When it comes to cameras, I’m sure many people will think of Sony. Yes, Sony cameras bring us high-quality pictures and videos. Among them, the Alpha series is favored by many photographers and filmmakers.
The Sony A7IV is an excellent full-frame mirrorless camera. Many of my friends fell in love with this camera as soon as they tried it. Sony did make a few more updates to it, making it quite good.
If you also run into Sony A7 IV overheating, this guide covers practical ways to reduce it.
However, some friends told me that the Sony A7IV could not shoot video. Then they sent me some footage with a lot of jitters. Most of the footage is shooting moving objects.
I find it interesting. The thing is, while Sony does work on stabilization, it’s not strong enough to cover motion.
If you want the video to be shake-free, you need a gimbal.
This article will introduce some of the most suitable gimbals for A7IV.
But more importantly. I hope that from this article, you can also learn how to choose a gimbal.
Best Gimbal for Sony A7IV
All things considered, I would choose the DJI RS 3. Many of its features are compatible with the Sony A7IV. This gimbal has the latest stabilization algorithm to make the picture smoother. The detachable battery structure lets you get rid of battery runtime troubles. One-button locking device makes travel more convenient.
The influence of DJI RSC 2 continues. The overall quality of this gimbal is also very high. This gimbal is also a good choice for filmmakers who are temporarily on a budget. It has the industry’s top stable algorithm and image transmission function. The super battery life and foldable body provide an excellent convenience for photography.
I know that many of my friends like the lightweight and small size of the gimbal, so I would recommend the Zhiyun Crane M3. This gimbal is only 0.7kg and is very comfortable to hold with one hand. For friends who like outdoor photography, this is an excellent gimbal.
Are you troubled by battery runtime? Frequent charging is a very troublesome thing. The full battery of Zhiyun Weebill 3 can reach 20 hours! Not only that, the built-in microphone and fill light also do a great job. It can be said that bringing this gimbal is equivalent to bringing you a studio.
If you are a short video and vlog enthusiast, you can choose FeiyuTech Scope-C. This gimbal allows you to create short videos at a low cost. It comes with a vertical shooting mode and an underslung mode. The double handle structure will also save effort and be suitable for long-term walking.
As a professional-grade gimbal, the DJI RS3 Pro replaces the previous DJI RS 2. With the support of the new-generation Titan stabilization algorithm, the DJI RS3 Pro seems to perform better. This gimbal is ideal for professional framing and cinematic projects with unrivaled load capacity and sturdy construction.
Since its first launch, the DJI RS3 has slowly become a gimbal that I like very much. The developers at DJI always surprise me with bigger surprises. Unlike other manufacturers, they give me the feeling that it is not an update but a replacement.
The DJI RS3 body weighs only 1.3 kg, which includes the gimbal, battery handle, and double-layer quick release plate. It has a load capacity of 3 kg. It can hold most mainstream combinations of cameras and lenses.
The gimbal supports wireless shutter control, which can save a lot of time when shooting. After the Bluetooth pairing is completed, the recording button on the gimbal body can directly trigger the camera’s video recording function. The same camera only needs to be paired once. It can be auto-balanced when you use it next time. This function can let you be free from the shackles of the shutter cable.
DJI RS 3 is divided into two modes: standard and super stabilization. When the super stabilization mode is turned on, the RS3 will further increase the stabilization force by enhancing the motor torque. Even when shooting in vigorous sports scenes, the anti-shake effect is still excellent.
The OLED touch color screen is huge. I do like that. It can implement most of the settings on the Ronin app. With the redesigned UI and button distribution, control is more intuitive and precise.
The newly added mode switch button can switch between PTF, PF, and FPV with one key.
In addition, I like the Ronin image transfer function. You can use it to monitor and shoot pictures with a mobile phone. It is worth mentioning that the mobile phone can be directly clamped to the side of the gimbal to achieve real-time monitoring.
Pros
- High load-bearing capacity (3 kg / 6.6 lbs)
- Titan Stability Algorithm 3.0
- Double layer quick installation plate
- Simple Balance
- One-key locking device
- Full-color touch screen (1.8 inches)
- Image monitoring function
- Removable battery handle
- Quick Switch to Vertical Shooting
- Remote control
Cons
- Bind the APP to use
- A bit heavy
- The lifting mode requires an external handle
If you can’t choose the DJI RS 3 for various reasons, then the DJI RSC2 is a very good choice.
DJI RSC 2 has a lower arithmetic version than that of DJI RS3, but the stability is still very high in actual use. It also performs well when shooting videos and vlogs. This gimbal is also equipped with a super stabilization function.
The DJI RSC 2 uses a rubber and aluminum alloy body. It’s a bit heavy but very sturdy.
The most prominent feature is the foldable design of the DJI RSC2. DJI RSC 2 can be easily switched between six modes: handheld, underslung, vertical shooting, and storage size. For bloggers who like to shoot short videos, it is constructive to switch to vertical shooting mode anytime.
Of course, the most intuitive feeling brought by the foldable design is portability. When I go out to shoot, I choose to carry the DJI RSC 2. After folding to the storage form, it is much smaller than A4 paper.
DJI RSC 2 has a powerful image transmission system. It is called Eagle Eye. You can monitor the captured images through your mobile phone. Similarly, it also supports remote adjustment of various parameters of the camera. It can transfer the footage to the mobile phone.
RSC 2 also supports creative functions such as time-lapse photography, 360 rotation shooting, and panoramic photography.
Pros
- Ultra-high load capacity (3kg/ 6.6 lbs)
- Quick mounting plate
- Foldable
- Quickly mount and release the camera
- Quick Switch to Vertical Shooting
- Hawkeye Biography
Cons
- Bind the APP to use
- Non-touchable display (1 inch)
- The burden on the arm
I would vote for the Zhiyun Crane M3 as the best lightweight gimbal for outdoor shooting. If you like to shoot outdoor activities and family gatherings, choose this gimbal.
In terms of size, this gimbal is small and portable enough. The height of the whole machine with accessories is basically the same as the size of a mineral water bottle, and it weighs only 0.7kg.
The body is black and white with a touch of red. That makes it look very cute and trendy. Many of my young friends especially like this color combination.
Of course, the Zhiyun Crane M3 also comes with a quick-release plate that allows for quick mounting and releasing of the camera.
The Zhiyun Crane M3 increases the touch screen to 1.22 inches, and the new UI is intuitive and easy to use. At the same time. The gimbal has an embedded fill light. The peak brightness is 800lm. Night scenes or some dark environment can make the footage look dark and terrible. The fill light will be able to alleviate these disadvantages.
At the same time, Zhiyun Crane M3 also supports professional-grade microphone radio. When shooting or interviewing outdoors, the gimbal can synchronize the radio. That is obviously more convenient.
Of course, this gimbal was initially designed to increase functionality while reducing size. In fact, some of the features of the Zhiyun Crane need to be implemented with the expansion pedestal. Bluetooth connectivity and a microphone interface need to be supported by the pedestal.
Zhiyun does not give a payload range for this gimbal. According to the official statement, if you can balance the camera and lens, then you can use it. Some people have tested it to withstand 1.2kg, but when choosing this gimbal, you’d better consult customer service first.
Pros
- Small size, light (700 grams/ 1.54 pound)
- Led fill light
- Large full-color touch screen (1.22inch)
- Rubber and metal parts, solid and reliable
- POWER UP FAST
- Quick installation and removal of the camera
- Easy to balance
Cons
- Does not support heavy lenses
- Many functions need to be used with an expansion pedestal
In the past, I have encountered such a problem in my shooting work.
When I want to carry the DJI RSC gimbal, I always bring the fill light and microphone. But then my luggage will become very heavy and take up a lot of space, which is very inconvenient.
When I want to bring the Zhiyun Crane M series gimbal, I can save the burden of bringing extra equipment. However, the video did not reach a professional level, and the gimbal could provide me with very limited assistance.
I’ve always been one who prepares well before going out, but this issue often makes me waver.
That is until I saw Zhiyun Weebill 3.
It’s a very well-integrated gimbal. It comes with a convenient fill-in light and microphone, and you’re freed from the hassle of carrying extra accessories. It has a battery life of 20 hours, which is suitable for long-time shooting.
This gimbal has a wrist rest structure, so you can use your hand and forearm to support the camera simultaneously, which is very labor-saving.
Zhiyun Weebill 3 supports a picture transfer function. Your phone can monitor the picture. It also offers a variety of special effects shooting techniques to make your shots more attractive.
So, if you like the “all-in-one” design, choose this gimbal. When you choose it, you get an all-in-one “photo studio.”
Pros
- Super long runtime (21 hours)
- Wrist rest structure, save effort
- Built-in hi-fi microphone
- Built-in fill light
- Simple balance
- Double-layer quick release plate
Cons
- More expensive
- Small, non-touchable screen
- Can not carry more accessories
Before you want to choose this gimbal, you need to confirm a few things.
Do you want to become a professional photographer?
Do you have the will to change your camera and lens in the future?
Can you recognize the long and tedious learning process?
Do you have the patience to learn how to use professional-grade equipment?
When your answer is all yes, please don’t hesitate.
You can think of DJI RS3 Pro as a continuation of DJI RS 2. Indeed it is. DJI RS 3 Pro brings us more and better content based on DJI RS 2.
The unique quick release plate and Titan stabilization algorithm 3.0 can bring high-quality stability and convenience to shooting.
LiDAR Focusing and ronin map transfer function make shooting more intelligent and intuitive. When equipped with Sony A7IV, you can complete the master-level lens production.
This gimbal was created for professional-level shooting and mirroring. A serious filmmaker deserves to have it.
Pros
- Ultra high load capacity (4.5 kg /10 lbs)
- Automated axis locks
- Extended carbon fiber axis arms
- LiDAR focusing
- Long-Range O3 Pro Video Transmission
- 1.8 inch full-color touch screen
- Can be used with cantilever, slide rail
- Professional grade equipment
Cons
- High price
- Difficult to Study
Things You Need to Consider When Choosing a Gimbal
Stability
The most basic function of the gimbal is stability. The gimbals mentioned in this article all have a high level of stability.
Compatibility
When choosing a gimbal, check whether it is compatible with your camera and lens. Usually, you can’t have just one lens. If you are willing to buy new lenses in the future, take that into consideration.
Easy to use
I would like to say that some professional knowledge needs to be learned. But if a gimbal is easy to use, it can save preparation time. Quick release plates and quick balance are both convenient features.
Cost
Choose the gimbal that best suits your situation. When choosing a gimbal, ask yourself if you really need it and what it brings.
Load capacity
As long as it can carry your camera and lens
Self-weight
Friends often laugh and say to me, “The battery life of the gimbal is 8 hours, and the battery life of my arm is 5 minutes.” It sounds exaggerated, but in actual use, the light gimbal experience will be better.
Extra Features
After considering all of the above, you can focus on the additional features of a gimbal. These features are essentially just to make your use more convenient. It is not irreplaceable.
Choosing a gimbal is not tricky, but it can’t be blindly determined without any basis. If the gimbal you choose is uncomfortable to use, it’s a complete waste.
Is the Sony A7iv Full-frame?
Yes, the Sony A7IV is a full-frame camera.
Does the Sony A7 IV Have Image Stabilization?
Yes, the Sony A7IV has inner image stabilization, which can be used as an alternative in an emergency. However, this feature requires a high shutter speed, and you must spend time optimizing the footage. Most of them will need cropped and repaired, and you may not get satisfactory footage.
Sony’s built-in image stabilization can hardly replace the function of the gimbal.
Which Brand of the Gimbal Is Best?
I would go with DJI and Zhiyun.
Is Buying a Gimbal Worth It?
It depends on your needs and the type of work you do. You can disregard the gimbal if you just want to take pictures or shoot still objects. But if you’re in the photography business, a gimbal is a necessity.
Do Vloggers Use Gimbals?
Yes. As I said in the article, many vloggers use gimbals for short videos and vlogs. Gimbals let you loose and allow you to add a more dynamic element to your videos. If you’re just shooting with a handheld camera, you have to be very careful, or your footage will be full of shaking.
How do I Choose A Gimbal for My Camera?
Choose the gimbal that best suits your needs.
Keep in mind that buying the latest equipment all the time won’t make you better. It’s important to buy what you need for the type of work you do and to build your skills. Otherwise, you’ll drive yourself crazy worrying about the latest equipment and become miserable.
Conclusion
I believe that this article has given you insight into the right head for the sony A7IV.
There are many gimbals on the market, but there is no substitute for developing skills and practice. A gimbal is just a tool to assist you in your shooting. You can’t expect it to help you complete creative shots.
So choose the gimbal you really need and start shooting!