The competition in the "action camera" market continues to heat up as new cameras are introduced to consumers. We recently had both Sony and JVC announce new offerings as they attempt to knock GoPro off their perch as the most recognizable option amongst buyers. But there are other contenders for the crown and some of them have been around for quite awhile too. Take for example Contour, who for my money has always been on the cutting edge of new features and options. Today the company has announced their new Contour+2 camera which delivers a host of great new functionality to users.The Contour+2 retains the rugged metal housing, 1080p video quality and excellent glass lens from previous generations but has been updated with a host of new technology that makes it even easier to use. The camera features integrated GPS for geotagging still images and video, Bluetooth connectivity for connecting to an iPhone or iPad and the ability to record at an astounding 120 frames per second. It also comes with a waterproof housing and a simplified instant-on switch that keeps it shooting at all times. Best of all, the camera's sensor has been improved to give it better image quality while also allowing users more control over white balance, sharpness and other important settings.
Contour was one of the first companies to use mobile apps for iOS and Android to control their cams and they've added some new features in that arena as well. The iOS app has already been updated and the Android version will be soon. That gives users the ability to not only review the video being shot remotely via Bluetooth but now they can also control it from a distance as well, instructing the camera on when to start and stop recording. The app also allows for the tweaking of the cameras settings to get the best shot possible. This remote functionality really opens the door for filmmakers to do more with their Contour camera.
Another change to the Contour+2 is its ability to now overlay GPS data right onto the video. Previous versions of the camera could record that data as well, but it required the use of Contour's proprietary software to make it all work. Now it can simply be embedded right in the video, allowing users to record things like speed, altitude and course and display it over their footage. The effect is especially great when used while the camera is mounted to a helmet when snowboarding or mountain biking as the data overlay adds a lot to the experience.
Overall, Contour has a nice update to their camera system here and they managed to cut the price while still adding more features. The Contour+2 now runs $399 – $100 less than last year's model. That is a bit more expensive than some of the competitors out there, but I'm not sure anyone else has all of the features that this camera has straight out of the box. All in all, I see this is a good bargain for anyone interested in making action/outdoor adventure films.
