The company was founded by Nick Woodman in 2002. Woodman started the company following a 2002 surf trip to Australia in which he was hoping to capture quality action photos of his surfing, but could not because amateur photographers could not get close enough, or obtain quality equipment at reasonable prices.[2] His desire for a camera system that could capture the professional angles inspired the 'GoPro' name.[3][4]
Woodman initially raised a portion of the money for his company by selling bead and shell belts for under US $20 out of his VW van[5] and later, fashionable camera straps. He also received over $230,000 in investment from his parents.[6][7]
In 2004, the company sold its first camera system, which used 35 mm film.[3] Digital still and video camera were later introduced. As of 2014 a fixed-lens HD video camera with a wide 170-degree angle was available; two or more can be paired to create 3D video.[3][8]
On June 4, 2014, the company announced the appointment of former Microsoft executive Tony Bates as President reporting directly to Nick Woodman.[9]