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How To Download and Export Video Footage From a GoPro Camera

GoPro cameras are popular action cameras used to capture high-quality photos and videos during adventures, sports, travel, and more. Once you’ve recorded your epic footage on your GoPro, you’ll want to get it off the camera and onto your computer or device for editing, sharing, and storage.

Downloading and exporting GoPro videos can be done in several convenient ways:

Via USB Cable

Connecting your GoPro camera directly to your computer via USB cable is a simple way to access and transfer your files.

Steps

  1. Use the USB cable that came with your GoPro to connect the camera to your computer. Make sure the camera is powered on.
  2. The camera will enter USB mode and be recognized by the computer.
  3. On Windows, the camera will show up as an external drive where you can access the files. On Mac, a camera icon will appear on the desktop.
  4. Navigate to the DCIM > GoPro folder to find your files.
  5. Copy and paste the files you want to export onto your computer.

The transfer speed is fast, allowing quick exporting of even large video files recorded in high resolutions like 4K.

Using an SD Card Reader

If your GoPro has a removable microSD card, you can take the card out and access the files by plugging it into your computer’s SD card reader.

Steps

  1. Safely eject and remove the microSD card from the GoPro.
  2. Insert the card into an SD card reader or adapter that’s connected to your computer.
  3. The card will show up as external storage, like a USB drive.
  4. Browse to the DCIM > GoPro folder.
  5. Select the files you want and copy them over to your computer.

Using a card reader can be faster than a direct USB connection. It also lets you free up space on the SD card to record more videos.

Via the GoPro Mobile App

The GoPro app lets you wirelessly connect your phone or tablet to your GoPro camera as a remote control. You can also use it to download files from the camera.

Steps

  1. Connect your mobile device and GoPro camera through the app.
  2. Go to the “Import” section within the app and tap on files to select and download them.
  3. The files will be saved onto your device’s storage. The quality and resolution will be retained.

This gives you easy access to your footage while you’re on the go, without needing any cables or card readers.

Through GoPro Software (Quik)

GoPro offers desktop apps like Quik for conveniently importing and editing your GoPro videos and photos.

Steps

  1. Download and install Quik onto your Windows or Mac computer.
  2. Connect your GoPro camera to your computer via USB cable. Quik will auto-detect it.
  3. Click the “Import” button within Quik to transfer files directly into the app.
  4. Edit your videos or export them to save onto your computer.

The Quik app streamlines importing, editing and sharing your GoPro footage with its intuitive interface.

Tips for Exporting GoPro Videos

  • When exporting GoPro videos off your camera, try to preserve the original quality and resolution as much as possible. Avoid compression or downscaling if you can.
  • For sharing on social media, export your edited videos using MP4 or MOV formats for best compatibility.
  • Customize export settings based on where you will share the video. For example, smaller file sizes for email, higher resolutions for YouTube.
  • Use a high bitrate export setting of around 60-80 Mbps when exporting 4K or high frame rate full resolution videos.
  • Export clips from your editing software based on where you will view or share them – such as TV, online, or mobile devices.
  • Store your original raw GoPro footage on an external hard drive or cloud backup in case you ever need the source files again later.

Final Thoughts

Downloading GoPro videos onto other devices is simple using the available wired, wireless, and software options. Each method has its own pros and cons. Once exported, be thoughtful about organizing your footage and preserving quality based on your intended use. With some planning ahead, you’ll be able to successfully get your epic GoPro videos off the action cam and onto places where you can relive and share those memorable moments.

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