A gimbal is a device that supports and stabilizes a camera using motors and clever sensors, allowing you to record super smooth video footage while on the move. A gimbal is a device that enables a camera to move smoothly around one axis. Most 3-axis gimbals today are fitted with motors and sensors.
Gimbals steady a camera when the operator tilts, pans, or rolls to provide smooth footage while on the go. Gimbals are able to automatically adjust for any unexpected jolts or shocks when recording or taking images. This is all thanks to a system of algorithms, sensors, and motors.
You may then ask, is buying a gimbal worth it? The question was on everyone’s lips.
That will be determined by the type of work you intend to do. If you’re only going to sit in front of your camera and chat, a basic reasonable quality tripod should be enough image stabilization.
However, if you want to film any activity that involves moving around, you’ll notice that without a gimbal, your image quality will drop significantly. In most and worst cases, it will be blurry.
Any moving footage shot or handled will not be smooth, and it will reflect poorly on your work as a videographer.
Is Gimbal Worth it? – Things You Should Know Before Buying
As a videographer, the image stabilization provided by the gimbal may dramatically increase the picture quality you can provide your customers or the image quality you can provide your viewers as a vlogger.
Here are some of the things You should Know Before Buying a gimbal:
- Gimbals can be pricey
If you are just getting started as a videographer or doing it as a hobby or as a parent keeping family footage, you don’t want to spend too much money. Even more so when you do not have enough expertise.
Most Gimbals are costly. Some smartphone gimbals cost less than $40, while higher versions cost $350 or more. Prepare to spend up to $500, if you want a gimbal that can handle your mirrorless or DSLR camera.
- Always check the review
Reviews are like the holy grails of any product and they educate you on the quality of a product before you invest your hard-earned money in it. This way, you can see the products that people have tested and liked before making your choice. You even get to know the pros and cons of the said item before using it.
- The battery and its runtime
This is something more to note, especially if you’re going to be shooting for a long period. If you’re often on the road, spare batteries can be a good idea to have on hand. If your gimbal includes an adaptor for ordinary AA or AAA-size cells, that would be much better. This is due to the fact that these batteries are widely available at convenience stores all over the world. You might also want to get a gimbal that can be charged with a power bank. It would also be fantastic to have a gimbal that can shoot for a day or two.
- The type of axis
Gimbals typically come with two types of stabilization: two-axis and three-axis. Two-axis gimbals stabilize tilting and rolling motions, whereas three-axis gimbals stabilize turning and panning motions as well.
A two-axis gimbal may be sufficient if you plan to film largely in the studio or capture motionless things. A three-axis gimbal, on the other hand, is required if you want to shoot dynamic video, such as when running or driving.
- Payload capacity and compatibility
A more sturdy gimbal is recommended if you want to install accessories to your smartphones, such as a case or an add-on lens. Some older or more cheap versions may have a weight limit.
This is especially true for gimbals designed specifically for cameras. Because the model you pick may be built for a mirrorless camera, it may not operate correctly if you attach a DSLR to it with a hefty pro-grade lens. You should also consider the gimbal that can hold cameras of more weight.
Although many gimbals are compatible with the majority of smartphones on the market, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the manufacturer. The majority of smartphone gimbals are solely meant to be used with smartphones. While some gimbals allow for the attachment of an action camera, others may not.
Also Read: Do You Need to Lock Gimbal When Taking Photo?
Benefits of Gimbals
- Capture fast-moving scenes
- Video from tricky angles
- Improved video quality
- Professional results
- Reliability
- Stqbilisws handheld footage
Drawbacks of Gimbals
- Expensive
- Payload restrictions
- Large weight and size
Is a Smartphone Gimbal Worth It?
Definitely yes. If you can afford it, you should definitely acquire one. You know how you want to take the pictures or make videos of almost every passing moment, well a gimbal provides a good opportunity for to make and take those clear videos and sharp photos.
If you’re budgeting your resources, though, you should spend wisely. There are even cheap yet effective options to choose from. It’s well worth the money if you can put it to good use. However, if you’re simply acquiring it because it looks good, you should think again.
Also Read: How Much Does a Gimbal Cost?
Is a GoPro Gimbal Worth It?
Without a question, GoPro is a fantastic camera that produces incredible, high-quality photographs and films. However, because it’s an action camera, it’ll be utilized mostly while you’re on the go or participating in adventurous activities, necessitating the need for a gimbal.
Even though some of the newer GoPro Hero cameras have amazing Electronic Image Stabilization, you might still require a gimbal to get fully smooth and shake-free photos and movies.
Some of the reasons why you should definitely consider getting a GoPro gimbal are:
- Increased Stability
- Extend the life of the GoPro battery
- Improved low-light photography
- Timelapse Motion
Conclusion:
In Conclusion, gimbals are a reasonable investment and definitely worth every penny spent, whether it be the cheapest in the market or the most expensive. If you can afford them, then go for it. Your video quality will thank you.
