Standup Zone Forum
Stand Up Paddle => Gear Talk => Topic started by: clay on January 08, 2018, 04:32:46 PM
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Hi,
I am looking for Soloshot 3 success stories, anyone able to get theirs to track and record consistently? Settings? Secret sauce?
Thanks!
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Clay: Glad you posted this and hope the couple of owners post their experiences.
FWIW, I've been watching the Facebook Soloshot3 User Group very closely for many weeks as I REALLY want to purchase one of these cams but I want the friggin thing to work reliably and consistently for the $899.00 it costs. Its really hard to know how many folks out there are truly 100% satisfied as those folks are not all that likely to post. Of those that do post (expressing frustration) I would imagine a fair percentage fall under "operator error" when updating the multiple software releases each for base, tag, and cam. (To me) the biggest issue is folks reporting one day they get awesome tracking and vid and the next saying the cam didn't track, focus, etc....appears to be some very inconsistent day to day anomalies.
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Blue Planet just became the first Soloshot dealer in Hawaii. I got my Soloshot3 a few days ago but only tested it in my back yard so far. I'm hoping to test it tomorrow morning and will let you know how it goes. Clay, before you order one, let me know and I can probably give you a bit better pricing than you can find online.
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i had success sending mine back (ups showed up) after innumerable hours trying to get it to accept the most recent, heavily trumpeted, update
prior to that i had mixed results with the device---when it works, it is exactly what i want---what i dont want is a device that requires continual time-waste tinkering etc, when i want to surf--and as of now, it is not that
hopeful ill get a new one soon, and that it will work easily, reliably, consistently
my experience with my mavic pro has been the opposite--incredible, turn it on and fly it, product---and the mavic does a lot of amazing stuff ive not begun to work with, but, if you just want to fly it around and experiment, it all works----and, really, it's pretty idiot/crash-proof---first flight i went a half mile out over water, circled around a freighter and came home---no issue or worry at all
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When I got my SoloShot3 the surf was perfect, OH to 1.5 first day, head high perfection the 2nd day, then waist high glass day 3.
I did all the stupid walking around to set it up.
It got me in exactly 3 frames when I was surfing, in 3 days.
I returned the TAG.
After the new TAG came, I installed the latest soft wear update.
My only session after the update, it tracked me perfectly.
I set on "tight", "bottom center" and didn't bother to do the walkaround.
It was perfect all session with one exception:
It shook in the wind so that all the footage is unusable.
Each frame was clear and focused.
In slowmo it is almost watchable.
I am on the road now, so no computer set up to make a sample video today.
Once I work out a wind blocker, it should actually be a good video tool.
Hopeful, but not convinced yet.
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full disclosure: my "new" SS3 will be here tomorrow, so the turnaround, at least was good
i want it to work, believe me---hopefully the replacement they send will
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Easty: Hope the new unit works flawlessly! Look forward to your future review/comments!!!!!!!
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Thanks for the reports and the offer Robert.
From what I am hearing, consistency is the problem.
I had the optic 65 for a little over 3 weeks.
1st session it was getting dark and I only had time for a quick and dirty setup at Fort Point, sorta captured one of my waves and then lost me. I chalk this one up to user error.
2nd session after the mid Dec update. Near head high and SS3 captures all my rides and does a mostly perfect job, there was a bit of shake here and there. Impressive and stoked!
3rd session next day, a few feet+ bigger, heavy and barreling. My paddle out is captured and that's about it, it loses me and my ankles are seen intermittently in the top right hand corner. Misses one of the best rides I have ever had.
4th session I take the SS3 back to the where it was on day 2, similar size as the successful day. After I paddle out it loses me completely as I paddle for my first wave and I am no where to be seen and it never recovers.
I have no idea why it didn't work on the 4th session??? I put the camera in the exact same spot as day 2 when I had the success, very frustrating. I have contacted support twice, they are very supportive and good people.
My return window was closing and I am unwilling to take a chance so I sent it back. I am hoping for reports on improved success rates, if so I will gladly try it again.
Also strange - on Amazon.com there were several reviews of the SS3, not very good ones. Those have since all disappeared, and as of writing this there are no reviews of the SS3.
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I had a chance to test the camera a bit. I got some great results but also lost tracking after while. Soloshot offered help and is working on a software update to address the bugs. Here is my first video about unboxing and setting up the camera, more videos of using it coming soon:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlr5MZERGPw
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This company is in a race against the moment DJI decides they want to do this. (If SS is lucky, they never will.)
But how long until you can just tether a drone to a big battery pack on the ground and it hovers 10 feet in the air flawlessly tracking you while you surf? (There are companies working large sized versions of this for life guarding already.)
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My third time using the Soloshot3 I finally got some nice footage and can really see the potential for this camera.
https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=P4T9ZqlPVPU
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My third time using the Soloshot3 I finally got some nice footage and can really see the potential for this camera.
https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=P4T9ZqlPVPU
This link
https://youtu.be/P4T9ZqlPVPU
I will be in your neck of the woods this summer Robert. I'll be looking to rent a board or two while I'm at my in-laws.
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Thanks for posting the correct link TallDude and looking forward to seeing you in Hawaii soon, Aloha!
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Don't you think in the long run it's a lot cheaper and easier to buy an after surf breakfast for the wife/girlfriend/POSLQ to film a little .
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I'm watching the FB groups as well, I bought the Soloshot 1 off eBay, and it does ok, it's just the camera I use with it isn't the greatest, and getting the proper zoom/angle can be tough. If they could get it down to where it is simple to edit and all in 1 package it may be worth the $699 for the lower resolution model just because I think it would be useful teaching wise.
The other issues with the SS1 is how cumbersome it is to setup each time, it ends up taking away too much time from surfing.
With regard to it being cheaper to have a gf/wife film, a girlfriend, maybe. A wife, not so much, she learned after one sandblasted kite session in Maui not to do that again.
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With regard to it being cheaper to have a gf/wife film, a girlfriend, maybe. A wife, not so much, she learned after one sandblasted kite session in Maui not to do that again.
Haha, very true, I think using a GF or wife as camera crew will cost you a lot more in the long run.
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Hi Robert,
Glad to hear you have your soloshot3 working. The frustration resonates, as well as being stoked to see it works and get good footage.
Please update us after 10 or so sessions as to how consistent your SS3 is, if it tracks reliably, or is hit and miss?
I really really really want the SS3 to work, I have had several sessions lately where I would have loved to have SS3 footage. Great to have this video for my own personal learning and growth, and for cutting into my other video shots.
I'm reluctant to ask wife/girlfriend or even any friend to video, and then the difficult challenge of them knowing how to skillfully operate a camera and tripod.
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This thread has me thinking.
I'm almost hoping it doesn't work because I would pay money to hear Clay post a video shredding them for unreliability and difficulty of use in his calm measured tones.
Lol. In fact, I think that could be a hugely successful YouTube channel if you ever want to go to the dark side man.
Delivered in chill Zen Clay voice: "Oh, hey, yeah, so I was out trying to get this f$&king piece of s)$t working and got to thinking about how we're all connected. Not at all like this damn solo shot that really won't connect to its tracker. I noticed some dolphins off in the distanc... which is the bright side of my solo shot not actually filming me but instead being focused on the horizon. Would have missed those dolphins if it had worked, so that a nice benefit. I like to keep things positive. And I'm 100% positive that this camera is filming only my feet right now"
I don't know if you guys enjoy this but this thought has made my night. Howling at the thought of how good this would be.
Clay, I love your videos and VO. I'm pretty sure that you reading negative reviews off of Amazon is something that I'd watch for hours. I don't know why, but this has me rolling over here.
I know you're too nice of a dude to do it, but I can dream right? ;)
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This thread has me thinking.
I'm almost hoping it doesn't work because I would pay money to hear Clay post a video shredding them for unreliability and difficulty of use in his calm measured tones.
Lol. In fact, I think that could be a hugely successful YouTube channel if you ever want to go to the dark side man.
Delivered in chill Zen Clay voice: "Oh, hey, yeah, so I was out trying to get this f$&king piece of s)$t working and got to thinking about how we're all connected. Not at all like this damn solo shot that really won't connect to its tracker. I noticed some dolphins off in the distanc... which is the bright side of my solo shot not actually filming me but instead being focused on the horizon. Would have missed those dolphins if it had worked, so that a nice benefit. I like to keep things positive. And I'm 100% positive that this camera is filming only my feet right now"
I don't know if you guys enjoy this but this thought has made my night. Howling at the thought of how good this would be.
Clay, I love your videos and VO. I'm pretty sure that you reading negative reviews off of Amazon is something that I'd watch for hours. I don't know why, but this has me rolling over here.
I know you're too nice of a dude to do it, but I can dream right? ;)
I am literally doubled over in my chair laughing out loud ;D
Cowboy you are hilarious, I really appreciate your posts and reading this one is a great way to start my day. Thanks! :) :D ;D
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site name:
ZenHate Island
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Cowboy: Tooo funny. I agree Clay providing an uplifting and highly critical review of SS3 would be freakin hilarious! The ending would have to pan to a classic full on destruction of some sort.
I too REALLY REALLY want this thing to work as I want one badly!!!! Every few days I comb the user groups looking for something along the lines of "finally, this software update cured all my problems" with multiple folks chiming in in agreement.
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Cowboy: Tooo funny. I agree Clay providing an uplifting and highly critical review of SS3 would be freakin hilarious! The ending would have to pan to a classic full on destruction of some sort.
I too REALLY REALLY want this thing to work as I want one badly!!!! Every few days I comb the user groups looking for something along the lines of "finally, this software update cured all my problems" with multiple folks chiming in in agreement.
I'm doing the same, having video of yourself on a steady basis in a mix of conditions is probably the best way to improve. I'm holding out hope, but my main requirements is that it's an easy plug and play setup. 4k resolution, etc. I don't care as much about.
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Clay and guys, thanks. I have read it like 3 times and still laugh too (when I write I don't really pay attention, I just flow so I sort of forget what I said) such a funny image to me.
I acthope they work as well. I agree. I desperately need to see myself to move to the next level and the low angle nose shot doesn't help me really. Here's to Soloshot working it out.
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Funny stuff Surfcowboy. Clay, I did make a plate and cover for my soloshot that I can clamp onto the railing that should take care of the wind shake issue and also protect the camera from glare and in a light rain. I'll test it as soon as the conditions are good and post more about it soon. I found the key to success is to properly "train" the camera before going out in the water. You have to go back and fourth at a good distance to the camera which helps it improve the tracking accuracy and centering in the frame. Also I turn the tracking off, move and turn it back on the check the tracking, which seems to help. Also, they keep updating the software and I just downloaded the latest version. It's not perfect but I am getting some good results. I find the angle from the beach really helpful for seeing what I need to work on.
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Success...... 3 sessions in a row with very good tracking, focus and keeping centered in the frame. Will continue to use the Soloshot 3 over the next 10 days or so and report back. Below is a little clip. It is interesting how Frank Island in the distance appears clear and close. It is quite a ways off.
Cheers
Bob
https://vimeo.com/255658822
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I am finally getting some results from my SoloShot3 Optic65.
It ha managed to fail, somehow, in every good session since November because of Tag issues.
1 tag replacement took 4 weeks... yesterday the tag simply shut off during a good session.
Today, it tracked well all session.
Settings I used:
Tight
Lower center
Sometimes the cam fell behind if I went to fast, but mostly it was good.
Terrible surf session, so nothing I want the world to see.... but here is a still, with some bonus grabs from the day.
When I watched the video, I saw a lot of stuff that was going on around me, that I never saw while I was in the water.
Jumping rays, Portuguese Man-O-War, something dark and large, that I have no idea what it was.
Note.... the last time I updated (mid-December)... it seemed to follow perfectly, so I haven't updated since.
Shaking remained my biggest problem... but now, I have a nice 10' cliff to keep the wind off the cam.
ps... my walk-about trip is going great.... 85* and sunny everyday, with decent waves. ;D ;D ;D
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Rick, is this what you were thinking to yourself? ;-)
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so studly creek, you getting waves down there today??--cocoa pier doesnt look too bad on cams....for florida, that is
but hey, youre the floridian...at least this year---where will you snowbird next, oh creek??
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Creek
The pictures of the flying great blue heron and the “flying ray” are great! I had no idea that rays could do that. Wow........ and what the heck is that thing swimming behind you??
Cheers
Bob
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Rick, is this what you were thinking to yourself? ;-)
ha ha.... that "muscle shot" is just me tightening the strap to the Soloshot tag.... the heron flew through at that moment. ;D ;D
FRP... I have no idea what it was..... in the video it is much creepier. Maybe a big ray? It had two "eyes" on the top of it's head, but not big enough to be a manatee. There were lots of things "looking" at me that session... and I was solo most of the time. Fishing boats were gathered just outside, so some feeding was going on.
eastie.... I totally love this area. North Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce. So quiet and peaceful.
lots of open mangrove preserves to paddle and dirt tracks for my mountain bike.
I am active every day. Losing weight, loving life.... I'd come back here in a heartbeat..... but NOT for the surf.... it's ok, and consistent so far, but I struggle to surf well in chop.
What I really am growing to appreciate, is the struggle.
At home, no one surfs when it's onshore and choppy..... here, it's a way of life.
Wobbling around in voodoo chop for 3 hour sessions, is really upping my stability fitness.
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Just bought one second hand, we will see how it goes. Apparently it's locked to his account so there may be some issues with livestreaming to the app, etc. but I mainly just want to capture video and download/edit on my own. I seriously doubt anyone wants to watch me sitting on a SUP anyways.
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Thanks for updating and I look forward to hearing success stories!
Glad to hear I'm not alone in struggling to get it working. And stoked to hear there is progress! The camera shake is annoying, I guess some kind of wind block is mandatory?
Second hand, that's awesome for a new product. I hope I can score a used deal.
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Thanks for updating and I look forward to hearing success stories!
Glad to hear I'm not alone in struggling to get it working. And stoked to hear there is progress! The camera shake is annoying, I guess some kind of wind block is mandatory?
Second hand, that's awesome for a new product. I hope I can score a used deal.
Yeah, 2 tags too. Although, be warned, apparently Soloshot has no way right now of resetting the credentials on the base once registered. I received an e-mail that they are working on it, but........nothing yet. So, basically it's not a huge deal except if you plan on livestreaming. Also, you would have to stay logged in as whomever to get updates, etc.
Luckily I know the guy quasi that I bought it from, so the latter should not be an issue until they get it fixed.
I'll definitely post reviews.
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Second hand purchase for the SS3 might be a good option but sure seems to be pretty risky at this point. It sounds like Soloshot is talking to APPST so that's good! Always seems like they'd have to provide the same level of support as an original buyer.......I'd like to think that anyway.
Meanwhile the watch and wait for issue resolution continues....sure hope they find one to at least eliminate the random inconsistent operation issues.
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i worry that dji or another well-moneyed drone co will blow SS outta the water, with a killer robot cam, and ill have a paper-weight on my hands
we shall see--hoping to grab a sesh today if mkts arent nuts--but it's rainy so no SS
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Great last video Rick, any kite surfing there? I think I've seen some south of Ft Pierce inlet when its blowing.
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Hi Johnny!.... Yes, i was filming Kites at Jetty Park, Ft. Pierce last week.... great set-up and local crew there!
My friend Lisa was kiting and I also met up with DW (Dwight) and got to see him ripping it up on his Kite Foil!
Please let me know if you are in this area this winter!
I have been surfing a lot, and tons of outdoor fun.... but I will put up DW's kite foiling video soon.
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I am finally getting some results from my SoloShot3 Optic65.
Shaking remained my biggest problem... but now, I have a nice 10' cliff to keep the wind off the cam.
Rick I enjoyed your recent video, was that filmed with SS3? If so has me wanting to give it another try.
How goes the wind block? Wondering if the shake is purely the wind or is a cheap 1800mm lens on a motor going to vibrate no matter what?
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Price on the Optic 65 dropped by $200. I am torn as to whether this is a sign of it's reduced quality, or a great time to buy? Either way I ordered one and am giving it another try.
Also I see Soloshot issued another update last week, can anyone report if they have done the update and seen any improvement?
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Clay,
Stoked to hear that you are jumping back in with a SS3 and look forward to your videos. Is SS3 perfect? ........... no....... is it good ....... most definitely! I am trying to keep up with the updates. Will be shooting again in 10 days and let you know if I notice a difference with the latest update.
Cheers
Bob
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Clay nailed it....Soloshot website now has the SS3 w/65optic for $699 and the 25X is $549......interesting!
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SS3 Optic65
I have not updated since mid December.
Why?
Cuz it tracks me and centers me most of the time.
Settings:
1080P
Water
Bottom center
Tight
Pretty darn good most of the time, so I won’t update until I know it’s perfect.
It struggles to keep up with me going frontside (away from camera)
Follows pretty well going backside (towards the camera)
Video qualty when zoomed in tight is very good!
Way better than quality from my 60x zoom Sony handicam.
I’ll put up a SS3 Demo vid soon, that shows zoom, good and bad results.
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yay clay---good luck---if mine worked smoothly and consistently id be using it--but, in the cold up here, i cant deal with the tinkering etc
and i am stuck on the SS3 ride, so i will try to get some value from the thing, but it annoys that they sold me that my early order and insane patience earned me a discount--now, after SS held my money for nearly 2 years of BS, frankly, my great discount is common currency--no loyalty earned here, so far
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Thanks for sharing settings and stories.
So first test with the newly acquired SS3. Did a great job tracking me in the parking lot, and paddling out. After a couple wave attempts it lost me and never recovered, I was occasionally partially in the frame for a second. Frustrating as I had one of the best foil rides I have had yet.
For those who are tinkering/fiddling with the settings have you had an experience where it tracks well at first and then looses you? Has playing with the settings improved the tracking?
Next time I am going to try a wider zoom out and hopefully see me and how far off center I am.
On a positive note - I built a wood windblock and it seems to help with the camera shake.
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Hi Clay
I did contact Soloshot about tracking problems in January and they sent
suggestions to try. Likely you are doing this but it did help a lot and only having the occasional tracking problem. I think starting out on the wide zoom at first is a good idea. There is the suggestion that the camera “learns” to track. Not sure about this but hope you have some better success.
Bob
Joseph A (SOLOSHOT)
Jan 16, 1:55 PM CST
Hi Robert,
Thank you for reaching out.
Please make sure that during initial calibration and for the first few minutes of tracking, the Tag is at least 25 ft away from the Base (this was recently implemented since it improves the rate of tracking success). Also note that moving horizontally side-to-side in front of the SOLOSHOT3 helps the unit get a better lock initially than moving to and from the camera.
You can view step by step instructions below.
1. Power on the Tag
2. Power on the Base
3. Check Tag and make sure there is no line through the GPS icon
4. Place Tag at least 25-30 ft away from the Base
5. From the home screen on the Base, select Track
6. Click the blue track button and begin tracking (select activity if prompted)
7. Begin Calibration
8. Head back to the Tag immediately and walk a few steps left to right from camera (not to and from)
9. After calibration the Base should be pointing at you, tracking, and recording. You would also see a green blinking LED light.
10. Remain at least 25 ft away from the Base for several more minutes. Minimum distance will eventually decrease to around 10 ft.
Please note that night filming might affect tracking. We did introduce some features that aid with night filming with a recent update. These settings work best in 1080p30, so I would definitely recommend that setting during low light.
If you continue to have issues, please send in footage for our engineers to review.
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Hi Bob,
Thanks for sharing that. I have resurrected my email chain with Joseph A.
Well day 2 was a total bust, so disappointing. I didn't make it to the water before SS3 lost me and never saw me the rest of the session. Also I have had several sessions where I get out and return to the SS3 and see it pointing straight down and still tracking left to right - but never moving back up, anyone else have this issue?
I suspect what has happened the past 2 attempts is a line of sight problem. Day 1 test I paddled a bit around a bend in the cliff and was probably out of sight for several minutes. Day 2 I laid down to warm up on the beach and the edge of the cliff blocked line of sight between me and SS3 for several minutes - this is when it lost me. I had the settings on medium tracking and 4k video.
I am feeling frustrated because I don't know how the SS3 is designed to work or what the limitations are, every attempt is total guesswork and an annoying crap shoot. I can only imagine how irritated the prepay folks are who waited 2 years for an SS3.
Also is there a forum or group for the SS3? GoPro has a community forum that is great for spit-balling problems and ideas and getting help.
On a positive note I am amazed that the tag works so well as a remote control starting and stopping the camera from ridiculously far away and waterproof to boot.
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Hi Clay
I don't believe that Soloshot operates on line of sight.
The tag and cam talk separately to the GPS satellite... the satellite tells the cam where the tag is.
But I just use it... I don't follow much chat about it.
Turn tag on a few minutes before the cam and set it on your board 75' away
Turn cam on.... let it do it's thing.
Put the tag on and walk right and left from the cam till it's following you.
I set mine at lower center
tight
Seems to work pretty well, but then I never updated since mid December, when it was tracking ok. I let well enough alone.
My start/stop filming button just makes it stop following me..... it just films where I was when I turned it off.
When I turn it back on, it turns to follow me again.
Now I just leave it on all the time and waste too much disc space.
Good discussion groupe on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=soloshot%203%20userforum
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Turn tag on a few minutes before the cam and set it on your board 75' away
Turn cam on.... let it do it's thing.
Put the tag on and walk right and left from the cam till it's following you.
Good discussion groupe on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=soloshot%203%20userforum
Thanks Rick I followed your distant tag setup, probably around 100 feet or so. AFter the base calibrated it was off by quite a bit, so I followed Robert's advice and did a manual adjust to center on the tag. And then I forgot to lock up the camera, and then doing so triggered a re-calibration and I again adjusted the base manually to center on the tag.
So viola it finally worked after 4 failed consecutive attempts! SS3 recorded all of my waves! I hope to be able to repeat this success and will update. My settings were medium, bottom center, and 4k video. I was pretty well centered in the video so next time I try will the tight zoom setting.
Also here is the latest reply from Soloshot Joseph:
"With our most recent firmware (released 2/21/18), the setup has changed slightly for more efficient tracking. I would also recommend bookmarking our Software Release page below for release notes and to keep track of when an update is available.
https://support.soloshot.com/hc/en-us/articles/115013870568-Latest-Software-Release-Information
1. Power on the Tag
2. Power on the Base. Please note that if you are filming from an elevated position in Water Mode, (ie: sand dunes, cliffs, jetties, piers, etc...) power up your base near the water and wait for the sensors to initialize before moving up to your filming location for best results.
3. Check Tag and make sure there is no line through the GPS icon
4. From the home screen on the Base, select Track
5. Click the blue track button and begin tracking (select activity if prompted)
6. Begin Calibration
7. Dock the Tag to the front of the Base ( Steps 7 and 8 are not necessary but can aid with tracking for those who are experiencing issues with GPS)
8. After calibration is complete, (when the camera preview shows up) undock the Tag
9. Head out at least 30-50 ft in front of the Base. Walk a few steps left to right from camera (not to and from).
10. The Camera should now be pointing at you, tracking, and recording. You would also see a green blinking LED light facing you, similar to a heartbeat rhythm.
11. Minimum distance will eventually decrease to around 10 ft, but it is recommended to be at least 30 ft away during filming for the best experience."
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Nice Clay.... Stoked to hear that you got it to track and record your rides!!!
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That is great Clay! Looking forward to some video of your sessions!
Thanks for the recent update to The initializing sequence.
Cheers
Bob
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thx clay--i will do the feb update before i give mine a nuther try
need a warmer day, when i am not squeezing a sesh in before workor something, and can tinker a bit
fantasy is to be able to tinker minimally, and surf---hate getting in and out or fussing with anything when there are waves
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I built a new handrail clamp on mount with windscreen for my Soloshot3, check it out in the video.
I had some successful sessions with the Soloshot but also had several sessions where the camera did not track me, so it's a mixed bag. It's really frustrating when you had a good session and when you watch the footage the camera did not capture a single ride. When it works it's great though, I think I just have to figure out how to set everything up just right before hitting the water.
https://youtu.be/R5VYk7VHmoE
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Finally decided to pull the trigger on a SS3 this week.....hey, its a birthday present! ::) ::) I ordered it Wed and received it courtesy of Amazon Prime Thursday night. Spent just a hour on Friday registering the base and tag after the 4 hour initial charge which all went easy breezy.
Beautiful day today with sunny skies and nice air temp....lots of folks out and about. Good to catch up w/ PDLSRF for a bit too!!!
I have a good bit to learn on this thing...e.g., I choose the "Water" option from the LED base menu once on the beach but neglected to go any further as far as which zoom feature to use....the vid is simply the default setting. The cam tracked me flawlessly for nearly two hours so I'm VERY happy about that! I opted to post the video of my last wave of the day as it contains a bit more moving around - hence zooming in/out - after existing the water and walking back up to where I placed my board in front of my truck.
I gotta figure out iMovie now.....in addition to the SS3!
Looking forward to using this as a learning tool!
Stoked!
Happy Easter all!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rrs7NBLHwc
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Finally decided to pull the trigger on a SS3 this week.....hey, its a birthday present! ::) ::) I ordered it Wed and received it courtesy of Amazon Prime Thursday night. Spent just a hour on Friday registering the base and tag after the 4 hour initial charge which all went easy breezy.
Beautiful day today with sunny skies and nice air temp....lots of folks out and about. Good to catch up w/ PDLSRF for a bit too!!!
I have a good bit to learn on this thing...e.g., I choose the "Water" option from the LED base menu once on the beach but neglected to go any further as far as which zoom feature to use....the vid is simply the default setting. The cam tracked me flawlessly for nearly two hours so I'm VERY happy about that! I opted to post the video of my last wave of the day as it contains a bit more moving around - hence zooming in/out - after existing the water and walking back up to where I placed my board in front of my truck.
I gotta figure out iMovie now.....in addition to the SS3!
Looking forward to using this as a learning tool!
Stoked!
Happy Easter all!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rrs7NBLHwc
Video shows as "not available", you may have to change it from private to public on youtube.
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Thanks Robert.....try this again,
https://youtu.be/DPlw2HO0C1I
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Impressive, WhatSUP---i am waitng for solid 50 degree and up weather before i upgrade and give another try.
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Whatz^.... first round perfection! Pure glass, clear skies, a small swell and the camera followed perfectly.....sweeet! :)
Looking good my friend..... by the way, what is that black thingie you are wearing? ???
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Thanks Eastie....hopefully the newest update solves some of the more common probs. folks are having.
Creek: Black thingie I'm wearing? I know, right? Its friggin snowing here this am....not gonna amount to much much we've already got about 2". WTH!
I'm not gonna update my software as long as I have good results....hopefully session #2 will be as good as #1!
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I think that was Sat, I went out LC wearing my 4:3 and 1st time on my Flow since the Fall, it was beautiful, now we have 4" of snow on the ground >:(
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Thanks Robert.....try this again,
https://youtu.be/DPlw2HO0C1I
Wow! That is awesome video, if mine tracked like that I wouldn't change a thing.
My SS3 has improved tracking in that it looses me and somewhat recovers. I just updated again a couple days ago and I'm hoping mine tracks as well as yours.
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Soloshot3 success continues for me with great results on both medium and tight (Water) settings...last couple of days have been really nice and fun size. The vid also continues to be an invaluable learning tool. VERY happy with the results and the info/insight I'm gleaming from it!!! I've not updated my software since purchase late March as it appears to continue to work just fine.
Hope other users are getting some nice pics' vid as well!
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Has anyone gone out and filmed two people in one session (with two people wearing tags). I think it films the person moving the fastest right?
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Surf-A: My understanding is that you can direct the camera to follow either the fastest or closest, or shift randomly between the two. I'm thinking that on "Medium" setting I'll be able to catch a couple of friends surfing near me. Gonna give the latter a try soon.
8) 8)
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Workarounds for my Thailand trip:
Sessions "Kook Hat Cam" died day one... so that's out.
SoloShot3 hasn't followed one wave this month, so I use it on "Manual" only now....
zoom to a fixed position and hope for the best.
I need to have SOMETHING from a month in Thailand. :-[
Oddly enough, the SoloShot3 has been 100% perfect following flat-water paddles.... even at considerable distance. I don't think I was as far away as the "dry reef" left.... but pretty good distance from the camera.
The pics and vids the the SoloShot gets are awesome.... I just wish it would actually work for surfing.
Bottom line:
4 month trip to Florida, with pretty good surf.
1 month in Thailand.... surfed everyday but 2
Set up Soloshot EVERY session
Exactly 2 waves posted since I got the camera in November.....
probably close to 75 sessions filmed.
I have gotten some fun vids from SoloShot as a "fixed" camera.... but wasted too many decent sessions before I gave up on the "follow me" part.
The other day I carried the Soloshot out and set it up on a big rock, close to the reef break.... but waves were splashing near the camera, so I took it back to safety and set up as "fixed cam"
The trip is so awesome, and my trust LUMX TS-3 is taking 1,000's of beautiful pictures.
I am waiting till the end of the trip to post, so I can use the best shots.
The home of Sunova is a totally amazing place and I am loving this trip :)
I'll post some of the "fixed" vids soon.
Some screen grabs to show the distances I am talking about and some of the results.
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Been working strong for me since day one, which was in October 2017. I was in the first hundred pre-orders that finally shipped. Coupla updates were not so great but the one in early April has been strong, for me anyways. This video is from December 18th, the day I injured my kidney. I had the tripod setup on a second floor deck pretty far from the lineup. First time I tried that pov. But framing was set to medium. My last three or four go outs I've been using only tight. At first it looks like medium framing but after about 10 mins the camera zooms in great.
https://vimeo.com/251048760
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/42266409462_fc57655fd9.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/27oWoZC)SS3_elevated_pulledback (https://flic.kr/p/27oWoZC) by surfercook (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42058618@N05/), on Flickr
Best way to get good tracking is from an elevated and pulled back pov. It's been working great for me for a while now. Tight, center, and water mode seem to be the right settings for success. Haven't setup on a deck again though. Been just going to the top of the dunes.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/970/41412167665_745ce9242c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/266sbEM)vlcsnap-2018-04-21-18h17m15s280 (https://flic.kr/p/266sbEM) by surfercook (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42058618@N05/), on Flickr
These images are right off the SS3 from tonight.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/980/42313507021_dd645c124d.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/27t6Msv)vlcsnap-2018-05-23-21h26m29s568 (https://flic.kr/p/27t6Msv) by surfercook (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42058618@N05/),
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/970/27444769437_1161564231.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/HPcBMX)vlcsnap-2018-05-23-21h12m13s469 (https://flic.kr/p/HPcBMX) by surfercook (https://www.flickr.com/photos/42058618@N05/), on Flickr
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Hi. I'm watching the FB groups as well, I bought the Soloshot 1 off eBay, and it does ok, it's just the camera I use with it isn't the greatest. I had a chance to test the Soloshot 3 a bit. I got some great results. 5 sessions in a row with very good tracking, focus and keeping centered in the frame.
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I was almost ready to start a new topic called Soloshot 3 UNsuccesses-complete bad luck but I’ll stick to this thread.
I’ll get right to the bad luck part. Got my SS3 last week. Anxious to get video footage to include in a review of my new JL Super Frank. Anyway, I was surfing for 30 minutes or so checking often to try and see if I was being tracked but I couldn’t see well enough to tell (ss3 lost me after my first wave). At one point I looked and the tripod gotten blown over (wind had started to pickup more as I was surfing), I immediately paddled in to see the ss3 was face/lenses first in the sand. When I picked it up I noticed sand in between the space where the Optic65 would retract. I gently started tapping the camera and some sand fell out but not all. I tried to setup calibration again but the display showed a picture of the camera on the base and a message asking me to “mount the camera”, I did so but got the same message. I gave up and went surfing.
When I got home I slid an index card in the space to remove the sand and it appears I got all of it out, probably not though. Ss3 continues to give the mount camera message.
I emailed soloshot support then last Monday decided to call. Nice woman advised me to try resetting the camera to default settings, I was at work so couldn’t try this right away, didn’t work. In the meantime, she sent me an email giving me the same instructions plus adding Soloshot does NOT have a repair department (UH OH REALLY!). I called again advising the resetting to default did not work. She said I should ship it back and the “engineers” will take a look. She said she’d email where to send the camera. In the email she added if they could not fix the camera due to components being damage in the fall “an open box camera is $349 a base is $249.”
Note, I viewed the footage and the camera was blown over but it didn’t appear to be a violent fall. There is not visible damage. At this point, I don’t want to buy replacement camera or base and have decided if the camera cannot be fixed And the base is fine I’d ask for a refund on the base and tag and accept the camera breaking is my fault. Camera was shipped due to arrive at Soloshot on Tuesday. Stay tuned.
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At one point I looked and the tripod gotten blown over (wind had started to pickup more as I was surfing)
That stinks! I've had every one of my SSs (1, 2, and 3) blow over and luckily they never have been damaged. good luck w/your recovery efforts. I sincerely hope you get a working SS3. They are amazing devices.
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LB,
That totally sucks. On your tripod there is a little silver hook that extends down. It is for attaching a weight to. I do do this when it is windy, usually my pack sack and have it just touching the ground so that it does not sway. The camera and base make the setup top heavy when on a tall tripod. Hopefully you will get your Camera back and up and running soon. Good luck.
Bob
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LB,
That totally sucks. On your tripod there is a little silver hook that extends down. It is for attaching a weight to. I do do this when it is windy, usually my pack sack and have it just touching the ground so that it does not sway. The camera and base make the setup top heavy when on a tall tripod. Hopefully you will get your Camera back and up and running soon. Good luck.
Bob
Thanks Bob. Actually I was using my daughters field hockey bag as a camera/tripod bag and I hung that on the hook. I was wondering if the bag acted as a sail helping it to blow over but I’m not sure.
Ken
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Huge fail, this thing is beyond frustrating, I won't get into it, but basically I've gotten 1 useable session (kiteboarding surprisingly enough in like 20 knots) in 6 months of use. It either doesn't record video or doesn't track right, or the camera shows disconnected, WTF. I'm going back to a GoPro, and/or setting it up for a manual view like Creek did.
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Huge fail, this thing is beyond frustrating
Did you open a support ticket? SS support will help get you get sorted...hopefully. VERY important to let them know yours is consistently failing. They've helped me trouble shoot every issue every time since the original SS release in 2012.
GL, APPST. Breaks my heart to hear about others frustration w/this amazing robo-cam.
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Soloshot could not fix my camera after it got blown over into sand, they said sand got in the lense. This really baffles me that the manufacturer couldn’t take the camera apart and remove the sand. Anyway, they said I’d have to purchase a new camera only as the base and tag are functioning properly. I said no thanks so I have to eat the cost of the camera and Soloshot will reimburse me for the base and tag.
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LB, that does suck.
I'm not surprised though, SS strikes me as a software company that buys hardware from overseas. I'll bet no one there can use a screwdriver.
I'd take matters into my own hands if they are voiding your warranty anyway, crack it open and clean it up. Video tape it if you do and show others how to do it. (Including the company)
Good luck man.