What are the benefits of using a gimbal for video

You line up the shot, hit record, and capture the perfect moment—only to realize later that the footage shakes like a handheld horror movie. 

That jittery movement turns an otherwise great video into something distracting and unusable.

Handheld shooting rarely stays steady. Even the smallest hand movements cause vibrations, ruining the flow of a scene. 

Tripods keep the camera still, but they don’t help when you need to move. Walking shots, panning sequences, and tracking movements all suffer without stabilization.

A gimbal fixes that. Its motors and sensors keep the camera balanced, absorbing shakes and smoothing out movement. Even a beginner can capture professional-looking video with minimal effort. 

Whether you’re filming a travel vlog, a short film, or a client project, a gimbal lets you shoot fluid, cinematic footage that looks polished and intentional.

Photographers, videographers, and content creators use gimbals to create shots that would otherwise need expensive rigs or advanced editing. 

Instead of struggling with shaky video or relying on post-production fixes, you get clean, stable footage straight from the camera. That saves time and makes every shot look more professional.

If you’ve ever wondered how filmmakers pull off seamless tracking shots or why some YouTubers’ videos look ultra-smooth, the answer is simple: a gimbal.

What Is a Gimbal and How Does It Work?

A gimbal is a motorized stabilization device that keeps a camera steady while moving. It counteracts unwanted shakes, jitters, and vibrations, making handheld shots look smooth and controlled.

Whether you’re walking, running, or filming from a moving vehicle, a gimbal helps maintain fluid motion without needing bulky stabilization gear.

How a Gimbal Works

A gimbal relies on a combination of sensors, motors, and counterbalancing to keep a camera level. Here’s how it stabilizes movement:

• 3-Axis Motors: These adjust in real time to counteract sudden shakes and directional changes.
• Gyroscopes and Accelerometers: These detect motion and tell the motors how to respond.
• Counterbalancing: The gimbal redistributes weight to maintain stability, preventing the camera from tilting or jerking.

Think of it as an advanced shock absorber for your camera. Instead of recording shaky footage, the gimbal neutralizes movement, allowing you to create shots that feel cinematic and controlled.

Types of Gimbals

Handheld vs. Mounted Gimbals

• Handheld Gimbals: These are popular among content creators, vloggers, and solo filmmakers. They attach directly to a smartphone, DSLR, mirrorless, or cinema camera.
• Mounted Gimbals: These are used on drones, Steadicams, and motorized rigs. They stabilize footage from vehicles, cranes, and aerial shots.

2-Axis vs. 3-Axis Gimbals

• 2-Axis Gimbals stabilize tilt (up and down) and roll (side-to-side). They’re lighter and use less battery but don’t correct for pan (left-to-right movement).
• 3-Axis Gimbals stabilize tilt, roll, and pan. These provide full stabilization, making them ideal for professional-quality video.

If you’re capturing simple movements, a 2-axis gimbal works fine. For tracking shots, complex angles, or high-motion filming, a 3-axis gimbal delivers smoother results.

Key Benefits of Using a Gimbal for Video

Benefit	What It Does	How It Helps
Eliminates Shaky Footage	Uses motors and sensors to counteract unwanted movements.	Keeps video steady even when walking, running, or filming from a moving vehicle. No more jittery or wobbly shots.
Enables Smooth, Cinematic Motion	Allows controlled pans, tilts, and tracking shots.	Makes footage feel polished and immersive, mimicking professional film techniques. Perfect for vlogs, action sequences, and storytelling.
Increases Creative Possibilities	Unlocks unique angles like low-to-high, orbit shots, and dolly-style moves.	Adds more depth and motion variety to videos. Enhances slow-motion shots for dramatic effect.
Reduces the Need for Heavy Stabilization Gear	Replaces tripods, sliders, and bulky rigs with a compact alternative.	Makes it easier for solo creators and travel videographers to capture professional-quality shots without extra weight.
Improves Workflow and Efficiency	Quick setup and easy operation compared to traditional stabilization tools.	Saves time during shoots, simplifies complex movements, and reduces the need for retakes.

How to Choose the Right Gimbal for Your Needs

Picking the right gimbal starts with knowing what you need. A lightweight smartphone setup won’t require the same power as a cinema rig. 

If you buy the wrong one, you’ll struggle with poor balance, weak motors, or unnecessary bulk. Avoid the frustration—match your gimbal to your gear and shooting style.

1. Camera Compatibility: Get the Right Fit

Not all gimbals work with every camera. A model built for a smartphone won’t handle a DSLR, and a cinema camera demands serious motor strength. Check weight limits and mounting options before buying.

• Smartphones – Ideal for vloggers and casual creators. Look for compact, motorized stabilizers with app integration.
• Mirrorless Cameras – Lighter than DSLRs but still need a strong motor. Get a gimbal with a solid payload range and good balance adjustments.
• DSLRs – Heavier cameras need strong motors and adjustable arms. Consider models with auto-tuning for better stability.
• Cinema Cameras – Large rigs require heavy-duty gimbals with extended battery life and modular accessories.

2. Payload Capacity and Motor Strength: Avoid Overloading

A weak motor will struggle with heavy setups, leading to shaky shots and overheating. Pick a gimbal that supports your camera’s full weight, including lenses, microphones, and any extra gear.

• Check the maximum payload before buying.
• Leave room for upgrades—buy a gimbal that can handle at least 20-30% more than your current setup.
• If your footage drifts or motors vibrate, you’re pushing the gimbal beyond its limit.

3. Battery Life and Weight: Balance Performance and Comfort

Long shoots drain batteries fast. A gimbal that dies mid-shot forces unwanted breaks and lost footage.

• Short-form creators (vlogs, TikTok, Instagram Reels) – A 4-6 hour battery works fine.
• Event shooters and filmmakers – Look for models with 8-12 hour batteries or swappable packs.
• Heavier gimbals cause fatigue – If you shoot handheld for long hours, pick a lighter model or add a support system.

4. Extra Features: Pick What Matters

Some features help, while others just add cost. Focus on what improves your workflow.

• Follow Modes – Track subjects smoothly with active tracking. Great for sports, vlogging, and event filming.
• Focus Control – Built-in focus wheels help with manual focus pulls.
• App Integration – Some gimbals connect to mobile apps for remote control and custom settings.
• OLED Displays – Quick access to settings without needing an app.

5. Best Gimbal Picks for Different Users

✅ For Beginners (Vloggers, Travelers, Hobbyists)

• DJI Osmo Mobile 6 – Compact, easy-to-use smartphone gimbal.
• Zhiyun Smooth 5 – Affordable, solid stabilization for mobile content creators.
• DJI RS 3 Mini – Lightweight option for mirrorless cameras.

✅ For Serious Creators (YouTubers, Wedding Filmmakers, Event Videographers)

• DJI RS 3 – Reliable stabilization for mirrorless and DSLR setups.
• Zhiyun Weebill 3 – Strong motors, compact build, and built-in wrist support.

✅ For Professionals (Filmmakers, Commercial Shooters, High-End Productions)

• DJI RS 3 Pro – Handles heavier cinema cameras with precision.
• Tilta Float System with DJI Ronin 4D – High-end stabilization for advanced production work.

Tips for Using a Gimbal Effectively

A gimbal only works as well as the person using it. If your shots still feel stiff or unnatural, small technique adjustments can make a big difference. These steps will help you get the most out of your stabilizer.

▶️ Balance the Gimbal Properly

A poorly balanced gimbal strains the motors and causes shaky footage. Take a minute to set it up right.

Step-by-Step Balancing

1. Place the gimbal on a flat surface. Avoid balancing while holding it in your hands.
2. Attach the camera and secure all locking mechanisms. Make sure nothing shifts unexpectedly.
3. Adjust the tilt axis first. Tilt the camera forward and backward. If it falls, move it until it stays level.
4. Balance the roll axis. Rotate the camera slightly left or right. If it swings, adjust until it stays centered.
5. Set the pan axis. Lift the gimbal and turn it sideways. If the camera drifts, fine-tune the pan adjustments.
6. Power it on and test. Move the gimbal around. If you hear motor strain or feel resistance, rebalance.

✔ Pro tip: Mark your camera’s balance points with small stickers. This speeds up future setups.

▶️ Use the Right Follow Mode

Different shots require different gimbal modes. If your movements feel off, your settings might not match your intent.

• Pan Follow Mode (PF): The gimbal follows left and right turns but locks tilt and roll. Perfect for panning shots.
• Lock Mode (L): Keeps the camera fixed in one direction, even when moving. Best for straight tracking shots.
• Follow Mode (F): The camera moves with your hand in all directions. Ideal for natural motion.
• POV Mode: Allows slight roll for more immersive shots. Works well for dramatic perspectives.
• Selfie Mode: Flips the camera toward you. Useful for vloggers.

✔ Pro tip: Experiment with modes before filming. Muscle memory helps you switch settings smoothly during a shoot.

▶️ Walk the Right Way

A gimbal doesn’t erase sudden steps or stiff posture. Your movements should match the smoothness of the stabilizer.

• Bend your knees slightly. This absorbs shock from each step.
• Walk heel-to-toe. Don’t stomp. Glide forward like you’re sneaking up on someone.
• Hold the gimbal close to your body. Extending your arms makes it harder to control.
• Move at a steady pace. Fast, jerky motions confuse the stabilizer.

✔ Pro tip: Practice walking in slow motion without a gimbal first. If your movement looks smooth, you’re on the right track.

▶️ Master Creative Shots

A gimbal can do more than just steady a shot. Try these techniques to add cinematic movement to your videos.

• Orbit Shot: Move in a smooth circle around your subject. Keep focus locked for a polished look.
• Jib-Like Move: Raise and lower the gimbal for a fake crane shot. Works well for revealing landscapes or settings.
• Low-Angle Tracking: Hold the gimbal close to the ground while following a subject. Great for dramatic walking shots.
• Push-In/Pull-Out: Walk toward or away from your subject for a cinematic zoom effect.

✔ Pro tip: Start slow. Perfect the movement before increasing speed. Rushed shots look messy.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Challenge	Cause	Quick Fix
Battery Drains Fast	Long shoots, cold weather, heavy setup.	Carry extra batteries or a power bank. Use power-saving mode. Turn off when idle. Reduce camera weight.
Gimbal Drift	Poor balance, outdated firmware.	Recalibrate using the app. Balance the camera before powering on. Update firmware. Calibrate on a flat surface.
Arm Fatigue	Heavy setup, long use.	Use a dual-handle grip or support strap. Keep elbows close. Take breaks and switch hands.
Compatibility Issues	Overloaded motors, poor mounting.	Stay within weight limits. Add counterweights if needed. Update firmware. Check camera placement.

Accessories and Tools to Enhance Gimbal Use

A gimbal does a great job of stabilizing your shots, but the right accessories can take it further. 

If you’re dealing with balance issues, struggling with focus control, or want more creative flexibility, a few add-ons can solve those problems. Here’s what to get and how to use them.

✅ Counterweights for Better Balance With Heavier Cameras

Heavy cameras throw off a gimbal’s balance. If your setup includes a bulky lens or extra attachments, your gimbal’s motors work harder, which drains the battery and causes shaky performance. A counterweight fixes this by redistributing the load.

• How to use it: Attach the counterweight to the opposite side of the camera’s heaviest part. Adjust until the gimbal holds steady without motor strain.
• What to look for: Choose a stackable system so you can fine-tune the balance. Magnetic or clamp-on weights offer quick adjustments.
• Best for: DSLR and cinema camera users who notice excessive motor noise or struggle to keep the gimbal level.

✅ Wireless Focus Systems for Smoother Focus Pulls

Autofocus works in some situations, but if you want precise control over your depth of field, a wireless follow focus system is the answer.

Manual adjustments let you create smooth focus transitions without touching the camera.

• How to use it: Mount the motor on the lens focus ring, then use the wireless controller to make adjustments while shooting.
• What to look for: Low-latency response and adjustable torque for different lens types.
• Best for: Filmmakers and content creators who shoot moving subjects or need seamless focus shifts in storytelling shots.

✅ Tripod Extensions and Handle Grips for Added Versatility

Gimbals are great for handheld shots, but adding a tripod or extra grip improves stability and control.

A tripod extension keeps your gimbal steady for time-lapses, while dual-handle grips reduce fatigue and improve movement precision.

• How to use it: Attach a tripod base for static shots or set it down between takes. Use a handle grip for two-handed operation, especially for long shooting sessions.
• What to look for: Lightweight, sturdy materials like carbon fiber or aluminum. Quick-release mechanisms help with fast setups.
• Best for: Anyone shooting for extended periods or looking to add motion-control shots without extra equipment.

✅ Apps and Software That Unlock Advanced Gimbal Controls

Many gimbals come with apps that unlock extra features like motion tracking, programmable movements, and remote control.

If you’re not using them, you’re missing out on creative possibilities.

• How to use it: Connect your gimbal via Bluetooth, then explore automated tracking modes, time-lapse presets, and virtual joysticks for remote operation.
• What to look for: Compatibility with your gimbal model, a user-friendly interface, and firmware updates for new features.
• Best for: Creators who want to automate movements, simplify solo shooting, or experiment with cinematic effects.

▶️ – Related Topic: What Is a Gimbal?

▶️ – Related Topic: Glidecam vs Gimbal

▶️ – Related Topic: Steadicam vs Gimbal

Final Thoughts

A gimbal takes your videos from shaky and amateurish to fluid and professional. It smooths out every movement, opens up creative possibilities, and speeds up your workflow. 

Whether you’re shooting travel vlogs, cinematic sequences, or handheld action shots, a gimbal makes a noticeable difference.

Now it’s your turn. Grab your gimbal and experiment. Try a slow tracking shot, an orbit move, or a low-to-high reveal. 

Play with different follow modes and see how they change your footage. If something feels off, adjust your balance and practice your walking technique. Small tweaks make a big difference.

Got a favorite gimbal trick? Struggling with a specific movement? Drop a comment and share your experience. 

If you’re looking for gear recommendations, check out our latest reviews on the best gimbals for different cameras. Want to see these techniques in action? Watch our video tutorials and start practicing today.