The world is becoming ever more connected with the existence of high-speed internet and the advancement of technologies. Camera technology has come to the point where you can fit camera lenses and sensors with exceptional qualities into a small body with a compact and rugged design. These rugged cameras are called action cameras and you will need use to an action camera body mount to carry them in your travels.
Content is being created and uploaded at an ever-increasing rate. Thus, came the emergence of capturing exhilarating, fast-paced action footage by thrill-seeking adrenaline junkies or sports enthusiasts. Furthermore, outdoor adventure seekers even use it to explore different natural habitats or casual content creators who want to vlog about their trips to various countries.
So, let us explore in this blog what it is, why use it, and what are different types of body mounts available.
What is an Action Camera Body Mount?
An Action Camera Body Mount is essentially what a 3 point slinger is to a camera. That is, it is a gadget to carry your action camera hands-free. It is a lightweight, compact mount or strap for various body parts that are easily accessible. It helps to free up your hands and focus entirely on the action.
There is a variety of body camera mount that you can fit in different parts of your body based on the activity you are carrying out. Being hands-free allows you to create incredible shots at your convenience without diverting your attention away from the action. In this blog, we will explore the best body camera mount for various activities, but let us first focus on the multiple instances a body camera holder will be helpful.
Credit: Amazon
Why is an Action Camera Body Mount Useful?
So, let us highlight the various ways to use an action camera body mount. We already know the intended purpose of a body camera holder, i.e., to have a hands-free experience. But how can this intended purpose be advantageous to its user? Where will this lightweight, compact gadget play a role in accomplishing what the user wants? Continue reading to find out more here!
Focus on the Moment:
It is only natural to get wholly absorbed when you are in the middle of an activity. You would want an uninterrupted experience where you don’t have to hold the action camera or use a self-stick, especially when capturing exciting, action-packed events.
For example, you are a cyclist going down a mountain terrain. Will you be able to hold the camera in your hand and ride simultaneously? Or if you are wide water rafting down the rapids. Will you paddle to steer the raft and at the same time hold the action camera with a selfie stick?
Consequently, it applies to all outdoor sports, whether skiing, kayaking, mountain climbing, or hiking. A body camera mount helps you focus on the moment and is the perfect choice for all your hands-free filming needs.
Photo by Harrison Fitts from Pexels
Capture First-Person Action Shot:
The existence of an action camera body mount welcomes the beginning of a new method of filming, i.e., the first-person point of view. It brings a whole new perspective and a level of immersion that is very engaging to watch, allowing the user to think outside the box and showcase his creativity.
Moreover, mounting the action camera in different parts of the body, be it mounted on the helmet or a chest mount camera, allows for capturing footage that is unique in itself.
Furthermore, Not everyone can or are willing to try all these extreme sports. Viewing these invigorating first-person footage allows them to live vicariously through them.
Vlogging:
Viewing the world behind the lens, you may miss a great deal happening in front of you. Now that you are at a vacation destination or have just visited your local sightseeing point, you want to experience all it offers. Mounting the camera on your body and forgetting it exists lets you enjoy your day while capturing everything you want to share with the world and your loved ones.
Furthermore, you can not only use this for capturing your vacation footage, but you can also use this unique perspective to create a video documentary exploring caves or the deepest depths of the jungle. Or be it underground caverns or ancient catacombs. You can make all your documented needs without even holding a camera the entire time.
All-in-one Photography Solution:
This body-mounted camera is not just a video-taking machine. You can also use this rugged, compact action camera as your all-in-one solution for all your photography needs. You do not need to carry your bulky camera equipment during your adventures. Mount it to any part of your body and take creative photographs at various angles that would otherwise not have been possible.
What are the different types of Action Camera Body Mounts?
We have covered what an action camera body mount is and how it can be useful so far. So let us move on to the different body camera mount types available and which best suits your particular adventure:
Helmet Camera Mount:
The helmet is one of the most versatile places you can mount a camera, as a helmet is almost always a part of most extreme sports. Whether dirt biking or skiing, it always involves a helmet, making it easy for all your POV footage needs without any extra gear.
Furthermore, you can mount it in various places based on the angle you want to capture the footage. You can mount it on top of your helmet, front-facing head mount, chin-mount, or even side-mount it. Just focus on the action without it interfering with your field of vision.
You can use a strap to secure your action camera onto a helmet or an adhesive straight or curved mount. The straight adhesive mount is usually suitable for a flat surface in contrast to the curve mount that takes the helmet’s shape, generally making it the more secure fit. However, you can opt for the strap helmet mount if you are uncertain about the adhesive mount options.
Here are some of the frequently used Helmet Camera Mounts:
SUREWO Motorcycle Helmet Chin Strap Mount
This mount is ideal for a Motorcycle Helmet. The design involves a non-slip material that sits against the helmet surface. It is well-designed and hard to crack. You can swivel the mount and adjust the angle for the POV that works for you best. Moreover, it’s compatible with most action cameras.
GoPro Vented Helmet Strap Mount
This action camera body mount is ideal for any vented helmet for bicycling, skiing, or kayaking. It has an adjustable strap that fits helmets of all sizes, and it sits on top of the helmet.
Mongoose Capture Bike Helmet
This bicycle helmet has a removable action camera mount integrated into its design. The built-in camera mount makes it convenient as you do not need to attach any additional item to the helmet. It has 15 vents placed strategically for optimal airflow and comfort. However, it has limited compatibility with the GoPro Hero series (2, 3, 3+, 4, 5, or 6).
Sametop Helmet Adhesive Sticky Mounts
This adhesive helmet mount allows you to attach your action camera to any place you want on your helmet, be it a front-facing head mount or side-mounted. The adhesive is strong and waterproof and you can easily remove it by applying heat.
Head Strap Mount:
Do you want to be hands-free and have the same perspective and first-person POV as wearing a helmet camera mount, but your sport or activity does not involve wearing a helmet? Head Strap Mount is the ideal mounting option for you.
Secure an action camera on your head using an adjustable head strap that ensures a good grip and is comfortable to wear for the length of your activity.
Here are some of the frequently used Chest Camera Mounts:
GoPro Head Strap with QuickClip
This head strap mount is ideal for every non-impact sport. It has a comfortable, adjustable strap for all sizes. It even comes with a QuickClip for those adventures where you want to put on a baseball cap. Furthermore, you can also use this head strap with a helmet if that is your preference.
Sametop Head Strap
This head strap mount is similar in features to the GoPro Head Strap. However, it lacks the QuickClip, which may be helpful for some. This head strap is waterproof, easily adjustable, and compatible with most action cameras.
Amazon Basics Head Strap Camera Mount
This camera mount is one of the most affordable head straps on the list while still providing you with everything you are looking for from a head strap. This camera head strap is most compatible with all GoPro cameras. You must check the compatibility with other cameras before considering this product.
TEKCAM Action Camera Head Mount Strap
This action camera head strap is a very consumer-friendly product, as it is compatible with a myriad of action cameras. Even though this head strap meets all the requirements you could have from a head strap; you must remember that the screw in this product is made of metal and you must wipe it dry after any water-related sports to avoid rusting.
Chest Camera Mount:
Chest Camera Mount is one of the more popular choices for a mount. It provides greater stability and reduces camera shakes compared to a helmet camera mount. It is because it is attached to the largest body part for mounting an action camera, the chest.
Most camera chest mount designs involve an elastic harness that wraps around your shoulders and torso while the camera is strapped to your chest. Thus, it allows an uninterrupted experience for capturing your first-person POV footage without restricting movement.
A chest mount camera is ideal for sports that do not involve a helmet. However, sports that involve the use of your arms and hands in front of you or if you are holding some gear may interrupt the footage you are taking.
Furthermore, this may not be suitable for water sports, as a life jacket is usually necessary. Mounting a chest camera over a life jacket can be very difficult.
Here are some of the frequently used Chest Camera Mounts:
GoPro Performance Chest Mount
This camera chest mount is fully adjustable and fits all body types. It’s made of a lightweight, breathable material that is padded for maximum comfort. There is padding even behind the metal bracket that will house the camera. It can even fit over heavy winter jackets for your skiing trips. It has a quick-release design that is even accessible with gloves.
Amazon Basics Adjustable Chest Mount Harness
Despite being one of the most affordable chest camera mounts, it is a popular option that meets all the requirements you want from your action camera body mount.
During the design process, they considered comfort, as it is lightweight and waterproof. However, there is no padding beside the camera bracket, as found on the GoPro Performance Chest Mount.
It is compatible with all GoPro cameras. However, you must check the compatibility with other action cameras before considering this product.
TEKCAM Chest Harness Mount
Besides being extremely affordable and meeting all the requirements you may have, this camera chest mount has broad compatibility with most action cameras in the market. This product incorporated the quick release feature in their design, and J Hook included allows you to adjust the camera angle to the ideal position for your POV footage.
Sametop Chest Mount Harness Chesty Strap
Sametop Chest Mount is another option you can consider alongside TEKCAM Chest Harness Mount. They both offer exceptional compatibility with most action cameras in the market. It is a lightweight, flexible, long-lasting body mount. However, the Sametop Chest Mount was designed with adults in mind only, so it is not suitable for kids.
Shoulder Camera Mount:
The shoulder mount is similar in design to a camera chest mount because it has an elastic material wrapping around your shoulder and torso. However, where it varies and makes it handy is when you don’t want your arms or equipment to hinder your footage. It is higher than a chest camera mount and away from the camera’s line of sight.
Furthermore, it gives a more realistic perspective that offers the immersion that you are part of the action and is usually preferred by many. It is perfect for users looking to find the midway between a helmet camera mount and a chest camera mount.
Moreover, you can use a shoulder camera mount to capture both front and back footage.
Here are some of the frequently used Shoulder Camera Mounts:
Stuntman 360
Stuntman 360 is one of the most popular shoulder camera mounts. You can use this shoulder camera mount to place the camera either on the left or the right shoulder, based on your preference. It has a large base plate made with shock-absorbing material, which helps keep the camera stable. It has a ball joint that allows for 360 degrees of rotation, thus allowing you to point the camera in any direction.
Furthermore, it is a versatile option that you can use to mount the camera at various locations on the body besides your shoulder. Moreover, this mount is compatible with a variety of action cameras.
Taisioner Shoulder Strap Body Mount
Like the Stuntment 360, the Taisioner Shoulder Strap is also designed to mount your camera on the left or right. It is made up of lightweight, flexible material that you can adjust easily. The shoulder base mount allows you to rotate the camera 360 degrees. Furthermore, you can tilt it forward or backward as well as from left and right, giving you a wide range of options to fine-tune the angle at which you want to take your footage.
However, unlike the Stuntment 360, the Taisioner can only be mounted on the shoulders. This camera body mount is also compatible with a myriad of action cameras.
PellKing Single Shoulder Strap Mount
This shoulder strap has a single strap that goes around your shoulder, which is less restricting for some to use than the abovementioned options. Furthermore, it has a quick-release design to dismount the camera. This strap allows you to rotate the camera 360 degrees as well. Moreover, you can use this mount with a variety of action cameras.
Wrist Camera Mount:
You want versatility in the movement of your camera and what it captures, point and direct in any direction, adjust angles on the fly, or rotate the camera and take selfie footage. Wherever the hand goes, the camera is there with you. If you are looking for all these requirements, then a wrist camera mount is the option for you. No other action camera body mount will have such freedoms.
Yes, helmet, shoulder, or chest camera mounts are good solutions for various activities, but the level of control of a wrist camera mount is unmatched, making it one of the most popular body camera mounts. It is suitable for almost every outdoor adventure, be it biking or skydiving.
Here are some of the frequently used Wrist Camera Mounts:
GoPro Hand and Wrist Strap
This wrist strap is a versatile option for all kinds of sports. You can even take it underwater. It lets you rotate the camera 360 degrees to take the most creative selfies. Moreover, you can tilt it up and down without unmounting it. It has a specially designed comfortable wristband that can be easily adjusted.
SUREWO Wrist Strap Mount
The advantage of the SUREWO wrist strap mount over the GoPro Hand and Wrist Strap is that it is compatible with a wide variety of action cameras. Moreover, it is simple to use and can be handled with one hand. It is made of breathable materials that can absorb sweat easily. Furthermore, it is an affordable option.
USA GEAR Wrist Strap Band Style Action Camera Mount
With USA GEAR Wrist Strap Band, you can not only mount most action cameras; you can also use it for mounting compact cameras and camcorders. However, compared to the other options on the list, one of the downsides of this product is that it cannot rotate the camera 360 degrees. It can only tilt back and forth.
Mask Camera Mount:
Photo by Kammeran Gonzalez-Keola from Pexels
Do you want to share your underwater experience while snorkeling or scuba diving from the first-person perspective? Do you want to capture the mesmerizing underwater beauty without carrying heavy extra gear or harnesses? Mask Camera Mount is the one for you. The action camera is at the center, mounted slightly above eye level. Thus, makes this action camera body mount with an amazing first-person POV.
Here are some of the frequently used Mask Camera Mounts:
OCTOMASK – Frameless Dive Mask
For hands-free POV footage underwater, OCTOMASK is the most popular choice. It is made of ultra-soft silicon that helps with giving a good seal and a perfect fit. The mount is right at the center, slightly on top of the eye level. It has an aluminum thumb screw so that it won’t rust during all your dives. It is compatible with all GoPros.
TELESIN Swimming Goggles Diving Mask Scuba Snorkel Glasses
This mask camera mount is much more affordable than the OCTOMASK. It has a similar mounting system to the OCTOMASK. It is made of waterproof material that you can use this underwater. Moreover, it has Anti-Fog Tempered glass and an adjustable strap to adjust the fitting. Furthermore, this mask mount is much more consumer-friendly than the OCTOMASK, as it can fit a wide variety of action cameras.
ZIPOUTE Snorkel Mask Full Face
This mask mount lets you breathe easily underwater, even with your nose, as it has an anti-leak system that stops water from entering your mouth. Furthermore, it has a drain valve that drains that water without you having to remove the mask. This mask mount allows you to adjust the straps easily for maximum comfort and fitting. Furthermore, it gives you a 180 degree panoramic view. The camera mount sits at the top right at the center. You can use all Go Pro cameras with this mask mount.
Bite Camera Mount:
Credit: GoPro
As the name suggests, this action camera body mount works by putting it into your mouth. There is a gel mount guard that prevents from damaging your teeth. It is ideal for sports like surfing, where you will need both your arms and a helmet is not a requirement of the sport. It allows you to capture a front-facing POV. You can also use this during parachuting or skydiving.
However, it can be uncomfortable and occasionally cause difficulty breathing as you have to bite down on the mount for the entire duration of the sport.
Here are some of the frequently used Bite Camera Mounts:
GoPro Bite Mount + Floaty
This bite mount even comes with a floaty that wraps around your camera so that it can float on the water. The mount can be swiveled to get the ideal angle for your footage. It is made of lightweight, food-grade material, so it is comfortable in the mouth, and you can capture a stable footage.
MyGo Mouth Mount
This mouth mount has a mouthpiece that resembles a scuba diving mouthpiece. This mouthpiece may be more approachable to you as it has an air channel for easy breathing. Being able to bite down on a more comfortable mouthpiece will help you take a more stable footage. Furthermore, it has a neck lanyard that prevents your action camera from floating away.
Backpack Camera Mount:
This action camera body mount can be attached to the backpack strap you carry on your adventure. It is almost similar in functionality and placement to that of a shoulder mount. However, unlike a shoulder strap, you can move the location on the mount along the length of the strap and get a similar perspective as a chest camera mount. You even have the choice to mount it on either strap, depending on your preference.
Moreover, you can attach it to the backpack itself and take footage of what is happening behind you. Furthermore, this mounting option is far less restrictive than the shoulder and chest mount, as there is no strap going across your torso, making it much simpler and easier to take off.
Here are some of the frequently used Backpack Camera Mounts:
TELESIN 360 Rotation Bag Backpack Shoulder Strap Mount
This backpack camera mount allows the action camera to be mounted anywhere on your backpack strap. It has a soft, comfortable material, and the weight is distributed evenly. You can rotate the action camera 360 degrees and tilt it front and back, allowing you to choose the ideal angle to take your POV footage. It is coated with an anti-skid material inside, so it doesn’t slip.
Furthermore, this backpack mount is compatible with a large variety of action cameras, making it a desirable option.
STUNTMAN Pack Mount – Backpack Shoulder Strap Mount
The STUNTMAN Pack Mount consists of a large, shock-absorbing base mount that helps the camera’s stability. This mask mount is designed with a ball joint that allows you to rotate the camera 360 degrees, thus giving you the freedom to fine-tune your footage’s angle. You can mount this on either of your backpack straps. Furthermore, you are open to a large variety of options when choosing your action cameras with this mount.
Peak Design POV Kit V2
Peak Desing POV Kit V2 is a versatile, durable mount that can not only be mounted onto your backpack straps, but you can also use your waistbelt as an ideal spot to mount this gadget. It comes with a quick-release design for you to dismount quickly. Furthermore, you can use a myriad of action cameras with this body camera mount.
Clip Mount:
As the name suggests, this mounting option is a clip that can be attached to various places, from the strap of your bag to the belt on your waist. It’s very versatile as it can be mounted anywhere just by clipping down with a spring-loaded jaw. With its high-tension jaws, you can reliably and securely mount to anything to have various angles and perspectives for your POV footage needs.
The simplicity and compactness of its design make it the ideal choice to throw into a backpack on the go. It does not take up too much space nor requires harnesses to keep it mounted.
Here are some of the frequently used Clip Mounts:
GoPro Magnetic Swivel Clip
GoPro Magnetic Swivel Clip incorporates a magnet into its design so you can clip it to metal objects alongside mounting it to your backpack or your hat. It lets you swivel the camera in 360 degrees so you can fine-tune it to get the ideal angle for your shot. This mount is for you if you want to take something easy to carry with a compact design on your adventures.
Sametop Backpack Strap Mount Quick Clip Mount
It is one of the more affordable options while maintaining all the functionality you want from a camera clip mount. You can rotate this action camera body mount 360 degrees, thus allowing you to capture the first-person POV footage you want.
Moreover, It is built with a sturdy plastic material with high-tension jaws, so you won’t need to worry about its stability. However, you may need both your hands to dismount it.
Furthermore, compared to the GoPro Magnetic Swivel Clip, this clip mount does not have the magnetic feature. However, it has better compatibility as it can mount a wide variety of action cameras.
Revo 360° Clip with Quick Mount for GoPro
This clip mount is similar in features and price range to the Sametop Backpack Strap Mount Quick Clip Mount. However, it is only compatible with GoPro cameras. Moreover, one feature that makes this product stand out compared to Sametop is its quick-release feature, so you can easily dismount your camera. So, this might be the one for you if you are in the market for an affordable clip for your GoPro camera.
Finger Grip Mount:
Credit: Walmart
If your POV footage requires you to hold the camera and point and shoot, then the finger grip mount is an ideal option. It will give your fingers a more secure and comfortable grip on your action camera.
Here is one of the frequently used Finger Grip Mounts:
Sony AKA-FGP1 Finger Grip
This finger grip gives you an easy-to-hold solution for your action camera. An added functionality involves the presence of a Live View Remote. It is an optional LCD Screen that allows you to tilt your view by 120 degrees so you can fine-tune the angle of your shot. You can handle the camera and the Live View Remote with one hand, as it has a very compact design.
Furthermore, there are lens caps attached to the finger grip, so your lens is always protected. However, this finger mount is only limited to Sony action cameras.
Magnetic Mount:
This body camera mount is ideal when your activity does not involve extreme or fast movements. Furthermore, it’s also suitable when you do not want straps and harnesses constricting you. It is an easy-to-use, compact, lightweight gadget that you can mount to your clothing, bag, or even a hat.
The design consists of dual magnetic plates. One goes under your shirt, and the other is holding the camera. The two magnetic plates attract each other and firmly mounts your camera onto your shirt. You can move the mount around if you want to change your perspective or the angle of your footage.
Here are some of the frequently used Magnetic Mounts:
SNAP Mounts – Magnetic Action Camera Mount
This magnetic mount has been strategically designed with easy-to-grab finger holes to line up the two magnetic plates easily. Moreover, it has a quick-release back plate, so you can easily take off the action camera. There is an additional mount lanyard that increases the stability. This mount is a versatile option, as you can use it with a range of action cameras.
SUREWO Magnetic Action Camera Mount
SUREWO Magnetic Action Camera Mount included six magnets in its design. Thus, making it a very stable mount. Furthermore, it is designed in a way that allows for quick assembly and disassembly of the mount.
Moreover, this mount allows for 360 degrees of rotation, and you can tilt it up and down, allowing you to fine-tune the angle of your footage.
Last but not least, this is a very compact product that involves an adjustable lanyard that helps you to stabilize it further. Furthermore, this product is compatible with many action cameras.
aoeyoo Super Snap Magnetic Action Camera Mount
Like the SNAP mount, this action camera body mount provides finger holes to line the two magnetic plates easily. Furthermore, this design involves eight magnets making it a very firm mount to support the action camera. Moreover, it supports a wide array of action cameras.
However, unlike the other two options in this list, this magnetic mount does not support 360 degrees of rotation, only tilting it up and down.
Miscellaneous other mounts other than Action Camera Body Mounts:
Besides the multitude of different ways of mounting an action camera to your body, sometimes you would want to mount them to the equipment you use for your sport or activity. Here is a list of different mounting options available to you:
Suction Mount
This mount is ideal for attaching an action camera to larger vehicles like cars or boats. It involves a clamp-down suction cup that goes onto the smooth surface of your vehicle. Choosing the ideal suction mount depends on the speed at which the vehicle moves and the surface onto which it is being mounted.
Handlebar and Pole Mount
This mount is for when you want to attach your action camera to the handlebar of your bicycle or bike, on your ski pole, or maybe a golf club. It involves a clamp that goes around the handlebar or pole, and you can adjust how tight it is for securely mounting the action camera. Depending on where you mount it, this mount allows you to capture footage from unique perspectives.
Board Mount
If you want to capture unique footage of all the water sports you take part in but want to avoid mounting any action camera on your body; then a board mount is an ideal option. This mounting method has a strong adhesive that goes onto your surfboard, kayak, or paddleboard surface. They are suitable for your mounting needs as they are lightweight and waterproof.
Credit: GoPro
How do you decide on the ideal Action Camera Body Mount for you?
If you have come this far into this blog, then you are already aware of the various ways of mounting an action camera. However, there are too many options for an action camera body mount, and deciding which one to invest in can be overwhelming. Therefore, here are some things you can consider while making your decision:
Sports/Activities:
The first and foremost thing you will need to consider is the activity you would participate in for capturing footage. Depending on this, you must decide the ideal mounting method for you. Like you cannot opt for a chest mount if you are planning to capture footage of you scuba diving. Likewise, you will not opt for a mask mount if you are mountain climbing. So, the sport you are participating in plays a significant role.
Action Camera Compatibility:
Another thing you must have noticed is that not all mounts are suitable for every action camera available. You must check the compatibility of your action camera with the body camera mount before committing to it.
Quick Release:
Quick release is a feature that is usually very important for most people looking into a body camera holder because you should be able to mount and dismount at a moment’s notice, for you not even to miss a second of the fast-paced action you are a part of.
Budget:
A camera body mount varies from relatively inexpensive to reasonably expensive. So, keeping your budget in mind when opting for any camera mount is vital. However, the price does not directly indicate a product’s quality. Some relatively expensive products aren’t the best option in the market.
Final Words
An action camera body mount is one of the most essential accessories for an action camera. If you are planning to capture engaging first-person POV footage, a body camera mount plays a significant role in giving you a hands-free experience.
Now, if you are in the market for a body camera mount, this blog covers everything you need to know. So, I hope you found this blog an informative and engaging read.
On a different note, when considering investing in action camera accessories, you must look into how to protect your investments by looking into camera protectors and cases.
Let us end this blog here, and I hope you can decide on the best body camera mount for you!
