Art
Photography

Ways to Mount an Action Camera

September 7, 2023 by

An action camera mount is a device that is used to attach an action camera to different surfaces, such as helmets, handlebars, surfboards, or cars, allowing you to capture footage from different angles and perspectives.

These mounts are designed to be durable and versatile, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different cameras and surfaces.

Action cameras are a great way to capture your outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re climbing a mountain or whitewater rafting, an action camera with the right body mount can help you remember the experience forever.

I love my GoPro and I use it anytime I have the chance to do something adventurous.

I’ve experimented with different ways to mount it to my body to not only make it feel more comfortable but to also protect the camera. With all of these ways to mount, also make sure you’re using a good action camera protector.

In this post, I’ll provide 12 easy ways to mount an action camera to your body, head, etc. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

1. Helmet Mount

The most popular way to mount an action camera is on your helmet.

This provides a great view of what you’re seeing as well as protects the camera from being dropped.

helmet mount
helmet mount

There are many different types of helmet mounts available and they all have their own pros and cons.

I’ve used both the GoPro official mount as well as the third-party “Session” mount from Amazon.

Both work great, but I prefer the official mount because it’s easier to use.

The main downside of a helmet mount is that it can be uncomfortable after wearing it for a while.

I also find that my helmet tends to get in the way of the camera view sometimes.

2. Handlebar Mount

If you’re riding a bike, motorcycle, or ATV, a handlebar mount is a great option.

handlebar mount
handlebar mount

This puts the camera at eye level so you can see what’s in front of you and also captures any interesting things happening to the side.

The main downside of a handlebar mount is that it can be difficult to position the camera so that you’re happy with the view.

I’ve also heard that the camera can be jarred loose if you hit a big bump.

3. Chest Mount

A chest mount is a great option if you want a more immersive experience.

It puts the camera at about heart level so you can see what’s in front of you as well as to the side. The chest mount also provides more stability than the head mount for example.

chest mount action camera
chest mount

The main downside of a chest mount is that it can be uncomfortable after wearing it for a while and it might be suitable for all activities because it can be blocked by gear or hands depending on what you’re doing (such as biking).

4. Head Strap Mount

The head strap mount is similar to the chest mount, but it goes around your head instead of your chest.

head strap mount for action camera
head strap mount

This is a good option if you want to use the camera for things like skiing or skateboarding where a chest mount might get in the way.

Another downside is the strap itself. If you wear it for a while and it’s too tight you may find yourself with a big headache!

So all in all, the head strap mount is great, just be careful when wearing it for a long time!

5. Bite Mount

The bite mount is a newer option that I’ve been seeing more and more.

It’s basically a small mount that you bite down on (hence the name) and it has a GoPro-style mount on the top.

bite mount action camera
bite mount action camera

The advantage of this style of mount is that it’s very small and unobtrusive.

The downside is that it can be difficult to keep the camera positioned well and it’s not suitable for all activities. I haven’t used this mount but this mount is mostly popular with board sports such as skateboarding or surfboarding.

With the bite mount, if you use it for surfing, be sure to get a floaty attachment as well or you’ll probably find your action camera at the bottom of the ocean.

6. Shoulder Mount

The shoulder mount is a good option if you want to capture what’s happening in front of you.

It’s also great for things like vlogging (video blogging) because it gives you a stable shot and frees up your hands. You’ll also have the benefit of looking like Predator from the movies.

shoulder strap mount action camera
shoulder strap mount

The downside of the shoulder mount is that it can be difficult to keep the camera positioned well and it can be uncomfortable after wearing it for a while.

It might also not be the best mount depending on the activity.

7. Backpack Mount

The backpack mount is similar to the shoulder mount, but instead of putting the camera on your shoulder, you put it on your backpack.

This is a good option for activities like hiking where you might not want the camera on your shoulder the whole time.

backpack mount action camera
backpack mount

It can also be a good option for things like biking if you have a hydration pack on your back. It’s also more comfortable than the shoulder mount because it’s not wrapped around your body.

The main downside of the backpack mount is that it can be difficult to keep the camera positioned similarly to the shoulder mount.

8. Mask Mount

The mask mount is a good option if you want to capture what’s happening in front of you when you are underwater.

mask mount action camera
mask mount

I say underwater because not many activities require you to wear a mask and this mount is meant mostly for underwater divers.

9. Magnetic Mount

The magnetic mount is a good option if you want to quickly and easily attach your camera to metal surfaces.

magnetic mount action camera (1)
magnetic mount

This can be helpful if you’re mounting the camera on something like a bike, clothes, gear bag, etc.

The main downside of this mount is that it’s not very secure so if you hit a bump or anything, there’s a chance the camera could come detached.

10. Clip Mount

The clip mount is a good option if you want to quickly and easily attach your camera to non-metal surfaces.

clip mount
clip mount

This can be helpful if you’re mounting the camera on something like a backpack strap, belt loop, etc.

The main downside of this mount is that it’s not very secure so similar to the magnetic mount, if you hit a bump or hole, your mount might come out.

11. Hand and Wrist Mount

The hand and wrist mount is a good option and a common mount for activities such as hiking, biking, etc.

hand and wrist mount action camera
hand and wrist mount

There are many different types of wrist mounts such as floating ones, ones with adjustable bands, ones that rotate around, etc.

Depending on your needs, I’m sure you’ll find the perfect type of wrist mount.

12. Hat Mount

The hat mount is a good option if you want to get a unique perspective and you’re a lover of hats.

hat mount action camera
hat mount

To make it clear, the hat mount is just a clip-on mount but many refer to it as the “hat mount” so I wanted to include it in this list separately.

The downside of the hat mount is that it can be difficult to keep the camera positioned well and depending on the hat, it might not be very comfortable and you might feel like your head is being pulled downwards.

Do All Action Cameras have the Same Mount?

No, each action camera is different and has its own specific mount. Be sure to check what mount your action camera uses before purchasing any mounts.

What is the Best Mount for an Action Camera?

The best mount for an action camera really depends on what you plan on using it for. If you’re looking for a mount that is easy to use and versatile, I would recommend the clip mount or the magnetic mount. If you’re looking for a mount that is more secure, I would recommend the hand and wrist mount or the backpack mount.

Do I Need an Action Camera Mount?

An action camera mount is not required but it can be very helpful in getting stability and the perfect shot.
It’s sort of like having a DSLR or mirrorless camera without a strap, it can be done but you’ll be holding that thing for hours.

There are many different types of mounts for action cameras and each has its own specific purpose. Be sure to choose the right mount for your needs and make sure that it is compatible with your camera. With the right mount, you’ll be able to capture amazing videos and photos from any perspective.

I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.