What is a suspension? Which stabilizer for the phone, and which one for the camera?

Each technology initially goes through a limited availability stage, and then we observe its popularization. The situation was no different in the segment of accessories for video recording - until recently, image stabilization technology was only possible in professional film studios. Today, each of us can create movies or record music videos and vlogs using video stabilization.

Video Image Stabilization

The first device in history to support this feature was created at the beginning of the XNUMXth century using a gyroscope to control an old-fashioned film camera from today's point of view. The author of the invention was the Pole Kazimierz Prushinsky. The principle of this idea has not changed to this day, and in the course of the development of image recording technology, it began to be used by the film industry, and then by individual consumers. This made the image clearer, more attractive, and more appealing to the viewer's imagination. Currently, the best way to get stabilization when shooting video or stills is to buy it. Gimbal, the smallest version of this solution.

What is a suspension and how does it work?

In short, this is a device equipped with small gyroscopes and electric drives, a battery (or battery box), as well as additional elements depending on the specific model. Its purpose is the aforementioned image stabilization, i.e. reducing the shaking we experience when holding a camera/smartphone in our hand or attaching it to a traditional tripod. This is a type of product made by many companies and its characteristics vary depending on the type of equipment it is intended for.

First creative needs, then good choices

Before buying any equipment, let's think about what we need. How often do we use the ability to write to smartphone or camera? What materials do we create - are they vacation memories or vlogs made at home? The main need of the creator, which the gimbal satisfies, is to improve the quality of the image and eliminate one factor that distracts the potential viewer: uncontrolled shaking. Thanks to this, even ordinary shots of the city will become more communicative and convincing, and the material will take on a more technical tone. So: if we record a lot of material, create a YouTube channel, or just want good quality recordings, this is the right product.

Which hanger to choose? Available device options

Devices in this category have some basic technical characteristics. The most important ones are:

• Number of axles. One translates into vertical stabilization, two into horizontal stabilization, and the third allows a 360-degree panoramic rotation of the attached device. Single axis equipment is sufficient for simple, sedentary and everyday recordings, other applications require higher quality parameters.
• Dimensions. Be aware that larger and heavier devices can result in more fatigue during long recording sessions. If you want to shoot for a long time, consider lighter and smaller models.
• Force. This setting speaks for itself. The larger the battery capacity, the less likely it is that the gimbal will turn off just before, for example, a sunset, which we wanted to record as beautifully as possible. An additional function of some of them is the ability to recharge the smartphone battery - this is a lifeline after many hours of recording.
• Resilience to external factors. If you plan to record from the beaches, the mountains, or want to capture our sporting achievements, it is worth getting a waterproof model. Some of them meet certified IP67 and IP68 resistance standards.
• The stabilizer is compatible with our equipment. Some of their models are designed specifically for GoPro cameras, others, for example, for smartphones. It is worth checking these details in the product description.

Smartphone gimbal: small rating

Mobile phones are by far the most versatile and easy to use recording equipment. Consider purchasing DJI Osmo products. Gudsen products (Moza Mini S) or Hohem Tech (iSteady Mobile) and Xiaomi MiJia deserve no less attention. 

Camera gimbal and more

If we plan to use a camera instead of a smartphone for recording, we are in for a pleasant surprise: some stabilizers available on the market are compatible with both phones and phones. webcams. This feature is typical, for example, for the Moza Mini-P model. If we are fans of the MiJia camera, it will be interesting to buy a stabilizer from Xiaomi, which works as part of the company's ecosystem. In turn, Hohem's offer is one of the most versatile on the market, as it is compatible with both GoPro cameras and the aforementioned MiJia, Osmo or Sony. Due to the rapid development of the market, the current offer is very rich and adapted for both casual home recording and sports shooting.

Good equipment helps to inspire

Having bought the right stabilizer, we are sure to be fascinated by the quality of our recordings - more advanced gimbal models can bring stabilization closer to the level of almost professional cinema. Without a doubt, better equipment means fewer creative limits, and well-invested money can pay off in both beautiful, artistic videos and honestly crafted vlogs. Both will greatly increase the power of the message that we are perpetuating.

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