These personal action cameras brought to the outdoor sports forefront by GoPro and their HERO line of cameras – are designed to capture point-of-view action shots without the use of a human photographer. Hunters can capture their own shots via business-card-sized cameras that can be worn, affixed to outdoors equipment (like guns or bows), or mounted on other objects near or involved with the action.
The number of personal action camera manufacturers is growing, so it would be wise to first consider how the recipient will use the camera before you purchase one. Features, accessories, and prices vary, so a little research can make your shopping easier.
Most of the personal action cameras on the market are designed to withstand rugged use, but some cameras (along with their available accessories) are better suited for specific activities. Hunters, for example, need cameras enclosed in tough housings that can withstand collisions with things like tree branches and gun stocks.
However, shoppers must also consider camouflage and concealment of the camera, since some cameras use reflective housings and flashing lights that could scare game.
Although the list of features available on personal action cameras continues to grow, you should make sure any camera you purchase for a hunter or angler meets some minimum requirements. A camera that will be used by hardcore hunters and anglers will undoubtedly be exposed to rain, snow, seawater, and the like, so a waterproof housing is key.
Like watches, the action camera housings are rated to be waterproof at specific depths, so opt for a camera with housing that is waterproof to at least ten meters. Camera size is also important for hunters or anglers who will wear their cameras on all-day adventures while carrying other gear, such as guns, fishing rods, and backpacks. Choose smaller, flatter cameras and housings that are more concealable and less likely to get snagged on clothing or other gear.
Long battery life is another requirement, since no one wants his or her once-in-a-lifetime footage cut short. Some other features to consider and compare are video resolution, inclusion of a viewfinder, ability to connect via remote control or smartphone app, and embedded GPS technology.
To complement your gift, include some accessories. Mounting accessories (usually built for specific cameras) include head mounts, chest mounts, floating mounts, gun mounts, and clamp-based mounts that can connect to just about anything.
I’ve found head mounts to be more effective for shooting hunting and fishing footage than chest mounts because holding a gun, bow, or fishing rod sometimes obscures the view. Also, while gun mounts offer interesting footage, I don’t recommend using them because doing so could lead to unsafe gun handling (such as pointing a gun at something you don’t intend to shoot just to capture footage of it). Additional batteries and car charges also make great accessories.
Expect to pay £50 to £400 (without add-on mounts or accessories). Prices are usually reflective of the cameras’ features.
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