Camera stabilizer. A simple stabilizer for the camera. The best professional stabilizers for action cameras

When choosing equipment for video shooting, it would be a mistake to think that it is enough to buy a fancy camera with high resolution and the picture will look good. In fact, if we watch a video shot by professionals, we can already see by the smoothness of the camera movement that the camera is mounted on something that allows us to avoid sharp turns and shaking. That is, in fact, various systems that fix the camera, or allow you to smoothly move it, play an equally important role. In the case of handheld shooting, the most modern version of such a system is electronic stabilizers (steadicams), which compensate for camera rotation due to built-in electric motors.

Let's take a closer look at what they do.

In any electronic stabilizer, the camera and the handle by which it is held are connected by two frames located perpendicular to each other. Between the frames there are three hinges driven by electric motors. Each of these electric motors keeps the camera from rotating in one of three axes. These three axes are commonly referred to in aviation terminology:

1. Roll - camera tilt left-right
2. Pitch - tilt back and forth
3. Yaw - turning around a vertical axis

Also, the design of the stabilizer includes gyroscopes, which, in fact, determine the tendency of the camera to rotate around these axes.

From all this it is clear that even in its simplest form, an electronic stabilizer is a high-tech device, the capabilities of which could previously be realized only for very big money.

Depending on the tasks and budget, different cameras can be used for video shooting. Accordingly, since the cameras have different weights, the stabilizers differ in maximum load. Therefore, we decided not to interfere with everything in a heap, but to consider these devices in order of increasing maximum load.

Electronic stabilizers for action cameras

Action cameras are compact in size, so the stabilizers for them are lightweight. They can be used with monopod extensions that turn them into an advanced selfie stick.

The most popular and widespread are the stabilizers of the Chinese company Feiyu. Their popularity arises due to the low price, which, in turn, is due to functional simplicity.

The first of the models with which it all began - designed for GoPro HERO 3 and - served as a starting point for subsequent devices. To control here, only two buttons are used - one for turning on, the other for switching modes. The camera is only attached to the stabilizer, it is impossible to control the camera from the stabilizer. Feature Feiyu FY-G4 - it cannot be turned on without load, that is, the camera.

It had three modes, depending on which axes remain fixed with the stabilizer and which do not. Later, a model came out, the mount of which became universal and suitable for cameras from other manufacturers.

The main improvement of another updated model is the ability to rotate the camera 360 degrees horizontally, as well as connect the GoPro to the connector on the gimbal for easy operation, all this, coupled with a new, more convenient mount for the camera itself. Finally, a joystick appeared on the stabilizer to control the turn.

Another form factor for electronic stabilizers for action cameras is the . The name already suggests that it is more compact.

It has a small body without a handle, as it is designed to be mounted on various action camera mounts. That is, you can put it on a bicycle, helmet, any mobile platform, and it will stabilize the fixed action camera. However, no one bothers to fix it on a monopod and use it for selfie video, like FY-G4.

Smartphone stabilizers

A professional is unlikely to purposefully shoot on a smartphone, but for an amateur, this may turn out to be the main video recording device, since modern models of “smart phones” allow this.

Feiyu releases the FY-G4 Pro and FY-SPG Live in this segment.

The main "chip" of the second is the ability to rotate to a vertical shooting position, connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth. At the same time, a special program is installed on the smartphone, with which you can calibrate the stabilizer.

But the best stabilizer for this style of shooting is probably .

The main advantages of this device:

1. The stabilizer connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth, and can control the shooting of photos and videos using dedicated buttons.
2. The software supports face detection, which allows Osmo Mobile to automatically take a picture of a person by following their movements by turning in their direction.
3. The stabilizer supports the motion timelapse function. The smartphone camera takes a series of shots with a small angle shift after each shot, and then these shots are combined into a video.
4. Ability to upgrade image quality with the advent of new models of smartphones.
5. The ability to use the gimbal with GoPro HERO using third-party mounts.

Stabilizers for cameras and camcorders

From compact stabilizers come the simplest models - with one handle. Here we return to the Feiyu models. The fact is that they have developed a stabilizer model similar to the FY-G4, only designed for larger cameras. This model is called FY-MG.

It supports cameras weighing up to 1 kilogram, which, of course, is not only a quantitative but also a qualitative leap.

In the case of using such a stabilizer, it is necessary not only to adjust to the weight of the camera, but also to adjust to the center of gravity. Therefore, the FY-MG provides the ability to adjust the balance of the camera in all planes.

This device has two versions: FY-MG Lite and FY-MG V2. The second differs from the first in a plastic carrying case and, most importantly, in the presence of a holder in the kit that allows you to hold the stabilizer with two hands. Thus, the stabilizer has several usable configurations, shown in the photo below.

Devices of the DJI Ronin series, despite the same principle of operation as those of other manufacturers, have a number of qualitative differences that allow them to be considered as a separate class. Let's list these features:

conclusions

The choice of an electronic stabilizer is determined, first of all, by what kind of camera you want to use and what budget you have. This is not the case when you have to choose from many similar models, since the number of manufacturers in our market is very limited. One way or another, any electronic stabilizer significantly improves productivity. In some cases, it can be replaced by a classic mechanical Steadicam, which, oddly enough, gives a more natural stabilization effect, but that's another story.

Today, a lot of stabilizers for action cameras have entered the market, and if a couple of years ago it was something unusual, now everyone who needs to shoot video is trying to purchase this gadget. in great demand electronic stabilizers are used, which give a smoother picture and eliminate the need to resort to post-processing after shooting.

For an action camera, it is important to buy one that can be easily flashed and calibrated. It's great if it's possible to flash through the phone without connecting to a computer. We recommend buying new generation devices. Remember - electronic stabilization is always better than built-in and even more so mechanical. This is the device on which it is not recommended to save.

We have selected for you the top 10 best stabilizers for action cameras, interesting both in our opinion and according to reputable channels.

The best amateur stabilizers for action cameras

5 Steadicams

Best price. Mechanical stabilizer
Country: China
Average price: 2800 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The most affordable stabilizer model opens the rating. Cheapness is due to the complete absence of electronics. The design weighing 968 g is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. Everything works due to simple mechanics - there is one two-axis hinge and a special weight that tends to the lowest point, at the same time maintaining the camera in a horizontal position. The design is foldable, which makes transportation a little easier. The rubberized handle fits well in the hand.

The camera is mounted through a standard 3 ¼ connector for cameras, which means you can install any camera with it. This, for example, GoPro of all versions. The manufacturer also allows the installation of SLR cameras weighing up to 1 kg. Depending on the device, the user needs to make adjustments, including adjusting the length of the “shoulder” and the weight of the weight.

4 Xiaomi Yi

Stabilizer for Xiaomi cameras
Country: China
Average price: 14990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Following the mechanics is an electronic stabilizer from the famous Xiaomi. The model has not quite typical for this class devices look, because it does not have a handle. This means that without a tripod, monopod or any kind of mount, using the stabilizer will not be very convenient. Fortunately, the mounts are standard - 3 ¼. On the other hand, it provides very compact dimensions. Stabilization, of course, three-axis. Through a proprietary application, you can choose one of three operating modes:

• Pan Mode - the camera is fixed in one position, movements are active in all axes
• Lock Mode - fixation only along the axis of rotation. The mode is useful for shooting panoramic shots.
• Pan and Tilt Mode- All axes are locked. The camera is stabilized and only looks forward.

We also note the ability to remotely control the zoom and shooting direction - the camera rotates up to 320 degrees. Finally, about autonomy - the stabilizer is powered by a pair of lithium-polymer batteries, which will last for 2-4.5 hours of shooting, depending on the selected mode. In the reviews, users note only one drawback - the inability to install a third-party camera (not Xiaomi) without additional adapters.

3 Sjcam Gimbal

The most affordable stabilizer
Country: China
Average price: 10290 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The cheapest electronic stabilizer opens the top three. The manufacturer - Sjcam - is one of the leaders in the production of action cameras. Unfortunately, only cameras from the same manufacturer are officially supported. On the other hand, there are pluses in this: the SJ6 Legend and SJ7 Star models can be controlled from the steadicam itself using special buttons - this is very convenient. From the stabilizer, you can change the shooting mode, start recording, as well as change the shooting direction and the stabilizer operation mode (capture, tracking and free).

The dimensions of the device are quite large, the handle is weighty. It lies comfortably in the hand, but weighs a little more than competitors - 350 g. But the battery life due to the use of two non-removable batteries of 2000 mAh each at once is about 13 hours! In the reviews, users note the presence of a hard case for transporting the stabilizer in the delivery set. In such a case, you can not worry about the safety of delicate electronics.

2DJI Osmo Mobile

The best quality and functionality
Country: China
Average price: 16950 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

DJI is the undisputed leader in the production of quadcopters. But the company has succeeded in the field of stabilizers. The range includes models for professional operators, and compact devices with a built-in camera, and models paired with a smartphone or action camera. Osmo Mobile, as the name implies, belongs to the latter. It should be noted right away that only a smartphone can be installed in the clamp, and you will have to buy a special adapter to mount the action camera. This is what did not allow the device to take the top line of the rating.

Otherwise, standard. Perfect quality assembly, quality materials. Even the carrying case looks stylish. Separately, you can purchase a whole bunch of accessories - for example, a monopod, a tripod or a suction cup mount, which allows you to use the device in almost any situation. In addition to the standard functionality, we note the ability to shoot timelapse video with a smooth camera turn. The controls are familiar, with the exception of the trigger on the rear surface - by holding it you will fix the camera in a certain position. It's faster and more convenient than changing modes. Reviews about the device speak for themselves - Osmo Mobile is recommended even by popular video bloggers.

Comparable indicator	Electric Stabilizer	Mechanical stabilizer
Price	For the most affordable electronic steadicam, you will have to pay about 5-6 thousand. Quality Models cost over 10 thousand rubles.	A quality model can be purchased for 2-4 thousand rubles
Ease of use	Turn on and shoot. Can be controlled by built-in joystick	It is necessary to independently adjust the weights for a new camera, as well as adjust the position after transportation to obtain a better result.
Simplicity of design	A large number of electronics and mechanisms. It is unlikely that you will be able to fix it yourself, and a professional service will cost a lot.	The system is as simple as a Zhiguli. If necessary, you can independently twist something or replace a part.
picture quality	The best smoothness you can get	It depends on the correct gimbal settings, but in general the picture will still be somewhat simpler.
Battery Life	3 to 9 hours depending on the model	Endlessly
Availability of additional functions	Change of shooting direction, automatic adaptation to the camera, mobile app etc. (the set may differ depending on the model)	Missing

1 Feiyu FY-G5

The most compact three-axis electronic gimbal. Universal mount
Country: China
Average price: 13510 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The virtual gold medal goes to a very high quality steadicam from Feiyu. The device is assembled perfectly, nothing plays anywhere, does not creak. The FY-G5 feels very nice in the hands. Weight - about 300 grams. Pleasantly presses on the hand, but does not tire when shooting for a long time. Also, due to the small dimensions, the device is easy to transport. The set includes a cover. True, it is fabric, which means that the stabilizer is not protected from impacts. Splash protection deserves special attention. Of course, you should not submerge the steadicam under water, but it will withstand shooting in the rain or at sea.

A 4-way joystick is used to control the shooting direction. Below it are the mode switch button and the selfie key. The latter rotates the camera 180 degrees, allowing you to quickly film yourself. You can also control the stabilizer from an iOS or Android smartphone. Power for operation is supplied from a removable battery with a capacity of 3000 mAh. Finally, we note the universal mount, thanks to which, judging by the user reviews, you can install almost any action camera.

The best professional stabilizers for action cameras

5 Zhiyun Crane Plus 2018

Improved reliability and weight retention
Country: China
Average price: 24300 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

In fact, this is an improved version of Crane v.2. The manufacturer added several new features, strengthened the motors and changed the name. Removed confusion in model range. In the case, in addition to the standard delivery set, you can find a tripod, which is convenient not only to set up, but also to remove. With the new motors, it can already withstand 2.2 kg of a camera with a mounted lens and other modifications. There are no creaks or rattles. The platform is old and not quick-detachable. A small plus is that when using one camera, the stabilizer can be adjusted once and no longer bother about it, just unscrew the screw. It can be screwed onto the platform for transportation so as not to lose.

There are three usage modes:

• horizontal tracking;
• all axes are locked;
• tracking on all axes, including when falling over.

According to customer reviews, the angle of inclination can be changed by hand, which will allow you to accurately and quickly perform all the manipulations without resorting to a joystick and without wasting extra time. There is no screen for settings, all software setting will have to be carried out on a computer or smartphone.

4 Zhiyun Crane-M

Best choice for small cameras
Country: China
Average price: 19990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Supplied in a simple and compact plastic case. The operating time of each battery, of which there are two, is up to 12 hours. The stabilizer is suitable for cameras weighing from 125 to 650 grams. You can also use it for your smartphone. It lies well in the hand, part is made of plastic, and part is made of metal. It is connected via a proprietary cable, with the help of which, when connected to a device, you can control scaling.

It will be the best option for bloggers or semi-professional photographers. Before use, it is recommended to walk around with it for a couple of weeks and get used to the features of work. Batteries are pulled out, which is convenient for replacement if the batteries have exhausted their resource. To charge the batteries, you will need to pull them out, unfortunately, charging directly through the stabilizer is not possible.

3 Feiyu Tech MG v.2 Lite

High-quality 3-axis model
Country: China
Average price: 28950 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The maximum configuration of the device is remarkable in that the product comes in a waterproof case with a breathing valve so that nothing gets inside. If there is a vacuum inside, you can still open it without any problems. Charging is via Micro-USB. Specified by the manufacturer auto tuning only applies to level calibration. The basic setup process can take up to two days. Setup is best done with fully installed upgrades and external devices.

Sometimes the stabilizer can buzz because of the economy class. The sound is remote or superimposed from the outside. A comfortable grip makes handling comfortable, but not ergonomic. good result can be achieved when communicating with the phone in order to fine-tune your devices. Easily replaces rails, tripod and shoulder rest. With it, you can shoot both “smooth” videos and interval in motion.

2 Zhiyun Z1 evolution

slow discharge
Country: China
Average price: 9745 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

This handheld stabilizer is able to work for a long time on a single charge. Each of the batteries has a capacity of 2000 mAh and there are two of them in the kit. The complete set of the device is constantly changing approximately every six months. You can use one or two batteries. The joystick control is very similar to the DualShok trigger. The rotation angle of the axis is 330 degrees, which is enough for shooting panoramas or selfies. There are 2 modes of operation - horizontally and purposefully.

According to customer reviews, everything is operated with one hand, which adds convenience. The kit also includes a special cord that connects the stabilizer and the camera, recharging it. All wires are hidden inside the case. The presence of a thread for a standard tripod in the battery cover is a big plus, since the design can be connected to any platform. Micro USB will allow you to download an additional application and calibrate the stabilizer to your personal preferences.

1 Beholder MS Pro

Lightweight construction with durable materials
Country: China
Average price: 39800 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

The main advantage of the stabilizer is its lightweight construction made of high-strength material (aluminum), which is why its weight is only 0.7 kg. It is able to support cameras weighing up to 1.2 kg. 3-axis hydroscopic brushless motors balance most mirrorless cameras. Operation is carried out from a lithium battery, completely environmentally friendly for environment. The activation button, as well as the battery level indicator, have their own backlight. Mounting on a tripod with a screw is also possible.

All this gives high-quality and clear frames without shaking and vibration. The brushless motors completely stabilize shooting while turning or tilting. You can even run. The quick-release plate allows you to securely and quickly fix the camera and also quickly remove it. There is also a USB port for charging your smartphone or GoPro camera.

A steadicam or stabilizer simplifies shooting with heavy professional photo and video cameras and allows you to increase the range of motion of a photographer or operator working with portable photographic equipment. Modern models that can be bought in the Photogora online store open up wide opportunities for simple and efficient control, smooth and clear shooting with a heavy camera or a light smartphone. You can even make action videos without jerks when changing angles.

What is important to know before choosing a steadicam

Before you buy a stabilizer for your phone or camera, you should determine which model is best for you - manual or electronic (we have both on sale). Mechanical devices are less expensive, they give the operator more control over "fine" movements - this is important, for example, for shooting with a mobile phone. Manual models well "emphasize" the action with slight camera tilts in turn.

Advantages of electronic stabilization:

• gyroscopic stabilizers are pre-configured and balanced - no need to get used to it for a long time, point the camera on a tripod at objects;
• you can work remotely by adding a Dolly or a slider to the system;
• higher convenience when shooting from high and low points - you can set the camera to tilt up or down, and the device will maintain the desired angle;
• in electronic models, the functionality is often wider - this is a professional technique, it can be heavy, cost more than a mechanical one, but with it you will take spectacular photos and videos.

How to buy goods in the Photogora store

You can purchase stabilizers for cameras or steadicams for your phone in Moscow, through our pickup / pickup points, or order delivery of purchases to any region of Russia. For information about products or terms of cooperation, call us or contact online.

Many devices of this kind, especially action cameras, do not have image stabilization due to their scope. In this case, you can add a gimbal in addition to stabilize the shooting process.

• In addition to being used as a support for an action camera, the Gimbal can also stabilize a digital SLR camera, for example. For this, so-called floating tripods are very often used, which in principle function in the same way as gimbals.
• The physical explanation of the process is that the gimbal is a structure in which a fixed body can rotate in all directions without transmitting this rotation to the entire system.

Gimbal Applications

• Often, many visitors to various exhibitions want to take as professional pictures and videos as possible. To do this, you can use separate sets that include a Gimbal along with a special vest. Attached to this vest is some kind of floating tripod, at the end of which there is also a small "arm", to the top of which you can attach a camera and take panoramic shots. Due to the cardan suspension to the vest, even when walking, vibrations are significantly reduced, allowing you to get a "calm" video.
• In the meantime, it is becoming more and more popular to record videos for family and friends while riding a bike or in general during sports. But, since many action cameras do not have an integrated image stabilizer, it is recommended to use a Gimbal to stabilize the video. Of course, the corresponding mount turns out to be a little larger in size, but this way you can shoot a “stable” video even when downhill on a bike.
• Many gimbals are made specifically for mounting on drones. And although some drones have on-board cameras, in most cases they are not very good. Therefore, many people go the other way and buy themselves an action camera with an appropriate tripod. Since the drone does not always fly in a straight line and constantly twitches in the air, the Gimbal will be very useful as it also smooths out the inertial vibrations caused by the camera itself.

Hello everyone, many have probably already seen this product of the Chinese industry, but not everyone has yet fully understood how “good” this contraption is.

With a slight tremor and two action cameras, I just couldn't get past this product. I saw several positive reviews and videos on YouTube, but of course there were doubts, because many just work off their freebies.

I rummaged through Ali and found this stabilizer, of course there were two options, buy a mirror or an action camera, but the toad, as always, strangled and said: This stabilizer is cheaper! =)

I made an order on April 9, the seller sent it by Hong Kong post on April 10, and on April 28 I had the package.

The stabilizer was packed in a blister and paper bag with air bubbles.
The blister cracked a little, but okay, but there was not enough rubber on the metal sleeve.

The whole structure is made of plastic, except for screws, a screw that regulates a retractable plastic bar and a steel tube into which washers with a sleeve are inserted.

The stabilizer handle is short, uncomfortable to hold in your hand, it has a slider with a latch.
The handle can be snapped onto a plastic bar.

Inside the support for the camera there is a metal tube, in which there is a hole with a pin and a plastic ring with two axes.
The metal tube rotates around 360 degrees.
The plastic ring on this tube tilts about 45 degrees.
The handle is dressed on a plastic ring, it also tilts by about 45 degrees and rotates in a circle by 360 degrees.

Weight with metal washers and bushing:

The kit also included instructions in English and Chinese, a lot of letters, I did not translate it, those who wish can translate it themselves.
In principle, the pictures and so everything is clear.

It’s not my method to shoot in an aquabox, I don’t like muddy images, but such images are obtained on many videos posted on the Internet, so it was decided to come up with and assemble a design that would hold the camera without an aquabox.
Fortunately, in the kit for the action camera there were a bunch of different accessories from which I collected this song =)

This is what it looks like on the stabilizer.

In order to adjust the position of the camera, you need to tilt the camera on the swivel bracket, put washers and a bushing if necessary by weight for the horizontal position of the camera and counterweight.
You can also tighten the screw and adjust the bar forward or backward.

General impression of this design:
The stabilizer is useless, dangles in different sides, the handle is too short and uncomfortable to hold. With my existing tremor, holding this construction is useless. The video still shows twitching, rocking, and even the sound of plastic and metal spokes inside the steel tube. There was also a knock steel pipe into which the washers are inserted, it was possible to eliminate it with the help of a thread threaded inward between the threads.

On the second day of use, kinks appeared at the cap that covers the top of the handle.
And I also learned one more thing, if the screw is completely unscrewed, then it clamps a metal tube inside which rotates 360 degrees, thereby preventing the camera from spinning in different directions.

The conclusion is probably obvious to buy this stabilizer does not make sense!
I tried to shoot a video with two cameras, I held one in my left hand, I installed the other in the stabilizer and held it in my right hand, in the stabilizer the camera swayed in different directions and a knock was added from this whole structure.

(Camera without display, picture went up)

We went for a walk with the child and in the elevator, taking out the weight, I lost the rubber band, I could not find it, it is white translucent in color, maybe it rolled into a gap.
I had to farm at home later.

I made another video, it's already a little better, but still far from ideal.

Video from the walk

He took out all the weights, put the camera in a frame. But the date and time have not been corrected =)

Another FI about this purchase, walking with such a thing is disgusting and looks ridiculous from the outside.
It is better to buy a camera with a stabilizer on board or a digital stabilizer, but this is still to be tested by yourself.

Not happy with purchase!
I do not recommend buying!

I plan to buy +2 Add to favorites Liked the review +43 +78