GoPro’s top ten Hamilton Island activities

When GoPro Australia contacted Hamilton Island earlier this year about bringing a group of their advocates to visit the island to activate the new “GoPro Fusion” camera, we instantly knew the types of activities this bunch of adventure-seekers needed to try out and capture in 360:

1) Helicopter tour of the Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach/Hill Inlet 

 

A trip to Hamilton Island isn’t complete without a visit to the Great Barrier Reef, and because seeing this extraordinary natural wonder has to be one of the most incredible experiences on offer when visiting the island, it seemed like a no-brainer to test out the new camera doing just this.
 
The talented team at Hamilton Island Air took our advocates into the air, to get a bird’s-eye view of Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and the stunning kaleidoscopic swirls of Hill Inlet… and the moment didn’t disappoint.

 

2) Private yacht to Whitehaven Beach 

 
We thought it was time to test the aquatic capabilities of the 360 Fusion with some marine action. Taking a private charter over to Whitehaven Beach, the group took turns to dive off the boat into the crystal-clear water, paddle board and, when it was time for some R&R, swim to shore for a beach picnic. Probably the most incredible use of the camera was when the group took it in turns to dive off the yacht into the stunning water of Whitehaven Beach, capturing the moment from above and below in video format.
 

3) Jet ski tour 

Knowing the advocates were thrill-seekers, it was time to give them a real adrenaline rush. Taking the group out on jet skis as part of an island tour was the perfect combination of oceanic activity and adventure. Needless to say, the 360 got a real test as they raced around the brilliant Whitsunday waterways.

   

4) Hike to Passage Peak to see sunrise 

 

The perfect way to start your day in paradise? View sunrise from Passage Peak, the number one lookout on Hamilton Island. Those in the group that could handle the early morning wakeup call of 4.30am, made it to the top in darkness, with a determined hike. To get to the peak they steadily climbed 2,000m above sea level and yes, there were over 100 stairs to get to the top! But it was completely worth it when the sun burst over the horizon putting on the ultimate light show for our deserving hikers.

 

 5) Parasailing 

 

Up, up and away. The parasail’s colourful parachute took tandem pairs gently up into the air, allowing them to glide across the sky and gave them the incredible feeling that they were flying. Pairing this experience with those panoramic views of the Whitsundays... breathtaking! All perfect for GoPro Fusion or Hero6. 
 

6) Golf buggy trips around the island 

 

Riding in a golf buggy – the island’s main mode of transport - has become synonymous with a trip to Hamilton Island. Our passengers loved whizzing around and capturing their journey in these cute sets of wheels.
 

7) Beach sports on Catseye Beach

Time to splish splash and cool off with beach time and beach sports. The group explored the Coral Sea via Catseye Beach swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking and sailing. Turtles were spotted, numerous falls off paddle boards occurred and a whole heap of fun was had.
 

8) Off Road Adventure tour 

 

Combining puddles, patches of mud and the need for speed, the ATV tour across the far side of the island was a moment to remember! Mounting GoPros around the vehicles, the group managed to capture all of the action, from every angle, as they raced around the dirt tracks.

 

9) Meeting with the local’s - aka Oprah the koala 

 

Oprah the koala proved she was as popular as her namesake when everyone jumped at the chance to meet her at the WILD LIFE park. Having the opportunity to get up close and personal was a once in a lifetime experience for many and the interaction with this inquisitive creature proved to be a bucket-list moment for many in the group… who wouldn’t want a cuddle from this cuteness?
 
Contrary to popular belief that koalas are always sleeping, Oprah was busting with enthusiasm when she met with everyone. She kept everyone on their toes as she hugged, climbed and moved about.

 

10) Swimming in the pools 

Being poolside isn’t all sun lounges and sipping cocktails. It’s also underwater swims, action jumps and testing out the capabilities of the Fusion 360 camera with some clever editing techniques as well.

    

5 tips from the advocates to help you bring your own Hamilton Island story to life with a GoPro:

Before you start shooting, think about the story you want to tell. How will you show your audience where you’re at, what you’re getting up to, and how the adventure ends? This saves editing time and helps you craft a more powerful story.

1) Set the scene - let viewers know where you are — a wide static shot or location sign always works well. Show yourself gearing up, or take a time-lapse of the backdrop to build excitement and set the scene.

2) Who is your story about and what do you want to get across? - who are the HEROES of your story, and what are they setting out to do? Capture moments that reveal personalities and allude to the adventure.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget the audio. From commentary to hoots and hollers, it’s an important part of the story.

3) Capture the action - experiment with different mounts and perspectives to tell your story. Be sure to mix in body or gear-mounted POV footage along with more traditional shots.

PRO TIP : Use voice commands for hands-free control of your camera.

4) Celebrate - if you just did something epic, show off those celebratory hugs and Hi5s. Or maybe things didn’t go so well — how’d the crew react? Let the cameras roll as you pack it up and head back home.

PRO TIP: Use Hi-Lights to easily find your favourite shots.

5) QuickStories - You can use QuickStories to get the content out to your social channels quickly. It will help you edit and transform it into awesome video.

PRO TIP: Keep your edit tight and aim for 30 seconds.