I tested the stabilizer for the smartphone. Now I shoot like a Pro. How to choose an electronic stabilizer for filming What can a steadicam

A monopod for a phone, better known to us as a "selfie stick", is a convenient telescopic tripod with a holder for a modern smartphone. The length of monopods usually does not exceed 80-120 centimeters. But there are models and more. A selfie stick is an indispensable attribute in tourism, at parties, events. It will come in handy wherever you used to ask strangers to "take a picture of us all together, please." Functionally, selfie sticks are divided into: basic models without a button, with a button via AUX, sticks with a separate Bluetooth button in the form of a remote control, and a selfie stick with a Bluetooth button built into the handle. Let's consider each type in more detail.

Basic model without button

These selfie sticks are the cheapest, but at the same time, the least popular with buyers. In fact, this is an ordinary telescopic tripod. In order to take a photo, you have to set a timer and wait for the smartphone to take a photo. For the next shot you will have to repeat the procedure. It seems simple, but during the rest, as well as in the midst of a party, the last thing you want to think about is a monopod device.

At the same time, the problem can be solved at any time. It is enough to buy a separate Bluetooth button. But this will increase the cost of the overall structure by about 250 rubles.

Selfie stick with a button connected via AUX

This model works through a wire hidden inside the structure. On the handle there is a button for a photo. The signal is fed through the 3.5mm headphone jack on the phone. This stick has the following advantages:

• You don't have to use Bluetooth on your smartphone;
• The signaling mechanism does not consume energy. No need to charge batteries;
• The button is built into the handle of the selfie stick;
• Simple electronics, can be repaired by hand.

But there are also several disadvantages:

• The wire in the moving mechanism wears out quickly and becomes unusable;
• The wiring looks unaesthetic, clings to objects in the environment, there is a high risk of breaking the wire.

Stick with a separate Bluetooth button in the form of a remote control

This is an ordinary monopod, which comes with a button for a photo, connected via Bluetooth. These models have the following advantages:

• In the event of a breakdown, you can simply order a new button;
• Can be used in conjunction with other monopods, just connect the button to a new device.

The cons are as follows:

• Both hands of the photographer are busy: in one there is a button, in the other there is a selfie stick itself;
• The button is easy to lose;
• The remote includes two separate buttons - for Android / iOs devices.

Selfie stick with bluetooth button built into the grip

This is the most convenient and practical kind of selfie stick. At the same time, and the most expensive. Let's consider the main advantages:

• No wires. The design looks neat and practical;
• There is no remote control. The button is built into the tripod grip and cannot be lost.

The disadvantages include the need to charge the built-in battery, the relatively high price and the complexity of replacing components in the event of a breakdown. (You need to disassemble the structure, while you can just buy a remote control).

Useful video - how to choose a selfie stick

Top manufacturers

• Harper. A fairly young company from Taiwan. It was founded in 2014, and in the same year it began selling products in Russia. Initially, the company specialized in car audio. But later, the company began to produce goods that make the world around us "easier and more convenient";
• Liberty project... Russian federal chain of wholesale stores, which is engaged in both the sale of goods of foreign brands and the release of devices under its own brand;
• Rekam. The company from Canada has existed for over 30 years, but has been on the Russian market since 1995. The popularity of Rekam monopods is due to the fact that the company relies on design and appearance in all its products;
• Xiaomi. Many people know this Chinese company as a supplier of inexpensive smartphones and phablets. In fact, the Chinese make a lot of things, from virtual reality glasses to light bulbs;
• DigiCare. The company has existed since 2012. It is positioned as a manufacturer of goods for the Internet of Things. In addition to monopods, it also produces fitness bracelets.

Best selfie sticks for beginners

These monopods are suitable for those who do not like to regret lost things and are just starting to take selfies. Simple and inexpensive monopods will become indispensable companions during active tourism. And if they break, there will be no reason to regret. There are a lot of monopods in this segment. But it is very difficult to find quality models. We have selected the best devices, both with basic functionality and with a connection via Bluetooth.

4 Exployd EX-SF-00090

The best selfie stick under 100 rubles. Great option for beginners
Country: South Korea
Average price: 59 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.0

Balanced and comfortable Korean monopod. It costs several times less than its counterparts, has a convenient control system. And although the connection is wired and not very convenient, but this is a low price, installing a battery would greatly increase the cost. At the same time, it will not be convenient for iPhones of the 7 series and younger, since they do not have a 3.5 mm jack and an adapter is required. But you will not need to worry about charging and carrying a power bank.

According to customer reviews, Exployd is perfect for beginners. Buyers also noted the lightness, the ability to fine-tune the angles, excellent quality for its price and the ability to withstand gadgets weighing up to 800 grams.

3 HUAWEI CF33

3 in 1
Country: China
Average price: 1491 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

One of the most expensive options in this category. However, its price is due to a number of technical advantages over competitors. It combines lightness, style and reliability. Modest minimalism makes it the best companion for both the business person and the carefree youth. The manufacturer positions its product as one of the most promising Bluetooth devices. When the monopod is lifted, the backlight turns on to make shooting easier.

The output is bright but pleasing to the eye. Additionally, the device can be used as a flashlight or miniature lamp. Its maximum length is 620 mm and it consists of 6 sections. The body is made of anodized aluminum for comfortable use in all conditions.

2 Defender Selfie Master SM-02 wired 20-98 cm

Ultra-compact. Cost - scaling. Light weight
A country: Russia (made in China)
Average price: 199 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.4

Silver gets a convenient selfie stick, very compact when assembled and at the same time the longest in economy class when the telescopic handle is extended. The holder is only 20 centimeters long when folded, easily extends up to 98 centimeters, allowing you to take selfies even at full height. This design is especially convenient for joint photographs of a large friendly company, because with a distance of almost a meter, many times more people fit into the frame. At the same time, the Defender monopod weighs only 123 grams, is equipped with a convenient shutter start button, consists of sections, so it can be easily extended to any length from 20 to 98 centimeters.

Supporting iOS and Android, the selfie stick is suitable for both Samsung, Xiaomi, Sony, and iPhone and a number of other devices. Like other wired monopods, Defender can be connected to Apple's new products only through an adapter, but with all other models it works great without any additions.

1 Harper RSB-105 Green

Universal model for camera and smartphone. Bluetooth control
Country: Taiwan
Average price: 499 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

An interesting Taiwanese product in a number of characteristics is not inferior to more expensive monopods, which makes it one of the best. A relatively cheap, but modern monopod compares favorably with its counterparts due to its versatility, since it is designed not only for interaction with smartphones, but also with compact cameras, camcorders, which will allow taking selfies on virtually any gadget. Support for Bluetooth communication channel The device is compatible with many models of modern smartphones and cameras that support this network. The battery of the monopod is quite capacious and will last for 100 hours of operation.

According to customer reviews, this gadget is especially well suited for Samsung smartphones. With an average intensity of use, the charge will last for 1-2 weeks. The design includes 7 modules and is fixed in several positions.

Best selfie sticks for lovers

The monopod is a very recent invention. But it turns into a fashion accessory incredibly quickly. Like any element of fashion, a monopod should emphasize the style of its owner. It is important to note the main disadvantage of cheap selfie sticks: they quickly break down and become unusable. Therefore, when selecting products for this group, design reliability was an important criterion. Devices in this price segment are practical, useful, and convenient. They will be great helpers for travelers and just active users.

4 Xiaomi Mi Tripod Selfie Stick

Versatile 2 in 1 model: selfie stick plus tripod. Detachable control panel
Country: China
Average price: 1490 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Only slightly inferior to the top three finalists, the Xiaomi monopod is nevertheless an excellent balance of quite adequate cost, capabilities, additional options and reliability. Being a compact selfie stick, the Selfie Stick can be easily transformed into a tripod, thanks to which the gadget can also be used as a tripod. At the same time, it weighs only 152 grams excluding the packaging, which is not bad for such a functional, and most importantly, durable device. Made of aluminum, the Chinese monopod is not only lightweight compared to its steel counterparts, but also much stronger than common plastic holders. 360 degree rotation makes it easy to change selfie orientation.

The Xiaomi monopod is among the most popular. Unsurprisingly, it received a lot of reviews. First of all, people appreciate it for its versatility and convenience. In addition to the strength of the materials, the holder's advantages are a secure fit and a removable remote control.

3 Yunteng 1288

Monopod for professionals
Country: China
Average price: 700 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

This monopod is a complete, professional tripod. It is designed both for use with a phone and for connecting a DSLR camera. The structure can withstand a stress of 2.5 kg. A removable button in the handle of the monopod, and the presence of a screw mount for a tripod, makes it incredibly convenient and versatile.

• Telescopic aluminum elements make the monopod incredibly lightweight;
• Disassembled length - 1.2 meters;
• The button built into the handle can be taken out and used as a remote control;
• Anti-twist protection;

2 Harper RSB-304

Increased durability. Capacious battery. Practicality and possibilities
Country: China
Average price: 1490 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

The Harper monopod is perhaps the most functional model in the middle price segment. After all, he received not only a convenient Bluetooth button for starting shooting, but also keys for switching between the main and front cameras, and even a zoom button to zoom in and out with one touch. Another notable advantage of the Taiwanese selfie stick is the battery, which is many times superior to the capabilities of competitors. After all, this stylish monopod is designed for autonomous work up to 500 hours, which allows you to use it all the vacation without recharging.

At the same time, Harper is made of anodized aluminum, thanks to which it can withstand devices weighing up to three kilograms, which is not often found among compact smartphone holders. Also, in reviews, it is often praised for its versatility both for an iPhone of any year of manufacture and for Samsung, the strength of not only the main, but also the retractable part, stability and ease of use.

1 DISPHO WS-SQB801

The best package
Country: China
Average price: 2650 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

This monopod is a true professional device that stands out from the competition due to its wide range of options and many functions. Now you can take pictures not only of yourself at arm's length, but also in the range of the Bluetooth network, the module of which is built into the handle of the monopod. Thus, you can take pictures even in an open field.

For owners of smartphones based on Android, a proprietary application is available, which includes the new Zoom function. Additionally, there is a convenient case that protects your gadget from any external influences. A tripod tripod allows you to mount the monopod on hard surfaces and conduct stationary photography. The built-in battery is quite capacious and its charge is enough for taking 400 or more photos.

The best selfie sticks for professionals

Devices in this segment have impressive characteristics. They are equipped with stabilizers that allow smooth video recording without camera jerking. The three-axis stabilizer is a complex device with a microprocessor and stepper motors. By synchronizing the camera data, the stepsmen change the position of the smartphone in space, compensating for the shaking. Thus, actively running or cycling, you will in any case get a smooth picture in the video, as if it were filmed in a movie. The category contains products for professionals and video bloggers.

2 Momax Tripod Hero TRS7 25-140 cm

An excellent solution for large companies. Maximum length. Transformer
Country: China
Average price: 4300 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The universal Chinese monopod tripod is the longest in the category. Its maximum disassembled length reaches 140 centimeters, so the device for taking selfies can be used not only as an ordinary stick for shooting on the ground, but also as a full-fledged tripod for better clarity and comfortable placement of the photo device in any conditions. This is especially helpful in Momax's ability to transform into a tripod. Thus, the monopod allows you to fit a whole crowd into the frame, which means it is ideal for filming large companies. At the same time, Momax Hero is universal and suitable for both iPhone and Sony, and for Samsung and others, as well as for any camera with a 1/4 mount.

A reliable aluminum selfie stick is especially appreciated by professionals and amateurs of thoughtful, clear selfies that require stability and the ability to fix a photo device at a decent distance. The rich equipment will also be a plus.

1 Feiyu Tech Vimble 2

The best modern functionality. Powerful electronic video stabilizer
Country: China
Average price: 5900 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

The leader among the best premium monopods is the impressive selfie stick with electronic video stabilization, which significantly improves the quality of photos and videos. However, the possibilities of Vimble 2 do not end there. The monopod also received a convenient integrated control panel with a number of buttons, including a switch between the rear and front cameras, a separate slider for zoom, switching between photo and video modes. Moreover, the most innovative selfie stick delights with the object tracking function, during which the device even turns itself towards a moving object. In panorama mode, the monopod also selects the best angles on its own.

Many praise the handy app that helps you fully sync the gimbal with your smartphone or other photo device. The equipment is also marked with a branded tripod and case.

When choosing equipment for video shooting, it will be a mistake to think that it is enough to buy a fancy high-resolution camera and the picture will look good. In fact, if we look at the video filmed by professionals, we will already see by the smoothness of the camera movement that the camera is fixed on something that allows you to avoid sharp turns and shaking. That is, in fact, various systems that fix the camera or allow it to move smoothly play an equally important role. In the case of handheld shooting, the most modern version of such a system are 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. There are three hinges between the frames, driven by electric motors. Each of these electric motors keeps the camera from rotating along one of three axes. These three axes are commonly referred to in aviation terminology:

1. Roll - tilts the camera left-right
2. Pitch - tilt back and forth
3. Yaw - rotation around the vertical axis

Gyroscopes are also included in the design of the stabilizer, which, in fact, determine the desire 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 only be realized for very big money.

Different cameras can be used for video shooting, depending on the tasks and budget. Accordingly, since cameras have different weights, 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 gimbals for action cameras

Action cameras are compact, so gimbals are also lightweight. They can be used with monopod extension cords, which turn them into an advanced selfie stick.

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

The first model that started it all - designed for the GoPro HERO 3 and - served as a starting point for subsequent devices. For control, only two buttons are used here - one for turning on, the other for switching modes. The camera is only attached to the gimbal, it is impossible to control the camera from the gimbal. A characteristic feature of Feiyu FY-G4 is that it cannot be turned on without load, that is, the camera.

It had three modes, depending on which axles remain fixed with the stabilizer and which do not. Later, a model was released, 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 ease of operation, all this, coupled with a new, more convenient mount for the camera itself. The gimbal finally has a joystick for steering.

Another form factor of electronic stabilizers for action cameras is represented by the model. Already the name suggests that it is more compact.

It has a small body without a handle, as it is designed to be mounted on various mounts for action cameras. That is, you can put it on a bicycle, helmet, any movable 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 the FY-G4.

Stabilizers for smartphones

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

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

The main "feature" 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 perhaps.

The main advantages of this device:

1. The gimbal connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth, and can control the shooting of photos and videos using dedicated buttons.
2. The software supports face detection, so Osmo Mobile can automatically capture a picture of a person by tracking their movements by turning in their direction.
3. The stabilizer supports motion timelapse function. The smartphone's camera takes a series of shots, shifted a small angle after each shot, and then these shots are combined into a movie.
4. The ability to upgrade the 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

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

They support 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 for 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 unit 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, which allows you to hold the stabilizer with both hands. Thus, the stabilizer has several used configurations, shown in the photo below.

The DJI Ronin series devices, 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 electronic gimbal is primarily determined by which camera you want to use and what your budget is. This is not the case when you have to choose from many similar models, as the number of manufacturers in our market is very limited. Either way, any electronic stabilizer will greatly improve your productivity. In some cases, it can be replaced by the classic mechanical steadicam, which, oddly enough, gives a more natural stabilization effect, but that's a completely different story.

Handheld gimbals, which have recently appeared on the market, have revolutionized amateur videography. Now everyone, armed with such a monopod, can create incredibly smooth and clear videos, comparable in quality to professional work, right on the go. To forget about the artistic value, of course, is also not worth it, but a twitching frame that can kill any masterpiece is now definitely in the past. If you want to learn more about the design and principles of the manual stabilizer, we recommend that you read the article "", and we will consider the 5 best models available for purchase. Let's also make a reservation that gadgets from the same manufacturer with mounts for smartphones and action cameras have an identical design, so it would be wiser to consider them together.

LanParte HHG-01

First in line - the brainchild of LanParte, released under the "name" HHG-01. The main thing that sets it apart from its competitors is its versatility. The package includes 3 platforms, one of which is designed for installing a GoPro, and the other 2 will help you place any smartphone model, including even such large ones as Galaxy Note or iPhone 6S Plus. A GoPro Session mount is also available recently. The stabilization quality of the HHG-01 is very good, it easily copes with the sharpest jerks, compensating for any movements. The gadget weighs just under 500 grams and has a single multifunctional control button. Before use, you will need to perform a simple calibration. Power is supplied from a removable 1500 mAh battery, installed in the handle and equipped with a 4-segment remaining charge indicator and a power button. The battery life is up to 3 hours. On the Russian market, the device is available at a price of about 20,000 rubles and comes in a convenient carrying case.

By the way, LanParte itself has long been no stranger to the stabilization systems market, however, before that it was exclusively engaged in products for professional use, in the development of which it has succeeded a lot. Therefore, the workmanship and reliability, despite (of course) Chinese production, are at the highest level.

Feiyu Tech FY-G4

The FY-G4 is another excellent example of a handheld gimbal from China engineers created by Feiyu Tech. The device is available in different versions: for smartphones, iPhone, GoPro, as well as action cameras Sony AS100V, AZ1 or AS20. Unfortunately, the mounting platforms are not removable, which excludes their use with another model. This means that you will have to decide in advance what you are going to shoot, and when you change the camera and buy a new stabilizer, which is not very practical. The advantages include its own weight of only 265 g, the ability to rotate the action camera towards the operator, recharging the device from a gimbal, an optional remote control, an extension handle and an additional battery compartment that can be used in tandem with the main one. The special version of the FY-G4S has 360-degree travel in all 3 axes and a convenient joystick for rotating the camera in any of 4 directions.

One set of batteries lasts for 4 hours of shooting, and with the possibility of using a second battery compartment, this time can be doubled. A multifunctional button is used for control, there are 3 different operating modes. Feiyu Tech does not lag behind LanParte, also mainly specializing in stabilization systems, of which it already has more than a dozen in the amateur segment. The build quality and stabilization of the FY-G4 are very decent. The price is about the same 20,000 rubles.

BeStableCam SteadyGim3 and SteadyFone3

These electronic stabilizers are produced by the Chinese company BeStableCam, which has managed to establish itself on the market with the best side and acquire a decent range of various gimbals, gimbals for quadcopters and devices for panoramic shooting. SteadyFone3 and SteadyGim3 have the same design, but the Fone3 version is designed for use with smartphones, while the Gim3 is with GoPro. There is also a Gim3SE modification for the GoPro Session. The main disadvantage, the same as that of the FY-G4, is the impossibility of installing both cameras and smartphones on one gadget. Of the advantages, it is worth noting the battery life, which, when using one battery, is about 6 hours, and is extended by the battery compartment up to a record 12 hours, as well as the presence of a joystick to control camera rotation, a port for recharging it and an AV output that allows you to transmit the captured image in real time and sound. A remote control and a small monitor attached to the gimbal are optionally available. With all its advantages, the gadget is found on the domestic market at a price of 17,000 rubles.

Swiftcam G3S and M3S

The G3S and M3S are the latest generation of handheld gimbals; this series was recently announced by Swiftcam. The official price announced on the manufacturer's website is $ 299, which is the same 20,000 rubles. The G3S is designed for GoPro action cameras and the corresponding Xiaomi and SJCAM sizes. M3S is suitable for all models of smartphones up to 81 mm wide, for the installation of which 2 different plates and a set of rubber gaskets are provided. Both models can rotate 360 \u200b\u200bdegrees horizontally for easy panoramic shooting, have mode indicators and use a joystick for control. The smartphone version is slightly heavier and weighs 500 grams, versus 374 grams of gimbal for the GoPro. The M3S is powered by its own battery, while the G3S can use AAA batteries.

ZhiYun Tech

The ZhiYun Tech assortment has a lot of stabilizers that are similar in design, the top among which are Evolution for GoPro, as well as Smooth-II and Smooth C for smartphones. The simpler and cheaper models are Pround and Z1-Pro for GoPro and Z1-Smooth for smartphones. In terms of quality and capabilities, ZhiYun Tech products are comparable to the previously reviewed devices, but there are also some peculiarities. The top models are capable of working with 2 sets of batteries installed for up to 12 hours, have a 320-degree travel along each of the 3 axes and are equipped with a convenient joystick that allows you to easily change the shooting angle. Provides AV-out and the ability to recharge the camera. The Smooth-II is also equipped with a wireless remote control module. On the Russian market, Evolution is found at a price of 23-25,000 rubles, the latest Smooth models are approximately in the same range, and devices are simpler in the region of 20,000 rubles.

Conclusion

All reviewed models have approximately the same quality of stabilization and manufacturing, the differences lie only in performance and capabilities. Those who plan to use the gimbal alternately with several devices for shooting will most likely prefer the versatile LanParte HHG-01. For those who prioritize long battery life and the ability to recharge their GoPro, it makes sense to check out the BeStableCam SteadyGim3 or the ZhiYun Tech Evolution. If you want to get absolute freedom of movement 360 degrees in any direction, then it would be wiser to take Feiyu Tech FY-G4S or the same Evolution. And finally, the weight, which varies from model to model by almost 2 times, can also become a decisive factor for someone.

Why are all manufacturers Chinese, you ask, and can you trust them? Oddly enough, but the primacy in the field of mobile electronic stabilization belongs to the developers from the Middle Kingdom. While they create entire companies capable of offering customers a wide range of different goods, European and American manufacturers are modestly content with startups on crowdfunding platforms, of which the very promising projects AutoSteady and Aetho Aeon can be noted. If we talk about quality, then everything is in order here too. LanParte is well known in the professional device market, offering excellent products to operators at a fraction of the price of many competitors. The rest of the manufacturers, although less famous, all have a professional steadicam model in their assortment, and some even boast of their own manned drones. Apparently, Chinese manufacturers are more and more aware of the prospect of creating high-quality electronics, recently delighting us with really interesting, worthy and very competitive products.

We all tried to shoot video with a smartphone: the image jumps and shakes, it is worth moving a little. But travelers from YouTube upload videos from their hikes, shot with an ordinary phone, and everything looks smooth and smooth - how is that? The secret is simple: most likely they use a handheld stabilizer to shoot video.

What are we talking about?

We are talking about a device called an electronic handheld stabilizer for a smartphone, or in short - steadicam (similar to Steadycam, the famous professional camcorder stabilization system that has been used in film and television since the 70s).

In the West, the same device is called a smartphone gimbal. It looks, in fact, like this, somewhat reminiscent of the well-known selfie stick:

But, of course, steadics are much more difficult than a selfie stick - both structurally and in terms of the possibilities that it gives.

How does a stabilizer for a smartphone work?

A smartphone steadicam consists of a handle and a movable frame attached to it on several hinges, which are driven by electric motors. A smartphone is inserted into the frame and fixed in a horizontal position. Its position is fixed by several gyro sensors.

Due to the interaction of all structural details, the frame with the smartphone can rotate in different directions without transferring rotation to the entire system. Thus, the movement of the smartphone does not depend on your hand, but on the rotation of the frame. The direction of rotation can be programmed or dynamic, depending on the movements of the operator.

This allows you to shoot video by turning the camera in different directions, but at the same time the rotation will be smooth, without shaking or abrupt changes in the image. The finished video will look something like this - as they say, feel the difference:

This video was shot using an Asus ZenFone 5 smartphone on a gimbal.

What can a steadicam do?

The main function of the device, as already mentioned, is to keep the smartphone from shaking when filming. The complete list of features of a standard electronic steadicam is much wider, for example:

• Smartphone auto rotation when shooting from horizontal to vertical position and vice versa;
• Connecting to a smartphone via Bluetooth: thanks to this, you can conveniently control video and photo shooting using the buttons on the gimbal handle (start, pause, stop), as well as calibrate the stabilizer itself;
• Face recognition capability: some steadicams are able to follow the movements of a person and turn the smartphone so that the subject's face always falls into the frame;
• Special effects and different types of shootingFor example, the effect of vertigo, or orbital photography with a first person view (POV);
• Panoramic shooting and motion timelapse function: The smartphone's camera takes a series of shots, each time the gimbal rotates the device a small angle, and then the shots are combined into a panoramic photo or movie. See how pretty the final result looks like:

Who will benefit from a smartphone gimbal?

Of course, a professional cameraman would hardly think of filming a video with a smartphone. But this device perfectly complements the arsenal of amateur videographers. For example, it will be useful in its own way:

• Journalists to give a good overview from the scene;
• For lovers of outdoor activities and travel - to shoot beautiful landscapes;
• Video bloggers who are filming in the field, not in the studio;
• For drone owners. Many steadicams are specially designed for aerial photography.

What can you buy in Russia?

China is the most active supplier of steadicams for phones to the Russian market. These are Feiyu, DJI, Zhiyun, MOZA, TILTA. Chinese video stabilizers for smartphones are simple in design and relatively inexpensive.

Here are some cool models worth recommending:

Feiyu Vimble 2

The simplest steadicam with an 18cm built-in monopod, which will be convenient for those who are used to handling a selfie stick. It comes with a tripod, with which you can put it on any surface and leave it to rotate, taking pictures of everything that surrounds it. Well suited for lovers of landscape photography in nature. It costs about 8 thousand rubles.

DJI Osmo Mobile 2

Can do everything that we wrote above, including face recognition and motion timelapse. In addition to the smartphone itself, you can also attach a camera and an action camera GoPro in its frame, so it will be useful for extreme lovers, photographers, and athletes. It is more expensive: about 12-13 thousand, but it is very reliable and multifunctional.

Zhiyun Smooth 4

Steadicam Smooth allows you to create real cinematic special effects using a regular phone: time-lapse, fast motion, moving background effect, vertigo and so on. It has a wide variety of focus and viewing angles so that amateur videographers will love it. Moreover, it is relatively inexpensive: it can be found for 9-10 thousand rubles.