow-motion recording, HDR video, and Bluetooth audio support, providing users with creative flexibility.
- Extended Battery Life: Improved battery life allows longer shooting and streaming sessions, enhancing the camera’s usability for various activities.
With its professional-grade imaging capabilities and durable construction, the GoPro Hero12 is ideal for capturing action-packed moments and creating engaging visual content.
- High Dynamic Range Video plus Photo: HERO12 Black takes its...
- Unbelieveable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you...
- Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization:...
- Rugged plus Waterproof to 33ft (10m): Completely waterproof...
- What's Included: HERO12 Black, Enduro Rechargeable Battery,...
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GoPro Hero11 Black
The GoPro Hero11 Black is an advanced camera that captures high-quality photos and videos during exciting activities. Featuring upgrades over its predecessor, the Hero11 includes several improvements that make it a powerful tool for content creators and enthusiasts.
- Sensor: 27 Megapixel Sensor: An increased resolution sensor captures more detailed still images and videos.
- Video Resolution: 5.3K Video: Can record ultra-smooth 5.3K videos at 60 frames per second for an immersive viewing experience.
- Improved Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 5.0 offers even gimbal-like stabilization for limiting shakes and jitters.
- Larger Front Screen: The front display is 33% larger for easier framing and reviewing footage on the go.
- Enhanced Low-Light Performance: Better low-light photo capabilities up to ISO 6400 expand usability in dim conditions.
- Waterproof Design: The camera is waterproof down to 33 feet without housing for recording in wet environments.
With rugged construction and advanced imaging technologies, the versatile GoPro Hero11 Black allows capturing life’s highlights with cinematic quality.
- Revolutionary New Image Sensor: expansive field of view ever...
- Unbelievable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you...
- High-Res Photos plus Videos, High Frame Rate: HERO11...
- Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth Stabilization: HyperSmooth...
- What’s Included: HERO11 Black Camera, Enduro Battery,...
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GoPro11 Vs. GoPro12
| Specification | GoPro Hero11 Black | GoPro Hero12 Black |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 27MP | 27MP |
| Video Resolution | 5.3K60, 4K120, 2.7K240 | 5.3K120, 4K240, 2.7K360 |
| Frame Rates | Up to 60fps in 5.3K | Up to 120fps in 5.3K |
| Photo Resolution | 27MP | 27MP |
| Front Screen Size | 1.4 inches | 2.27 inches |
| Rear Screen Size | 2.27 inches | 2.27 inches |
| Waterproof Housing | Down to 33ft | Down to 33ft |
| Image Stabilization | HyperSmooth 5.0 | HyperSmooth 5.0 |
| Low-Light Performance | ISO 6400 | ISO 1600-12800 |
| Battery Life | Up to 1 hr 45 mins | Up to 2 hrs |
Accessories for Soccer Recording
- Mounts: Consider chest or head mounts for POV footage or tripod mounts for stationary, wide-angle shots.
- Batteries: Extra batteries or a power bank to ensure continuous recording throughout the game.
- Memory Cards: High-capacity, high-speed memory cards to handle large video files.
- Gimbal: The three-axis stabilization system helps eliminate shakes and bumps for buttery, smooth handheld video.
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Uploading Clips
After recording your footage, you’ll need to upload it. Here are some tips for uploading and sharing soccer game videos captured with a GoPro or other camera:
- To upload to social media like YouTube, Instagram or TikTok, transfer your files to your computer using the GoPro Quik app or a memory card reader. This allows for editing.
- For YouTube, keep your videos under 15 minutes for better watch time. Add descriptive titles and tags. Consider slicing up longer games into highlight clips.
- When uploading to Instagram, keep videos under 1 minute. Post landscape clips from your games with relevant hashtags like #soccer #goals #highlights.
- Share clips to TikTok by searching “soccer” sounds and editing your video to the beat. Caption with hashtags and let others duet or react.
- Upload full games or extended highlights to YouTube or Vimeo and share shortened clips on social with calls to action to view the full video.
- Send clips to teammates and coaches through messaging apps or shared cloud folders like Dropbox or Google Drive for review.
- Consider uploading your videos to sports platforms like Hudl to get coaching feedback and showcase skills to other teams.
Proper sharing unlocks your soccer videos’ full value for entertainment and scouting purposes. Choose the right platforms based on your goals.
Best Free and Paid Software for Editing Video Clips
Here are some of the best free and paid software options for editing video clips:
Free:
- DaVinci Resolve – Very powerful editor with professional features. Free version is fully featured.
- HitFilm Express – Intuitive interface includes effects, transitions, and color correction.
- Lightworks – Used by Hollywood films. Free version has export limits but good set of tools.
- Windows Movie Maker (Windows only) – Basic but good for quick and simple edits.
- iMovie (Mac only) – User-friendly timeline interface great for beginners.
Paid:
- Adobe Premiere Pro – Industry-standard tool with deep feature set. Good for advanced projects.
- Final Cut Pro (Mac only) – Intuitive timeline and sharing options. Popular for YouTube videos.
- CyberLink PowerDirector – Beginner-friendly multi-track timeline and AI features.
- VSDC Free Video Editor – Affordable one-time payment option with premium features.
- VideoStudio Pro – Easy to use and supports 360/VR video editing.
Free options like DaVinci Resolve, HitFilm Express, or iMovie work well for simple soccer highlight clips. Paid editors give more advanced tools and support for longer, multi-camera projects.
So there we have it, the way to produce like the pros. Implement bits as you go, and enjoy the process.
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Joel is a seasoned soccer journalist and analyst with many years of experience in the field. Joel specializes in game analysis, player profiles, transfer news, and has a keen eye for the tactical nuances of the game. He played at various levels in the game and coached teams - he is happy to share his insight with you.
