GoPro Hero 8 Black User manual

1

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Contents Contents
HERO8 Black—Regulatory Model Number SPJB1
Meet Your HERO8 Black 6
Setting Up Your Camera 
Getting to Know Your GoPro 14
Customizing Your GoPro 26
Using QuikCapture 35
Adding HiLight Tags 95
Setting the Screen Orientation 38
Recording Video 39
Video Settings 45
Taking Photos 48
Photo Settings 55
Capturing Time Lapse 57
Time Lapse Settings 61
Live Streaming 64
Exposure Control 65
Connecting to an External Microphone 68
Controlling Your GoPro With Your Voice 69
Playing Back Your Media 73
Connecting to Other Devices 77
Transferring Your Media 79
Setting Your Preferences 84
Important Messages 93
Resetting Your Camera 95
Mounting Your GoPro 97
Removing the Door 102
Maintenance 104
Battery Information 105
Troubleshooting 108
Tech Specs: Video 109
Tech Specs: Photo 120
Tech Specs: Time Lapse 125
Tech Specs: Protune 130
Customer Support 138
Trademarks 138
Regulatory Information 138

Contents Contents
HERO8 Black—Regulatory Model Number SPJB1
Meet Your HERO8 Black 6
Setting Up Your Camera 
Getting to Know Your GoPro 14
Customizing Your GoPro 26
Using QuikCapture 35
Adding HiLight Tags 95
Setting the Screen Orientation 38
Recording Video 39
Video Settings 45
Taking Photos 48
Photo Settings 55
Capturing Time Lapse 57
Time Lapse Settings 61
Live Streaming 64
Exposure Control 65
Connecting to an External Microphone 68
Controlling Your GoPro With Your Voice 69
Playing Back Your Media 73
Connecting to Other Devices 77
Transferring Your Media 79
Setting Your Preferences 84
Important Messages 93
Resetting Your Camera 95
Mounting Your GoPro 97
Removing the Door 102
Maintenance 104
Battery Information 105
Troubleshooting 108
Tech Specs: Video 109
Tech Specs: Photo 120
Tech Specs: Time Lapse 125
Tech Specs: Protune 130
Customer Support 138
Trademarks 138
Regulatory Information 138

6 7
Meet Your HERO8 Black
1. Shutter Button
2. Door
3. Door Latch
4. Status Light
5. Status Screen
6. microSD™ Card Slot
7. Battery
8. USB-C Port
9. Microphone
10. Folding Fingers
Meet Your HERO8 Black
Learn how to use the accessories that came with your GoPro.
See Mounting Your GoPro (starting page 97).
11
9
12
3
2
1
4
7
6
5
8
9
10
4
13
11. Mode Button
12. Speaker
13. Touch Screen

6 7
Meet Your HERO8 Black
1. Shutter Button
2. Door
3. Door Latch
4. Status Light
5. Status Screen
6. microSD™ Card Slot
7. Battery
8. USB-C Port
9. Microphone
10. Folding Fingers
Meet Your HERO8 Black
Learn how to use the accessories that came with your GoPro.
See Mounting Your GoPro (starting page 97).
11
9
12
3
2
1
4
7
6
5
8
9
10
4
13
11. Mode Button
12. Speaker
13. Touch Screen

8 9
MICROSD CARDS
You’ll need a microSD card (sold separately) to save your videos
and photos. Use a brand-name card that ts these requirements:
• microSD, microSDHC™, or microSDXC™
• Class 10 or UHS-I rating
• Capacity up to 256GB
For a list of recommended microSD cards, visit gopro.com/microsdcards.
Heads Up: Be sure your hands are clean and dry before handling your
SD card. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to see your card’s
acceptable temperature range and other important information.
PRO TIP: Keep your SD card in good condition by reformatting it
regularly. This will erase all of your media, so be sure to save it rst.
1. Swipe down to access the Dashboard.
2. Tap Preferences > Reset > Format SD Card.
To learn how to save your videos and photos, see Transferring Your Media
(page 79).
Setting Up Your Camera Setting Up Your Camera
RECHARGEABLE BATTERY
For maximum performance, be sure to use the GoPro Rechargeable
Battery (HERO8 Black/HERO7 Black/HERO6 Black) with your new
GoPro.
Although older GoPro and non-GoPro batteries may t in your
HERO8 Black, they will greatly limit your camera’s performance.
PRO TIP: There’s an easy way to check your battery’s status and make
sure you’re using the right one.
1. Swipe down to access the Dashboard.
2. Tap Preferences > About > Battery Info.

8 9
MICROSD CARDS
You’ll need a microSD card (sold separately) to save your videos
and photos. Use a brand-name card that ts these requirements:
• microSD, microSDHC™, or microSDXC™
• Class 10 or UHS-I rating
• Capacity up to 256GB
For a list of recommended microSD cards, visit gopro.com/microsdcards.
Heads Up: Be sure your hands are clean and dry before handling your
SD card. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to see your card’s
acceptable temperature range and other important information.
PRO TIP: Keep your SD card in good condition by reformatting it
regularly. This will erase all of your media, so be sure to save it rst.
1. Swipe down to access the Dashboard.
2. Tap Preferences > Reset > Format SD Card.
To learn how to save your videos and photos, see Transferring Your Media
(page 79).
Setting Up Your Camera Setting Up Your Camera
RECHARGEABLE BATTERY
For maximum performance, be sure to use the GoPro Rechargeable
Battery (HERO8 Black/HERO7 Black/HERO6 Black) with your new
GoPro.
Although older GoPro and non-GoPro batteries may t in your
HERO8 Black, they will greatly limit your camera’s performance.
PRO TIP: There’s an easy way to check your battery’s status and make
sure you’re using the right one.
1. Swipe down to access the Dashboard.
2. Tap Preferences > About > Battery Info.

10 11
Setting Up Your CameraSetting Up Your Camera
3. Insert the battery.
4. Connect your camera to a USB charger or computer using the
included USB-C cable.
It takes about 2 hours for the battery to fully charge. The camera
status light will turn o when it’s done. To learn more, see Battery
Information (page 105).
PRO TIP: For the fastest charging, use the GoPro Supercharger
(sold separately).
MICROSD CARD + BATTERY SETUP
1. Unlock the door latch and ip the door open.
2. With your camera o, insert the SD card into the card slot with the
label facing the battery compartment.
You can eject the card by pressing it into the slot with your ngernail.

10 11
Setting Up Your CameraSetting Up Your Camera
3. Insert the battery.
4. Connect your camera to a USB charger or computer using the
included USB-C cable.
It takes about 2 hours for the battery to fully charge. The camera
status light will turn o when it’s done. To learn more, see Battery
Information (page 105).
PRO TIP: For the fastest charging, use the GoPro Supercharger
(sold separately).
MICROSD CARD + BATTERY SETUP
1. Unlock the door latch and ip the door open.
2. With your camera o, insert the SD card into the card slot with the
label facing the battery compartment.
You can eject the card by pressing it into the slot with your ngernail.

12 13
UPDATING YOUR CAMERA’S SOFTWARE
To get the latest features and best performance from your GoPro,
make sure it’s using the most current software.
Updating With the GoPro App
1. Download the app from the Apple©App Store©or Google Play™.
2. Follow the app’s on-screen instructions to connect your camera
to your mobile device. If new camera software is available, the app
will tell you how to install it.
Updating Manually
1. Visit gopro.com/update.
2. Choose HERO8 Black from the list of cameras.
3. Select Update your camera manually and follow the instructions.
PRO TIP: Want to know what software version you’re using?
Here’s where you can nd out.
1. Swipe down to access the Dashboard.
2. Tap Preferences > Connections > Camera Info.
Setting Up Your CameraSetting Up Your Camera
5. Unplug the cable and shut the door when charging is complete.
Be sure the door latch is closed and locked before using your camera.
6. Press the door hinge to ensure a tight seal.
WARNING: Your camera’s door is removable. Be sure that it is
locked, sealed, and waterproof by checking the door latch
and pressing the hinge after closing the door.

12 13
UPDATING YOUR CAMERA’S SOFTWARE
To get the latest features and best performance from your GoPro,
make sure it’s using the most current software.
Updating With the GoPro App
1. Download the app from the Apple©App Store©or Google Play™.
2. Follow the app’s on-screen instructions to connect your camera
to your mobile device. If new camera software is available, the app
will tell you how to install it.
Updating Manually
1. Visit gopro.com/update.
2. Choose HERO8 Black from the list of cameras.
3. Select Update your camera manually and follow the instructions.
PRO TIP: Want to know what software version you’re using?
Here’s where you can nd out.
1. Swipe down to access the Dashboard.
2. Tap Preferences > Connections > Camera Info.
Setting Up Your CameraSetting Up Your Camera
5. Unplug the cable and shut the door when charging is complete.
Be sure the door latch is closed and locked before using your camera.
6. Press the door hinge to ensure a tight seal.
WARNING: Your camera’s door is removable. Be sure that it is
locked, sealed, and waterproof by checking the door latch
and pressing the hinge after closing the door.

14 15
POWERING ON
Press the Mode button to turn on your HERO8 Black.
POWERING OFF
Press and hold the Mode button for 3 seconds to turn it o.
3s
WARNING: Use caution when using your GoPro and its mounts
and accessories. Always be aware of your surroundings to
avoid injuring yourself and others.
Be sure to follow all local laws including all privacy laws,
which may restrict recording in certain areas.
Getting to Know Your GoPro Getting to Know Your GoPro
USING THE TOUCH SCREEN
Tap
Select an item to turn it on or o.
Swipe Left or Right
Switch between Video, Photo,
and Time Lapse modes.
Swipe Down From the Edge of the Screen
Open the Dashboard when your camera
is in a landscape orientation.
Swipe Up From the Edge of the Screen
See the last photo or video you captured and
access the Media Gallery.

14 15
POWERING ON
Press the Mode button to turn on your HERO8 Black.
POWERING OFF
Press and hold the Mode button for 3 seconds to turn it o.
3s
WARNING: Use caution when using your GoPro and its mounts
and accessories. Always be aware of your surroundings to
avoid injuring yourself and others.
Be sure to follow all local laws including all privacy laws,
which may restrict recording in certain areas.
Getting to Know Your GoPro Getting to Know Your GoPro
USING THE TOUCH SCREEN
Tap
Select an item to turn it on or o.
Swipe Left or Right
Switch between Video, Photo,
and Time Lapse modes.
Swipe Down From the Edge of the Screen
Open the Dashboard when your camera
is in a landscape orientation.
Swipe Up From the Edge of the Screen
See the last photo or video you captured and
access the Media Gallery.

16 17
Getting to Know Your GoPro
CAPTURE MODES
Your GoPro has three main capture modes.
VIDEO
Change modes by swiping left or right to the one you want.
Video
Includes Standard, Activity, Cinematic, and Slo-Mo presets.
To learn more, see Recording Video (page 39).
Photo
Includes Photo, LiveBurst, Burst, and Night presets. To learn more,
see Taking Photos (page 48).
Time Lapse
Includes TimeWarp Video, Time Lapse, and Night Lapse presets.
To learn more, see Capturing Time Lapse (page 57).
PRO TIP: With the camera on, you can press the Mode button
to switch modes.
Press and Hold the Capture Screen
Turn on and adjust Exposure Control.
Press and Hold Any Back Arrow
Skip back to the main capture, Media Gallery,
or Dashboard screen.
Getting to Know Your GoPro

16 17
Getting to Know Your GoPro
CAPTURE MODES
Your GoPro has three main capture modes.
VIDEO
Change modes by swiping left or right to the one you want.
Video
Includes Standard, Activity, Cinematic, and Slo-Mo presets.
To learn more, see Recording Video (page 39).
Photo
Includes Photo, LiveBurst, Burst, and Night presets. To learn more,
see Taking Photos (page 48).
Time Lapse
Includes TimeWarp Video, Time Lapse, and Night Lapse presets.
To learn more, see Capturing Time Lapse (page 57).
PRO TIP: With the camera on, you can press the Mode button
to switch modes.
Press and Hold the Capture Screen
Turn on and adjust Exposure Control.
Press and Hold Any Back Arrow
Skip back to the main capture, Media Gallery,
or Dashboard screen.
Getting to Know Your GoPro

18 19
Getting to Know Your GoPro
GETTING THE SHOT
1. Simply press the Shutter button to start recording.
100% 100%
2H:11
00:00
2. Press the Shutter button again to stop recording (Video,
Time Lapse, and Live Streaming only).
Getting to Know Your GoPro
CAPTURE SCREEN
This screen gives you access to your camera’s capture settings.
100% 100%
2H:11
1080 | 60 | W
Standard
1. Current Mode (Video, Photo, or Time Lapse)
2. Recording Time/Photos Remaining
3. Customizable On-Screen Shortcuts
4. Capture Settings
5. Battery Status
Heads Up: The capture settings are not available when you turn your
GoPro to take portrait shots. Be sure to choose the settings you want
before rotating your camera.
1
4
2
3
5

18 19
Getting to Know Your GoPro
GETTING THE SHOT
1. Simply press the Shutter button to start recording.
100% 100%
2H:11
00:00
2. Press the Shutter button again to stop recording (Video,
Time Lapse, and Live Streaming only).
Getting to Know Your GoPro
CAPTURE SCREEN
This screen gives you access to your camera’s capture settings.
100% 100%
2H:11
1080 | 60 | W
Standard
1. Current Mode (Video, Photo, or Time Lapse)
2. Recording Time/Photos Remaining
3. Customizable On-Screen Shortcuts
4. Capture Settings
5. Battery Status
Heads Up: The capture settings are not available when you turn your
GoPro to take portrait shots. Be sure to choose the settings you want
before rotating your camera.
1
4
2
3
5

20 21
Getting to Know Your GoPro
CHANGING PRESETS
Each capture mode has presets that make it easy to switch back and forth
between the best mode and settings for your shot. They make getting the
shot you want as simple as possible.
1. Tap the capture settings.
100% 100%
2H:11
1080 | 60 | W
Standard
2. Tap the preset that you want. All of the preset’s settings will be locked
into your camera and ready to go.
4K | 30 | Linear
Cinematic
2.7K | 60 | SuperView
Activity
1080 | 60 | Wide
Standard
VIDEO
CUSTOMIZING THE PRESETS
You can change the settings in your presets with just a few taps.
1. Tap next to the preset you want to adjust.
4K | 30 | Linear
Cinematic
2.7K | 60 | SuperView
Activity
1080 | 60 | Wide
Standard
VIDEO
2. Tap the setting that you want to change.
1.0x OOn
BoostWide1080 | 60
ClipsZoomLow Light
HyperSmoothLensRES | FPS
STANDARD
Getting to Know Your GoPro