Smartphone producers brag about the benefit of the image stabilization features of their phones. They boast that this feature provides steady, smooth video footage. Although footage shot using this technology is an improvement over the non-stabilized video, it falls short of many content creators’ expectations.
Using a smartphone gimbal is a simple way to shoot professional-looking footage without using a lot of bulky equipment. Smartphone gimbals let you enjoy the ease of handheld shooting, without any camera-shake. When choosing a gimbal, you should consider its weight, available features, and price.
All gimbals are not created equal. For those content creators with many action shots who feel that the image stabilization of their smartphone is not getting the job done, a gimbal can elevate the quality of your videos to a more professional level . Now, let’s start by taking a look at some of the reasons you need a smartphone gimbal.
What is a Gimbal?
Gimbal refers to anything that is rotating with pivoted support around a single axis. Gimbals have three-axis support with brushless motors. Gimbals dictate the direction that the camera is filming and not the person holding the Gimbal.
The three-axis of support allows someone to hold a camera to move side to side, up and down, or back and forth while holding the Gimbal and still have stabilized video recording. The tilt, pan, and roll axis of the gimbal device work together with the Internal Measurement Unit or gyroscope to maintain even axis of the camera lens.
As long as you have a focal point of focus, the gimbal technology that is connected to the Bluetooth of your smartphone can detect the focus and keep the camera aimed at that point, even if you move while filming.
(Source: Evo Gimbals)
Who Needs a Gimbal?
Vloggers, travel bloggers, sports videographers, and anyone who uses panning or time-lapse to create great stabilized videos should be using a gimbal rig with their smartphone.
Also, if you are an adventure photographer or videographer, a gimbal will help you to save energy. With the axis stabilization of a gimbal, you can move as you wish and not be too worried about how the video quality is going to come out.
Finally, it takes much less time and effort to set up more elaborate shots with a gimbal. The effort to hold the camera steady is much less, and the angles you are able to film at are increased without forcing you to exert yourself.
Smartphone Gimbals Eliminate Camera Shake
Are you seeking a way to make your videos look smoother or more professional, a smartphone phone gimbal is precisely what you need. Using a gimbal lets you break free from the constraints of using a tripod while eliminating unavoidable shake that comes with handheld shots.
Sure, you can reduce camera shake if your smartphone features optical image stabilization. However, with the help of 3-axis brushless motors and sophisticated software, smartphone gimbals eliminate camera shake.
As a result, video shot using a smartphone gimbal has a dreamlike quality giving viewers the sense that the camera is floating through the air. The smoothness of the image has the resemblance of a drone video.
Videos created using a smartphone gimbal make a popular addition to your YouTube page and social media accounts. Additionally, companies are eager to hire people capable of creating smooth, professional videos these days. The addition of professional-looking footage to your online resume or portfolio is a great way to attract future clients.
You Can Track Your Subject with a Smartphone Gimbal
Filming a subject in motion is a daunting task for the best of photographers and videographers. Maintaining a consistent distance between yourself and a moving subject is key to creating flowing, cinematic footage.
Holding your smartphone steady while following your subject is a near-impossible task. And, keeping your eye on the subject while watching your footing is virtually impossible. However, using a smartphone gimbal eliminates the need to multitask.
Additionally, many gimbals provide subject tracking software that reduces the amount of time you need to spend watching your subject. In turn, this allows you the time to make sure you don’t stumble around, creating unwanted camera shake.
Using this software is simple. All you have to do is turn on the tracking app on your smartphone and tap and drag a box around the person or object you want to track, and the software does the rest.
Best of all, the software works whether you are tracking a stationary object while moving around it or locking onto a moving subject and tracking its movements with your camera.
Smartphone Gimbals Shoot All Kinds of Shots
Many smartphone gimbal systems include panoramic and time-lapse mode settings you can use to program your smartphone to pan a subject or scene slowly.
Typically, the software takes multiple shots and then stitches them together to create either time-lapse clips and 180 or 330-degree panoramic shots.
If your gimbal system and accompanying software don’t offer time-lapse capability, you can always set it up yourself using the SimpleBGC smartphone app or desktop software.
Smooth time-lapse while moving and wide frame panorama shots are much easier with the Gimbal attached to your smartphone as a tool. Below are some of the best techniques for using a gimbal to create those awesome time-lapse, hyper-lapse and panorama shots you see on the most popular YouTube channels:
Hyper-Lapse Technique with a Gimbal
If you have ever seen the hyper-lapse from popular YouTube channels, they always give a mesmerizing motion blur and are incredibly stable so that the environment and the highlights of the scene are in crisp focus. More than likely, the videographer is using a gimbal to create these shots. Now you can, too by following the steps and instructions below:
- Attach your smartphone to a gimbal crane securely: The Gimbal will have instructions as to how to attach the smartphone. Make sure you follow them closely to avoid any mishaps during shooting.
- Attach a neutral density filter on the lens of your smartphone camera for the smooth look that makes hyper-lapse really pop on screen
- Attach the smartphone correctly on your Gimbal: If you do not attach the Gimbal on correctly the brushless motors will tend to overcompensate and give sudden angle changes that will destroy the sequence
- Keep it steady: As you walk, try to remain at a steady pace or the speed will be disorienting in the sped-up video
- Post edit: A final layer of stabilization in post-filming editing software will give an ultra-polished look you are looking for
(Source: F Stoppers)
To complete the hyper-lapse shot with your Gimbal correctly, you will need to have a neutral density filter for your smartphone camera lens. Some of the best that can be attached with a clip are listed below:
Neewer 37mm Clip-on ND 2-400 Cellphone Camera Lens Filter Kit
This Neewer kit that comes complete with lens, clip to mount your smartphone, and a portable box to carry around the accessories in
Pros:
- Compatible with most iPhone models
- The filter is adjustable to let more or less light into the lens
- The clip is durable and high quality; secure
Cons:
- Not compatible with many Samsung smartphones
- Some dim patches are reported from the filter when used at high density
Zomei 37mm Cell Phone Camera Lens Professional ND Circular Filter ND2-ND400
This circular high-density filter from Zomei has a nice design and lens quality body. The filter is glass and of high-quality material
Pros:
- Glass filter made for durability, high-quality images, and light transmittance
- Environmentally safe materials
- Portable and detachable
Cons:
- Only works with iPhones
- The clip is reported of cheaper quality than the filter lens
Apexel 2020 Newly Phone Camera Graduated Color Filter Accessory Kit
This Apexel kit comes with everything you need to start shooting beautiful photos with your smartphone today. The kit comes with many different filter types.
Pros:
- The kit is versatile, comes with many colored filters for different effects along with the high-density filter
- Compatible with many Samsung and Apple smartphones
- Quality materials manufacturing
- Carrying case for travel
Cons:
- Poor warranty
Time-Lapse Technique with a Gimbal
Time-lapse is nothing new in the world of photography, but it is a traditionally difficult technique to master. Having said that, a novice photographer with a gimbal can now set up and shoot a basic time-lapse with minimal effort.
It does take some great skill to produce a decent time-lapse, especially using a smartphone. Below are a few tips on how to make a beautiful and engaging time-lapse video using your smartphone mounted to a gimbal:
- Use a gimbal with a solid tripod: If you are going to maintain in one place, the tripod needs to be steady.
- Find a central point to focus the time-lapse on: If you are going to be moving the smartphone during the time-lapse, it helps to have a target of focus to move around or towards
- Consistent lighting is best: If this is difficult, try different times of the day. If you have little choice, use underexposure settings because you can lighten up in post-editing.
- Put the phone in airplane mode: You don’t want to be interrupted twenty minutes into your time-lapse by a call. It is best to put your smartphone into airplane mode during the shoot.
(Source: Vox)
Panorama Technique with a Gimbal
To create an awesome three-hundred and sixty-degree panorama shot with a smartphone camera is much easier with the use of a gimbal. If you have a gimbal, it can act as a Panohead that rotates on single access while allowing the body of your smartphone and camera lens to rotate freely.
To create a really great panoramic shot using a gimbal, make sure to invest in one with sturdy tripod legs to keep the camera steady as you rotate it.
Gimbals Extend Your Smartphone’s Versatility
Getting the most of your smartphone’s camera can require a lot of time and energy. However, using a smartphone gimbal increases the versatility of your smartphone’s capabilities.
For example, gimbals are quick and easy to set up compared to other stabilization gear like tripods and other camera mounts. Likewise, they are compact and lightweight, making it easy to film outdoor adventures.
Additionally, they provide a firmer hold for your smartphone, making it easier to make otherwise hard to reach shots. They are also great for shooting underwater clips and aerial footage.
And, with integrated wireless remote control, you can quickly shift camera angles on the fly without the need to come into direct physical contact with your smartphone. This function is particularly useful when recording time-lapse videos and panoramas.
Smartphone Gimbals are Much Better Than OIS Alone
Optical Image Stabilization is a great technology that significantly enhances the smoothness of the video you shoot by physically moving the camera lens to compensate for any tiny movements you might make while holding the camera.
The movements are picked up by the smartphone’s internal gyroscope and can make what would be blurred photos or extremely shaky films turn out to be pretty good. (Source: Android Authority)
Gimbals take the image stabilization to the next level and help you to produce professional-quality smoothness to your videos. The multiple motors that work within the gimbal act as added stabilization that corrects for larger bumps and sways of your hand as you are filming, so in side by side comparison of a scene like running upstairs, the results are easy to see: gimbal videos are far more stable and superior to OIS alone.
(Source: Android Authority)
How to Choose A Smartphone Gimbal
There are several elements you should weigh when selecting a smartphone gimbal. For example, you will want to explore the particular capabilities of the Gimbal. Some are designed solely for image stabilization, while others provide additional features.
Likewise, as discussed above, many gimbals include subject tracking software or remote-control devices that provide the ability to control the movement of your smartphone from a distance.
You will also need to consider your budget, weighing it against the features you desire. Smartphone gimbals range in price from less than a hundred dollars on the low end to bundled kits that can go as high as a couple of thousand dollars and more.
Other points to consider when choosing a smartphone gimbal include the following features that will aide in the actual filming with your Gimbal and the comfort of attaching your smartphone to your Gimbal. In the end, choosing a gimbal that is right for you means choosing a gimbal that is right for your smartphone.
Axis Stabilization
Image stabilization is perhaps an essential feature to consider when purchasing a smartphone gimbal. There are two types of stabilization systems used with gimbals, three-axis, and two-axis.
Three-axis gimbals stabilize your smartphone over all of the possible axes to include pan, tilt, and roll. In other words, your smartphone is supported whether you pivot the camera left and right, up and down, or side-to-side. On the flip side, two-axis cameras typically only control the tilt and roll axis (up and down and side-to-side).
The advantage of using three-axis stabilization is added smoothness when shooting dynamic moving shots. Additionally, you typically have extra stabilization modes so you can create a variety of different types of shots. The cost was a massive factor at one time when deciding whether to get a two or a three-axis gimbal. However, nowadays, the difference is nominal. It makes a three-axis gimbal the more desirable option unless you are on an extremely tight budget.
Compatibility
You will need to make sure the Gimbal you select is compatible with your smartphone. For example, some gimbals only work with specific phones or size ranges. So, be sure to check the list of compatible devices for any smartphone gimbal you are considering.
The Gimbal needs to be able to physically fit your phone and be able to connect to your smartphone with a Bluetooth connection. Make sure that the compatibility is your exact phone. Otherwise, you may not be able to download the needed software for the Gimbal to work.
(Source: DJI YouTube)
Software
Most smartphone gimbals come with bundled utility software that enables you to get the most out of your Gimbal’s features. Although many gimbals are designed to work on multiple platforms, some are made only for iOS or Android phones.
Likewise, you might want to use the software on your PC, Mac, or other devices. So, make sure you check the listing for compatible operating systems before purchasing a gimbal.
How do I Know What Version of Software to use with my Gimbal?
Sometimes you may not be able to find the software version that is correct for the pairing of your Gimbal and smartphone. In this case, you will need to follow a few steps to get your Gimbal connected correctly.
- Go to the manufacturer’s website and download any software version to connect the Gimbal to your device.
- For your Gimbal to work properly with your smartphone, you will need the correct version number of the software. Many developers will have firmware numbered. Identify the version number on the firmware that matches the software version on your phone.
- You can also download the newest version of the software on your phone and match the firmware for the Gimbal to that software upgrade.
- Sometimes, you won’t be able to find an exact firmware match, so you will need to choose the closet possible of equal or lesser version and hope for the best.
(Source: Came TV)
Overall Weight
Most smartphone gimbals are lightweight. However, even a couple of pounds can get cumbersome if you plan on shooting video for extended periods. For that reason, it is usually best to purchase the lightest Gimbal you can find without sacrificing any desired features. If you are purchasing a handheld gimbal, weight is an even greater consideration.
Payload Capacity
Gimbals have to be able to carry the weight of your smartphone and any other gear attached to it. It is important to calculate the payload of your smartphone camera rig and compare it to your gimbal capacity.
The three-axis design of most smartphone gimbals means that they have a maximum amount of weight that they can hold. For some of the larger or “plus” sized phone models out there, this can be a problem.
Usually, a smartphone gimbal rig includes the phone itself, the lens you are using, and a case for the phone. That is quite a bit of weight for the Gimbal to carry, especially if you are using a handheld gimbal, which tends to be even more lightweight than other types. Too much weight can put undue stress on the motors of the Gimbal, causing poor recording and damage.
Overall, the payload capacity of your smartphone gimbal is determined by the three things listed above. For example, an iPhone XS weighs 177 grams, and a Samsung s10+ weighs 175 grams.
Add onto that weight the average weight of lenses at around 70 grams, and cases at 50 grams, The chart below will let you know if your Gimbal can handle the weight of your smartphone camera rig.
| Gimbal | Payload Capacity |
| Feiyu Tech G6 Plus | 800 grams |
| Zhiyun CRANE-M2 | 720 grams |
| Hohem iSteady Multi | 400 grams |
| Snoppa Atom | 310 grams |
| Moza Mini-Mi | 300 grams |
| Hohem iSteady X | 280 grams |
| Hohem iSteady | 280 grams |
| Freevision VILTA-M Pro | 275 grams |
| MOZA MINI-S | 260 grams |
| Zhiyun Smooth Q2 | 260 grams |
(Source: Mom of Filmfest)
Batteries
Smartphone gimbals typically use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which need to be replaced at regular intervals. Some gimbals use their own branded batteries, while others use standard rechargeable batteries (typically AA or AAA batteries). You might consider getting a gimbal using standard batteries since it is less expensive to replace them or to buy additional batteries for extended usage.
Any good photographer will tell you that you need to have plenty of backup batteries for your camera. However, there is something to be said about the type of batteries that you put in your gear. Whether you are putting batteries in your Gimbal for a short shoot or a week-long expedition, you should consider the pros and cons of lithium-ion batteries versus alkaline batteries.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium iron disulfide or lithium-ion batteries are high-performance batteries that last a long time and can be recharged. Their technology is better than alkaline batteries, but you will pay for that technology. Some airlines prohibit them from being brought on planes, so they can be bad for travel carry-on.
Pros:
- Can be recharged hundreds of times
- Last for much longer periods of time than traditional alkaline batteries
- They can withstand extremely low temperatures; great for use outdoors
- Lighter batteries than alkaline so they are ideal for handheld gimbals
Cons:
- More expensive
- Restricted in some places, like on airplanes
Alkaline Batteries
Since your Gimbal has n easy battery case for installing new batteries at the drop of a hat, shorter-lasting alkaline batteries can be a fine choice, just as long as you bring enough extras with you on your filming expedition.
Pros:
- Less expensive than lithium-ion batteries
- Last longer than some other types of batteries
- No restrictions in place in sensitive areas like airplanes
Cons:
- Not great for cold weather use
- Not ideal for charging
- Do not last for as long as lithium-ion batteries
(Source: Lowes)
Mounting Platform
If you plan on alternating your camera use with your smartphone gimbal and without it, consider purchasing one with a quick-release platform to make switching modes easier. Quick release is an option that not all gimbals provide, so make sure you check before buying.
Also, some mounting platforms may make certain features of the phone, like headphone plugs and charging cables, impossible to use. Ensure that you check the mounting platform design and whether it will be a comfortable fit for your phone.
Finally, the mounting platform needs to fit the size and function of your smartphone. If, for instance, the mounting platform is too close to the handle at the bottom and you can’t get the charging cable or headphones into the smartphone, you may need to look at other models.
The Wrap Up
Gimbals can elevate the recording you do give you smooth and higher quality footage for many different types of projects. As you should now see, there are many benefits to buying a gimbal for your smartphone video production. Also, the features that you need to consider are numerous and need to fit the type of smartphone you will be using as your camera.
If you are looking for high-quality, eye-catching videos for your social media accounts, consider adding a gimbal to your toolkit. Feel free to share your knowledge with others interested in upping the quality of social media accounts, YouTube pages, and video blogs.