Simple stabilizer for camera

Technique for shooting photo and video materials has long accompanied users in the most unexpected places, fixing interesting moments outside the studios and home interior. Became a popular action camera and completely complement the equipment lovers of extreme sports. But this format of using the device rarely gives quality materials without distortion. Coping with the negative factors of shooting in motion as such is helped by the stabilizer for the camera, which softens the vibrations affecting the equipment. Even in a simple design, this device provides invaluable assistance, while acting as a latch and damping accessory.

General information about the stabilizer

The stabilizing device may have different embodiments. These devices include modules that are integrated into the camera matrix, and tripods, and more technological stedicams, which are used in combination with GoPro models. In the latest version, the stabilizer for the camera can be considered as an optimal option for video. Such accessories are somewhat autonomous and at the same time are tame.

The user controls the movement of the camera during operation, and the "smart" stuffing of the device softens the oscillations, reacting to them through special sensors. This is an electronic stabilizer for the camera, which is the most effective solution for active shooting. As for embedded stabilizing models, their application justifies itself more in photographic equipment, which does not involve sudden movements during the survey.

Types of stabilizers

Three categories of such devices have already been singled out, among which stood steadic. But in this segment there are also signs of separation of devices. The main of them at the moment of development of stabilizing technology is the number of axes. The simplest models work with one or two axes. This means that the camera turns will be controlled in maximum two directions - and the user should avoid the remaining actions. In turn, the triaxial stabilizer for the camera makes it possible to smooth movements in three directions. This solution significantly facilitated the process of active shooting, although there is no need to expect a significant improvement in eliminating the sharp oscillations that are shifted to focus.

Pros and Cons of Hand Stabilizers

Simple models, as a rule, have a mechanical principle of stabilization and on the same basis their design is based. This solution has its advantages and disadvantages. As for the pluses, they are expressed in the strength, clarity and overall durability of the device. On the other hand, handling of certain models is complicated by the presence of a number of regulatory elements. Even an experienced user in a fast preparation for shooting can delay the process just because of performing mechanical adjustments to achieve the original balance. To the disadvantages, many also include mass. Especially the stabilizer for the action camera is felt in the hand by almost every gram. In general, such a device can add a weight of about 1 kg to the camera. It is clear that if you use speech for a long time, you can not talk about comfort.

How to choose the optimum stabilizer?

It depends on the way the camera is used. If you plan to shoot in a room, then you can and do confine yourself to a tripod that extinguishes small fluctuations. For the active mode of operation, it is best to refer to electronic models with three motion control axes. But here it is important to consider the aspect of universality. There are models designed specifically for the GoPro segment, and you can find a multifunctional hand-held stabilizer for a camera weighing up to 4 kg. Another criterion of choice implies also the features of structural execution. Usually the smaller the device, the more functional and expensive it is. Massive models are not so technological and harder, but handling them under certain conditions can be more comfortable thanks to understandable physical ergonomics.

Manufacturers of stabilizers

There are no obvious leaders of the segment, and in different categories there is a fierce struggle between producers of different levels. For example, if the built-in stabilizers of fundamentally different types are offered by Nikon and Canon, then the Chinese company ZhiYun with its budget development Z-ONE and Raylab, representing the entry-level Kino SC-01 modification, can compete in the sphere of hand models. But here it is important to note that each version has a lot of external differences that make the models unique. A quality stabilizer for the camera can also be found in the Poise, Feiyu-Tech and Golle Micro lines. The devices of these brands differ not only in technological implementation in the form of the same triaxial mechanics, but also as the basic strength of the element platform.

Price issue

The simplest models, resembling truncated tripods with handles, can be purchased for 1,5-2 thousand rubles. These are completely mechanical devices, devoid of modern options in terms of ergonomic convenience. The average level is represented by the same tri-axial modifications - the cost of such products is 3-5 thousand. This is the broadest and most popular class of this technique. Presented on the market and a high-tech stabilizer for action cameras, complemented by a set of auxiliary fastening and retention accessories. And some elements in premium versions of this type are made of carbon fiber. There is such a stabilizer of the order of 7-9 thousand. Its advantages include the possibility of engaging in active shooting and the benefit for stationary use indoors. True, it is not necessary to count on the high operating effect of vibration suppression in both cases, at least highly specialized devices do better with similar functions.

Conclusion

Modern video cameras are complemented by a variety of auxiliary devices. Some of them exist no more than in the form of a marketing product, without any practical interest. Can this be said about the function that the stabilizer provides for the camera? Rather not, because the same GoPro models are subjected to fluctuations with high amplitude during use and the effect of the stedicam, which is expressed in minimizing vibration, is obvious and obvious. Another thing is that not in every case and the camera will experience a strong tremor, and not always from the vibrations will save the stabilizer. Unless universal models of electronic devices can approach in any case of application of a videocamera, though they have their limitations.