What is GoPro HDR (High Dynamic Range)? Models Available and Pros/Cons

What is HDR?

HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a technology that captures both bright and dark areas of an image or video with more detail. It is particularly effective in scenes where bright parts are overexposed and dark parts are underexposed.

HDR involves capturing multiple images at different exposures (typically 3 or more) and combining them to achieve a wide dynamic range. This allows capturing details in both bright highlights and dark shadows simultaneously, akin to how the human eye perceives scenes.

In recent years, HDR technology has evolved further with advancements in cameras and software, enabling real-time HDR video recording and automatic HDR synthesis.

HDR in GoPro

※: GoPro HERO11 Black Mini does not include photo mode.

HDR Photo

HDR photos, now common in recent smartphones, first appeared in the HERO6 series of GoPro cameras. All subsequent models include HDR photo capabilities.

HDR photos are easy to capture by selecting "HDR" from the presets in photo mode.

HDR Video

HDR video is essentially HDR photos in motion, first introduced in the HERO12 series of GoPro cameras.

In GoPro's HDR video mode, the camera records video with both short and long exposures, combining them afterwards to create a video with a broader dynamic range.

However, due to the increased processing demands from enhancements like HyperSmooth in newer GoPro models, there is a limitation on HDR video capabilities: HDR video is restricted to one step lower than the maximum available frame rate for each resolution. This is because HDR video processing involves simultaneous recording of multiple videos internally, which naturally affects frame rates.

This limitation is expected to be resolved with advancements in SoC processing power, particularly with the introduction of the next-generation SoC, GP3.

The Difference Between GoPro’s “HDR” and “Log Shooting”

Recent GoPro flagship models feature a "Log shooting (GP-Log)" mode, in addition to HDR capabilities.

Although both HDR and GP-Log affect the quality of footage and may seem similar, they serve different purposes:

1. HDR: Captures more details in both bright and dark areas, enhancing contrast and color in real-time.
2. GP-Log: Records a wider range of colors and dynamic range, allowing for extensive color adjustments in post-production.

HDR is used to sharpen details in high-contrast scenes, bringing out the differences between light and dark areas for more vibrant, ready-to-use footage. In contrast, GP-Log records footage in a flat profile, which requires editing to adjust the colors and contrast. This flat recording method gives filmmakers more flexibility when fine-tuning colors in post-production.

Without software adjustments, GP-Log footage will appear washed out, as it’s intended to provide more control for color correction and grading during the editing process.

GoPro's 'Log Shooting' and 'GP-Log Encoding'

Explaining the newly introduced professional shooting format 'GP-Log Encoding' in GoPro HERO12. What are the pros and cons?

Pros and Cons of Using HDR on GoPro

Pros and Cons of HDR Photos

GoPro's HDR photo feature allows for capturing naturally beautiful photos with detailed highlights and shadows. However, drawbacks include the need for static scenes and potential longer processing times.

It's best used in scenes where these drawbacks aren't an issue, such as landscapes.

Pros and Cons of HDR Video

HDR video mode primarily offers benefits by enabling clear details in high-contrast situations. However, opting for HDR video may result in larger file sizes and reduced available frame rates, impacting the ability to capture smoother motion in videos.

Consider these factors when deciding whether HDR video mode suits your shooting needs and preferences.