GoPro Mission 1 gains closer focus with new diopters

GoPro and PolarPro's Mission 1 diopters cost $49.99 for one or $99.99 for a set. The +2 cuts minimum focus to 30 cm (11.8 in).

GoPro has officially announced three new close-focus diopters, made by PolarPro from optical-grade multi-coated glass, for the Mission 1 series.

They were first flagged at the Mission 1 launch in May and address one of the range’s key weaknesses. While the new larger 1-in sensor in the cameras was welcomed by many, for a few users the fact that the close-focus distance suddenly increased to 60 cm (24 in) was a problem.

The new transparent filters slide over the camera lens or ND filter and use static focus, so no adjustment is required. A standalone +0.5 Close-Up Filter is pitched at vlog-style content, lifestyle footage, and travel shots, while a three-filter Close-Up Filter Set (+0.5, +1, and +2) is also available for more flexibility. As is usually the case with these filters, increasing diopter strength increases subject separation and gives a shallower depth of field.

Distance details

Focus distances are 50 cm (19.7 in) to 150 cm (59 in) for the standalone +0.5 filter, 45 cm (17.7 in) to 90 cm (35.4 in) for the +1, and 30 cm (11.8 in) to 50 cm (19.7 in) for the +2. For uses such as shooting in confined spaces like car interiors, where the 60 cm limit was a problem, the stronger filters bring subjects within reach, although each strength also caps how far away you can focus.

Users have to stack the diopters in front of ND filters rather than the other way around, though GoPro says that camera tracking in VLOG mode does not track subjects well when an ND filter and a diopter are stacked. It also notes that the far focus on the +0.5 is limited to 150 cm to create the subject separation and depth-of-field effect, and high-vibration activities and quick camera movements may affect video stabilization with the +2.

Pricing and availability

The standalone Close-Up Filter costs $49.99, while the Close-Up Filter Set costs $99.99. Both are available now globally at GoPro.com. They are compatible with the Mission 1 and Mission 1 PRO, as well as the Mission 1 PRO Grip Edition, Creator Edition, and Ultimate Creator Edition, and are backed by PolarPro’s Adventure Assurance.