GoPro HERO5 Session User Manual
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Your HERO5 Session
The HERO5 Session camera features the following components:
Front View: 1. Camera Status Screen, 2. Shutter Button [ ] , 3. Microphone, 4. Camera Status Light.
Side/Bottom View: 5. USB-C Port, 6. microSD Card Slot, 7. Menu Button.
Getting Started
Charging the Battery
For the best experience with your new camera, fully charge the battery before first use.
1. Open the side door.
2. Charge the battery using the included USB cable, connecting it to a power source (e.g., computer or wall adapter).
Note: The battery cannot be removed from the camera.
The camera status lights indicate charging status. Charging typically takes about 2 hours. For more battery information, see Battery (page 70).
PRO TIP: For fastest charging, use GoPro's Supercharger (sold separately).
Inserting + Removing microSD Cards
Use brand name memory cards that meet these requirements: microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC; Class 10 or UHS-I rating.
To insert: Angle the card downward into the slot, label facing down.
To remove: Press the card into the slot with your fingernail; it will pop out.
For recommended cards, visit gopro.com/workswithgopro.
NOTICE: Handle memory cards with care. Avoid liquids, dust, and debris. Power off the camera before inserting or removing the card.
Updating Your Camera Software
Ensure your camera uses the most current software for optimal performance. Updates are typically notified when connecting to the Capture app or Quik for desktop.
- Download the apps: Capture (Apple App Store or Google Play) and Quik for desktop (gopro.com/apps).
- Connect your camera to your smartphone/tablet or computer. The app will guide you through the update process.
Manual updates are possible using a microSD card and reader.
PRO TIP: Press the [Menu Button] to view the current software version.
Powering On + Off
HERO5 Session powers on when you press the [Shutter Button] to begin capturing video or time lapse.
The camera powers off automatically to conserve battery when you press the [Shutter Button] to stop capturing or after a period of inactivity.
PRO TIP: When carrying the camera, place it upside down in a frame (with the [Shutter Button] covered) to prevent accidental activation. Leave the frame latch open to avoid marking the camera.
WARNING: Use caution with your GoPro. Be aware of your surroundings to avoid injury. Abide by local laws, including privacy laws.
QuikCapture
QuikCapture is the fastest way to capture video or time lapse content, conserving battery by powering on only when recording.
Capturing Video with QuikCapture
- With the camera powered off, press the [Shutter Button]. The camera powers on, beeps, and begins recording in the last used video mode (Video, Video + Photo, or Looping). Status lights blink during recording.
- Press the [Shutter Button] again to stop recording. The camera powers off.
Capturing Time Lapse Content with QuikCapture
- With the camera powered off, press and hold the [Shutter Button] for a few seconds. The camera powers on, beeps, and begins recording in the last used time lapse mode (Time Lapse Photos, Time Lapse Video, or Night Lapse). Status lights blink during recording.
- Press the [Shutter Button] again to stop recording. The camera powers off.
Camera Icons
The camera displays various icons to indicate settings and status. Key icons include:
- Auto Low Light: Adjusts for low-light conditions.
- Auto-Rotation: Automatically orients video/photos.
- Beeps: Sound indicator volume.
- Burst Photos: Captures multiple photos rapidly.
- Color: Adjusts color profile.
- Date/Time: Camera's date and time settings.
- Delete: Option to delete files.
- Exposure Value Compensation (EV Comp): Adjusts brightness.
- FOV (Field of View): Captures more or less of the scene.
- FPS (Frames per Second): Video frame rate.
- ISO Limit: Camera's sensitivity to light.
- Language: On-screen language.
- LEDs: Status light settings.
- Looping: Continuous recording with overwrite.
- Megapixels (MP): Photo resolution.
- Night Lapse Photo: Captures photos in low light.
- Night Photo: Captures single photos in low light.
- Photo (Single): Captures one photo.
- Protune [PT]: Advanced settings for video/photos.
- Rate: Photo capture rate for Burst mode.
- Sharpness: Detail quality.
- Shutter: Shutter speed.
- Spot Meter: Metering mode.
- Time Lapse Photos: Captures photos at intervals.
- Time Lapse Video: Creates video from time lapse photos.
- Video: Standard video capture.
- Video + Photo: Records video and captures photos.
- Video Format: Regional frame rates (NTSC/PAL).
- Video Resolution: Video clarity (e.g., 1080p, 4K).
- Video Stabilization: Smooths footage.
- White Balance: Adjusts color temperature.
- Wireless: Wi-Fi connectivity status.
Navigating Your GoPro
Your HERO5 Session has three primary modes: Video, Photo, and Time Lapse. Each mode has specific capture modes:
| Mode | Capture Mode | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Video | Video | Capturing Video (page 16) |
| Video + Photo | ||
| Looping | ||
| Photo | Single | Capturing Photos (page 18) |
| Burst | ||
| Night | ||
| Time Lapse | Time Lapse Photo | Capturing Time Lapse Content (page 20) |
| Time Lapse Video | ||
| Night Lapse Photo |
Changing Modes + Settings
You can adjust most video and photo settings using the camera's buttons. For a full list of settings, see Accessing All Modes and Settings (page 28).
- Press the [Menu Button] to turn on the status screen.
- Repeatedly press the [Menu Button] to navigate to Camera Settings, then press the [Shutter Button] to select.
- Repeatedly press the [Shutter Button] to cycle through the desired mode (Video, Time Lapse, or Photo).
- Press the [Menu Button] to move to the next field.
- Repeatedly press the [Shutter Button] to select the desired capture mode.
- Press the [Menu Button] to navigate to a specific setting, then press the [Shutter Button] to select an option.
- When finished, press the [Menu Button] to navigate to the check mark [✔️], then press the [Shutter Button] to confirm.
Capturing Video
Video mode offers three capture modes:
- Video: Standard video capture, available in all resolutions.
- Video + Photo: Records video and captures photos at set intervals (available in 1440p24, 1080p30, 1080p24, 720p30).
- Looping: Continuously records, saving only the moments you select. Available in 1080p30, 960p100, 720p120, 720p60.
PRO TIP: Pressing the [Shutter Button] when the camera is off initiates recording in the last used video mode.
To change video capture modes or settings:
- Press the [Menu Button] to turn on the status screen.
- Navigate to Camera Settings using the [Menu Button], then select with [Shutter Button].
- Select the desired capture mode (Video, Video + Photo, or Looping) and settings.
- Press the [Shutter Button] to start recording. Status lights blink.
- Press the [Shutter Button] again to stop recording. The camera powers off.
HiLight Tagging: Mark key moments during recording by pressing the [Menu Button]. These tags are visible during playback.
PRO TIP: HiLight Tags can also be added via the Capture app, Voice Control, or Smart Remote.
Capturing Photos
Photo mode offers three capture modes, all at 10MP resolution:
- Photo: Captures a single photo or continuous photos (up to 30 photos/sec by holding the [Shutter Button]).
- Burst: Captures up to 30 photos in 1 second, ideal for fast action.
- Night: Captures photos in low light with a longer shutter open time.
To capture photos:
- Press the [Menu Button] to turn on the status screen.
- Navigate to Camera Settings, then select the Photo icon [ ].
- Select your desired capture mode (Photo, Burst, or Night) and settings.
- Press the [Shutter Button] to capture photos. Status lights blink.
- Press the [Menu Button] to navigate to Exit Photo Mode, then press the [Shutter Button] to power off.
Shortcut for Last Used Mode: Press [Menu Button] to turn on status screen, navigate to Enter Photo Mode, select with [Shutter Button], then press [Shutter Button] to capture.
Capturing Time Lapse Content
Time Lapse mode includes three capture modes:
- Time Lapse Photo: Captures a series of photos at specified intervals. Can be converted to video later using GoPro Studio.
- Night Lapse Photo: Captures photos at set intervals in low light with a longer shutter open time.
- Time Lapse Video: Creates video from frames captured at specific intervals (available in 4K, 2.7K 4:3, 1080p, without audio).
The fastest way to capture time lapse is via QuikCapture.
To change time lapse capture modes or settings:
- Press the [Menu Button] to turn on the status screen.
- Navigate to Camera Settings, then select the Time Lapse icon [ ].
- Select your desired capture mode (Time Lapse Photos, Night Lapse, or Time Lapse Video) and settings.
- Press the [Shutter Button] to start capturing. Status lights blink.
- Press the [Shutter Button] again to stop capturing.
Controlling Your GoPro with Your Voice
Voice Control allows hands-free operation using specific commands. It works best in close proximity.
Note: Voice Control language can be selected during initial setup or changed via the Capture app.
To Turn On Voice Control:
- Press [Menu Button] to turn on status screen.
- Navigate to Voice Control, then select with [Shutter Button].
- Select 'On' with [Shutter Button], navigate to check mark [✔️], and confirm with [Shutter Button].
- Say a command from the list below.
To Turn Off Voice Control:
- Navigate to Voice Control, select 'Off' with [Shutter Button], navigate to check mark [✔️], and confirm.
PRO TIP: For windy/noisy environments, use Remo (Waterproof Voice Activated Remote) for extended voice control range.
List of Voice Commands
Action Commands: Initiate capture immediately.
- GoPro start recording: Starts capturing video.
- GoPro HiLight / That was sick: Adds a HiLight Tag to video during recording.
- GoPro stop recording: Stops capturing video.
- GoPro take a photo: Captures a single photo.
- GoPro shoot burst: Captures burst photos.
- GoPro start time lapse: Starts capturing time lapse.
- GoPro stop time lapse: Stops capturing time lapse.
- GoPro turn off: Powers off the camera.
Mode Commands: Select a mode before capturing.
| Mode Command | Description |
|---|---|
| GoPro Video mode | Changes camera mode to Video. |
| GoPro Photo mode | Changes camera mode to Photo. |
| GoPro Burst mode | Changes camera mode to Burst. |
| GoPro Time Lapse mode | Changes camera mode to Time Lapse. |
For the most updated command list, visit gopro.com/help.
PRO TIP: Stop recording before issuing a new command if currently recording video or time lapse.
Playing Back Your Content
On a Computer:
- Download and install Quik for desktop from gopro.com/apps.
- Transfer files from your camera to your computer.
- Use the Quik app to play back files.
On a Mobile Device:
- Connect your camera to the Capture app.
- Use the app controls to play back footage on your smartphone/tablet.
PRO TIP: Add HiLight Tags during playback to mark best moments.
Offloading Your Content
To a Computer:
- Download and install Quik for desktop from gopro.com/apps.
- Connect the camera to your computer via USB cable.
- Press the [Shutter Button] to power on the camera and open the importer.
- Follow on-screen instructions in Quik.
PRO TIP: Use a card reader to transfer files directly from the microSD card.
Uploading to the Cloud (GoPro Plus):
Subscribe to GoPro Plus to upload content to the cloud for access from any device.
- Subscribe to GoPro Plus via the Capture app.
- Connect your camera to a power outlet for automatic cloud upload.
- Access cloud content via the Capture app on your mobile device.
- Download desired content to your phone.
Note: Cloud files may be optimized for web and not full resolution. Connect to Quik for desktop for full-resolution offloads.
PRO TIP: Quik for desktop can upload files to your GoPro Plus account.
Accessing All Modes and Settings
Connect your camera to a GoPro remote or the Capture app to access all modes and settings. Settings are saved after disconnection.
Connecting to the Capture App
The Capture app provides full camera control, live preview, playback, sharing, and software updates. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Download Capture to your mobile device.
- Follow app instructions to connect your camera.
Note: When connected, the camera stays in standby mode.
Pairing with the Remote
The Smart Remote and Wi-Fi Remote allow control over modes, settings, recording, and HiLight Tags.
- On the camera, press [Menu Button] to turn on status screen.
- Navigate to Connection Settings, select with [Shutter Button].
- Navigate to Connect New Device, select with [Shutter Button].
- Press [Shutter Button] to display GoPro RC.
- Navigate to check mark [✔️], confirm with [Shutter Button] to begin pairing.
- Put the remote into pairing mode (refer to remote's manual).
Connecting After Pairing
After initial pairing, connect via the Connection Settings menu.
- Navigate to Connection Settings, select with [Shutter Button].
- Select Turn On Connection with [Shutter Button]. The Wireless icon [?] will appear.
Turning Off Wireless from the Camera
To save battery, turn off wireless when not in use.
- Press [Menu Button] to turn on status screen.
- Navigate to Connection Settings, select with [Shutter Button].
- Select Turn Off Connection with [Shutter Button]. The Wireless icon [?] will disappear.
Video Mode: Capture Modes
Video mode has three capture modes:
- Video: Traditional video capture. Default settings: 1080p30 Wide, Video Stabilization On. See pages 36, 39, 40, 52 for more info.
- Video + Photo: Records video and captures photos at set intervals (10MP, 4:3 aspect ratio). Default: 1080p30 Wide, 5 photos/sec interval. See pages 36, 40 for more info.
- Looping Video: Continuously records, saving only selected moments. Useful for events with long inactive periods. Default: 1080p30 Wide, 5-minute interval. Not available in 4K, 2.7K, 2.7K 4:3, 1440p. See pages 36, 40 for more info.
Video Mode: Settings
Video Resolution: Refers to the number of horizontal lines (e.g., 720p, 1080p, 4K). Higher resolution means more detail.
Concentric squares showing relative sizes of 4K, 2.7K 4:3, 2.7K, 1440p, 1080p, 960p, 720p.
Use the table below to select the best resolution for your activity:
| Video Resolution | Best Use |
|---|---|
| 4K | High-resolution, professional quality, low-light performance. 8MP stills from video. Recommended for tripod/fixed shots. |
| 2.7K | 16:9 resolution downscales for stunning, cinema-quality results. |
| 2.7K 4:3 | Recommended for body/ski/surfboard mounts. Provides large viewing area. |
| 1440p | Recommended for body mounts. 4:3 aspect ratio for larger vertical view. High frame rate for smooth, immersive action. Great for social media. |
| 1080p | Great for all shots, social media. High resolution/frame rate. Available in all FOVs. 90fps option for slow motion. |
| 960p | Body-mounted shots, slow motion. 4:3 aspect ratio for large viewing area and smooth action. |
| 720p | Handheld shots, slow motion. |
Frames Per Second (FPS): Number of frames captured per second. Higher FPS is important for motion and slow-motion video.
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (standard) or 4:3 (taller, requires cropping for 16:9 playback).
Field of View (FOV): How much of the scene is captured.
| FOV | Best Use |
|---|---|
| SuperView | Most immersive. Body/gear mounts. Stretches 4:3 to 16:9 for widescreen playback. |
| Wide | Large field of view for action shots. Fisheye effect, especially at edges. |
| Medium | Mid-range FOV, zooms into the center. |
| Linear | Mid-range FOV, removes fisheye distortion. Good for aerial footage. |
| Narrow | Smallest FOV, zooms into the center. Good for distant subjects. |
HERO5 Session Video Resolutions Table:
| Video Resolution (RES) | FPS (NTSC/PAL) | FOV | Screen Resolution | Aspect Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4K | 30/25 | Wide | 3840x2160 | 16:9 |
| 2.7K | 48/48 | Medium | 2704x1520 | 16:9 |
| 2.7K | 30/25, 24/24 | SuperView, Wide, Medium, Linear | 2704x1520 | 16:9 |
| 2.7K 4:3 | 30/25 | Wide | 2704x2028 | 4:3 |
| 1440p | 60/50, 48/48, 30/25, 24/24 | Wide | 1920x1440 | 4:3 |
| 1080p | 90/90 | Wide | 1920x1080 | 16:9 |
| 1080p | 60/50, 30/25, 24/24 | SuperView, Wide, Linear | 1920x1080 | 16:9 |
| 1080p | 30/25 | SuperView, Wide, Medium, Linear, Narrow | 1920x1080 | 16:9 |
| 960p | 100/100, 60/50, 30/25 | Wide | 1280x960 | 4:3 |
| 720p | 120/120 | Wide | 1280x720 | 16:9 |
| 720p | 60/50, 30/25 | SuperView, Wide, Medium | 1280x720 | 16:9 |
For more information on resolution, FPS, or FOV, see pages 32, 34, 35.
High Resolutions/High Frame Rates: Capturing at high settings in warm temperatures can cause the camera to overheat. Ensure adequate airflow and limit use of power-consuming features like the Capture app. If the camera overheats, it will shut down.
Video Stabilization: Adjusts footage for motion, resulting in smoother video. Available On (default) or Off. Not available for 4K or frame rates above 60 fps. Image is cropped 10% with Wide FOV. Not available for Video + Photo or Looping.
PRO TIP: Narrower FOV increases Video Stabilization effect.
Interval (Video): Determines time between captured frames.
- Video + Photo Intervals: 5 (default), 10, 30, 60 seconds.
- Looping Video Intervals: 5 (default), 20, 60, 120 minutes, or Max (fills card and overwrites).
Auto Low Light: Optimizes fps for low-light conditions. Available for frame rates higher than 30fps. Video Stabilization is temporarily disabled when Auto Low Light is active in dark conditions.
Protune [PT]: Advanced settings available for Video mode. See Protune (page 52).
PRO TIP: Use GoPro Studio (included with Quik for desktop) for professional-style videos.
Photo Mode: Capture Modes
Photo mode has three capture modes, all at 10MP:
- Photo: Single or continuous photos (up to 5 photos/sec by holding [Shutter Button]). Default FOV: Wide.
- Burst: Up to 30 photos in 1 second. Default FOV: Linear, Rate: 30 photos/sec.
- Night: Captures photos in dim to dark light with longer shutter open time. Not recommended for handheld shots where movement might occur during exposure. Default FOV: Wide, Shutter: Auto.
For more information on FOV, Rate, Shutter, and Protune, see pages 44, 45, 52.
Photo Mode: Settings
FOV (Field of View) for Photos:
| FOV | Description |
|---|---|
| Wide | Largest field of view for action shots. Fisheye effect, especially at edges. Can be cropped in editing. |
| Linear | Mid-range FOV, removes fisheye distortion. Good for aerial footage or traditional perspective. |
Rate: Applies only to Burst mode. Available rates include 30 photos in 1-6 seconds, 10 photos in 1-3 seconds, 5 photos/sec, and 3 photos/sec.
Shutter (Night Photo): Determines shutter open time. Default is Auto. Options include Auto, 2 seconds, 5 seconds. Useful for sunrise, sunset, twilight, night scenes, traffic, fireworks, light painting.
PRO TIP: Use a tripod for Night photos to reduce blur.
Protune [PT]: Available for all Photo capture modes (Photo, Night, Burst). See Protune (page 52).
Time Lapse Mode: Capture Modes
Time Lapse mode has three capture modes:
- Time Lapse Video: Creates video from frames captured at specific intervals. Available in 4K, 2.7K 4:3, 1080p (no audio). Default resolution: 4K, interval: 0.5 sec.
- Time Lapse Photo: Captures photos at specified intervals. Can be converted to video. Default FOV: Wide, interval: 0.5 sec.
- Night Lapse Photo: Captures photos at set intervals in low light. Shutter remains open longer. Default FOV: Wide, Interval: Continuous, Shutter: 2 seconds.
For more information on FOV, Interval, Shutter, and Protune, see pages 48, 49, 51, 52.
Time Lapse Mode: Settings
Time Lapse Video Resolution and FOV: Applies only to Time Lapse Video. Resolution refers to horizontal lines (e.g., 2.7K is higher quality than 1080p). FOV captures scene width.
Available resolutions: 4K, 2.7K 4:3, 1080p.
Field of View (FOV) for Time Lapse:
| FOV | Description |
|---|---|
| Wide | Largest field of view for action shots. Fisheye effect. Can be cropped. |
| Medium | Mid-range FOV, zooms into the center. |
| Linear | Mid-range FOV, removes fisheye distortion. Good for aerial footage. |
| Narrow | Smallest FOV, zooms into the center. Good for distant subjects. |
Interval (Time Lapse): Determines time between captured frames.
- Time Lapse Photo and Video Intervals: 0.5 (default), 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 seconds.
| Interval | Examples |
|---|---|
| 0.5-2 seconds | Surfing, biking, sports. |
| 2 seconds | Busy street corner. |
| 5-10 seconds | Clouds, outdoor scenes with long durations. |
| 10-60 seconds | Lengthy activities (construction, artwork). |
Night Lapse Photo Interval: Determines photo capture rate. Intervals include Continuous, 5-30 seconds, 1-60 minutes. 4-5 second intervals available when Shutter is 2 seconds.
- Continuous (default): Interval matches Shutter setting.
| Interval | Examples |
|---|---|
| Continuous | All exposures, as quickly as possible (depends on Shutter). |
| 4-5 seconds | Evening city, street lighting, scenes with movement. |
| 10-15 seconds | Dim lighting, slow scene changes (night clouds). |
| 20-30 seconds | Very low light, slow scene changes (stars). |
Shutter (Time Lapse): Applies only to Night Lapse Photo. Determines shutter open time. Options: 2 seconds, 5 seconds.
PRO TIP: Use a tripod for Night Lapse photos to reduce blur.
Protune [PT]: Available for Time Lapse photos and Night Lapse. See Protune (page 52).
Protune
Protune unlocks the camera's full potential for stunning image quality and professional productions, offering greater flexibility and workflow efficiency.
Protune is compatible with professional color correction tools and editing software.
It enables manual control of color, white balance, shutter speed, and more.
Availability: Protune is an advanced setting for supported capture modes. Options are Off (default) and On. 'PT' appears on the status screen when On. Not available for Video + Photo, Looping, or Time Lapse Video. Settings are mode-specific.
Color
Adjusts the color profile of your video footage.
| Color Setting | Resulting Color Profile |
|---|---|
| GoPro Color (default) | Provides GoPro color-corrected profile. |
| Flat | Neutral profile for color correction in post-production. Captures more details in shadows and highlights. |
White Balance
Adjusts color temperature for cool or warm lighting. Options: Auto (default), 3000K, 4000K, 4800K, 5500K, 6000K, 6500K, Native. Lower values result in warmer tones.
Native: Creates a minimally color-corrected file for precise post-production adjustments.
ISO Limit
Determines camera's sensitivity to light in low-light environments, balancing brightness and image noise (graininess).
Higher ISO = brighter image, more noise. Lower ISO = darker image, less noise.
A horizontal scale showing 400 (Darker image, Lower image noise), 800, and 1600 (Brighter image, Greater image noise).
ISO Limit application depends on Shutter setting:
- Shutter set to Auto: Selected ISO Limit is the maximum value.
- Shutter not set to Auto: ISO Limit is maximum (Max) or locked value. Available ISO modes: 1600, 800, 400.
Shutter
Determines shutter open time. Options depend on FPS setting. Default is Auto.
| Settings | Example 1: 1080p30 | Example 2: 1080p60 |
|---|---|---|
| Auto | Auto | Auto |
| 1/FPS | 1/30 sec | 1/60 sec |
| 1/(2xFPS) | 1/60 sec | 1/120 sec |
| 1/(4xFPS) | 1/120 sec | 1/240 sec |
PRO TIP: Use a tripod for best results with Shutter setting to reduce blur.
Sharpness
Controls detail quality. Options: High (default), Medium, Low.
PRO TIP: Turn off Sharpness if you plan to increase it during editing.
Exposure Value Compensation (EV Comp)
Affects brightness, improving image quality in contrasting light. Available only if Shutter is set to Auto. Range: -2.0 to +2.0. Higher values = brighter images. Default: 0.
PRO TIP: EV Comp adjusts brightness within the existing ISO. If ISO is maxed out in low light, EV Comp has no effect.
Reset Protune
Resets all Protune settings to their default values.
Customizing Your Camera
Date and Time
Automatically set when connected to Capture or Quik for desktop. Can be set manually if needed.
Language
Changes the language displayed on camera screens.
Video Format
Sets regional frame rates for TV recording/playback to prevent flicker indoors.
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| NTSC (default) | Viewing on NTSC TV/HDTV (North America). |
| PAL | Viewing on PAL TV/HDTV (outside North America). |
Auto-Rotation
Determines if captured video/photos are oriented upside down or right-side up.
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Auto (default) | Camera automatically selects Up or Down based on orientation. Eliminates need to flip image in editing. |
| Up | Camera used right-side up. |
| Down | Camera used upside down. Eliminates need to flip image in editing. |
Beeps
Sets volume for sound indicators: 100% (default), 70%, or Off.
LEDs
Determines whether camera status lights are on or off.
Voice Control Language
Sets language for voice commands when using Voice Control or Remo. Can be changed via Capture app or Remo.
Delete
Deletes the most recently captured video, photo, burst, or time lapse sequence. Option to delete all files and reformat the memory card.
Important Messages
Important Camera Messages
- REPAIRING FILE: If a video file is corrupted, the camera displays this message while attempting repair. It powers off upon completion if not connected to an app or remote.
- CAMERA TOO HOT: Temperature icon and message appear when the camera overheats. Allow it to cool down.
MicroSD Card Messages
- NO SD CARD: No card present. A microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC card is required.
- SD FULL: Card is full. Delete files or swap the card.
- SD ERROR: Camera cannot read card formatting. Reformat the card in the camera.
NOTICE: Reformatting a card deletes all content.
PRO TIP: Reformat your microSD card regularly to ensure continued functionality.
Resetting Your Camera
Restoring Factory Settings: Resets all settings and password.
- With the camera off, press [Menu Button] to turn on status screen.
- Repeatedly press [Menu Button] until 'Exit Menu' is displayed.
- Press and hold [Shutter Button] for 8 seconds.
- Navigate to 'Yes' with [Menu Button], then select with [Shutter Button].
Mounting Your Camera
To attach your HERO5 Session to a mount, you need a frame and a mounting buckle/thumb screw.
The Frame
Your HERO5 Session comes with a Standard Frame. Note: Leave the frame latch open when storing the camera in the frame for extended periods to prevent marking the camera.
The camera is waterproof to 33' (10m) with the door closed; no additional housing is needed for water use.
NOTICE: The Standard Frame does not provide additional waterproof protection.
Securing the Camera in The Frame
- Open the latch.
- Slide the camera into the frame, ensuring the back aligns with the frame's raised edge.
- Close the latch.
PRO TIP: For water activities, use Camera Tethers and a Floaty (sold separately). Tether the frame to the mount.
Attaching Mounting Buckles to Mounts
- Flip up the mounting buckle plug.
- Slide the buckle into the mount until it clicks.
- Press down on the plug to sit flush with the buckle.
PRO TIP: Mounting the camera upside down automatically orients the image correctly.
Using Curved + Flat Adhesive Mounts
These mounts attach the camera to curved and flat surfaces. The frame clicks onto the secured mounts.
Curved Adhesive Mount, Flat Adhesive Mount.
Mounting Guidelines:
- Attach adhesive mounts at least 24 hours before use.
- Mount on smooth surfaces only.
- Apply to clean surfaces; dirt, oil, or wax reduce adhesion.
- Mount in room temperature conditions.
- Check local regulations regarding camera attachment.
WARNING: Do not use a tether when mounting on a helmet.
WARNING: Ensure helmets meet safety standards and are properly fitted and maintained.
Removing the Door
In some situations (e.g., connecting Karma drone), accessing ports may be easier with the side door removed.
WARNING: Remove the door only in a dry, dust-free environment. The camera is not waterproof when the door is open or removed.
Removing the Side Door: Pull it out in a straight motion.
Reattaching the Door: Reverse the removal process.
Maintenance
Follow these guidelines for best camera performance:
- The camera is waterproof to 33' (10m) with doors closed. Ensure doors are closed before use in water, dirt, or sand.
- Before closing doors, ensure seals are free of debris. Clean with a cloth if needed.
- Before opening doors, ensure the camera is free of water/debris. Rinse with fresh water and dry with a cloth.
- For hardened sand/debris around doors, soak in warm tap water for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- For best audio, shake camera or blow on mic holes to remove debris. Do not use compressed air.
- After salt water use, rinse with fresh water and dry with a soft cloth.
- Clean the lens with a soft, lint-free cloth. Flush debris from lens trim with water or air. Do not insert foreign objects.
Battery
Your HERO5 Session camera and battery are integrated and cannot be removed.
The battery icon indicates charge level. Below 10%, it blinks and shows a low message. At 0%, the camera saves the file and powers off.
Maximizing Battery Life
- In cold conditions, keep the camera warm before use.
- When not in use, rotate the camera in its frame to cover the [Shutter Button] and prevent accidental activation.
- If the memory card is full or battery depletes during recording, the camera stops and saves the video before powering off.
WARNING: Use only chargers marked 'Output 5V 1A' or the included USB cable. Non-GoPro chargers may damage the battery or cause fire/leakage.
Battery Storage and Handling
Avoid extreme temperatures. Avoid dramatic changes in temperature or humidity, which can cause condensation.
The integrated battery is non-serviceable. Contact GoPro Customer Service for battery issues.
WARNING: Do not drop, disassemble, open, crush, bend, deform, puncture, shred, microwave, incinerate, or paint the camera. Do not insert foreign objects. Do not use if damaged. Disassembly or puncturing the battery can cause explosion or fire.
Using the Camera While Charging
You can capture video/photos while plugged into a USB adapter or GoPro charger (not via computer). Recording stops when charging begins.
Note: The camera is not waterproof when the door is open for charging.
Troubleshooting
My GoPro Won't Power On
Ensure the camera is charged. Use the included USB cable and a computer, or a GoPro charging device.
My GoPro Won't Respond When I Press a Button
If the camera freezes, press and hold the [Menu Button] for about 8 seconds to power off and reset. Content and settings are saved.
I Forgot My Camera's Username or Password
- Press [Menu Button] to turn on status screen.
- Navigate to Connection Settings.
- Press [Shutter Button], then [Menu Button] to get to Camera Info.
- Press [Shutter Button] to display username (ID) and password (pw).
How Do I Turn Off My Camera?
- If not connected to Capture or a GoPro remote, it powers off automatically after recording stops.
- If connected to an app or remote, use the Power icon in the app or the Power/Mode button on the remote. Wireless remains on.
- If out of range or app is closed, press [Menu Button] to display 'Turn Camera Off', then select with [Shutter Button]. Wireless remains on.
- To turn off connection and power off: Press [Menu Button], navigate to 'Turn WiFi Off', select with [Shutter Button].
Playback on My Computer is Choppy
Choppy playback is usually not file-related. Causes include:
- Incompatible video player (use latest Quik for desktop).
- Computer does not meet minimum HD playback requirements.
- If requirements are not met, record at 1080p60 with Protune off, close other programs. Try 720p30 if issues persist.
What Software Version Am I Running?
Press [Menu Button] to turn on status screen, then navigate through menus until Exit. The version number appears in the upper left.
What Is My Camera's Serial Number?
The serial number is listed:
- Inside the camera above the microSD card slot.
- On your microSD card (in the version.txt file in the MISC folder).
- On your camera's original packaging.
Customer Support
For service and support, visit gopro.com/help.
Trademarks
GoPro, HERO, Protune, and SuperView are trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc. Other names are property of their respective owners.
Regulatory Information
For a complete list of country certifications, refer to the Important Product + Safety Instructions included with your camera or visit gopro.com/help.
CE mark indicates compliance.
