It seems that 360 video has not really taken off as much as manufacturers would really like, at least in the mainstream. That really is a shame because 360 video can be really cool! Even if you aren’t using headsets, certain smartphones will let you just move the phone around and check out different areas of a video (or you can do it with your fingers).
The GoPro Fusion 360 Camera on Sale
Link: GoPro Fusion 360 Camera – $450 (on sale from $599) – this is an affiliate link – thanks for your support!
If you are one of those people that would really like to get into 360 video, one of the really good consumer versions out is the GoPro Fusion 360. At an original price of $700, you can get it on sale from your favorite retailers for just $450. Yes, there are other 360 cameras out there now but the Fusion has some cool features (it’s GoPro so of course they do!) that let you build a movie from a 360 camera using the different views it gets.
There is one major thing to be aware of with this camera – the glass for the lenses is not replaceable. This means that if you drop it or scratch them, that is just going to be something you have to deal with. Personally, I am surprised they did not make it something like Garmin did with the VIRB 360 where it could be replaced since GoPro is known for the whole adventure element with cameras. So, keep that in mind.
This was not filmed with the GoPro but gives you a nice idea of what the 360 videos can do. If you are watching this on your computer, use your mouse and click and drag to look at various parts of the film.
While 360 cameras really aren’t mainstream, they could add a great feature for your travel videos. You don’t even have to think about where you point when you are exploring some cool city or area – just turn it on and walk with it! You can grab the angles you want later!
Hey, look at it this way, if you are one of those people that takes hours of video to show your family of your trip, adding a 360 element to it may make it a bit more interesting for them. 😉
Note: some 360 cameras may be much cheaper but make sure you check the reviews because the “stitching” that creates the 360 field of view from the 2 cameras can be quite visible in some cheaper cameras.