Without a stabilizer, photo and video equipment will not be able to provide the proper shooting result. Even under the condition of static fixation by hands, the material will have a blur effect and will not give the expected image clarity. This is especially true for cameras operating in the active video mode in motion. The most common type of such devices is GoPro models, the stabilizer for which, although it does not completely smooth out the vibration effects, but significantly levels their vibrations.
Features of stabilizer designs
The device of modern stabilizers is mainly focused on creating a damper effect. That is, they provide stable retention of the object, while at the points of direct contact acting as a kind of soft base, which minimizes the hard shocks from hand tremors during movement. It would seem that this is a universal principle on which all designs of this type are built, but there are features for models designed to interact with GoPro. This type of stabilizer has the most optimized design with a minimum set of control buttons. Usually this is a small tripod with a camera mount, equipped with one or more buttons, as well as mechanical controls.
Varieties of stabilizers
As a rule, a group of stabilizers for video cameras are models that have a manual control method. Integrated stabilizers may be present in them too, but unlike photographic equipment, the benefit of the built-in anti-vibration module will be minimal. For example, the stabilizer for GoPro 3 is a small handle, at the end of which is the camera mount area. Another thing is that there are mechanical and electronic models. The first option is simpler in the technical device, but less effective in terms of smoothing vibrations.
Electronic models win in several respects, including universality, a high degree of elimination of the vibration effect and ease of use. Here it should be noted and the division into two- and three-axis structures. The second option is more beneficial, since it gives more space with regard to the freedom of manipulation with the device in automatic mode. Now it is worthwhile to consider in more detail the models in which the modern GoPro stabilizer is presented. A review of the best offers of the segment will probably allow you to decide on the choice of a suitable solution.
Tech Model G4-QD by Feiyu
One of the most advanced and technological models of the segment, representing the fourth generation of steadicam. In particular, it is combined with action cameras of 3-5 generations. Thanks to the ergonomic control mechanism, the user can easily remove and adjust the position of the device. The kit includes tools for manual use, and for fixing in static mode - for example, in a car, bike or ATV. There is additional space for installing models such as LCD BacPac, not to mention compatibility with the GoPro Hero 4 version . Moreover, the device also allows you to successfully work with Xiaomi products. For example, the use of an improved fastening standard made it possible to seamlessly integrate models with YI Cam technology.
Proaim Flycam Flyboy-III
Another premium solution that fits a wide range of GoPro models. A feature of this development is compatibility not only with lightweight equipment, but also with DSLRs weighing about 1.5 kg. The device has an anti-slip coating, which increases its reliability in operation. This ensures even weight distribution throughout the entire structure, which eliminates the fatigue of the GoPro operator itself. The stabilizer is basically made of aluminum, and the counterweights are powder coated, which contributes to high accuracy in the damping process.
Camtree Wonder-DSLR
Even action cameras are used from time to time in a static position to achieve the greatest image clarity. For a thorough fixing of the equipment, it is worth using devices that combine the stabilization effect and the advantages of conventional tripods. One of the advantages of stationary installations is the possibility of fruitful work with large mass models. In this case, we are talking about 4-pound DSLR cameras. However, representatives of the line of compact versions of GoPro Hero will organically enter the design, providing maximum shooting sharpness. Unlike manual stabilizers, this model has an improved balancing system with 10 elements of counterweights. The stabilization base is realized by rubberized legs, which can be adjusted depending on the conditions of application of the equipment. The stand itself provides for the telescopic principle of height adjustment. Although outwardly the construction is massive, it is not heavy and comfortable to use.
Model Curve Black
A fairly simple model from Thai developers, the advantages of which include a small mass, versatility in working with GoPro equipment and ease of setup. This version of the stadikam significantly loses in the technological content to previous versions, but this flaw compensates for the low price tag of 5 thousand rubles. At the same time, the absence of modern options specific to balancing devices does not at all cancel the reliability of the element base, which excludes vibration of GoPro models. The stabilizer is made of durable, but at the same time lightweight materials. True, the small mass of the cameras themselves may not have the best effect on the damping efficiency. Therefore, it is recommended to use models with liquid crystal displays, which will compensate for deviations from the balance.
How to choose the best option?
First of all, the nature of the camera operation should be taken into account. If you plan to shoot in a mode close to the camera, then you can turn to inexpensive models in simple versions. In electronics, there will be no special meaning for such devices. If the calculation is carried out on a dynamic survey, then to obtain high-quality material, it is preferable to electronic three-axis modification. Moreover, it may well be a cheap GoPro stabilizer with minimal performance in other respects. The main function will be the ability of the bearing element to perform the primary task of eliminating vibrations. Of course, from the point of view of ergonomics, it will not be superfluous to take into account secondary operating nuances, including battery capacity, tracking option, camera balancing adjustment, etc. But, again, the wider the functionality, the more expensive the model itself will cost.
Conclusion
The stabilizer itself can be ineffective if the user ignores some of the nuances of shooting action cameras. First of all, the manual stabilizer for GoPro should be controlled in conditions that exclude the impact of additional loads. That is, the user's hand before the session is freed from external gravity. In addition, it is advisable to initially consider the trajectory of movement and minimize possible fluctuations from oncoming obstacles on the way. In this case, you can count on the optimal implementation of the stabilizer function.