We recommend using a single GoPro (or similar) for video, and allowing the system to extract 'Stills' from that camera.
Ideally, you should also have a second video camera which you can use as backup for freefall.
(You won't import this footage unless there is a problem with your main camera)
We also support using a separate camera (either DSLR or GoPro) to take stills if you prefer.
We recommend using a GoPro - ideally Hero 9 or later
FreeFallFilms can function with non-GoPro cameras if needed
The AI is more accurate if you have a GoPro as we can use the accelerometer data to detect key points
The Session 5 is NOT supported. Unfortunately, it uses an unconventional encoding format which does not work for Gold (combo) edits with other cameras.
Configuration
Please lock the orientation on your camera (Landscape up or down)
Framerate
Recommended: 60fps (or higher)
Minimum: 50fps
Our final videos are sent at 30fps, so we need a higher framerate to provide good slowmo shots.
If you see 50fps rather than 60fps, this means your GoPro is set to European "Anti Flicker" settings.
You can change this in Preferences / General / Anti Flicker / 60Hz.
This may cause fluorescent lights to look like they are flickering - so if you are recording interviews under artificial light, please check first.
Resolution
Recommended: 2.7k (or higher)
Minimum: 1080p
Video is uploaded at 720p or 1080p (Depending on dropzone choice)
Photos are generated at up to 2.7k, so a 2.7k resolution will give better Photos.
Higher resolutions are fine - they just take a little longer to import from SD card, and backups will take more space.
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution:: 2.7k (or higher)
We deliver customer stills at up to 2.7k
Orientation
Either
- Ensure that your camera is mounted upright
(typically for a DSLR)
Or
- Ensure that the orientation of your camera is locked
(typically a GoPro or similar in stills mode)
If you're using a DSLR and taking portrait shots, you won't want to lock your orientation.
This is fine - however cameras often report incorrect orientation on exit, so we ignore the orientation during freefall and assume the camera is mounted upright
If you are using a GoPro (or similar) in stills mode, then you may have it mounted upside down.
As long as the orientation is locked, then it will not change during freefall, and we can 'trust' the orientation provided by the camera.
Trunk at Hypoxic is a legend for freefall camera expertise. Here are his articles for GoPro settings...