Stabilizers are special devices required to eliminate the effects of shaking and jerking when filming with a video camera or phone. The very first primitive stabilizers appeared several decades ago, but now there are a large number of them. What is a simple stabilizer for a camera today and what types of stabilizers are there today?
General information about stabilizers
The stabilizer (stabilizing device) has a wide variety of embodiments. These devices, depending on the build and device, include:
- Special modules built into the matrices of smartphones and cameras. They are not able to absorb significant shaking, but they can easily cope with minor movements. Such types of devices have found their application no longer in video filming, but in photographic equipment, in which you do not need to make sudden movements.
- Tripods. Depending on the model, tripods can hold the camera statically on a firm horizontal surface, or keep it in one position while the tripod is moving. Depending on the number of supports, this can be a simple or complex three-axis tripod. There are also more complex, professional modifications. Of course, if necessary, you can make a primitive stabilizer yourself.
- Electronic stabilizers. For active video filming, just electronic stabilizers are suitable, since they soften all possible soft vibrations, reacting to each of them with the help of special sensors.
But when choosing a stabilizer, you need to know what a professional model consists of, which professional operators use during filming, and what are the features of each type of these devices.
Features and design of a professional stabilizer
The professional model of the gimbal for a camcorder consists of the following components:
- cardan joint;
- a vest that allows you to hold the entire structure;
- pantograph (arrow);
- vertical hose;
- counterweight for greater stability.
The professional stabilizer is fixed in the same position using a lever mechanism with several calibration springs. These springs dampen any small to medium linear vibrations. A hinge that goes into the device prevents the camera from rotating uncontrollably.
The professional stabilizer allows the operator to rotate the recorder literally 360 degrees on a horizontal surface and 45 degrees on a vertical surface. At the same time, you can achieve a good shooting angle without unnecessary problems.
The vest in a professional stabilizer is equipped with an additional screen located directly under the camera. The complex also includes, depending on the configuration, special attachments to the vehicle.
The level of stabilization provided by the gimbal along with a heavy camera is almost impossible to beat by any other device. Of course, lightweight, simple stabilizers are not capable of producing the same effect, but they will do for normal shooting. What gimbals can be purchased for DIY filming?
Types of simple stabilizers
Stabilizers for action cameras
In the past few years, there has been an unusual surge of interest among users around simple, portable action cameras. Accordingly, if there is an interest in action cameras, there is interest in accessories for these devices, which can improve the quality of recording and shooting.
Companies specializing in the creation of stabilizers did not stand aside either. They flooded the device markets with new models of simple stabilizers designed specifically for lightweight ESC cameras.
SteadyCam helped create these compact gimbals with the Tiffen Smoothie, designed specifically for lightweight handheld camcorders. During the "boom" this and similar models became the best-selling models in a number of countries.
The main advantage of such devices is that the cost of these devices is much lower than the price of more professional counterparts. With all this, in such models there is some difference in the level of stabilization. It will only be noticeable when using a wide-angle lens or when using the macro mode. And due to dynamic or static calibration, such gimbals give a good level of stabilization.
Stabilizers for smartphones
Functionally, stabilizers for smartphones and camera phones are practically no different from models for action cameras. That is, the same gimbal mechanism works here. The only difference is in the way the device is attached to the gimbal and platform.
Mounts, depending on the model, can be universal or proprietary. Proprietary gimbals only work with one phone or a certain lineup. Universal, respectively, will fit any phone model.
Advantages and disadvantages of manual models
Simple hand-held models operate on a mechanical stabilization principle. This technology has the following advantages:
- strength;
- easy maintenance;
- lifetime.
And the following cons:
· Some models are difficult to work with due to the large number of regulation elements;
· Due to the design of some models, the shooting process may be seriously delayed;
• it is sometimes difficult to achieve a good balance;
· Weight problems.
In addition, if you use the stabilizer for a long time, you can forget about comfort due to too much or, conversely, too little weight.
Criterias of choice
You need to select a device after determining the use of the camera:
- When shooting indoors, you can use a tripod as it can dampen small vibrations. This is enough.
- If you need to shoot something active, you can use electronic models equipped with several movement control axes. However, it is important to consider versatility here. For example, there are models for GoPro, and there are devices weighing over 4 kilograms.
- It is also worth paying attention to the design features. The more compact the stabilizer is, the more expensive it will be and the more functions it will have.
- Professional stabilization devices are the lot of those who work in the film industry. But these are very expensive gadgets, and the average user does not need them.
- A simple stabilizer for an action camera is perfect for those who like to shoot dynamic scenes.
- A smartphone stabilizer is needed for those who have a smartphone with a good main camera. If a person has a flagship that can take great shots, it is worth looking for a gimbal for a smartphone.
Instead of a conclusion
It should be remembered that some types of stabilizers are created and sold mainly for marketing purposes, so they are not of any practical interest.
Therefore, before choosing accessories for a phone or video camera, you should study customer reviews and determine whether the stabilizer model is suitable for the recording device.
