How to Hack a GoPro Into a Multi-Lens Camera

Thousands on a GOPRO. Why?

So, for anyone out there looking to solve their frustrations with their GoPro’s wide angle of view, or simply looking at some DIY gear-hacking entertainment, let’s explore what we learned about hacking a GoPro into a multi-lens camera.

The Pros and Cons of GoPro

What’s quite interesting about this video overall is how much of a microcosm it is of the pros and cons of the GoPro and the action camera phenomenon overall. When GoPro’s were first launched, they were designed to pretty much just be a one-trick camera. They were small and durable enough to be thrown into action and adventure, but they were never really meant to be more than that… at first.

Nowadays though, thanks to huge increases in recording power and plenty of other features, GoPros are being used by content creators as their main cameras for plenty of different projects. As crazy as that sounds, if you were to start as a YouTube content creator today, it wouldn’t be the end of the world to shoot exclusively on a GoPro.

But, of course, if you do use your GoPro as an A-camera, you’re going to have issues with it, which Van Neistat outlines in his video voicing his frustrations with its wide angle and image quality.

However, with a true DIY-er’s mind, Neistat aims to rig it up into something perfect for him and his needs.

A $3,000 GoPro Build

Now this is where the hacking begins. If you’re at all interested in copying parts of this build-out, you should start the video around the 3:31 mark to go over his fully custom GoPro build, which looks to retail at around $3,000 with all the parts included.

For his build, Neistat elects to rig up his GoPro to work with C-mount lenses and he even incorporates more advanced accessories like a Shinobi 5" Monitor and a GoPro Light Mod. Of course, he doesn’t elect for anything traditional about this build though as he often opts to rig these pieces together with his woodworking skills (including the fun faux logos which he hand paints onto all of his camera units).

Now, we, of course, have to mention that at this price point for this build-out, it would make much more sense to invest in a mirrorless camera that costs around $3,000 itself and is already fully equipped for multi-lense videography.

However, as an exercise in DIY craftsmanship and YouTube storytelling, this is a great example and inspiration for those looking to have fun with their buildouts and content.