USER MANUAL
2 3

To download this user manual in a different language, visit 

gopro.com/support.

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は、 gopro.com/supportにアクセスしてください。 

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4 5

/ Table of Contents

Using the Mounts 85

Troubleshooting 88

Customer Support 90

Trademarks 90

Regulatory Information 90

The Basics 6

Getting Started 8

Camera Status Screen 13

Camera Icons 14

Camera Menus 16

Camera Modes 18

Navigating Settings Menus 19

Video Mode 20

Photo Mode 34

Multi-Shot Mode 41

Playback Mode 50

Setup Mode 56

Connecting to the GoPro App 65

Transferring Files to a Computer 66

ProtuneTM 67

Battery 73

Important Messages 78

Camera Housing 80

/ Table of Contents
6 7

10. Microphone

11. HERO Port

12. Settings/Tag Button [ ]

13. Battery Door

/ The Basics

1. Camera Status Light (red)

2. Shutter/Select Button [ ]

3. Wireless Status Light (blue)

4. Camera Status Screen

5. Power/Mode Button [ ]

6. Micro HDMI Port 

(cable not included)

7. microSD Card Slot 

(microSD card not included)

8. Mini-USB Port

(supports composite A/V 

cable/3.5mm stereo mic 

adapter, not included)

9. Audio Alert

/ The Basics
8 9

/ Getting Started / Getting Started

Slim housing remove camera Slim housing insert camera

4. Charge the battery by connecting the camera to a computer or 

other USB charging adapter using the included USB cable. The 

camera status light turns on during charging and turns off when 

charging is complete.

WARNING: Using a wall charger other than a GoPro Wall Charger 

can damage the GoPro battery and could result in fire or leakage. 

Only use chargers marked: output 5V 1A. If you do not know the 

voltage and current of your charger, use the included USB cable 

to charge the camera from your computer.

When charging with a computer, be sure that the computer is 

connected to a power source. If the camera status light does not turn 

on, use a different USB port.

The included lithium-ion battery comes partially charged. No damage 

occurs to the camera or battery if used prior to a full charge.

For more battery information, see Battery. 

WARNING: Use caution when using your GoPro as part of your 

active lifestyle. Always be aware of your surroundings to avoid 

injury to yourself and others. 

Abide by all local laws when using your GoPro and related mounts 

and accessories, including all privacy laws, which may restrict 

recording in certain areas.

CHARGING THE BATTERY

1. Remove the camera from its housing.

2. Remove the camera side door and insert a microSD card (sold 

separately). The card must have a minimum rating of Class 10 or 

UHS-I, and a capacity up to 64GB. Visit gopro.com/support for the 

list of GoPro-tested microSD cards.

3. Open the bottom door, insert the battery and then close the 

bottom door.
10 11

POWERING ON + OFF

To Power On:

Press the Power/Mode button [ ] once. The camera status lights 

(red) flash three times and the sound indicator emits three beeps. When 

the camera status screen displays information, your camera is on.

To Power Off:

Press and hold the Power/Mode button [ ] for two seconds. The 

camera status lights (red) flash several times and the sound indicator 

emits seven beeps.

PRO TIP: When the camera is off and QuikCapture is enabled, you can 

turn the camera on and immediately begin capturing video or Time 

Lapse photos just by pressing the Shutter/Select button [ ]. Press 

once for video, press and hold for Time Lapse photos. Press again to 

stop recording and power off the camera. For details, see QuikCapture 

in Setup Mode.

/ Getting Started

CAMERA SOFTWARE UPDATES

To get the latest features and best performance from your HERO4 

camera, make sure you are using the most current camera software. 

You can update your camera software via the GoPro App or GoPro 

software. For more information, visit gopro.com/getstarted.

CAMERA DEFAULT SETTINGS

The HERO4 Black camera powers up with the following default settings:

Video 1080p60

Photo 12MP, Wide Field of View (FOV)

Multi-Shot Burst option (set to 30 photos in 1 second)

QuikCapture Off

Wireless Off

PRO TIP: To open the settings menu for the current mode, press the 

Settings/Tag button [ ].

/ Getting Started
12 13

Your HERO4 Black features a status screen that displays the following 

information about modes and settings:

1. Camera Modes/FOV 

(field of view)

2. Camera Settings

3. Resolution/fps 

(frames per second)

4. ProtuneTM

5. Number of Files Captured

6. Time/Storage/Files

7. Wireless

8. Battery Life

Note: The icons that appear on the camera status screen vary by mode.

/ Camera Status Screen

INSERTING + REMOVING MICROSD CARDS

The HERO4 Black camera is compatible with microSD, microSDHC, 

and microSDXC memory cards with a capacity up to 64GB (sold 

separately). You must use a microSD card with a minimum rating of 

Class 10 or UHS-I. (For a list of the GoPro-tested microSD cards, visit 

gopro.com/support.) GoPro recommends using brand name 

memory cards for maximum reliability in high-vibration activities.

To Insert the microSD Card: To Remove the microSD Card:

Slide the memory card into the 

card slot with the label facing the 

front of the camera.

When fully inserted, the card 

clicks into place.

Place your fingernail against 

the edge of the memory card 

and lightly press it further into 

the camera.

The card springs out far enough 

to be removed.

NOTICE: Use care when handling memory cards. Avoid liquids, dust 

and debris. As a precaution, power off the camera before inserting 

or removing the card. Check manufacturer guidelines regarding use 

in acceptable temperature ranges.

/ Getting Started
14 15

/ Camera Icons

Auto Low Light

Auto Off

Beeps

Burst Photos

Color

Continuous Photos

Date/Time

Default Mode

Delete

Exposure Value 

Compensation

Field of View

Frames Per Second

Interval

ISO Limit

Language

LEDs

Looping

Megapixels

Multi-Shot Mode

Night Lapse

Night Photo

On-Screen Display

Orientation

Photo Mode

Playback Mode

Protune

QuikCapture

Rate

Setup Mode

Sharpness

Shutter

Single Photo

Spot Meter

Time Lapse

Touch Display

Video

Video + Photo

Video Format

Video Mode

Video Resolution

White Balance

Wireless

/ Camera Icons
16 17

/ Camera Menus / Camera Menus

*Playback appears only if the camera is connected to a TV or LCD Touch BacPac (sold separately).

Camera

Reset
18 19

/ Camera Modes

The HERO4 Black features several camera modes. To cycle through 

the modes, press the Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly. 

These modes appear:

Video Record video

Photo Capture a single photo

Multi-Shot Capture a series of photos 

(Time Lapse, Burst, etc.)

Playback Play back videos and photos

Setup Adjust general camera settings

Each camera mode has its own settings menu. 

TO NAVIGATE SETTINGS MENUS:

1. Verify that the camera is in the desired camera mode. If an icon for 

that mode does not appear on the camera status screen, press the 

Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly until it appears.

2. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to open the settings menu for 

that mode.

3. Use the Power/Mode button [ ] to cycle through the settings.

4. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to cycle through the options 

within a setting. To select an option, leave the option highlighted 

when you move to another screen.

5. To go back to the previous screen or exit the settings menu, press 

the Settings/Tag button [ ].

/ Navigating Settings Menus
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/ Video Mode / Video Mode

Video mode contains four capture modes: Video, Time Lapse Video, 

Video + Photo and Video Looping.

Capture Mode Description

Video (default) Captures video.

Time Lapse Video

Creates video from frames captured at 

specific intervals. Time Lapse Video is 

available only in 4K and 2.7K 4:3 resolutions. 

Time Lapse Video is captured without audio. 

ProtuneTM, Auto Low Light, and Spot Meter are 

not available in this capture mode.

Video + Photo

Simultaneously captures both video and 

photos. You can set the camera to capture a 

photo at selected intervals while you record 

video. For details, see Video + Photo Intervals

in this section.

Looping

Lets you continuously record and save only 

the best moments, which helps to conserve 

space on your microSD card. You must 

select an interval. Protune is not available in 

this capture mode.

Note: Looping is not available in high-performance video modes.

CAPTURING VIDEO

1. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly until you get to 

Video mode.

2. If necessary, select a different video capture mode (Video, Time 

Lapse Video, Video + Photo, or Video Looping):

a. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to open the settings menu.

b. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to the desired capture mode.

c. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to close the settings 

menu. The icon for the selected capture mode appears in the 

upper left on your camera status screen.

3. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera beeps once 

and the camera status lights flash while the camera is recording.

4. To stop capturing, press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera 

status lights flash three times and the camera beeps three times.

If the memory card is full or the battery is out of power, your camera 

automatically stops recording. Your video is saved before the camera 

powers off.

PRO TIP: When the camera is off and QuikCapture is enabled, you 

can turn the camera on and immediately begin capturing video just 

by pressing the Shutter/Select button [ ]. Press again to stop 

recording and power off the camera. For details, see Setup Mode.
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/ Video Mode / Video Mode

HILIGHT TAGGING

You can mark specific moments in your video during recording with 

HiLight Tags. HiLight Tags make it easy to find the best highlights to 

share. You can also add HiLight Tags when playing back content using 

an LCD Touch BacPac.

You can add tags with your camera, the GoPro App, or the Smart 

Remote (sold separately).

To Add a HiLight Tag with Your Camera:

While recording or playing back video, press the Settings/Tag

button [ ].

PRO TIP: In the app, tap the screen during playback to display the 

HiLight Tags on the progress bar.

VIDEO SETTINGS

Four capture modes are available for Video mode: Video, Time 

Lapse Video, Video + Photo and Video Looping. The capture mode 

that you select determines the Video settings that appear in the 

rest of the menu.

For instructions on how to change the following settings, see 

Navigating Settings Menus.

PRO TIP: To open the settings menu for the current mode, press the 

Settings/Tag button [ ].
24 25

/ Video Mode

Looping Intervals

Available intervals for Looping are 5, 20, 60 and 120 minutes. For 

example, if you select a 5-minute interval, only the previous 5 minutes 

is saved when you stop recording. If you record for 5 minutes and do 

not press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to stop recording and save, 

the camera begins a new 5-minute interval by recording over your 

previous 5 minutes of footage. 

You can also select max video as the interval. With this option, the camera 

records until the memory card is full, then overwrites the content.

Note: To use Looping, be sure that your microSD card has sufficient space.

PRO TIP: Multiple chapter files are written to your memory card 

so that small segments of content can be overwritten during loop 

recording. When viewing this content on a computer, you see separate 

files for each time segment. Use GoPro software to combine the files 

into a longer video.

INTERVAL

The Interval setting applies to Time Lapse Video, Video + Photo and 

Looping. Interval determines the amount of time that passes between 

each captured frame.

Time Lapse Video Intervals

Available intervals for Time Lapse Video range from 0.5 seconds 

(default) to 60 seconds. 

Interval Examples

0.5-2 seconds Surfing, biking or other sport

2 seconds Busy street corner

5-10 seconds Sunset

10-60 seconds Lengthy activities, such as 

construction projects

Video + Photo Intervals

Available intervals for Video + Photo range from 5-60 seconds. The 

quality of the photo depends on the selected video resolution and FOV.

/ Video Mode
26 27

RESOLUTION, FPS AND FOV

The HERO4 Black includes the video resolutions listed below.

Video 

Resolution

NTSC/

PAL FOV Screen Resolution

4K 30/25

24/24 Ultra Wide 3840x2160, 16:9

4K SuperViewTM 24/24 Ultra Wide 3840x2160, 16:9

2.7K

60/50

48/48

30/25

24/24

Ultra Wide, 

Medium 2704x1520, 16:9

2.7K SuperView 30/25 Ultra Wide 2704x1520, 16:9

2.7K 4:3 30/25 Ultra Wide 2704x2028, 4:3

1440p

80/80

60/50

48/48

30/25

24/24

Ultra Wide 1920x1440, 4:3

1080p 120/120

90/90

Ultra Wide,

Narrow 1920x1080, 16:9

/ Video Mode / Video Mode

Video 

Resolution

NTSC/

PAL FOV Screen Resolution

1080p

60/50

48/48

30/25

24/24

Ultra Wide, 

Medium, 

Narrow

1920x1080, 16:9

1080p SuperView

80/80

60/50

48/48

30/25

24/24

Ultra Wide 1920x1080, 16:9

960p 120/120

60/50 Ultra Wide 1280x960, 4:3

720p 240/240 Narrow 1280x720, 16:9

720p

120/120

60/50

30/25

Ultra Wide, 

Medium, 

Narrow

1280x720, 16:9

720p SuperView 120/120

60/50 Ultra Wide 1280x720, 16:9

WVGA 240/240 Ultra Wide 848x480, 16:9

PRO TIP: To open the settings menu for the current mode, press the 

Settings/Tag button [ ].
28 29

/ Video Mode

High-Performance Video Modes and Camera 

Temperatures

The HERO4 Black features unique high-performance video modes: 

4K30/24, 4K24 SuperView, 2.7K60/48, 2.7K30 SuperView, 2.7K 4:3, 

1440p80, 1080p120/90, 960p120, 720p240 and 720p120 SuperView. 

When using these video modes, it is normal for the camera to 

become warm and use more power.

Using these high-performance modes in higher temperatures 

decreases camera recording time. In addition, lack of airflow around 

the camera, using the camera with the GoPro App, or in combination 

with BacPac accessories further increases camera temperature and 

power consumption, and decreases camera recording time.

If the camera gets too hot, a message appears on the screen 

indicating that the camera is shutting down. The camera stops 

recording, saves your video, disconnects from the GoPro App, 

and powers off. If this happens, let your camera sit and cool before 

attempting to use it again.

For extended recording time in high-performance video modes, 

capture shorter video clips when in stationary use, and/or limit your 

use of features that increase power consumption, such as the GoPro 

App or BacPac accessories. To control your camera remotely at higher 

temperatures, use the GoPro remote instead of the GoPro App.

/ Video Mode

Video Resolution Best Use

4K

Stunning high-resolution video with 

professional low-light performance. 8MP 

stills available from video. Recommended 

for tripod or fixed position shots.

4K SuperView

SuperView delivers the world’s most 

immersive field of view. Recommended for 

tripod or fixed position shots. More vertical 

4:3 content is automatically stretched to 

full-screen 16:9 for stunning widescreen 

playback on your computer or TV.

2.7K

16:9 resolution video downscales to provide 

stunning, cinema-quality results for 

professional productions. 

2.7K SuperView

SuperView delivers the world’s most 

immersive field of view. Recommended 

for body-mounted shots. More vertical 4:3 

content is stretched to full-screen 16:9 for 

stunning widescreen playback on your 

computer or TV.
30 31

/ Video Mode

Video Resolution Best Use

2.7K 4:3

Recommended for body-mounted, 

ski-mounted or surfboard-mounted 

shots. Provides large viewing area.

1440p

Recommended for body-mounted shots. 

Larger viewing area and high frame rate yield 

the smoothest, most immersive results for 

high-action capture.*

1080p Great for all shots. High resolution and frame 

rate yield stunning results.*

1080p SuperView

SuperView delivers the world’s most 

immersive field of view. Recommended for 

body-or gear-mounted shots. More vertical 

4:3 content is automatically stretched to 

full-screen 16:9 for stunning widescreen 

playback on your computer or TV.

Video Resolution Best Use

960p

Use for body-mounted shots and when 

slow motion is desired.* Provides large 

viewing area and smooth results for high 

action capture.

720p Good for handheld shots and when slow 

motion is desired.*

720p SuperView

SuperView delivers the world’s most 

immersive field of view. Good for body-or 

gear-mounted shots. More vertical 4:3 

content is automatically stretched to 

full-screen 16:9 for stunning widescreen 

playback on your computer or TV.

WVGA Good when super slow motion is desired and 

standard definition is acceptable.

* For slow motion at high frame rates, turn off Auto Low Light. If shooting indoors, be sure you have 

sufficient light.

/ Video Mode
32 33

FOV Best Use

Ultra Wide

Largest field of view, increased image 

stability. Good for action shots where 

you want to capture as much as possible 

within the frame. 

Medium Mid-range field of view, moderate 

image stability.

Narrow

Smallest field of view, reduced image 

stability. Reduced distortion. Good for 

capturing content at a distance.

PRO TIP: Easily create epic GoPro-style videos using free 

GoPro software. Learn more and download this software at 

gopro.com/getstarted.

/ Video Mode / Video Mode

LOW LIGHT

Auto Low Light allows you to shoot in low-light environments or 

when quickly transitioning in and out of low-light conditions. The 

camera automatically adjusts fps to achieve the optimal exposure 

and best results. 

Auto Low Light is not available for 240 fps or 30 fps and below. The 

options for this setting are on (default) and off.

SPOT METER

Spot Meter lets you film from a dark space while pointing the camera 

into a brighter setting, such as when recording the outdoors from 

within a car. When Spot Meter is turned on, [ ] appears on the 

camera status screen. The options for this setting are off (default) 

and on.

Note: Changes that you make to the Spot Meter setting in Video mode apply only to video capture. 

To adjust this setting for photo capture, adjust the setting in Photo mode. To adjust this setting for 

multi-shot capture, adjust the setting in Multi-Shot mode.

PROTUNE

For details about Protune settings, see Protune.

Note: Changes that you make to the Protune settings in Video mode apply only to video capture.

To adjust this setting for photo capture, adjust the setting in Photo mode. To adjust this setting for 

multi-shot capture, adjust the setting in Multi-Shot mode.
34 35

/ Photo Mode

Photo mode contains three capture modes: Single, Continuous 

and Night.

Capture Mode Description

Single (default) Captures a single photo.

Continuous

Captures a series of photos continuously 

while holding down the Shutter/Select

button [ ]. 

Night

Captures a single photo with a customizable 

exposure time up to 30 seconds. For available 

exposure times and examples of when to use 

them, see Shutter in Photo Settings.

PRO TIP: While capturing video, you can manually take a photo at 

any time by pressing the Power/Mode button [ ]. Press and hold 

the Power/Mode button [ ] to capture a photo every 5 seconds.

/ Photo Mode

CAPTURING A SINGLE OR NIGHT PHOTO

1. Select the desired photo capture mode (Single or Night):

a. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to Photo mode.

b. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to open the settings menu.

c. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to the desired capture mode (Single or Night).

d. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to close the settings 

menu. The icon for the selected capture mode appears in the 

upper left on your camera status screen.

2. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera beeps two 

times, the camera status lights flash and the counter on the 

camera status screen increases by one.

PRO TIP: For Night photo, be sure to use the right Shutter setting for 

the situation. For details, see Shutter in Photo Settings.
36 37

CAPTURING CONTINUOUS PHOTOS

1. Select Continuous mode:

a. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to Photo mode.

b. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to open the settings menu.

c. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to Continuous.

d. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to close the settings 

menu. The Continuous icon [ ] appears in the upper left on 

your camera status screen.

2. Press and hold the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera 

beeps and the camera status lights flash repeatedly.

3. To stop capturing, release the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The 

counter on the camera status screen increases by one for every 

photo captured.

/ Photo Mode

PHOTO SETTINGS

Three capture modes are available for Photo mode: Single, 

Continuous and Night. The capture mode that you select determines 

the Photo settings that appear in the rest of the menu.

For instructions on how to change the following settings, see 

Navigating Settings Menus.

PRO TIP: To open the settings menu for the current mode, press the 

Settings/Tag button [ ].

/ Photo Mode
38 39

SHUTTER

Shutter applies only to Night Photo and Night Lapse and determines 

the amount of time that the shutter is open. The options for this 

setting are auto (up to 2 seconds), 2, 5, 10, 15, 20 or 30 seconds. The 

default setting is auto.

Settings Examples

Auto (up to 2 sec) Sunrise, sunset, dawn, dusk, twilight, night

2 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec Dawn, dusk, twilight, traffic at night, Ferris 

wheel, fireworks, light painting

20 sec Night sky (with light)

30 sec Night stars, Milky Way (complete darkness)

PRO TIP: For best results when using the Shutter setting, mount your 

camera on a tripod or other stable surface to reduce the amount of 

blur in your video or photos.

/ Photo Mode

INTERVAL

Interval applies only to Continuous photo. Available intervals are 3 

(default), 5 or 10 photos every second.

MEGAPIXELS

The HERO4 Black captures photos at 12MP, 7MP or 5MP.

Note: Changes that you make to the Megapixels setting in Photo mode apply only to photo capture. 

To adjust this setting for multi-shot capture, adjust the setting in Multi-Shot mode.

Photo Resolution Field of View (FOV)

12MP Wide (default)

7MP Wide

Largest field of view. Good for action shots 

where you want to capture as much as 

possible within the frame.

7MP Medium

5MP Medium Mid-range field of view.

/ Photo Mode
40 41

/ Photo Mode

SPOT METER

Spot Meter lets you capture photos from a dark space while pointing 

the camera into a brighter setting, such as when recording the 

outdoors from within a car. When Spot Meter is turned on, [ ] 

appears on the camera status screen. The options for this setting are 

off (default) and on.

Note: Changes that you make to the Spot Meter setting in Photo mode apply only to photo capture. 

To adjust this setting for video capture, adjust the setting in Video mode. To adjust this setting for 

multi-shot capture, adjust the setting in Multi-Shot mode.

PROTUNE

For details about Protune settings, see Protune.

Note: Changes that you make to the Protune settings in Photo mode apply only to photo capture. 

To adjust this setting for video capture, adjust the setting in Video mode. To adjust this setting for 

multi-shot capture, adjust the setting in Multi-Shot mode.

/ Multi-Shot Mode

Multi-Shot mode contains three capture modes: Burst, Time Lapse 

and Night Lapse.

Capture Mode Description

Burst (default)

Captures up to 30 photos in 1 second. 

Perfect for capturing the definitive moment 

in fast-action sports.

Time Lapse

Captures a series of photos at specified 

intervals. You can use Time Lapse to capture 

photos of any activity, so you can choose the 

best ones later.

Night Lapse

Captures a series of photos at specific 

intervals and exposure times. Use Night 

Lapse in low light environments, such as 

when capturing the night sky over a period 

of time. For available exposure times and 

examples of when to use them, see Shutter

in Mult-Shot Settings.

PRO TIP: For longer exposure times during the day, use Night Lapse.
42 43

/ Multi-Shot Mode

CAPTURING BURST PHOTOS

1. Select Burst mode:

a. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to Multi-Shot mode.

b. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to open the settings menu.

c. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ] repeatedly until you 

get to Burst.

d. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to close the settings 

menu. The Burst icon [ ] appears in the upper left on your 

camera status screen.

2. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera status lights 

flash and the camera beeps multiple times.

See Rate in this section for options available for Burst photos.

/ Multi-Shot Mode

CAPTURING TIME LAPSE OR NIGHT LAPSE PHOTOS

1. Select the desired multi-shot capture mode (Time Lapse or 

Night Lapse):

a. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to Multi-Shot mode.

b. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to open the settings menu.

c. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ] repeatedly until you get 

to the desired capture mode (Time Lapse or Night Lapse).

d. Press the Settings/Tag button [ ] to close the settings 

menu. The icon for the selected capture mode appears in the 

upper left on your camera status screen.

2. Press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The camera initiates 

countdown and the camera status lights flash each time a photo 

is captured.

3. To stop capturing, press the Shutter/Select button [ ]. The 

camera status lights flash three times and the camera beeps 

three times.

PRO TIP: When the camera is off and QuikCapture is enabled, you 

can turn the camera on and immediately begin capturing Time Lapse 

photos just by pressing and holding the Shutter/Select button [ ]. 

Press again to stop recording and power off the camera. For details, 

see Setup Mode.
44 45

MULTI-SHOT SETTINGS

Three capture modes are available for Multi-Shot mode: Burst, Time 

Lapse and Night Lapse. The capture mode that you select determines 

the Multi-Shot settings that appear in the rest of the menu.

For instruction on how to change the following settings, see 

Navigating Settings Menus.

PRO TIP: To open the settings menu for the current mode, press the 

Settings/Tag button [ ].

/ Multi-Shot Mode / Multi-Shot Mode

Rate applies only to Burst. Photos can be captured at the following rates:

3 photos in 1 second

5 photos in 1 second

10 photos in 1 second

10 photos in 2 seconds

10 photos in 3 seconds

30 photos in 1 second (default)

30 photos in 2 seconds

30 photos in 3 seconds

30 photos in 6 seconds

PRO TIP: Sometimes 30 photos in 1 second is too fast. Try a slower 

Burst interval to better match the action.
46 47

SHUTTER

Shutter applies only to Night Photo and Night Lapse and determines 

the amount of time that the shutter is open. The options for this 

setting are auto (up to 2 seconds), 2, 5, 10, 15, 20 or 30 seconds. The 

default setting is auto.

Settings Examples

Auto (up to 2 sec) Sunrise, sunset, dawn, dusk, twilight, night

2 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec Dawn, dusk, twilight, traffic at night, Ferris 

wheel, fireworks, light painting

20 sec Night sky (with light)

30 sec Night stars, Milky Way (complete darkness)

PRO TIP: For best results when using the Shutter setting, mount your 

camera on a tripod or other stable surface to reduce the amount of 

blur in your video or photos.

/ Multi-Shot Mode / Multi-Shot Mode

INTERVAL

Interval applies only to Time Lapse and Night Lapse. Interval determines 

the amount of time that passes between each captured frame.

Time Lapse Intervals

Available intervals for Time Lapse range from 0.5 seconds (default) to 

60 seconds.

Interval Examples

0.5-2 seconds Surfing, biking or other sport

2 seconds Busy street corner

5-10 seconds Sunset

10-60 seconds Lengthy activities, such as 

construction projects

Night Lapse Intervals

Available intervals for Night Lapse range from 4 seconds to 60 

minutes. Continuous (default) causes the Interval to match the Shutter 

setting. For example, if Shutter is set to 10 seconds and Interval is set 

to continuous, your camera captures a photo every 10 seconds.
48 49

MEGAPIXELS

The HERO4 Black captures photos at 12MP, 7MP or 5MP.

Note: Changes that you make to the Megapixels setting in Multi-Shot mode apply only to multi-shot 

capture. To adjust this setting for photo capture, adjust the setting in Photo mode.

Settings Description

12MP Wide (default)

7MP Wide

Largest field of view. Good for action shots 

where you want to capture as much as 

possible within the frame.

7MP Medium

5MP Medium Mid-range field of view.

/ Multi-Shot Mode

SPOT METER

Spot Meter lets you capture photos from a dark space while pointing 

the camera into a brighter setting, such as when recording the 

outdoors from within a car. When Spot Meter is turned on, [ ] 

appears on the camera status screen. The options for this setting are 

off (default) and on.

Note: Changes that you make to the Spot Meter setting in Multi-Shot mode apply only to multi-shot 

capture. To adjust this setting for video capture, adjust the setting in Video mode. To adjust this setting 

for photo capture, adjust the setting in Photo mode.

PROTUNE

For details about Protune settings, see Protune.

Note: Changes that you make to the Protune settings in Multi-Shot mode apply only to multi-shot 

capture. To adjust this setting for video capture, adjust the setting in Video mode. To adjust this setting 

for photo capture, adjust the setting in Photo mode.

/ Multi-Shot Mode
50 51

/ Playback Mode

You can play back your content on a computer, TV, smartphone/

tablet (using the GoPro App) or on your camera using an LCD Touch 

BacPac (sold separately). Playback mode appears only if the camera 

is connected to a TV or LCD Touch BacPac.

You can also play back content by inserting the microSD card 

directly into a device, such as a computer or compatible TV. With 

this method, playback resolution depends on the resolution of the 

device and its ability to play back that resolution.

PLAYING BACK VIDEOS AND PHOTOS ON A COMPUTER

For best results playing back your content on a computer, visit 

gopro.com/getstarted to download the latest GoPro software. Be 

sure your Mac®

 or Windows® computer meets these minimum 

system requirements:

Windows Mac

Operating 

System Windows 7, 8.x OS X®

 10.8 or later

CPU

Intel®

 Core 2 DuoTM (Intel 

Quad CoreTM i7 or better 

recommended)

Intel®

 Dual CoreTM (Intel 

Quad Core i7 or better 

recommended)

Graphics Card Card that supports 

Open GL1.2 or later

Card included with 

Intel Dual Core Macs 

or better

/ Playback Mode

Windows Mac

Screen 

Resolution 1280 x800 1280 x768

RAM 4GB 4GB

Hard Drive

5400 RPM internal 

drive (7200 RPM drive 

or SSD recommended) 

If external, use USB 3.0 

or eSATA

5400 RPM internal 

drive (7200 RPM drive 

or SSD recommended) 

If external, use

Thunderbolt, FireWire 

or USB 3.0

For minimum system requirements for 4K playback and editing, visit 

gopro.com/support.

To Play Back Content on Your Computer:

1. Download the latest GoPro software from gopro.com/getstarted.

2. Connect the camera to your computer using the included USB cable.

3. Copy the files to your computer or external hard drive.

4. Play back your content with GoPro software.
52 53

PLAYING BACK VIDEOS AND PHOTOS ON YOUR TV

Playing back videos and photos on your TV/HDTV requires a micro 

HDMI, composite or combo cable (all sold separately).

To Play Back Content on a TV:

1. Plug the camera into a TV/HDTV with a micro HDMI cable, 

composite cable or combo cable.

2. Select the input on your TV that corresponds to the port into which 

you plugged the cable.

3. Power on the camera.

4. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] to cycle to Playback [ ]

mode, and then press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to select it.

5. Use the Power/Mode button [ ] to navigate files.

6. Use the Shutter/Select button [ ] to open a file in full-screen view.

7. When a file is selected, use [ ] and [ ] to navigate backward 

and forward to see more media files on your memory card.

Note: HDMI playback depends on the resolution of the device, and is certified up to 1080p.

/ Playback Mode

PLAYING BACK CONTENT ON A SMARTPHONE/TABLET

1. Connect your camera to the GoPro App. For details, see 

Connecting to the GoPro App.

2. Use the controls on the app to play back your footage on your 

smartphone/tablet.

PLAYING BACK CONTENT USING AN LCD TOUCH BACPAC

For instructions, see the LCD Touch BacPac User Guide.

PRO TIP: While playing back your video, you can add HiLight Tags to 

mark the best moments. In the GoPro App, tap the HiLight Tag icon. If 

you are using an LCD Touch BacPac, press the Settings/Tag button 

[ ] on the camera to add a tag.

/ Playback Mode
54 55

CREATING SHORT CLIPS FROM A VIDEO

Video trimming lets you create short clips of your favorite shots 

from your video files. Clips are saved as new files that can be shared 

through the GoPro App and used during editing in GoPro Studio. 

Note: This feature is available only if your camera is connected to an LCD Touch BacPac 

(sold separately).

To Create a Short Clip from a Video:

1. In Playback mode, tap the video that contains the clip that you 

want to save.

2. Tap [ ] to begin playing the video.

3. When you reach the point where you want to start clipping, 

tap [ ].

4. Tap [ ]. By default, the duration of the clip is 5 seconds. 

5. If needed, select one of these options:

• To save a longer clip, tap the 5 sec icon repeatedly to cycle 

through the options. You can save a clip with a duration of 5, 

15, or 30 seconds. 

• To save a photo of the frame in view, tap Still.

6. Tap [ ] to review the clip before saving it.

/ Playback Mode

7. If needed, adjust the starting point of the clip by tapping [ ] . 

To adjust the ending point, tap [ ].

Note: If you adjust the starting or ending points, the duration of the clip remains the same.

8. Tap Save. The clip is saved as a separate video file. Still photos are 

saved as photo files. Your original video file is unchanged. 

PRO TIP: After you create clips from a video, you can delete the 

original file to save space on your microSD card.

/ Playback Mode
56 57

/ Setup Mode

In Setup mode, you can change settings that apply to all camera 

modes. For instructions on how to change the following settings, 

see Navigating Settings Menus.

WIRELESS

When Wireless is on, a Wireless status icon appears on the camera 

status screen and the blue wireless light blinks intermittently. The 

default setting for Wireless is off.

Setting Description

PAIR

Lets you pair your camera to a smartphone/

tablet (through the GoPro App) or a GoPro 

remote (sold separately). For instructions 

on pairing to a smartphone/tablet, see 

Connecting to the GoPro App. For instructions 

on pairing to a GoPro remote, see the user 

manual for the remote.

MODE

After pairing, Mode lets you connect the 

camera to the GoPro App or a GoPro remote 

(sold separately). 

Note: RC and APP are combined into one Mode option if you 

paired your camera with a smartphone/tablet that uses 

Bluetooth® LE.

PRO TIP: If you forgot your camera’s name or password, use the 

Camera Reset setting (Reset Wi-Fi option) in Setup mode to reset 

them to the defaults. The default password is goprohero.

TOUCH DISPLAY

Touch Display appears only if your camera is attached to an LCD Touch 

BacPac (sold separately). These settings let you manage the BacPac 

screen to conserve battery power.

Setting Description

Sleep 

Automatically dims the touch display after a 

period of inactivity. The options for this setting 

are 1 minute (default), 2 minutes, 3 minutes 

and Never. To manually dim the screen or 

to wake it, press the Touch Display Sleep/

Wake button [ ]. 

Lock 

Lets you use gestures to lock and unlock the 

touch display. The options for this setting are 

off and on (default). Turn this setting on to 

prevent accidental input on the touch display. 

When this setting is on, press the touch 

display for two seconds to lock it. To unlock 

the touch display, slide down and hold.

/ Setup Mode
58 59

Setting Description

Brightness 

Determines the level of light on the touch 

display. The options for this setting are high 

(default), medium and low.

Touch Display 

On/Off

Turns the touch display on or off when the 

camera is powered on. The options for this 

setting are on (default) and off.

/ Setup Mode

ORIENTATION

If you mount your camera upside down, you might have to rotate the 

files during editing. This setting eliminates the need to flip your video 

or photos after recording.

Setting Description

Up (default) Camera is always assumed to be 

right-side up.

Down Camera is always assumed to be 

upside down.

Auto

(Auto Image Rotation) Camera 

automatically selects Up or Down,

based on the orientation of the

camera when recording begins. 

DEFAULT MODE

You can select the capture mode that appears when the camera 

powers on. The options are Video, Time Lapse Video, Video + Photo, 

Video Looping, Single, Continuous, Night, Burst, Time Lapse, and 

Night Lapse.

/ Setup Mode
60 61

/ Setup Mode

QUIKCAPTURE

With QuikCapture, you can quickly turn your camera on and begin 

capturing video or Time Lapse photos. The options for this setting are 

on and off (default).

Note: QuikCapture is disabled when the camera is connected to the remote or the GoPro App.

To Capture Video with QuikCapture:

With the camera powered off, press and release the Shutter/Select

button [ ]. Your camera automatically powers on and begins 

capturing video.

To Capture Time Lapse Photos with QuikCapture:

With the camera powered off, press and hold the Shutter/Select

button [ ] until you see the Time Lapse icon [ ]. Your camera 

automatically powers on and begins capturing Time Lapse photos.

To Stop Recording:

Press and release the Shutter/Select button [ ] to stop recording 

and power off the camera.

/ Setup Mode

LEDS

This setting determines which camera status lights (red) to activate. 

The options for this setting are 4 (top, bottom, front, back), 2 (front and 

back), or off (none). The default setting is 4.

Note: The Wireless status light (blue) is always activated unless you select off for this setting.

BEEPS

You can set the volume for the sound indicators to be 100% (default), 

70% or off.

VIDEO FORMAT

The Video Format setting governs frame rates for recording and 

playback when viewing video on a TV/HDTV.

Setting Description

NTSC (default) Viewing video in North America

PAL Viewing video on a PAL TV/HDTV (most 

televisions outside of North America)
62 63

/ Setup Mode

ON-SCREEN DISPLAY

The OSD (on-screen display) setting determines whether the 

recording icons and file information on video and on the viewing 

screen appear during playback. The options for this setting 

are on (default) and off.

Note: When this setting is on and you are playing back content on your camera using an LCD Touch 

BacPac (sold separately), you can tap the touch display to quickly show or hide the recording and 

file information.

AUTO OFF

Your camera can be configured to automatically power off after a 

specific period (1 minute - 5 minutes) in which no videos or photos 

are captured and no buttons are pressed. You can also configure the 

camera to never automatically power off (default).

Note: Your camera does not automatically power off when connected to the GoPro App or the remote.

/ Setup Mode

DATE/TIME

Your camera’s date and time are automatically set when you connect 

your camera to the GoPro App or GoPro software. This setting lets 

you manually set the date and time. If the battery is removed from 

the camera for an extended period of time, you must reset the date 

and time (automatically or manually).

DELETE

This setting lets you delete the last file, or delete all files and format 

the memory card. Deleting all files is useful after you transfer your 

files to your computer and want to make room on your memory card 

for more content. LED lights blink until the operation is complete.

NOTICE: If you select All/Format, the memory card is reformatted, 

which deletes every file on the card.
64 65

CAMERA RESET

With this setting, you can reset your camera’s settings or username 

and password. 

Setting Description

Reset Defaults

Returns all settings to their default values. 

This option retains the Date/Time setting, the 

camera’s name and wireless password, and 

remote control pairing.

Note: If your camera is not responding but you do not want to 

lose your settings, press and hold the Power/Mode button for 

8 seconds. 

Reset Wi-Fi

Resets the camera's name and password 

to the defaults. The default password is 

goprohero.

LANGUAGE

This setting changes the language that appears on the camera 

displays. The options are English (default) and simplified Chinese. 

/ Setup Mode / Connecting to the GoPro App

The GoPro App lets you control your camera remotely using a 

smartphone or tablet. Features include full camera control, live preview, 

playback and sharing of content, and camera software updates.

TO CONNECT YOUR HERO4 BLACK TO THE GOPRO APP:

1. Download the GoPro App to your smartphone/tablet from the 

Apple App Store, Google Play, or the Windows Phone Store.

2. Follow the app’s on-screen instructions to connect your camera.

Note: If needed, the default password for your camera is goprohero.

For complete pairing instructions, visit gopro.com/support.

PRO TIP: If the camera is powered on and ready to capture videos or 

photos, you can press and hold the Settings/Tag button [ ] for two 

seconds to turn Wireless on/off. You can also do this when the camera 

is powered off.
66 67

To play back your video and photos on a computer, you must first 

transfer these files to a computer. 

TO TRANSFER FILES TO A COMPUTER:

1. Download and install the latest GoPro software from 

gopro.com/getstarted.

2. Connect the camera to your computer using the included 

USB cable.

PRO TIP: You can also transfer files to a computer using a card reader 

(sold separately). Connect the card reader to your computer and insert 

the microSD card into the reader. You can then transfer files to your 

computer or delete selected files on your card.

/ Transferring Files to a Computer / Protune

PROTUNE BENEFITS

Protune unlocks the camera’s full potential, yielding stunning 

image quality and cinema-caliber video and photos optimized for 

professional productions. Protune gives content creators more 

flexibility and workflow efficiency than ever before.

Protune is compatible with professional color correction tools, GoPro 

software and other video and photo editing software.

Protune enables manual control of White Balance, Color, ISO Limit, 

Sharpness and Exposure Value Compensation for advanced control 

and customization of your video footage and photos.

Note: Changes that you make to the Protune settings apply only to the mode in which they are 

changed. To adjust this setting for video capture, adjust the settings in Video mode. To adjust this 

setting for photo capture, adjust the settings in Photo mode. To adjust this setting for multi-shot 

capture, adjust the settings in Multi-Shot mode.

PROTUNE

The options for this setting are off (default) and on. When Protune is 

on, PT appears on the camera status screen. Protune is available for 

all video and photo resolutions.
68 69

/ Protune

WHITE BALANCE

White balance adjusts the overall color tone of videos and photos.

Setting Description

Auto (default) Automatically adjusts the color tone based 

on the environmental conditions

3000K Warm light (incandescent or sunrise/

sunset lighting)

5500K Slightly cool light (cool fluorescent or 

average daylight)

6500K Cool light (overcast conditions)

Native

Minimally color-corrected file from the 

image sensor that allows for more precise 

adjustments in post-production

/ Protune

COLOR

Color allows you to adjust the color profile of your video footage 

or photos.

Color Setting Resulting Color Profile

GoPro Color 

(default)

Provides GoPro color-corrected profile (same 

great color as when Protune is turned off).

Flat

Provides neutral color profile that can be 

color-corrected to better match footage 

captured with other equipment, offering more 

flexibility in post-production. Due to its long 

curve, Flat captures more details in shadows 

and highlights.
70 71

/ Protune

ISO LIMIT

ISO Limit adjusts the camera’s sensitivity in low-light environments, 

and creates a balance between brightness and resulting image noise. 

Image noise refers to the degree of graininess in the image.

Protune for Video ISO Limit

Setting Resulting Quality

6400 Brighter video in low light, highest

image noise

3200 Brighter video in low light, increased 

image noise

1600 (default) Moderately bright video in low light, 

moderate image noise

800 Darker video in low light, marginal 

image noise

400 Darker video in low light, minimum

image noise

/ Protune

Protune for Photo ISO Limit

Setting Resulting Quality

800 (default) Brighter photo in very low light, increased 

image noise

400 Brighter photo in very low light, moderate 

image noise

200 Darker photo in indoor lighting, marginal 

image noise

100 Darker photo in indoor lighting, minimal 

image noise

SHARPNESS

Sharpness controls the sharpness of your video footage or photos.

Sharpness Setting Resulting Quality

High (default) Ultra-sharp video or photo

Medium Moderately sharp video or photo

Low Softer video or photo
72 73

/ Protune

EXPOSURE VALUE COMPENSATION (EV COMP)

Exposure Value Compensation affects the brightness of your video or 

photo. Adjusting this setting can improve image quality when shooting 

in environments with contrasting lighting conditions.

Settings

-2.0 -1.5 -1.0 -0.5 0 (default) +0.5 +1.0 +1.5 +2.0

PRO TIP: Exposure Value Compensation adjusts brightness 

within the existing ISO Limit. If brightness has already reached the 

ISO Limit in a low-light environment, increasing the Exposure Value 

Compensation does not have any effect.

RESET

This option resets all Protune settings to their default values.

/ Battery

MAXIMIZING BATTERY LIFE

The battery icon on the camera screen blinks when the battery drops 

below 10%. If the battery reaches 0% while recording, the camera 

saves the file and powers off.

To maximize battery life, close the GoPro App. To maximize battery 

life when shooting longer-duration activities while the camera is 

connected to an LCD Touch BacPac (sold separately), turn off or remove 

the BacPac. Extreme cold temperatures can decrease battery life. To 

maximize battery life in cold conditions, keep the camera in a warm 

place prior to use. Shooting at higher frame rates and resolutions 

increases power consumption.

PRO TIP: QuikCapture helps maximize battery life. For details, see 

QuikCapture in Setup Mode.
74 75

/ Battery

The battery charges to 100% in approximately two hours when using 

GoPro’s USB-compatible Wall or Auto Charger. 

You can also charge the battery outside the camera using the Dual 

Battery Charger (sold separately). 

No damage occurs to the camera or battery if used prior to full charge. 

Spare batteries and additional charging accessories are available at 

gopro.com.

REMOVING THE BATTERY FROM THE CAMERA

The HERO4 Black battery is designed to have a tight fit to maximize 

reliability in high-vibration activities.

To Remove the Battery:

1. Open the battery door by placing your thumb in the indentation in 

the battery door (on the bottom of the camera) and sliding it to the 

left. Allow the door to open.

2. Grasp the battery pull-tab and remove the battery from the camera.

/ Battery
76 77

/ Battery

BATTERY STORAGE AND HANDLING

The camera contains sensitive components, including the battery. 

Avoid exposing your camera and battery to very cold or very hot 

temperatures. Low or high temperature conditions may temporarily 

shorten the battery life or cause the camera to temporarily stop working

properly. Avoid dramatic changes in temperature or humidity when 

using the camera, as condensation may form on or within the camera.

The camera housing protects the camera and battery from water 

damage. For more information, see Camera Housing. Do not turn 

on your camera if it is wet. If your camera is already on, turn it 

off and remove the battery immediately. Allow the camera to dry 

thoroughly before using it again. Do not dry the camera or battery 

with an external heat source such as a microwave oven or hair dryer. 

Damage to the camera or battery caused by contact with liquid is not 

covered under the warranty.

Do not store your battery with metal objects, such as coins, keys 

or necklaces. If the battery terminals come in contact with metal 

objects, this may cause a fire.

BATTERY DISPOSAL

Most rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are classified as non-hazardous 

waste and are safe for disposal in the normal municipal waste stream. 

Many localities have laws in place requiring battery recycling. Check 

your local laws to make sure that you can dispose of rechargeable 

batteries in your regular trash. To safely dispose of lithium-ion batteries, 

protect terminals from exposure to other metal with packing, masking 

or electrical tape so they do not cause a fire while being transported.

Lithium-ion batteries, however, do contain recyclable materials and 

are accepted for recycling by the Rechargeable Battery Recycling 

Corporation’s (RBRC) Battery Recycling Program. We encourage 

you to visit Call2Recycle at call2recycle.org or call 1-800-BATTERY 

in North America to find a convenient recycling location.

Never dispose of a battery in a fire because it may explode.

WARNING: Do not drop, disassemble, open, crush, bend, 

deform, puncture, shred, microwave, incinerate or paint the 

camera. Do not insert foreign objects into the battery opening 

on the camera. Do not use the camera or the battery if it has 

been damaged—for example, if cracked, punctured or harmed 

by water. Disassembling or puncturing the battery can cause 

an explosion or fire.

/ Battery
78 79

/ Important Messages

MICROSD CARD MESSAGES

NO SD

No card present. The camera requires a 

microSD, microSDHC or microSDXC card 

(sold separately) to capture videos and photos.

FULL Card is full. Delete files or swap card.

SD ERR Camera is unable to read card formatting. 

Reformat the card in the camera.

PRO TIP: Reformat your microSD card on a regular basis to ensure 

that the card remains in good condition.

/ Important Messages

FILE REPAIR ICON

If your last video file was corrupted during recording, 

the camera displays the File Repair icon while it tries to 

repair the file. When this process is finished, press any 

button to continue using the camera.

TEMPERATURE ICON

The Temperature icon appears on the camera status 

screen when the camera becomes too hot and needs 

to cool down. Simply let it sit and cool before attempting 

to use it again. Your camera was designed to identify 

conditions of overheating and is designed to respond 

accordingly.
80 81

/ Camera Housing

ASSEMBLING THE CAMERA HOUSING

To Remove the Camera From the Housing:

1. Lift the front of the latch up to disengage it from the camera housing.

2. Pivot the latch backward and pull it up to release the backdoor.

3. Pull open the housing backdoor and remove the camera.

Slim housing remove camera Slim housing insert camera

Slim housing closed Swapping housing doors

/ Camera Housing

To Secure the Camera in the Housing:

1. Open the housing and place the camera into position.

2. Make sure the seal around the backdoor is free of debris.

3. Close the housing backdoor and squeeze it closed to ensure a 

good seal.

4. Pivot the hinged arm backwards and hook the lip of the latch into 

the grooved top of the housing backdoor.

5. Push the latch down to snap it into place.

Slim housing remove camera Slim housing insert camera

Slim housing closed Swapping housing doors

WARNING: Always secure the camera in its housing when using 

the camera in or around water. Do not get the camera or the 

battery wet.
82 83

/ Camera Housing

Your HERO4 Black camera comes with two types of backdoors: 

Standard Backdoor and Skeleton Backdoor.

The Standard Backdoor makes the housing 

waterproof to 131’ (40m). Use this door when you 

need to protect the camera from water, dirt, sand 

and other environmental hazards.

The Skeleton Backdoor (non-waterproof) 

provides better sound quality by allowing more 

sound to reach the camera’s microphone. It also 

reduces wind noise at speeds up to 100mph when 

mounted on helmets, motorcycles, bikes and 

other fast-moving vehicles. Use this backdoor 

only when sand, excessive dirt/dust and water 

damage are not a risk. This backdoor is also 

recommended for use inside vehicles.

PRO TIP: Apply Rain-X®

 or a similar anti-beading solution to the 

camera housing lens to prevent water spots from forming when using

your camera in rain or water. 

/ Camera Housing

SWAPPING BACKDOORS

You can switch the backdoor of your HERO4 Black camera to suit your 

activity and shooting conditions.

To Change the Backdoor:

1. Open the backdoor of the housing so that it hangs downwards.

2. Firmly pull the backdoor downwards until it snaps free from the 

main housing.

3. Line up the replacement backdoor into the hinge opening.

4. Push upwards on the backdoor until it clicks into place.

Slim housing remove camera Slim housing insert camer

Slim housing closed Swapping housing doors

Quick Release Buckle + Thumb Screw + Slim housing = Complete Unit
84 85

/ Camera Housing

PREVENTING WATER DAMAGE TO YOUR CAMERA

The rubber seal that lines the camera housing forms a waterproof barrier 

that protects your HERO4 Black in wet and underwater conditions.

Keep the camera housing’s rubber seal clean. A single hair or grain of 

sand can cause a leak and damage your camera.

After every use in salt water, rinse the outside of the camera housing 

with non-salt water and dry. Not doing this can eventually cause 

corrosion of the hinge pin and salt buildup in the seal, which can 

cause failure.

To clean the seal, rinse in fresh water and shake dry (drying with a 

cloth may cause lint to compromise the seal). Re-install the seal into 

the grooves in the backdoor of the camera housing.

WARNING: Failure to follow these steps each time you use

your GoPro can result in leaks that may damage or destroy your 

camera. Water will damage both the camera and the battery, 

which could cause an explosion or fire. Your warranty does not 

cover water damage resulting from user error.

/ Using the Mounts

ATTACHING YOUR CAMERA TO MOUNTS

To attach your HERO4 Black camera to a mount, you need a Quick 

Release Buckle and/or thumb screw, depending on the mount you are 

using. For more information on mounts, visit gopro.com/support.

Quick Release 

Buckle Thumb Screw Housing Complete Unit

USING CURVED + FLAT ADHESIVE MOUNTS

The Curved + Flat Adhesive Mounts make it easy to attach the camera 

to curved and flat surfaces of helmets, vehicles and gear. Using the 

Quick Release Buckle, the assembled camera housing can be clicked 

on and off the secured Curved or Flat Adhesive Mounts. 

Curved Adhesive Mount Flat Adhesive Mount

Slim housing remove camera 

Slim housing closed Swapping housing doors

Quick Release Buckle + Thumb Screw + Slim housing = Complete Unit
86 87

/ Using the Mounts

MOUNTING GUIDELINES

Follow these guidelines when attaching adhesive mounts:

• Attach the adhesive mounts at least 24 hours prior to use. 

• Adhesive mounts must be mounted only on smooth surfaces. 

Porous or textured surfaces do not enable a proper bond. When 

applying the mount, firmly press it into place and ensure full 

contact over the entire surface.

• Apply adhesive mounts to clean surfaces only. Wax, oil, dirt or 

other debris reduce adhesion, which can result in a weak bond 

and risk of losing the camera should the connection fail.

• Attach adhesive mounts in room temperature conditions. 

Mount adhesives do not bond properly if applied in cold or damp 

environments to cold or damp surfaces, or if the surface is not 

room temperature.

For more information on mounts, visit gopro.com/support.

WARNING: If using your camera with a GoPro mount or strap 

intended for use with a helmet, always select a helmet that 

meets the applicable safety standard. 

Choose the right helmet for your particular sport or activity 

and make sure that it is the right fit and size for you. Inspect 

your helmet to ensure that it is in good condition and follow the 

helmet manufacturer’s instructions on safe helmet use. 

Any helmet that has sustained a major impact should be 

replaced. No helmet can protect against injury in every accident.

/ Using the Mounts

LOCKING PLUG

If you are using HERO4 Black in sports such as surfing or skiing, use 

the standalone white locking plug to securely lock the Quick Release 

Buckle fingers into place. 

To Attach the Locking Plug:

1. Loop the circular ring over the thumbscrew. The circular ring 

acts as a leash to prevent dropping or losing the locking plug.

2. Slide the Quick Release Buckle into the mount until it clicks 

into place.

3. Press the U-shaped part of the plug into the U-shaped space in 

the Quick Release Buckle.

WARNING: To avoid injury in the event of an accident, do not use 

the locking plug or tether when using a mounting device on a 

helmet or other personal protective gear.
88 89

MY GOPRO WON’T POWER ON

Make sure your GoPro is charged. To charge your camera, use the 

included USB cable and a computer. You can also use the GoPro Wall 

or Auto Charger.

MY GOPRO WON’T RESPOND WHEN I PRESS A BUTTON

Press and hold the Power/Mode button [ ] for 8 seconds to reset 

your camera. This reset saves all of your content and settings, and 

powers off your camera.

MY PLAYBACK IS CHOPPY

Choppy playback is typically not a problem with the file. If your footage 

skips, one of these situations is likely the cause:

• Using an incompatible video player. Not all video players support 

the H.264 codec. For best results, use the latest GoPro software, 

available for free at gopro.com/getstarted.

• The computer does not meet the minimum requirements for HD 

playback. The higher the resolution and frame rate of your video, 

the harder the computer has to work to play it back. Make sure 

that your computer meets the minimum requirements listed in 

Playback Mode.

• Playing a high bitrate HD video file over a low bandwidth USB 

connection. Transfer the file to the computer to play back.

/ Troubleshooting / Troubleshooting

If your computer does not meet the minimum requirements, record 

at 720p30 with Protune off, and make sure that all other programs on 

your computer are closed.

I FORGOT MY CAMERA’S USERNAME OR PASSWORD

To reset the username and password to the defaults, go to Setup

mode. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] repeatedly to cycle to 

Camera Reset. Press the Power/Mode button [ ] to cycle to Reset 

Wi-Fi, and then press the Shutter/Select button [ ] to select it. The 

camera name is reset, and the password is reset to goprohero.

I WANT TO RESET MY GOPRO SETTINGS TO THE DEFAULTS

In Setup mode, select Camera Reset, and then select Reset Defaults. 

This option does not reset the Date/Time or your camera’s username 

and wireless password.

I POWERED OFF MY GOPRO, BUT THE BLUE LIGHT IS STILL 

BLINKING

The blue light indicates that Wireless is on. To turn off Wireless, press 

and hold the Settings/Tag button [ ] for four seconds.

For more answers to commonly asked questions, see 

gopro.com/support.
90

/ Regulatory Information

To see the complete list of country certifications, refer to the Important 

Product + Safety Information included with your camera.

/ Customer Support

/ Trademarks

GoPro, HERO, the GoPro logo, the GoPro Be a HERO logo, BacPac, 

Protune, SuperView, and Wear It. Mount It. Love It. are trademarks or 

registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc. in the US and internationally. 

Other names and marks are the property of their respective owners.

GoPro is dedicated to providing the best possible 

service. To reach GoPro Customer Support, visit 

gopro.com/support.

130-14708-000 REVA