Gimbals bring a level of smoothness and stability to your video footage that was once only achievable by professional film crews. These fantastic gadgets transform your shooting experience, giving your videos a polished, cinematic feel without the jitters and shakes of handheld shooting.
While a gimbal might not be an absolute necessity for every photographer or videographer, it opens up a world of creative possibilities. If you’re eager to push the boundaries of what your camera can do, adding a gimbal to your gear might be your next big move.
Our picks at a glance
How do gimbals work
Camera gimbals ensure your footage remains crisp and smooth, whether shooting video or stills. They range from lightweight and compact models designed for smartphones or lighter weight mirrorless cameras to more robust models capable of handling DSLR or cinema cameras.
These camera stabilizers work by permitting rotation of an object (in this case, a DSLR) around a single axis, utilizing motors and sensors to counteract unwanted camera movements. When you move, the gimbal moves in the opposite direction to balance the motion, ensuring that your camera remains stable. This means you can walk, run, jump, or whatever(!), and still end up with smooth footage.
Photo: Tiwiplusk/Shutterstock
Types of gimbals
Gimbals come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. There are three main types:
- Handheld gimbals. The handheld stabilizer is most popular choice for still and video cameras. They offer flexibility, allowing you to move freely while maintaining stability.
- Vest and arm gimbals. These gimbals use a vest and arm system to distribute the weight of the gimbal and camera, making them ideal for extended shooting sessions.
- Tripod-based gimbals. For those looking for ultra-steady footage, tripod-based gimbals are a great option. These gimbals use a tripod to stabilize the camera and gimbal, making them ideal for still photography.
Benefits of using a gimbal
While an easy choice when it comes to pairing a gimbal with cinema cameras, the benefits of using one for still photography might not be immediately obvious. But as we’ve experienced during longer sessions shooting with a DSLR, even the strongest hands can start to struggle to keep the camera steady.
But it’s not just about the steady shots; a gimbal also frees you creatively. Movements that once seemed impossible, like running alongside your subject, become achievable. You can also experiment with angles and varying perspectives that would be tough to manage handheld.
Photo: Alessandro Mancuso C/Shutterstock
How to use a gimbal
First thing’s first, make sure your gimbal and camera are fully charged or have fresh batteries, then follow these steps.
Step 1: Attach your camera to the gimbal
- Find the mounting plate: Your gimbal comes with a mounting plate that attaches to the bottom of your camera.
- Secure the camera: Attach the mounting plate to your camera’s base, ensuring it’s snug and secure. Use the screws provided and don’t over-tighten.
- Slide into position: Once the plate is attached, slide your camera onto the gimbal’s mounting arm. You should hear a satisfying click when it’s securely in place.
Step 2: Balance your camera on the gimbal
- Axis by axis: Start with the tilt axis (up and down movement), move on to the roll axis (side to side movement), and finish with the pan axis (left to right movement). Adjust your camera on its mount until it can stay in place, no matter how you move the gimbal.
- Small adjustments make big differences: Use the provided knobs to make micro-adjustments. You’re aiming for a position where your camera stays put, even when the gimbal is off.
Step 3: Center your camera
- Check the balance: After balancing, ensure your camera is centered. This means it should not tilt forward, backward, or to the sides but should remain steady. If your camera tilts in any direction, carefully adjust its position on the gimbal again.
- Test movements: Move the gimbal head with your hand to each extreme it can go—up, down, left, and right. Adjust as necessary until the camera remains level without support.
Additional Considerations
- Lens and accessories: If you plan to change lenses, rebalance your gimbal with the new lens. Accessories like microphones or lights will also affect the balance.
- Battery and memory card: Insert these into your camera before mounting on the gimbal; changing these mid-use can disrupt your balance.
- Calibration: Some gimbals require electronic calibration through an app or onboard menu. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to calibrate your gimbal successfully.
Photo: Aleksey Boyko/Shutterstock
Gimbal features to consider
Choosing the best DSLR gimbal is like picking a dance partner – you want someone who can keep up, complement your style, and not step on your toes! Here are some features to consider that’ll ensure you and your gimbal tango smoothly:
Maximum payload
First, your gimbal has to be strong enough to carry your camera and lens combination and any accessories. Check the maximum payload capacity to ensure it can handle your camera’s weight, along with that of any heavy lenses or other accessories you plan to use.
Battery life
The last thing you want is for your gimbal’s battery to peter out in the middle of a shoot. Look for a gimbal with a long battery life. You’ll want to make sure the battery lasts long enough to keep up with your shooting schedule, especially if you’re out and about for long periods.
Axis stabilization
Most gimbals offer either 3-axis or 2-axis stabilization, with 3-axis providing tilt, roll, and pan corrections for superior smoothness. Ensure there’s the ability to fine-tune these axes for precise control over your shots.
Connectivity and compatibility
Look for gimbals that offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control your camera and gimbal settings remotely. And, of course, don’t overlook compatibility with your camera and other devices.
Weight
In most cases you’ll want one that’s not only durable, but also lightweight enough to carry around comfortably. The best gimbals strike the perfect balance between durability and portability.
Additional considerations
Gimbals come with a variety of bells and whistles. Consider what additional features might enhance your work, as well as the overall build quality and how easy the gimbal is to setup and use.
How we picked the best DSLR gimbals
We at Conservation Visual Storytellers Academy have extensive experience in nature photography. To choose the best recommendations for you, we combine personal experience, insights from fellow pros and industry experts, editorial and user reviews, and details from manufacturers. We carefully weigh the pros and cons of each item and put only what we feel is the best selection available into our recommendation guides.
We’ve curated a selection of gimbals meant to meet the needs of different goals and budgets. Factors we take into consideration include payload capacity, battery life, ease of use, and more to help you to have the best experience.
For advice on what to consider in a gimbal and how to choose the best gimbal for you, use the table of contents to jump to those sections.
Our Reviews & Recommendations
DJI RS 3
- Easy to use and set-up
- Impressive stabilization
- Automated axis locks, mode switch, and Bluetooth shutter control
- Battery life isn't bad, but isn't mind-blowing
SPECIFICATIONS
- Max load: 6.6 lbs
- Axis stabilization: 3-axis
- Battery life: 12 hours
- Weight: 2.8 lbs
The DJI RS 3 is considered the best of the best from DJI for solo folks out there with their action camera.
We also love their RSC 2 – the previous model – and compared to that, the DJI RS 3 has advanced features like automated axis locks, gimbal mode switch, and Bluetooth shutter control, plus a 20% increase in stability over the RSC 2.
This extra oomph in stability aids in easily capturing low-angle shots and shooting on the move.
Easy to set up and intuitive to use, the DJI RS 3 is relatively lightweight while still able to handle over twice its own weight.
Dual-layered quick release plates makes camera mounting quick and easy without the need to rebalance when changing out memory cards or batteries.
And, while 12 hours of battery life is a looooooong time, would we like to squeeze another few hours out of it? Yeah. Honestly, yeah. Particularly with its slightly steeper price than many of the other gimbals on our list.
Additional DJI options
DJI RS 3 Pro – With a 10 lb payload capacity, if you’re looking for a model with a bit more strength this is it.
Plus, it comes with long range video transmission, automatic axis locks, and extended arms for professional combos. But, as you might imagine, it costs a few more bucks.
DJI Ronin-SC – If you’re here looking for 3-axis stabilizer for a mirrorless camera, check out the DJI Ronin-SC.
As its payload isn’t particularly high, it’s not ideal for a DSLR, but this DJI Ronin is perfect for mirrorless cameras.
BEST PRICES
FeiyuTech SCORP-C
- Super fast charge and stellar battery life
- Affordable
- So Easily Portable
- Lower maximum payload
SPECIFICATIONS
- Max load: 5.5 lbs
- Axis stabilization: 3-axis
- Battery life: 13 hours
- Weight: 2.7 lbs
WHAT WE THINK
If you have a lighter weight DSLR and lens setup and are looking to keep things simple and portable, this is a great and relatively affordable option. Efficient and agile with excellent battery life coupled with a super fast charge capability (1.6 hours!!!), the SCORP-C let’s you spend more time shooting wherever and however you want!
We particularly appreciate its integrated feet, joystick control, auto calibration, and range of shooting mode options. But, its lower maximum payload when compared to others on our list and limited camera compatibility (designed for the Sony A7 series, but is compatible with other models) limits pairing options though, so do a thorough job of making sure your camera works with it before opting for this gimbal.
Overall, this gimbal stabilizer does a good job compensating for camera movements while keeping you within your budget and on the go!
BEST PRICES
Zhiyun Weebill 3S
- Lightweight but can carry a load
- Compact design
- Decent price
- Lower battery life
SPECIFICATIONS
- Max load: 6.6 lbs
- Axis stabilization: 3-axis
- Battery life: 11.5 hours
- Weight: 2.3 lbs
The Zhiyun Weebill 3S is a standout choice for creators who prioritize compactness and agility without compromising performance. We love its surprisingly lightweight design that’s still able to handle 6.6 lbs of gear, making it perfect for a variety of camera setups, from lightweight mirrorless systems to robust DSLRs. Whether you’re shooting on the go or setting up for a stationary shot, the Weebill 3S offers the flexibility you need without adding unnecessary bulk.
And, while 11.5 hours of battery life doesn’t blow the socks off the other options on our list, it’s not bad! Plus, it only takes two hours to fully charge. This balance between battery life and fast charging makes it a reliable companion for both short and long shoots.
The Weebill 3S features Bluetooth shutter control, an energy-saving sling grip mode for comfortable handheld shooting, built-in Lumen Amplifier technology for excellent lighting, and a quick release system for easy balancing. These features enhance usability and make the gimbal versatile for various shooting needs.
Compatible with a wide range of camera setups and available at a reasonable price, the Weebill 3S offers great value. It’s an excellent choice for both amateur and professional videographers, providing a compact, agile, and high-performing tool to elevate your shooting experience.
BEST PRICES
Zhiyun Crane 4
- Super fast charging
- Can carry a heavy load
- Advanced and professional features
- On the heavier side
SPECIFICATIONS
- Max load: Canon C70+24-70mm f 2.8
- Axis stabilization: 3-axis
- Battery life: 12 hours
- Weight: 3.7 lbs
WHAT WE THINK
The Zhiyun Crane 4 stands out for its ability to handle heavy cameras and lenses, along with additional accessories like lights and microphones. While it carries a little extra weight itself—just under four pounds—this is something to keep in mind if your primary goal is to stay as light as possible.
One of the features we love is its impressive charging time. It can fully charge in under two hours, which is a huge plus for those on tight schedules.
When it comes to using the gimbal, the balance indicator lights are a fantastic addition, helping with precise calibration to ensure smooth operation.
The quick-release module is another highlight, allowing you to easily switch from horizontal to vertical shooting without missing a beat.
Additionally, the versatile sling grip and Bluetooth shutter control enhance usability, making the Crane 4 a very user-friendly option.
While its heavier build might be a drawback for some, the Crane 4’s robust load capacity makes it an excellent choice for professionals who prioritize performance over portability. If you need a gimbal that can handle more demanding setups, the Zhiyun Crane 4 is a reliable and versatile option.
BEST PRICES
Recommended: Pair that gimbal with the perfect camera! Check out our recommendations for Best Cameras for Video and Filmmaking
Photo: Kristi Blokhin/Shutterstock
FAQ
❂ What’s the relationship between image stabilization and gimbals?
Image stabilization is built directly into your camera or lens, working to counteract minor, quick vibrations and movements. Gimbals, on the other hand, are designed to stabilize your camera during more significant and broader movements. Think walking, running, or capturing dynamic action shots.
A gimbal supports your camera’s weight and gracefully counters these movements, all while letting image stabilization do its thing with the minor tremors.
When you combine the powers of image stabilization and a gimbal, you’re equipping yourself with a comprehensive stability solution!
❂ How are gimbals used in nature photography?
Using a gimbal in your nature photography is about more than just stabilization; it’s about forging a deeper connection with the natural world. They allow photographers to immerse themselves in the environment, capturing its beauty and dynamism in a way that’s respectful, authentic, and truly magnificent.
In the sometimes serene and sometimes unpredictable world of nature photography, when you’re out in the wild tracking animals or waiting for that perfect moment of natural beauty, the slightest movement can disrupt the shot. Here, gimbals prove invaluable, providing stability that combats the elements and facilitates smooth tracking of animals in motion.
❂ How are camera gimbals different for a DSLR and mirrorless camera?
At first glance, gimbals for DSLR and mirrorless cameras might seem pretty similar—they both aim to provide stability, after all. But, DSLR cameras are typically a tad heavier and bulkier than their mirrorless camera counterpart meaning they require gimbals designed to handle a bit more weight.
On the flip side, most mirrorless cameras are lighter, more compact cameras, allowing for gimbals designed for them to be a smaller and lighter.
But, recall the ol’ adage: not all mirrorless camera stabilizers make a DSLR camera stabilizer, but all DSLR camera stabilizers can be a stabilizer for mirrorless cameras.
And, with that mindbender of a riddle, we’re outta here!
