With video production currently one of the most in-demand skills on the employment market, it’s no surprise that videography is an increasingly popular hobby. Whether you’re a sports fanatic, vlogger, or simply love taking home videos, chances are that you want to take the smoothest, steadiest footage possible. In the past, professional-quality videos could only be achieved using professional videography equipment like dollies, sliders, and jibs. Today, it’s easier than ever to take smooth, cinematic footage thanks to just one photography tool: A gimbal.
But what is a gimbal, and how exactly can it improve your video quality? To answer these questions and more, we’ve teamed up with the video and photography experts at Ted’s Cameras. From how gimbals work to the best buy gimbals in 2020, read on to discover everything you need to know about this handy piece of videography equipment.
How does a gimbal work?
Mechanical gimbals use a combination of algorithms and gyroscopes to detect any sudden or unwanted movements during filming or still photography, such as jerking or tremors. Once these have been identified, the gimbal’s brushless internal motors smoothly and silently move to counterbalance these movements, resulting in a stable shot.
The best gimbals have advanced built-in computers and motors that can differentiate between intentional and unintentional movements, so you don’t have to worry about your gimbal over-correcting.
The benefits of using a gimbal for videography
From 3-axis gimbals to compact gimbals that slip easily into your bag or pocket, there’s a gimbal to suit every videographer. Whichever you choose, there are plenty of reasons why using a gimbal is a quick and easy way to drastically enhance your video quality.
1. More agile movement
Unlike dollys and cumbersome Steadicams, gimbals add plenty of functionality without adding too much weight or increasing set up times. Simply attach your camera or smartphone using the provided mount and you’ll be ready to film in seconds. A gimbal will allow your camera to track your every move naturally and smoothly – making it perfect for ever-popular walkthrough shots.
2. Portability
Planning an event or looking to shoot on the go? Take high-quality video with you wherever you are and with minimal equipment by adding a compact gimbal to your video and photography tool kit. Perfect for capturing steady shots indoors, in crowds, or in other environments in which space is limited, a pocket camera gimbal is one of the best investments a videographer can make.
3. Versatility
Gimbals aren’t just handy for stabilising your still images and videos: They can also be used in place of a tripod when filming a steady scene or slow pan. To do this, simply grip your gimbal tightly with both hands and keep as still as possible for the duration of your shot.
4. Ease of Use
Unlike many other videography tools, learning how to use a gimbal is relatively easy. Most gimbals are plug-and-play, with intuitive controls that mean you can start shooting great videos in no time and with barely any set up. What’s more, the best gimbals feature ergonomic grips and smartphone-compatible software that make them even easier and more comfortable to use.
Enhance your videography with a digital camera gimbal
If you’re looking for a cost-effective, multi-purpose piece of videography equipment that will significantly enhance your practice, a gimbal could be your best bet. Partnering your camera with a gimbal could help you shoot professional-quality footage without the expense or bulk of conventional videography tools. Add a gimbal to your videography tool kit or discover more tips for upskilling today.
‘Written by Ted’s Cameras
