Gopro anamorphic lens mod review

If you’re wondering if a GoPro anamorphic lens mod is worth adding to your gear bag, you’re in the right place. To really nail that distinct cinematic vibe with your action camera, investing in an anamorphic lens mod can be a must, but it’s not for everyone or every shot. The official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod for the HERO13 Black is a premium add-on designed to bring a Hollywood-style 21:9 aspect ratio, dramatic horizontal lens flares, and a stunning ultra-wide field of view to your footage, all while minimizing distortion. What’s super cool about the GoPro official mod is that it handles the “de-squeezing” right inside the camera, which means less fuss in editing and more time for creative shooting. For those with older GoPro models or a tighter budget, third-party options like Skyreat anamorphic lenses or Neewer anamorphic lenses offer a similar aesthetic, though they typically require a bit more work in post-production. It’s a specialty tool, no doubt, and while it won’t be your everyday lens for quick action clips, for content creators aiming for a narrative or stylized look, it’s definitely an interesting and potentially compelling addition to your toolkit.

What Exactly is an Anamorphic Lens, and Why Put One on a GoPro?

Alright, let’s break down what an anamorphic lens actually does. Imagine you’re watching a blockbuster movie, you know, the ones with those wide, epic shots and sometimes those cool horizontal streaks of light when the camera hits a bright source? That’s the anamorphic look. Essentially, an anamorphic lens squeezes a wider field of view horizontally onto a standard sensor, and then in post-production or, with the latest GoPro, in-camera, that image is stretched back out to its original, wider glory. This gives you that ultra-widescreen, 21:9 aspect ratio that feels just like you’re in a movie theater.

Now, why put one on a GoPro? Well, action cameras are usually all about that super-wide, often fisheye-distorted look, which is great for POV action. But sometimes, you want something a bit more refined, more artistic. People want their GoPro footage to look less like a raw action clip and more like a cinematic masterpiece. That’s where an anamorphic lens mod comes in. It’s about transforming your GoPro from a pure action-grabber into a compact, durable storytelling machine, capable of capturing those dramatic, sweeping shots you often see in films. It’s a fantastic way to make your content truly stand out from the typical GoPro crowd.

The Official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod: A Deep Dive

GoPro really stepped up its game with its own official Anamorphic Lens Mod, especially for the HERO13 Black. This isn’t just another lens. it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with your camera, which is a huge plus.

Compatibility and Cost

First things first, this official mod is only compatible with the GoPro HERO13 Black and likely future HB-series cameras. It won’t physically attach to older models like the Hero 11 or 12, and even if it could, the software wouldn’t support the anamorphic modes. So, if you’re rocking an older GoPro, you’ll need to look at third-party options. Omni health ring review

As for the price, the GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod usually retails for about $129 USD, but if you’re a GoPro subscriber, you can often snag it for around $103. Considering the capabilities it adds, that’s a pretty reasonable price point compared to professional anamorphic lenses that can cost thousands.

Key Features and Benefits

The official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod brings a whole host of benefits to your HERO13 Black footage:

• Cinematic Aspect Ratio: This is the big one. You get that gorgeous 21:9 widescreen aspect ratio directly from your camera, just like in feature films. No more cropping your standard 16:9 footage and losing resolution.
• Horizontal Lens Flares: Remember those cool streaks of light? The mod delivers those distinctive horizontal lens flares that instantly scream “cinematic”. It’s a subtle but powerful visual cue.
• Reduced Distortion: Unlike some other wide lenses, the anamorphic mod is designed to give you an ultra-wide field of view with significantly reduced distortion and corner aberrations, especially in modes like Ultra Linear. This means cleaner, more professional-looking edges.
• In-Camera De-Squeezing: This is probably the most significant advantage. The HERO13 Black automatically recognizes the lens when it’s attached and “de-squeezes” the footage in real-time. This means what you see on your camera’s screen is pretty much what you get, and you don’t have to deal with complex post-production steps just to get your footage looking normal. It streamlines your workflow massively.
• Durability and Waterproofing: True to GoPro’s reputation, the mod is durable, scratch-resistant, and features a hydrophobic coating to repel water. It’s also waterproof to the GoPro’s standard 10 meters 33 feet when properly installed.
• HyperSmooth Compatibility: You still get the benefit of GoPro’s excellent HyperSmooth video stabilization, helping you get smooth, steady shots even with the anamorphic look.

Digital Lens Options and Settings

With the Anamorphic Lens Mod attached, your HERO13 Black offers a few digital lens options:

• Linear: This gives you a non-fisheye look, keeping lines straight.
• Ultra Linear: This is often the go-to. It’s even wider than Linear but still avoids that fisheye distortion, offering a really expansive view.
• Wide: Introduces a bit of fisheye for an even broader perspective.
• UltraWide: The widest option, with more pronounced fisheye, similar to SuperView on a standard GoPro.

For resolutions, you can shoot in 5.3K and 4K, all in that beautiful 21:9 aspect ratio. You also have access to 10-bit HEVC and a High Bit Rate of 120 Mbps, giving you plenty of data for color grading if you choose to shoot in Log.

Third-Party Anamorphic Lens Mods: Options for Older GoPros

While GoPro’s official mod is fantastic for the HERO13 Black, many of us are still rocking older GoPros like the Hero 9, 10, 11, or 12. Thankfully, several third-party manufacturers offer anamorphic lens mods that can give you that cinematic flair without needing the latest camera. Brands like Skyreat, Neewer, and even Moment lenses though Moment is more known for phones, some adapt them for GoPros have been popular choices.

Vivo x200fe review

Key Differences and Considerations

The biggest difference when going with a third-party anamorphic lens is the workflow. Most third-party options require you to manually de-squeeze your footage in post-production. This means your raw footage will look “squeezed” and distorted until you stretch it out in your editing software. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s an extra step that the official GoPro mod bypasses.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Compatibility: These lenses often boast wider compatibility across several GoPro generations Hero 9, 10, 11, 12, and sometimes even the 13 with adapters. Always double-check the specific model before buying.
• Image Quality: Quality can vary significantly between brands. Some users have noted that footage from certain third-party lenses, like some Skyreat anamorphic lenses, can sometimes appear softer, especially towards the edges, compared to the native lens.
• Lens Flares: You’ll still get those characteristic horizontal lens flares, but how they look can differ. Some reviews mention that flares can sometimes appear “overly done” or like “smears” under certain lighting conditions with third-party lenses.
• Stabilization Challenges: Using internal stabilization like HyperSmooth with some third-party anamorphic lenses can sometimes lead to undesirable effects like warpage or a “jelly” look, especially if the camera is moving rapidly. Many users recommend disabling HyperSmooth and using a gimbal for smoother results, or specific Gyroflow profiles for FPV.
• ND Filter Integration: A common challenge with third-party anamorphic mods is the lack of direct compatibility with ND filters. This can be a pain on bright days if you want to maintain a cinematic shutter speed like 1/48 or 1/60 for 24fps/30fps. You might need to look for DIY solutions or specialized adapters.
• Price: Generally, third-party anamorphic lenses are more budget-friendly than the official GoPro version, making them an accessible entry point for experimenting with the anamorphic look.

For those with older GoPros, a Neewer anamorphic lens might be a good starting point, as they often offer decent quality for the price. Just remember to factor in the extra editing time for de-squeezing!

Installation and Workflow: Getting Started

Getting your anamorphic lens mod onto your GoPro is usually a pretty straightforward process, especially with the official GoPro mod. Is the 1byone All-in-One Vinyl Record Player Worth It? A Deep Dive

Attaching the Lens Mod

For the official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod on the HERO13 Black, it’s a quick twist-and-lock system:

1. First, you’ll need to remove the standard lens protector from your GoPro by twisting it counter-clockwise and gently pulling it off.
2. Next, align the Anamorphic Lens Mod with your camera. You’ll typically find a blue circle or dot on both the lens mod and your GoPro’s lens area – line those up. Make sure the “Anamorphic” text on the mod is facing upwards.
3. Once aligned and seated properly, push the lens mod onto the camera and twist it clockwise 90 degrees until it locks securely into place.

That’s it! The HERO13 Black should automatically detect the lens and switch into anamorphic mode.

For third-party lenses like Skyreat anamorphic lenses or Neewer anamorphic lenses, the process is generally similar. They usually attach by twisting onto the existing lens mount after the stock lens protector is removed. Just be sure to check the instructions specific to your lens for proper alignment.

Essential Settings and Tips

Once your anamorphic lens is attached, here are some settings and tips to get the best results: Drop akqkeebs signature series white devil keyboard review

• Digital Lens GoPro Official Mod: If you’re using the official GoPro mod, try starting with the Ultra Linear digital lens. Many users find this offers the widest non-fisheye view, which is usually what you want for that cinematic feel. While Wide and UltraWide are options, they’ll introduce more fisheye.
• Resolution and Frame Rate: For that smooth, cinematic motion, consider shooting in 24fps or 30fps at 4K or 5.3K. Higher frame rates like 60fps or 120fps are great for slow-motion shots. The GoPro mod supports 5.3K and 4K at 21:9.
• ProTune Settings for a more controlled look:
  • ISO: Keep your ISO as low as possible e.g., Min 100, Max 400 or 800 to minimize noise and grain, especially since anamorphic lenses often perform best in good light.
  • Sharpness: Set this to Low. An overly sharp image can look less cinematic. You can always add sharpness in post if needed.
  • Color Profile: If you plan on color grading, shoot in Log or Flat if available for maximum flexibility. If you want good-looking footage straight out of the camera, GoPro’s “Natural” color profile is a solid choice.
  • Shutter Speed: Aim for the 180-degree rule shutter speed double your frame rate for natural motion blur. For 24fps, try 1/48. for 30fps, use 1/60. This is where ND filters would come in handy, but remember, they often don’t fit directly on anamorphic mods. You might need to adjust your shutter speed if it’s too bright.
• Keep it Clean: The curved surface of an anamorphic lens is a magnet for dust and smudges, and these will show up very clearly in your footage, especially when shooting into light. Always carry a microfiber cloth and clean it frequently. The official mod even comes with one.
• Protection: When not in use, always keep the protective caps on your lens mod. This is a delicate piece of glass, and scratches will ruin your cinematic dreams.

The Workflow: Desqueezing Your Footage

This is where the experience diverges significantly between the official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod and most third-party options.

With the Official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod

Good news! If you’re using the official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod with your HERO13 Black, the camera handles the de-squeezing automatically. This means when you hit record, the footage saved to your SD card is already in that beautiful 21:9 aspect ratio, properly stretched and ready to go. You can preview it correctly on the camera’s screen, and there’s no need for any special steps in your editing software to fix the aspect ratio. This is a massive time-saver and makes getting that cinematic look much more accessible. You simply import your footage into your preferred video editing software and start editing as usual!

With Third-Party Anamorphic Lenses

For those using third-party anamorphic lenses with older GoPros or even the HERO13 if you choose to shoot in standard mode and manually de-squeeze, you’ll need to perform the de-squeezing step in your video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or Final Cut Pro. The raw footage from these lenses will look vertically stretched or “squeezed.”

Here’s a general idea of how to de-squeeze footage in common editing software the exact steps might vary slightly by version: Amazon kindle colorsoft 16gb review

• Adobe Premiere Pro:
  1. Import your anamorphic clip into your timeline.
  2. Select the clip.
  3. Go to Modify > Interpret Footage.
  4. Under “Pixel Aspect Ratio,” you’ll usually find an option like “Conform To” and then select 1.33:1 Anamorphic HD or a similar setting for a 1.33x anamorphic lens. This will stretch the horizontal dimension to the correct aspect ratio.
• DaVinci Resolve:
  1. Import your footage.
  2. Right-click the clip in your media pool and select Clip Attributes.
  3. Find the “Pixel Aspect Ratio” setting and change it to 1.33 for a 1.33x lens.
• Final Cut Pro:
  1. Import your clip.
  2. Select the clip in your timeline.
  3. Go to the Inspector usually the top right.
  4. Under “Spatial Conform,” you might need to adjust the “Scale” Y-axis or “Distortion” settings manually to stretch the image until circular objects appear round. Some users also set up custom project settings for anamorphic.

It’s a small extra step, but it’s crucial for achieving the correct cinematic look. You’ll want to experiment to find the exact ratio that makes your footage look natural, as some 1.33x lenses might benefit from a slightly different stretch factor e.g., 1.2x instead of 1.33x.

The Pros and Cons: Is a GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod Worth It?

Like any specialized gear, an anamorphic lens mod for your GoPro comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Deciding if it’s “worth it” really depends on your specific needs and creative goals.

The Good Stuff Pros

• Truly Cinematic Look: This is the main reason people get these lenses. You get that authentic 21:9 widescreen aspect ratio and those signature horizontal lens flares that instantly elevate your footage from “action cam” to “film aesthetic”.
• Wider Field of View Without Fisheye: Anamorphic lenses capture a broader horizontal perspective without the extreme fisheye distortion often associated with ultra-wide action camera shots, especially when using modes like Ultra Linear on the official GoPro mod.
• Enhanced Storytelling: The unique visual style encourages more deliberate framing and composition, pushing you to think like a filmmaker and create more impactful, narrative-driven content.
• Simplified Workflow GoPro Official Mod: The in-camera de-squeezing on the HERO13 Black is a must. It dramatically simplifies your post-production process, making the cinematic look much more accessible to everyone.
• Portability: Compared to large, expensive cinema cameras and their anamorphic lenses, a GoPro with its mod remains incredibly compact and portable, allowing for unique mounting options and perspectives.

The Not-So-Good Stuff Cons

• Compatibility Limitations: The official GoPro mod is strictly for the HERO13 Black, leaving users of older models reliant on third-party solutions that may have their own quirks.
• Post-Production for Third-Party Mods: If you’re not using the official GoPro mod, prepare for an extra step of manual de-squeezing in your editing software, which can add time to your workflow.
• Increased Bulk and Fragility: Even the official mod adds a bit of weight and size to your GoPro. The exposed curved lens also makes it more susceptible to dust, dirt, and scratches, requiring more careful handling and frequent cleaning.
• Suboptimal in Low Light: Anamorphic lenses generally don’t excel in low-light conditions. You might notice more noise and less detail compared to shooting with the native lens, even with the best settings. Night footage with a GoPro, in general, isn’t its strong suit.
• Lens Flare Quality: While horizontal flares are a feature, sometimes with direct light sources, they can appear as harsh “streaks” or “lines” that aren’t always desirable, especially with some third-party lenses.
• Loss of Other Features: With the official GoPro mod, you might lose certain shooting modes like HDR video, burst slow motion, or night-lapse options, and Horizon Lock isn’t supported. For third-party lenses, using HyperSmooth can sometimes introduce unwanted artifacts.
• ND Filter Challenge: It’s often difficult or impossible to attach ND filters directly to anamorphic mods, which can limit your ability to achieve cinematic motion blur in bright conditions.
• Not for Everyday Use: Many reviewers agree that this is a specialty lens. If your primary use for a GoPro is casual vlogging, basic action footage, or social media clips that don’t need a specific aspect ratio, the standard lens or even the Max Lens Mod 2.0 for HERO12 and older, offering a very wide view with horizon lock might offer more versatility.

When is an Anamorphic Lens Mod Truly Worth It for Your GoPro?

So, who is this mod really for? It boils down to your creative intent.

• Cinematic Content Creators: If you’re a YouTuber, filmmaker, or content creator who specifically wants to produce highly stylized, cinematic videos with a distinct widescreen look and unique lens flares, this mod is absolutely for you. Think short films, podcast videos, stylized travel vlogs, or narrative pieces.
• FPV Drone Pilots: Many FPV enthusiasts love the anamorphic look for their drone footage. The wider aspect ratio and flares can add a dramatic flair to aerial shots. However, be mindful of stabilization settings. often disabling HyperSmooth and using Gyroflow for stabilization is preferred to avoid distortion.
• Experimental Photographers/Videographers: If you love playing with different looks and pushing the boundaries of your GoPro, an anamorphic mod offers a fresh perspective. While primarily for video, it can also create unique wide-angle photographs.
• Those with a HERO13 Black Seeking Simplicity: If you have the latest GoPro and want the anamorphic look without the hassle of post-production de-squeezing, the official mod is a fantastic, user-friendly option.

It’s less worth it if you primarily shoot for social media platforms that often prefer vertical video or standard 16:9, or if you need a grab-and-go solution for every shot without much thought to aesthetic. For daily vlogging or quick action clips, the added bulk and specific look might be more of a hindrance than a benefit. Sandmarc star filter iphone review

Ultimately, an anamorphic lens mod is a tool for creative expression. It won’t magically make all your footage better, but in the right hands and for the right purpose, it can absolutely transform your GoPro’s output into something truly special and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the aspect ratio of a GoPro anamorphic lens?

The GoPro anamorphic lens mod primarily delivers footage in a 21:9 aspect ratio, which is the classic widescreen format often used in feature films. This gives your videos a cinematic, letterboxed look.

Can I use an anamorphic lens for photography with my GoPro?

Yes, you can use an anamorphic lens for photography with your GoPro, but it’s primarily designed for video. The wider aspect ratio can be great for cinematic shots. However, with the official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod, you might be limited to standard photo modes and may not have options for Super Photo or RAW export.

Do I need to de-squeeze footage with the GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod?

If you’re using the official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod with a HERO13 Black, no! The camera automatically detects the lens and performs the de-squeezing in-camera, meaning your footage is already in the correct 21:9 aspect ratio when you transfer it. If you’re using a third-party anamorphic lens, you will typically need to manually de-squeeze the footage in your video editing software.

Is the GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod waterproof?

Yes, the official GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod is designed to be waterproof to the same depth as the GoPro HERO13 Black itself, which is 10 meters 33 feet when properly installed. It also features a hydrophobic coating to repel water. Huawei pura 80 ultra smartphone review

Why are anamorphic lenses so expensive, and is the GoPro mod a good value?

Traditional anamorphic lenses for cinema cameras can indeed be incredibly expensive, often costing thousands of dollars due to their complex optical design. The GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod, at around $129 or $103 for subscribers, offers a significantly more affordable and compact way to achieve that distinctive anamorphic look. While it’s a specialty item and not for every user, for content creators wanting a cinematic touch without breaking the bank, it’s considered a good value.

Can I use ND filters with the GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod?

Unfortunately, it’s generally not possible to use standard ND filters directly with the GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod. The design of the anamorphic lens usually doesn’t allow for clip-on or screw-on filters, which can be a limitation in bright conditions if you want to maintain a cinematic shutter speed. You might need to look for third-party adapters or other creative solutions.