How to configure GoPro cameras for use with the Teradek-provided Sphere rig

This is a collection of tips for using GoPro Hero cameras such as the GoPro Hero 4 with the Teradek-supplied rig for the Sphere.

Photo Mode

Once the cameras are installed in the Teradek-provided GoPro mounting rig, press the Mode button on each GoPro camera until it is in the Photo mode to allow the GoPro to output Square pixels.

Output Resolution

For the Teradek-provided GoPro rig and the stock lenses, the recommended camera setting on the GoPro is 1440 Wide to allow overlap in the stitching process.

It is recommended to have the physical output resolution of the GoPro cameras be 1080p30 or lower for the encoders in Sphere as they support a maximum of 1080p30 (e.g. 1080p29.97 or 1080p25 or 1080p24).

The encoders in Sphere can be used to scale down the physical video input stream to a lower resolution if desired.

4K should not be used if you are going to record on the GoPro, as the output resolution on the GoPro will drop to 480p when you start recording on the camera.

In-camera Recording

If you are going to record to the memory card in the GoPro camera, first stitch the rig with the GoPro cameras set to Photo Mode.

Then change your GoPro camera to Video Mode and start Recording in the camera; since the physical video output will change on the GoPro once recording has started, the stitch will be correct.

Color

GoPro cameras have Auto Exposure on at all times and it cannot be disabled.

GoPro recommends ProTunes set to native color, but this is not recommended by Teradek.

Instead, try the Auto Color option and manually adjust using just the Mid Tones (first) and the Highs (second) in the Sphere app.