Advice on gimbals
Choosing a gimbal
Before you buy a gimbal, determine your usage situation and preferences. Ask yourself the following:
- Do you want a gimbal for a camera or smartphone?
- How heavy is your camera or smartphone?
- How do you want to attach your camera to the gimbal?
- How much experience do you have with gimbals?
Which gimbal suits you?
A gimbal is the type of tripod head that stabilizes your camera. The gimbal keeps the camera level, even when the tripod itself moves. This reduces vibrations and shaky frames in your videos. As a result, your footage looks stable and smooth. Most gimbals have 3 axes. These axes correct horizontal movements, vertical movements, and rotations. With large gimbals for cameras, you have to balance these axes manually. If you choose a smaller gimbal for your phone, the gimbal usually balances itself automatically.
How heavy can the camera or phone be?
The maximum load capacity of the gimbal indicates how heavy your camera or phone can be. For a professional system or SLR camera, choose a gimbal that is suitable for at least 3kg. Don't forget to take into account the weight of your camera lens and other accessories as well. If you use a small or compact camera, you can also choose gimbals with a lower maximum load capacity. For a smartphone gimbal, always check the weight of your smartphone. Make sure to include the weight of your phone case.
How do you attach your camera to the gimbal?
Most gimbals work with a 1/4 and 3/8-inch screw connection. This is the standard connection for tripods. Check whether your device has this screw connection on the bottom of your camera. If you're using a camera with a heavy or long lens, make sure the gimbal also provides lens support. Some gimbals have a lens clamp for longer lenses. This way, your set remains balanced. If you use a smartphone, attach it to the gimbal with the clamps. Carefully check whether your smartphone fits between the clamps.
How much experience do you have with gimbals?
It's difficult to control a gimbal at first. With some practice, you'll quickly get the hang of it. This makes it easier to create smooth videos. If you have little experience, choose a gimbal with automatic recording modes. For example, some gimbals have a function where the gimbal automatically follows the subject. Many gimbals can also rotate or move back and forth automatically. And most gimbals have an app that allows you to control it remotely.
