Mounting Your Camaro 360: The Perfect Car Companion

A 360-degree camera is a smart upgrade to enhance your driving experience and safety. It gives you a bird's-eye view of your car, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. You can choose to install an aftermarket 360-degree camera system, which typically involves mounting four wide-angle cameras on the car body panels. The cameras capture images from all sides of the car, which are then stitched together to provide a real-time 360-degree perspective. While installing a 360-degree camera system can be complex and time-consuming, it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and knowledge. Alternatively, you can opt for a professional installation, which usually takes around 1 to 2 hours.

Suction cup mounts

The suction cup mount must be connected directly to the camera and cannot be used with other extensions or selfie sticks. It is important to note that these mounts are designed for use on smooth and flat surfaces only. The mount features a double ball mount design, allowing for maximum adjustability and the ability to shoot from any angle.

The suction cups provide a strong and firm grip on the desired surface, ensuring that your camera remains stable and secure during use. The high-quality materials used in the construction of the mount also help to prevent shaking and vibration, allowing you to record crisp and clear footage without worrying about the camera falling.

There are also dual/triple suction cup car mounts available, which offer even more stability and flexibility. These mounts can be used with certain selfie sticks and are ideal for capturing unique, third-person views of your car or video-game-style angles.

When purchasing a suction cup mount, it is important to ensure compatibility with your specific camera model. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use and care to ensure the safety and longevity of your equipment.

Magnet mounts

Choosing the Right Magnet Mount

When selecting a magnet mount for your 360-camera, look for options with strong magnetic force, such as the Best360 Magnetic Camera Mount, which boasts 45kg of pull force. This ensures your camera remains securely attached to your vehicle during your journey. Additionally, opt for magnet mounts with a protective coating, like rubber, to prevent scratches on your car's paint job.

Surface Considerations

Before using magnet mounts, it's crucial to verify that the surface of your car is compatible. Magnet mounts are designed for metallic surfaces. Check if your car's hood, roof, or doors have metallic components. Avoid placing the magnet mount on aluminium, carbon fibre, or fibreglass surfaces, as the magnets won't adhere properly.

Installation and Removal

To install a magnet mount, start by cleaning the desired metallic surface on your car to ensure it's free of debris. Then, attach the camera to the mount, and carefully place the magnet on the chosen surface. You can use a selfie stick to help position the mount and create a clearer view.

When you're done filming and need to remove the magnet mount, simply screw on the selfie stick and use it as a lever to carefully lift the magnet off the car's surface. This method ensures you can safely detach the mount without damaging your car's paintwork.

Combination Mounts

For added versatility, consider combination mounts that offer both suction cups and magnetic brackets, like the PellKing Car Mount Kit. This type of mount can be used on a variety of surfaces and provides multiple installation options. The suction cups and magnetic brackets can be used separately or combined, giving you the flexibility to capture unique shots from different angles.

Tips for Optimal Results

When using magnet mounts, it's recommended to attach the camera directly to the magnet or use a small spacer between the magnet and the camera. Avoid fully extending a selfie stick on the magnet, as it increases the risk of the magnet falling off during your drive. Additionally, if you plan to mount the camera on the hood, ensure your vehicle is electric to prevent potential issues.

With these guidelines in mind, you're now ready to hit the road and capture stunning 360-degree footage of your car and its surroundings using magnet mounts.

Monopods

Bushman Monopod:

The Bushman Monopod is an excellent choice for mounting your 360-degree camera in your car. It is one of the longest monopods available, extending up to 60 inches while collapsing to a compact 18 inches. Its narrow width allows it to remain discreet when attached to your camera, and its four collapsible segments provide stability. The Bushman Monopod also features a pivoting last segment, allowing you to rotate your camera without moving the entire setup. Additionally, it comes with a stand and a counterweight for added stability.

Insta360 Extended Edition Selfie Stick:

The Insta360 Extended Edition Selfie Stick is a versatile monopod option. It can extend up to 3 meters, providing drone-like angles, and collapse to a mere 36 cm, making it convenient for run-and-gun shooting. This selfie stick doesn't require twist or flip locks; simply pull or push it to adjust the length. However, keep in mind that it may not support heavier cameras.

Best360 Monopod:

The Best360 Monopod is a sturdy option for those seeking a monopod capable of supporting heavier cameras. It boasts a strong build quality and features twist locks for added stability.

Manbily MT-02 Tripod Legs:

While not a monopod itself, the Manbily MT-02 tripod legs are an excellent accessory to pair with your monopod. They offer individual adjustability, ensuring stability even when shooting on an incline. The MT-02 has a wide base for stability and a spring-loaded connector that works with both 1/4-20 and 3/8-inch connectors without the need for adapters.

Additional Tips:

• If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider the Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick or the Insta360 Selfie Stick with a Built-In Tripod. These options offer good value for casual shooting.
• To make your monopod or selfie stick invisible to your 360-degree camera, ensure that the shaft of the stick is narrower than your camera.
• Consider adding shock absorbers to your setup to reduce vibrations and prevent "jello movement" in your footage.
• Avoid mounting your camera on the hood of your car unless it is an electric vehicle.

Selfie sticks

To mount a 360-degree camera in your car using a selfie stick, you will need a 360 camera, a selfie stick, and a suction cup camera mount. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Choose the Right Camera

To achieve the "invisible selfie stick effect," you will need a 360 camera with two lenses, such as the Insta360 ONE RS, ONE R with the 360 Lens, or the Insta360 ONE X2. These cameras have the capability to automatically edit out the selfie stick from your footage when you import it into the Insta360 app.

Step 2: Get the Right Selfie Stick

Look for an "invisible" selfie stick that is specifically designed for 360-degree cameras. This type of selfie stick remains outside of the camera's field of view, ensuring that it doesn't appear in your footage. The Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick is a popular choice for this purpose.

Step 3: Mount the Camera and Selfie Stick

Once you have your camera and selfie stick, it's time to mount them onto your car. Here's how:

• Ensure that your camera is securely attached to the selfie stick and positioned parallel to it.
• Get a suction cup camera mount. Look for one that is strong and durable, with a tight suction mechanism to ensure it stays in place.
• Fix the suction cup mount onto a flat surface on your car, such as the rear bumper, trunk, or spoiler. Avoid mounting on the hood unless your vehicle is electric.
• Securely attach the selfie stick to the suction cup mount.
• Test the stability of the setup by gently trying to move the camera and mount to ensure they are firmly in place.

Step 4: Start Shooting

With your camera and selfie stick mounted, you're now ready to start capturing your drive. Turn on your camera and begin recording. You can experiment with different angles and positions to get the shots you desire.

Tips and Additional Information:

• If you're looking for a more discreet mounting option, consider using a magnetic mount instead of a suction cup. Magnetic mounts can provide a stable base for your camera and are less likely to cause damage to your car's paintwork.
• Be mindful of the speed you're driving at when using a selfie stick mount. High speeds can put a lot of stress on the mount, so ensure that everything is securely tightened and consider using a carbon fibre selfie stick, which is lighter and stronger.
• If you're concerned about the stability of your setup, consider adding shock absorbers to reduce vibrations and minimise the risk of your camera shaking or moving during your drive.
• For unique perspectives, try the "fake drone shot" by having someone in the passenger seat move the camera and selfie stick around while you drive.

Mounting on the hood

Mounting a 360 camera on the hood of your car can help you capture some dynamic shots, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure safety and get the best results.

First, consider the type of camera and mounting equipment you will use. A hood mount kit typically includes leg supports, rails, and a camera mount. The adjustable leg supports can raise the height of your camera, and the rails can be built to different lengths depending on your vehicle and where you want to mount the camera. The mounting plate can be customized to hard mount your camera directly or to accommodate a tripod head or gimbal. Make sure to use a sturdy mounting base with opposing pick points to strap the rig securely. If you're using a matte box, be aware that it might blow off or create unwanted vibrations at high speeds. Instead, consider taping filters onto the lens with gaffer tape.

Before you begin, check local laws and regulations. In some jurisdictions, placing objects on the hood of your car that obstruct the driver's vision is illegal. You may need to conceal the camera in a luggage rack or obtain permits and a police escort, depending on the laws in your area.

When mounting the camera, it's important to ensure that all equipment is secure and won't fly off while driving. Use ratchet straps and a safety strap from the car to the camera mount for added security. Tape off the focus and iris as vibrations can alter their settings during the drive. Additionally, consider using shock absorbers to reduce jello movement from vibrations.

Lastly, hire an experienced grip to ensure the safety of everyone involved and the equipment. Working on car rigs requires diligence to secure all equipment and avoid damage to the vehicle. With the right preparation and a great crew, you'll be able to capture some amazing footage!

Frequently asked questions