The water is like glass, and a dolphin jumps out of the sea nearby as you paddle out into the golden morning. You try to get your phone, but it’s in your dry bag. The time has passed.
This is why every paddler should have a GoPro, DJI Osmo, or Insta360 action camera attached to their board.
But here’s the problem: Most beginners have a hard time properly attaching cameras to inflatable paddle boards (iSUPs). You can’t always trust a basic suction cup on a textured PVC surface like you can with hard boards.
We’ll show you exactly how to safely place an action camera on a paddle board, the ideal angles for cinematic footage, and why it’s important to have the right board in this article.
Method 1: The Built-in Action Camera Mount (The Best Option)
A pre-installed mount is the best way to get the safest, most stable connection.
A lot of high-end inflatable boards, like our Huale Paddle Boards, come with a special platform for an action camera. This base is normally in the front of the board.
How to use it:
- Find the Mount: Look for the threaded screw hole (typically M8 standard) that is built into the D-ring area or the nose handle.
- Take the mounting adapter for your camera and screw it directly into the base.
- No Drilling Needed: You don’t need to use sticky glue or drill holes because it’s incorporated into the board. It is strong, waterproof, and ready to use.
Pro Tip: Built-in mounts cut down on vibration a lot more than stick-on mounts do, which makes your footage look smoother.
Method 2: Adhesive Mounts (For Older Boards)
You can add a mount to your board if it didn’t arrive with one. You need a specific adhesive mount because you can’t drill into an inflated SUP (pop!).
Installation Steps:
- Clean the Surface: Use alcohol to clean the PVC surface on the front of your board. It can’t have any salt, sand, or sunscreen in it.
- Pick the Right Glue: Don’t use regular super glue. You need either a flexible adhesive that is safe for PVC, like the ones in repair kits, or heavy-duty 3M VHB tape made for maritime settings.
- Wait 24 hours: This is crucial. Before you go swimming, make sure the glue is totally dry.
Method 3: Suction Cup Mounts (Use with Caution!)
Suction cups work well on surfboards and fiberglass SUPs, but they don’t work as well on inflated boards.
Because drop-stitch PVC has a rough surface, it is hard for a vacuum cup to stay sealed for a long time. If you have to utilize one:
- Put it on the smoothest portion of the board, staying away from seams.
- In case it pops off, use a “safety leash” (a string that ties the camera to your bungee cords).
Where is the Best Place to Mount Your Camera?
Half the battle is knowing how to put it up. Where you put it might make your video look professional or uninteresting.
The “Selfie” Angle (The Nose)
Mount the camera at the very front (nose) of the board, facing back at you.
- Why? Because it shows you, your paddle stroke, and the view behind you. It puts you in the spotlight.
- Best for: assessing your paddling form and making social media reels.
The POV Angle (Chest or Head Mount)
Instead of the board, mount the camera on your body.
- Why: It displays you exactly what you see.
- Best for: taking pictures of people doing things, catching waves, or recording animals in front of you.
The Low Angle (The Tail)
Mount the camera at the back of the board facing forward.
- Why: It gives a unique perspective of the water rushing past the board.
Don’t Lose Your Gear: A Safety Checklist
Before you paddle out, run through this 3-point check:
- The Float test: Is the casing for your camera “floaty”? If the mount fails and the camera sinks, it’s gone for good. A bright orange floaty is a cheap way to protect yourself.
- Tighten the Screws: Cold water might make plastic a little bit smaller. Make sure your thumb screws are tight.
- After using, rinse: Saltwater eats away at metal. After each session in the ocean, always rinse your mount and camera with fresh water.
Conclusion
It doesn’t have to be hard to mount an action camera. Adhesives and suction cups can work in a pinch, but the ideal solution is always a board made for adventure.
We at Huale believe in recording every moment. That’s why our best boards come with built-in camera mounts. You can focus on paddling instead of your gear.
Ready to start filming your water adventures? Shop our Camera-Ready Paddle Board Collection today.
