User Man u a l 
2

Join the GoPro party at facebook.com/gopro to see 

what other GoPro owners are capturing and sharing. 

Share your footage and join the GoPro movement!
3

table of contents

Accessories 4

Mounts + Accessories 5

HERO3 Features 6

Camera LCD Status Screen 8

Camera User Interface Flow Chart 9

Software Updates 10

Basics 10

Camera Modes 13

Camera Settings 20

Delete 30

Capture Settings 32

Set Up 40

Wireless Controls 49

Storage/SD Cards 52

System Requirements 53

Transferring Files 54

Playback 55

Battery Life 57

Important Warning Messages 59

Camera Assembly 60

Customer Support 67
4

hero3 ACcessories

Wrist Housing

Replacement Housing

Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery

Lens Replacement Kit

Caps + Doors

32GB/64GB microSDTM

More HERO3 accessories available at gopro.com.

Premium ACcessories

LCD Touch BacPacTM

Battery BacPacTM

Wi-Fi Remote

The Frame Mount

(HERO3 accessory)

wear it. mount it. love it.
5

Mounts + ACcessories

Helmet Front

Mount

Chest Mount

Harness

Handlebar/Seatpost/

Pole Mount Surfboard Mounts

Floaty Backdoor Head Strap Mount Suction Cup Vented Helmet 

Strap

Roll Bar Mount Tripod Mount Anti-Fog Inserts Grab Bag of 

Mounts

Curved + Flat 

Adhesive Mounts Side Mount Camera Tethers Wi-Fi Remote 

Mounting Kit

see more at gopro.com
6

1. Status Indicator Lights (Red) 

2. SHUTTER/SELECT Button 

3. LCD Status Screen

4. Wi-Fi Indicator Light (Blue) 

5. POWER/MODE Button 

6. Micro HDMI Port 

(Cable not included)

7. microSD Card Slot 

(SD card not included)

8. mini-USB Port 

(Supports Composite A/V 

cable/3.5mm stereo mic adapter, 

not included) 

HERO3 Features
7

HERO3 Features

9. HERO Port 

10. Battery Door 

11. Wi-Fi ON/OFF Button 

12. Microphone

13. Audio Alert
8

camera lcd status screen

The LCD screen displays the following information about HERO3 modes and settings:

1. Camera Modes/FOV (Field of View)

2. Capture Setting Modes (not shown)

3. Resolution/FPS (Frames Per Second)

4. Time Interval Settings: (not shown)

5. Counter

6. Time/Storage/Files

7. Battery Life

Note: The icons displayed above will vary depending on what mode your camera is in.
9

camera user interface flow chart

MODES

CAMERA SETTINGS

CAPTURE SETTINGS WI-FI

SET UP

*Note: White Balance only appears in your camera display if ProtuneTM mode 

is turned ON. Playback only appears if Playback is activated.
10

USING YOUR HERO3: BASICS

GETTING STARTED

Before using your HERO3 for the first time:

1. Insert a microSD, microSDHCTM or microSDXCTM card into the card slot 

with label facing forward, narrowest part of the card first. Speed Class 

10 or higher cards are recommended. When using 0.5 second Time Lapse or 

recording video in Protune mode, a Speed Class Rating 10 is required. 

2. Place battery into the camera.

3. Charge battery. The included lithium-ion battery comes partially charged. To 

charge, connect the included USB cable to camera and connect the other end 

of the cable to a power source such as a computer, GoPro Wall Charger or 

GoPro Auto Charger. No damage will occur to the camera or battery if used 

prior to a full charge. 

PRO

TIP:

Status Indicator Lights when camera is OFF and 

charging, show:

• Status Indicator Lights are ON when charging.

• Status Indicator Lights are OFF when charging is complete.

▶See BATTERY LIFE for more information.

▶See PROTUNE for more information.

software UPDATES

 GoPro releases product updates through software updates. Check 

to see if any updates are available for your camera or other GoPro 

products. Visit: gopro.com/update.
11

CAMERA Default SETTINGS

The HERO3: Black Edition camera powers up with the following default 

settings:

Video Resolution 1440p48fps

Photo Resolution 12 Megapixels (MP)

Photo Burst 30 photos in 1 second

Time Lapse 0.5 seconds

Wi-Fi OFF

PRO

TIP:

Want to change your VIDEO and PHOTO settings?

▶See SETTINGS menu to make changes.

USING YOUR HERO3: basics
12

POWERING ON AND OFF

To power ON:

Press and release . The red Status Indicator Lights flash three times and 

the Sound Indicator emits three beeps.

To power OFF:

Press for two seconds, then release. The red Status Indicator Lights flash 

several times and the Sound Indicator emits seven beeps.

PRO

TIP:

Want to turn your HERO3 into a “one-button” camera that 

automatically starts recording PHOTOS or VIDEOS once it 

turns ON? Set the camera to ONE BUTTON mode. 

▶See ONE BUTTON mode for more information.

USING YOUR HERO3: Basics
13

Overview

The HERO3 features several camera modes. To cycle through the modes, press . 

The modes will appear in the following order: 

video Record Video

photo Capture single Photo

Photo burst Capture Burst photos

time lapse Capture Time Lapse photos

PLAYBACK

Appears only if the camera is plugged into a TV/HDTV. 

Playback allows you to play Photos and Videos on 

a TV/HDTV (via optional Micro HDMI cable or A/V 

composite cable).

PRO

TIP:

Use PHOTO BURST to capture fast moving subjects.

▶See PLAYBACK for more information.

USING YOUR HERO3: camera modes
14

USING YOUR HERO3: camera modes 

Video

To record Video, verify the camera is in Video mode. If the Video icon on 

your camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears.

To start recording:

Press and release . The camera will emit one beep and the red Status

Indicator Lights will flash while recording. 

To stop recording:

Press and release . The red Status Indicator Lights flash three times and the 

camera emits three beeps to indicate recording has stopped.

The HERO3 automatically stops recording when the memory card is full or the 

battery is out of power. Your video will be saved before the camera powers OFF.

▶See VIDEO mode for instructions on how to change resolution settings.
15

USING YOUR HERO3: camera modes

PHOTO

To capture a Photo, verify the camera is in Photo mode. If the Photo icon on 

your camera’s LCD is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears. 

To take a photo:

Press and release . The camera beeps two times and the red Status

Indicator Lights flash. 

▶See PHOTO modes for instructions on how to change resolution settings and 

other PHOTO features. 
16

USING YOUR HERO3: CAMERA MODES

photo burst

In Photo Burst mode your camera takes multiple photos in short time intervals— 

3 photos/1 second, 5 photos/1 second, 10 photos/1 second, 10 photos/2 seconds, 30 photos/1 second, 30 photos/2 seconds or 30 photos/3 seconds.

To capture a Photo Burst series, verify the camera is in Photo Burst mode. If the 

Photo Burst icon on your camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press 

repeatedly until it appears. 

To take a Photo Burst series: 

Press and release . The red Status Indicator Lights flash and the camera 

beeps multiple times. 

PRO

TIP:

Sometimes 30 photos/1 second is too fast. Try a slower 

PHOTO BURST setting to better match the action. 

▶See PHOTO BURST for instructions on how to change the interval settings.
17

USING YOUR HERO3: camera modes

time lapse

Time Lapse mode captures a series of photos at 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 or 60 second 

intervals. When using the 0.5 seconds setting, an SD card with a Speed Class 10 

Rating is required. 

To capture a Time Lapse series, verify the camera is in Time Lapse mode. If the 

Time Lapse icon is not showing on your camera’s LCD screen, press 

repeatedly until it appears. 

To take Time Lapse: 

Press and release . The camera initiates countdown and the red Status Indicator 

Lights flash each time a Photo is taken.

To stop Time Lapse:

Press and release . The red Status Indicator Lights flash three times and the 

camera emits three beeps to indicate that Time Lapse has stopped.

▶See TIME LAPSE for instructions on how to change the interval settings.
18

USING YOUR HERO3: CAMERA MODES

Settings

The Settings menu allows you to adjust a variety of camera settings including:

 Video Resolution

 Photo Resolution

 Time Lapse

 Photo Burst 

 Continuous Photo

• and more 

▶See SETTINGS menu to make changes, learn how to navigate menu options 

and read more details on each setting.
19

USING YOUR HERO3: CAMERA MODES

playback

You can playback your GoPro Photos and Videos on a TV/HDTV or with the LCD 

Touch BacPac (optional accessory). Playback appears as a camera mode when 

camera is powered ON and plugged into a TV/HDTV. 

▶See PLAYBACK for more information on viewing your VIDEOS and PHOTOS.
20

CAMERA settings

Settings

To enter the Settings menu:

1. Verify the camera is in the Settings menu. If the Setting icon on your 

camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears.

2. Press to enter menu.

3. Use to cycle through the various Settings options.

4. Press to select desired option.

5. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and press . 

PRO

TIP:

If at any time you wish to exit from the SETTINGS menu, press 

and hold for two seconds. 
21

camera settings

Video Resolution/FPS/FOV Modes

You can change Resolution, FPS and View Angle (FOV) for your HERO3 

camera when using Video mode. This mode contains sub-level menu options.

Once in the Settings menu:

1. Press to enter .

2. Use to cycle through options. 

3. Press to enter desired menu.

4. Use to cycle through each sub-menu option and to select.

5. To change additional options, repeat step 4. 

6. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and 

press . 
22

camera settings

The HERO3: Black Edition offers the following Video Capture modes:

Video 

Resolution NTSCfps PALfps stdMode Protune Field of View (FOV) Screen Resolution

4k /

4k Cin

15 

12

12.5

12

No Yes Ultra Wide 3840x2160, 16:9

4096x2160, 17:9

2.7k /

2.7k Cin

30

24

25

24

Yes Yes Ultra Wide 2704x1524, 16:9

2704x1440, 17:9

1440p 48 

30 

24

48 

25 

24

Yes Yes Ultra Wide 1920x1440, 4:3

1080p 60 

48 

30

24

50 

48 

25 

24

Yes Yes Ultra Wide 

Medium 

Narrow

1920x1080, 16:9

960p 100

48

100 

48

Yes Yes

No

Ultra Wide 1280x960, 4:3

720p 120 

60

100 

50

Yes Yes

No

Ultra Wide

Narrow*

1280x720,16:9

WVGA 240 240 Yes No Ultra Wide 848x480, 16:9

 *Medium and Narrow FOV will be available in an upcoming software update. Note: 720p120 and 

720p100 only support Ultra Wide and Narrow FOV.

Note: Protune mode is only possible in select Video resolutions.
23

camera settings

Video 

Resolution

Best Use

4k /

4k Cin

Stunning 8MP resolution video with professional low light performance. Pull 

8MP stills from video. Recommended for tripod or fixed position shots. 

2.7k / 2.7k Cin16:9 / 17:9 resolution video downscales to provide stunning, cinema-quality 

results for professional productions. Recommended for tripod or fixed 

position shots.

1440p Recommended for body-mounted shots as larger viewing area and high frame 

rate yield the smoothest, most immersive results for high action capture. 

1080p 1080p60 is great for all shots as high resolution and frame rate yeild stunning 

results. Tripod or fixed mounting for 1080p48 and 30fps and 1080p24 is ideal for 

television and film productions.

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. 

WVGA Good when super slow motion is desired and standard definition is acceptable.

PRO

TIP:

Setting the PROTUNE mode to ON allows for high-quality capture, 

neutral color and 24fps video for professional video production.

▶See PROTUNE for more information.
24

Camera SETTINGS

 PHOTO resolution modes

The HERO3 can capture photos at 12MP, 7MP and 5MP resolutions. Any change 

to photo resolution also affects photos captured in Photo, Photo Burst and 

Time Lapse modes.

Photo 

Resolution

Field of View

(FOV)

12MP Wide (Default)

7MP Wide 

7MP Medium

5MP Wide
25

Camera SETTINGS

Continuous photo

Continuous Photo mode allows you to capture a series of Photos continuously 

while holding down the button.

3 photos every 1 second

5 photos every 1 second

10 photos every 1 second

Note: Your camera will remain in the CONTINUOUS PHOTO mode until you 

return it to the SINGLE photo capture setting option.
26

camera settings

PHOTO BURST options

Photo Burst mode captures series of Photos when is pressed. Photos

can be captured in the following rates: 

3 photos in 1 second

5 photos in 1 second

10 photos in 1 second

10 photos in 2 seconds

 30 photos in 1 second (Default)

30 photos in 2 seconds

30 photos in 3 seconds

TIME LAPSE

Several time interval options are available for Time Lapse mode, including 

0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 and 60 seconds. 
27

camera settings

CAPTURE SETTINGS MENU 

Capture Settings allows you to adjust the following advanced camera settings:

 Camera Orientation

Spot Meter

Simultaneous Video and Photo

 Looping Video

 Protune

 White Balance

▶See CAPTURE SETTINGS section for a complete list of capture options.
28

camera settings

SET UP MENU 

The Set Up menu allows you to adjust the following camera settings:

 Default mode at Power Up

One Button Mode

NTSC/PAL

On Screen Display

Status Indicator Lights

 Sound Indicator

 Month/Day/Year/Time

▶See SET UP menu section for a complete list of set up options.
29

camera settings

wireless controls 

The HERO3 camera’s built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect to the Wi-Fi Remote 

or smartphone/tablet via the GoPro App. When Wi-Fi is ON, your Wi-Fi 

Status Indicator Light will blink blue. 

To turn Wi-Fi ON/OFF:

Press to turn Wi-Fi ON/OFF. The most recently used Wi-Fi mode will be 

active when Wi-Fi is ON. 

▶See WIRELESS CONTROLS section for a complete list of wireless functions.
30

Camera SETTINGS

delete

Delete the last file or all files and format the memory card. During delete LAST or 

ALL, the Status Indicator Lights blink until operation is complete. 

cancel (Default)

last

all

To delete LAST or ALL:

1. Verify the camera is in Settings mode. If the Settings icon on your 

camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears.

2. Press to enter Settings menu.

3. Use to cycle through Settings to locate .

4. Press to enter Delete. 

5. Use to cycle through options.

6. Select highlighted option by pressing .

7. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and press . 

PRO

TIP:

Use caution — by selecting ALL, the memory card will be 

formatted, deleting every file on your SD card.
31

camera settings

EXIT

From the screen, press to exit the Settings menu.

PRO

TIP:

If at any time you wish to exit from the SETTINGS menu, press 

and hold for two seconds. 
32

Capture Settings

CApture Settings

To enter the Capture Settings menu:

1. Verify the camera is in Settings mode. If the Settings icon on your 

camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears.

2. Press to enter .

3. Use to cycle through Settings to locate .

4. Press to enter Capture Settings.

5. Use to locate the desired option to change.

6. Press to select the desired option.

7. Some options have a sub-menu. Use to cycle through the sub-menus. 

8. Press to select a highlighted option.

9. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and 

press . 
33

capture settings

You can customize the way your HERO3 camera captures Video and Photos in the 

Capture Settings menus, such as Upside Down, Looping Video and White Balance.

upside down

Mounting your HERO3 Upside Down but wish the files to appear upright when 

viewing or editing? This setting eliminates the need to flip your Video or Photos 

after recording.

Camera right side up (Default)

Camera upside down

Spot Meter

Turn on Spot Meter when filming from within a dark space pointing the 

camera into a brighter setting, such as filming the outdoors from within a car. 

When Spot Meter is set to ON, appears in the LCD window.

OFF (Default)

ON
34

capture settings

SIMULTANEOUS VIDEO AND PHOTO

Simultaneous Video and Photo mode, allows you to simultaneously capture 

both Videos and Photos. You can set the camera to take a Photo every 5 

seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds or 60 seconds while you record Video. 

To set your camera to Picture In Video Mode verify that a supported Video

resolution is selected and that Protune is turned OFF.

OFF

5 seconds

10 seconds

30 seconds

60 seconds

Note: You can capture Simultaneous Video and Photo in one of the following 

resolution settings: 1080p 24 fps, 1080p 30 fps, 720p 60fps or 1440p 24 fps.

PRO

TIP:

Your resulting PHOTO size is determined by the VIDEO

dimensions you select.

Video Dimensions Megapixel

16:9 (1080p, 720p) 8MP

4:3 (1440p) 12MP

While capturing VIDEO you can manually take a PHOTO at any time by 

simply pressing .
35

capture settings

Looping Video

Looping Video mode allows you to record a continuously looping video that 

overwrites itself until you press the button to stop it. Looping Video is 

not available if Protune mode is turned ON.

Looping Video options inlcude:

OFF (Default)

Max video Camera records until memory card is full, then overwrites with a 

new video. 

5 min video Camera records for 5 minutes, then begins a new video, 

progressively overwriting the previous 5 minute video.

20 min video Camera records for 20 minutes, then begins a new video, 

progressively overwriting the previous 20 minute video.

60 min video Camera records for 60 minutes, then begins a new video, 

progressively overwriting the previous 60 minute video.

120 min video Camera records for 120 minutes, then begins a new video, 

progressively overwriting the previous 120 minute video.

PRO

TIP:

Multiple chapter files are written to your memory card. This 

allows for small segments of content to be overwritten during 

loop recording. When viewing on a computer screen you will see 

separate files for each time segment. Use video editing software if 

you wish to combine files into a longer video.

Note: Looping Video is not enabled when in Protune mode.
36

capture settings

PROTUNE

The HERO3 camera can record video in Protune mode. Protune is a video mode 

that unlocks the camera’s full potential, yielding stunning image quality and 

cinema-caliber video for professional productions. Content creators now have far 

more flexibility and workflow efficiency than ever before.

PROTUNE KEY BENEFITS INCLUDE:

High-Quality Image Capture

Protune’s high data rate captures images with less compression, giving content 

creators higher quality for professional productions.

Neutral Color

Protune’s neutral color profile offers more flexibility during post-production color 

correction. Protune’s log curve captures more detail in shadows and highlights. 

Film/TV Frame Rate Standard

Record video in cinema-quality 24fps and easily intercut GoPro content with other 

source media without the need to perform fps conversion. 

Turning Protune ON affects several settings and features, such as Video 

Resolution, fps, FOV and Simultaneous Video and Photo. 

OFF (Default)

ON
37

capture settings

PROTUNE RESOLUTIONS (continued):

Protune is available in the following HERO3: Black Edition resolutions:

RESOLUTION FPS

4k / 4kCin 15/12.5,12

2.7k / 2.7kCin 30/25, 24

1440p 48, 30,25,24

1080p 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24

960p 100

720p 120, 100

COMPATIBILITY: Protune is compatible with professional color correction tools, 

editing programs and GoPro CineForm Studio.
38

capture settings

White balance

White Balance adjusts the overall color tone of videos. Standard video 

records in AUTO White Balance only.

Advanced users can make adjustments to the White Balance settings when 

in Protune mode. Just remember, Videos recorded with Protune turned ON

require that you post process the video with an editing program to achieve 

your desired finish.

PRO

TIP:

Consider manually setting WHITE BALANCE to the following settings 

when operating in the following conditions:

Incandescent or sunrise/sunset lighting 3000K

Daylight or sunlit shooting 5500K

Cool white fluorescent skylight lighting 6500K

Industry standard optimized color Cam RAW

Cam RAW (Camera RAW)

The HERO3 camera can record Video in Protune mode in Cam RAW. GoPro 

Cam RAW mode yields a minimally processed data file direct from the image 

sensor that allows for more precise adjustments to be made in post-process. 

Working in this mode takes full advantage of the image sensor’s capabilities.

PRO

TIP:

If you’ve changed your WHITE BALANCE settings in 

PROTUNE and switch back to Standard recording, the WHITE

BALANCE settings will automatically revert back to AUTO. 
39

capture settings

EXIT

From the EXIT screen press to exit the Capture Settings menu.

PRO

TIP:

If at any time you wish to exit from the CAPTURE SETTINGS

menu, press and hold for two seconds. 
40

Set up

Set up

To enter the Set Up menu:

1. Verify the camera is in Settings mode. If the Settings icon on your 

camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears.

2. Press to enter .

3. Use to cycle through Settings to locate .

4. Press to enter Set Up.

5. Use to locate the desired option to change.

6. Press to select the desired option.

7. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and 

press . 
41

set up

default mode at power up

You can set the camera’s Default mode at power up to any of the following modes:

(factory default)
42

set up

One Button

With One Button mode selected, the camera automatically begins recording when 

powering the camera ON. One Button mode can be configured to start in Video

or Time Lapse.

OFF (Default)

ON

To turn One Button mode ON:

1. Verify the camera is in Settings mode. If the Settings icon on your 

camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears.

2. Press to enter menu.

3. Use to cycle through Settings to locate .

4. Press to enter Set Up.

5. Use to cycle through to locate .

6. Press to enter One Button menu. 

7. Use to cycle through options.

8. Press to select a highlighted option.

9. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and press . 

Next time you power your camera ON, it will begin recording in its Default 

Power Up Mode. To stop recording, push and hold for two seconds.
43

set up

ONE BUTTON MODE (continued)

To exit One Button mode:

1. Power camera ON. 

2. Press and hold until shows in the LCD window.

3. Press to enter.

4. Use to highlight OFF.

5. Press to select.

6. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and 

press .

PRO

TIP:

To stop the capture process (VIDEO or TIME LAPSE) when in 

ONE BUTTON, press and hold for two seconds. You will 

return to the ONE BUTTON menu where you can turn

ONE BUTTON mode OFF. 

Note: One Button mode is disabled when connected to Wi-Fi Remote or GoPro App.
44

set up

 ntsc / pal

The NTSC and PAL settings govern Video recording frame rate and playback 

when viewing Video on a TV/HDTV. Select NTSC when viewing a TV/HDTV in 

North America. Select PAL if viewing on a PAL TV/HDTV (most televisions 

outside of North America) or if viewing on a PAL TV/HDTV in any region.

NTSC (Default) PAL

4k/15fps 4k/12.5fps

4k Cin/12fps 4k Cin/12fps

2.7k/30fps 2.7k/25fps

2.7k Cin/24fps 2.7k Cin/24fps

1440p/48fps 1440p/48fps

1440p/30fps 1440p/25fps

1080p/60fps 1080p/50fps

1080p/48fps 1080p/48fps

1080p/30fps 1080p/25fps

1080p/24fps 1080p/24fps

960p/100fps 960p/100fps

960p/48fps 960p/48fps

720p/120fps 720p/100fps

720p/60fps 720p/50fps

WVGA/240fps WVGA/240fps
45

set up

ONSCREEN DISPLAY

To display or hide the recording icons and file information on Video or the 

viewing screen during playback, turn Onscreen Display (OSD) OFF or ON.

OFF

ON (Default)

Status Indicator Lights

Keep all four Status Indicator Lights active, only two active (front and back) 

or turn OFF all lights.

4 (Default)

2

OFF

Sound Indicator

You can adjust volume or turn OFF the Sound Indicator.

100% (Default)

70%

OFF
46

set up

Manual Power Off

The HERO3 can be configured to automatically power OFF after a specific 

period of inactivity (when no Videos or Photos are being taken and no 

buttons have been pressed). 

MANUAL (Default)

60sec

120sec

300sec
47

set up

Month / DaY / YEAR / Time

Set the HERO3 clock to ensure Video and Photo files are saved with the 

correct date and time.

To change Month/Day/Year/Time:

1. Verify the camera is in Settings mode. If the Settings icon on your 

camera’s LCD screen is not showing, press repeatedly until it appears.

2. Press to enter menu.

3. Use to cycle through Settings to locate .

4. Press to enter Set Up.

5. Use to locate .

6. Press to enter Month/Day/Year/Time sub-menu; Month (MM) will 

be highlighted. 

7. Press to access the list of months (1 to 12).

8. Use to cycle through list until desired selection is highlighted.

9. Press to select.

10. To advance to the next option, press . 

11. Repeat steps 7, 8 and 9 to make selections for day (DD), year (YY), hour 

(HH) and minutes (MM). 

12. To exit, hold down for two seconds or cycle through to and 

press . 

Note:If the battery is removed from the camera for an extended period of time 

Month/Day/Year/Time will need to be set again.
48

set up

EXIT

From the EXIT screen, press to exit the Set Up menu.

PRO

TIP:

If at any time you wish to exit from the SET UP menu, press 

and hold for two seconds. 
49

wiRELESS CONTROLS

wireless controls

The built-in Wi-Fi allows your HERO3 camera to connect to the Wi-Fi Remote 

and smartphone/tablet via the GoPro App. 

To turn Wi-Fi ON/OFF via the Wi-Fi button:

Press and hold until blue lights flash. When turning Wi-Fi ON the Wi-Fi 

mode will be set to the most recently used mode.

PAIRING YOUR HERO3 WITH THE WI-FI REMOTE

Before you can use the Wi-Fi Remote to control your HERO3 for the first time, 

you must pair the two devices. 

First, ensure both camera and remote are powered OFF.

On the camera:

1. Press to power ON your HERO3 .

2. Press to turn ON the Wi-Fi, then press again to access 

 the menu.

3. Press to enter the menu.

4. Press to cycle to Wi-Fi RC, then press to select it.

5. Press to cycle to NEW, then press to select it.

6. You will see .
50

WIRELESS CONTROLS

wireless controls (continued)

On the Wi-Fi Remote:

1. While holding down , press and release once to power 

the remote ON into pairing mode.

2. When you see on the remote’s screen, you can release .

3. will appear on both screens once the devices have paired. 

4. The remote will now ask if you want to CONNECT ANOTHER? camera.

a. If yes, press to select YES, then repeat the pairing process 

from the beginning.

b. If no, press to cycle to NO, then press to select it.

The remote’s LCD screen will mirror the camera’s LCD screen. You can now use 

the remote to control your camera. 

USING YOUR HERO3 WITH THE WI-FI REMOTE

Once you have paired your camera with the Wi-Fi Remote, follow these steps 

the next time you want to use the remote to control your camera. (You only 

need to pair the camera and remote once). 

On the camera:

1. Press to power ON your HERO3.

2. Press to turn ON the Wi-Fi, then press again to access 

 the menu.

3. Press to enter the menu.

4. Press to cycle to Wi-Fi RC, then press to select it.
51

WIRELESS CONTROLS

5. Press to select CURRENT. 

6. You will see .

On the remote:

1. Press to power ON the remote. 

2. You will see on the remote’s screen.

3. will appear once camera and remote are connected. 

The remote’s LCD screen will mirror the camera’s LCD screen. You can now use 

the remote to control your camera.

GOPRO APP (FREE)

The GoPro App lets you control your camera remotely using a smartphone or 

tablet. Features include full control of camera and settings, live video preview on 

your smartphone or tablet for easy shot framing and more. Download the GoPro 

App for free at the Apple App Store and Google Play. 

PRO

TIP:

Before you hit , see what your HERO3 camera sees by 

viewing it on your smartphone or tablet’s screen.

▶See gopro.com for more information. 
52

storage/microsd cards

The HERO3 camera is compatible with 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB

capacity microSD, microSDHC and microSDXC memory cards. While all speed class 

ratings are compatible, GoPro requires using an SD card with Speed Class Rating 

10 or higher speed when recording in Protune mode, or when using the 0.5 Time 

Lapse setting. GoPro recommends using brand name memory cards for maximum 

reliability in high-vibration activities.

To insert SD card: To remove SD card:

1. Slide memory card into card slot 

with label facing front of camera.

2. The card will click into place when 

fully inserted.

1. Place fingernail against edge of 

memory card and lightly press 

further into camera.

2. Card will spring out far enough to 

be removed.

PRO

TIP:

Use care when handling memory cards. Avoid liquids, dust and 

debris. As a precaution, turn off the camera before inserting or 

removing the card. Check manufacturer guidelines regarding use 

in acceptable temperature ranges.

▶See PROTUNE for more information. 
53

system requirements 

The HERO3 camera is compatible with Microsoft® XP (Service Pack 2 or later) 

and Mac OS X 10.4.11 or later.

Windows Mac

Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or later) 

or Vista

Mac OS® X 10.4.11 or later

3.2GHz Pentium 4 or faster 2.0GHz Intel Core Duo or faster

DirectX 9.0c or later

Minimum 1GB of system RAM Minimum 1GB of system RAM

Video card with minimum 256MB 

of RAM

Video card with minimum 128MB 

of RAM

PRO

TIP:

Want to see your footage and stills on the big screen? Plug 

your HERO3 directly into a TV/HDTV with GoPro’s Micro HDMI 

cable or USB cable (optional accessories). 
54

Transferring files

TO TRANSFER VIDEO AND PHOTO FILES TO A COMPUTER

On a PC:

1. Connect the camera to the computer using included USB cable.

2. Press to turn ON the camera.

3. Double click “My Computer” and locate “Removable Disk”.

4. If “Removable Disk” is not showing, close “My Computer” folder and 

reopen it. The “Removable Disk” icon should appear.

5. Double click “Removable Disk” icon.

6. Double click “DCIM” folder icon.

7. Double click “100GOPRO” icon to view all Photo and Video files.

8. Copy/move files to the computer or external hard drive.

On a Mac:

1. Connect the camera to Mac using included USB cable.

2. Press to turn ON the camera.

3. The Mac recognizes the camera as an external hard drive. Double click 

icon for external drive to access files.

4. Copy/move files to computer or external hard drive.

IMPORTANT TIP FOR MAC USERS: When deleting files from the memory card, 

empty the trash before removing the memory card or unplugging the camera. 
55

playback

To VIEW VIDEOS AND PHOTOS

Videos and Photos can be viewed on a TV/HDTV or the LCD Touch BacPac 

(optional accessory). 

PLAYBACK ON TV/HDTV

To browse Videos and Photos:

1. Plug the camera into a TV/HDTV with a Micro HDMI or a mini-USB to a 

Composite Cable (optional accessories). 

2. Turn camera ON.

3. On your camera press to cycle to . Press . 

4. HERO3 displays thumbnail previews of all Videos and Photos on the 

SD card. Photo sets taken in Continuous Photo, Photo Burst and Time 

Lapse display the first Photo in a series.

5. While in thumbnail preview use to cycle through thumbnails. Press 

to view. 

6. Use and to navigate backward and forward to see more media 

files on your memory card.

7. Highlight desired file to view and press . 

8. Depending on whether you are viewing Videos or Photos, different 

control options will appear. Use the and buttons to navigate. 

Note: Photo Burst and Time Lapse files will display the first Photo in the series. 

To view all Photos in a series, use to select VIEW and press . 
56

playback 

PLAYBACK ON LCD TOUCH BACPAC

Playback using the LCD Touch BacPac follows a similar process/procedure as 

described with a few slight variations.

▶See the LCD Touch BacPac User Manual for more information. 
57

Battery life

CHARGING BATTERY

The battery icon displayed in the camera’s LCD will blink when the battery drops below 

10%. If recording is occurring when battery reaches 0%, the camera will save the file 

and power OFF.

To charge the battery: 

1. Connect the camera to a 

computer or USB power supply 

(such as the GoPro Wall Charger 

or GoPro Auto Charger).

2. The red Status Indicator Light 

remains ON while the battery 

is charging.

3. The red Status Indicator Light 

will turn OFF when the battery is 

fully charged. 

The battery will charge to 80% in one hour and 100% in two hours when using 

GoPro’s 1000mAh USB-compatible Wall or Auto Charger. Other chargers may 

charge at only half this rate. 

No damage will occur to the camera or the battery if used together prior to full charge. 

Spare batteries and additional charging accessories are available at gopro.com. 
58

battery life

Using the Camera While Charging

You can charge the camera’s battery while recording Video or taking Photos. Simply 

plug the camera into a GoPro-specific auto, wall or phone charger to charge the 

HERO3 camera while recording Video or Photos. It is best to use GoPro’s 1AMP 

(1000mAh) Wall or Auto Charger for maximum charging performance while the 

camera is in use. Performance of non-GoPro chargers cannot be guaranteed. 

Removing the Battery From the Camera

The HERO3 battery is designed to have a tight fit to maximize reliability in highvibration activities.

To remove the battery:

 

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

battery door (on the back of the camera) and sliding it to the left.

2. Allow the door to pop out. Grasp the battery pull-tab and remove from the camera.
59

important warning messageS

MicroSD Card Messages

NO SD No card present. The camera requires a microSD, microSDHC

or microSDXC card to record Video or take Photos.

SD FULL Card is full. Delete files or swap card.

SD ERROR Camera unable to access card.

File Repair Icon on the LCD 

If you see the File Repair icon on the LCD screen, your Video file 

was corrupted during recording. Press any button and the camera 

will repair the file.

Temperature Warning Icon on the LCD 

The Temperature Warning icon will appear on the LCD when the 

camera has become too hot and needs to cool down. Simply let it sit 

and cool before attempting to use it again. Your camera will not allow 

itself to overheat—do not worry, no damage has occurred.
60

camera assembly

ASSEMBLING THE CAMERA The HERO3 camera housing is waterproof to 197’/60m and is constructed of 

polycarbonate and stainless steel for ultimate durability. The HERO3 has a new improved 

latch closure that offers one hand open-and-close functionality and locking.

To place the HERO3 camera into the housing:

1. Place camera in housing.

2. Position the backdoor into place.

3. Lift the latch arm into upright position allowing the hinged arm to 

hang downward.

4. Hook grooved portion of hinged arm to grooved top of the backdoor.

5. Use one finger to push down the latch arm to snap into place. 

To remove the HERO3 camera from the housing:

1. Grip the housing with left hand.

2. Using right hand, place thumb to left side of arrow and index finger just 

below latch arm.

3. Pinch fingers together, sliding arrow to the right.

4. Use fingertips to pull upward, allowing latch arm to swing to fully 

upright position.

5. Lift hinged arm over the housing and remove the HERO3.

To close properly, be sure grooved sections of the latch arm and the backdoor 

are hooked.
61

camera assembly

The HERO3 housing comes with two types of backdoors—Skeleton and Standard. 

Skeleton Backdoor Standard Backdoor

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 is not a risk. This 

backdoor is also recommended for use 

inside vehicles.

The Standard Backdoor makes the 

housing waterproof to 197’/60m. 

Use this door when you need to 

protect the camera from water and 

other environmental hazards. 

PRO

TIP:

Apply RAIN-X or a similar anti-beading solution to the housing lens 

to prevent waterspots from forming when using your camera in rain 

or water. When RAIN-X is not available, periodically licking your 

lens is a good backup solution. Trust us, this works. 
62

camera assembly

Swapping housing doors

Your HERO3 camera housing comes with two types of backdoors—Standard and 

Skeleton (non-waterproof).

To change backdoor:

1. Open the backdoor of the housing so that it is hanging downwards. 

2. Pull downwards on the backdoor until it snaps free from the hinge.

3. Line up replacement backdoor into the hinge opening.

4. Push upwards on the backdoor until it clicks into place. 
63

camera assembly

Preventing Water Damage to Your Camera

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

protects your HERO3 in wet and underwater conditions. Keep the camera housing’s 

rubber seal clean; a single hair or grain of sand can cause a leak.

After every use in salt water you will need to rinse the outside of the 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 housing. 

WARNING: Failure to follow these steps each time you use your HERO3 can 

result in leaks that may damage or destroy your camera. Your warranty does not 

cover water damage resulting from user error. 
64

camera assembly

Attaching your camera to Mounts

To attach your HERO3 camera to a mount, you will need an attachment buckle, 

thumb screw or hardware depending on the mount you are using. For more 

information on mounts, visit gopro.com/support.

Attachment 

Buckle

Thumb Screw Waterhousing Complete Unit

Using Curved or Flat Adhesive Mounts

The curved and flat adhesive mounts make it easy to attach the camera to curved 

and flat surfaces of helmets, vehicles and gear. With the attachment buckle the 

assembled camera housing can be clicked ON/OFF the secured adhesive mounts.

Flat Adhesive Mount Curved Adhesive Mount
65

Handling the Wi-Fi Remote

CAUTION

Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in damage to the Wi-Fi Remote or other 

property.

HANDLING

The Wi-Fi Remote contains sensitive components. Do not drop, disassemble, open, crush, 

bend, deform, puncture, shred, microwave, incinerate, paint or insert foreign objects into either 

product. Do not use the Wi-Fi Remote if it has been damaged—for example, if the product is 

cracked, punctured or damaged by water.

KEEPING THE WI-FI REMOTE’S LCD CLEAN

Clean LCD screen immediately if it comes into contact with any contaminants that may cause 

stains, such as ink, dyes, makeup, dirt, food, oils and lotions. To clean the LCD, use a soft, 

slightly damp, lint-free cloth. Avoid getting moisture in openings. Don’t use window cleaners, 

household cleaners, aerosol sprays, solvents, alcohol, ammonia or abrasives to clean LCD.

WATER RESISTANCE

Do not submerge the Wi-Fi Remote in more than 10ft / 3m of water. Do not attempt to dry the 

Wi-Fi Remote with an external heat source, such as a microwave oven or hair dryer. Damage to 

the Wi-Fi Remote caused by excessive water pressure is not covered under warranty.

USING CONNECTORS AND PORTS

Never force a connector into a port. Check for obstructions on the port. If the connector and 

port don’t join with reasonable ease, they probably don’t match. Make sure that the connector 

matches the port and that you have positioned the connector correctly in relation to the port.

KEEPING THE WI-FI REMOTE WITHIN ACCEPTABLE TEMPERATURES

The Wi-Fi Remote is designed to be operated in temperatures between 0° C and 40° C and 

stored in temperatures between 0° C and 70° C. Extreme temperatures may temporarily 

affect battery life, or affect the functionality of the Wi-Fi Remote. Avoid dramatic changes in 

temperature or humidity when using the Wi-Fi Remote as condensation may form on or within 

the product. When you’re using the Wi-Fi Remote or charging the battery, it is normal for the 

product to get warm. The exterior of the product functions as a cooling surface that transfers 

heat from inside the unit to the cooler air outside.

USE WITH OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Users of digital transceivers (avalanche beacons) should consult with their user manuals 

regarding use of GoPro cameras and other GPS or electronic devices when engaged in the 

avalanche beacon search mode in order to limit potential interference.
66

camera assembly

ATTACHING ADHESIVE MOUNTS

PRO

TIPS:

Apply to clean surface only. Wax, oil, dirt or other debris will 

reduce adhesion, which can result in a weak bond and risk of 

losing camera should connection fail.

Attach mount in room temperature conditions. Mount’s 

adhesive will not bond properly if applied in cold or damp 

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

room temperature.

Adhesive mounts should only be mounted to smooth surfaces; 

porous or textured surfaces will not enable a proper bond. 

When applying mount, firmly press into place and ensure full 

contact over entire surface. 

For best results, attach the mount 24 hours prior to use.

▶See gopro.com/support for more information on mounts.

Locking Plug

Using the HERO3 in high impact sports such as surfing or skiing 

where significant impact may occur? Use the special locking 

plug which securely locks the attachment buckle fingers into 

place--helping prevent accidental housing release from the mount. 

The circular ring fits over the thumbscrew and acts as a leash to 

prevent dropping or losing the locking plug.
67

customer support

GoPro is dedicated to providing the best possible 

service. To reach the GoPro Customer Support Team, 

visit gopro.com/support.