GoPro, Stabilizer: Overview

Without a stabilizer, the photo and video equipment will not be able to provide the proper result of the survey. Even under the condition of static fixation by hands, the material will have a blurry effect and will not give the expected clarity of the image. This is especially true for cameras that work in the active video mode in motion. The most common type of such devices is the GoPro model, the stabilizer for which, although it does not smooth out the vibration effects completely, but significantly level out their fluctuations.

Features of Stabilizer Designs

The device of modern stabilizers mainly focuses on the creation of a damping effect. That is, they provide a stable retention of the object, while at points of direct contact acting as a kind of soft base, which minimizes the hard jolts from hand tremor when moving. It would seem that this is a universal principle on which all constructions of this type are built, but there are features in models designed for interaction with GoPro. The stabilizer of this type has the most optimized design with a minimal set of control buttons. Usually it is a small tripod with a camera mount, equipped with one or more buttons, as well as mechanical controls.

Varieties of stabilizers

Typically, 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 phototechnics, 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 there is a camera attachment 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 the oscillations.

Electronic models also benefit from several parameters, including universality, high degree of elimination of vibration effect and convenience in operation. Here it should be noted and the division into two- and three-axis structures. The second option is more advantageous, since it gives more space in relation to the freedom of manipulating the device in automatic mode. Now we should take a closer look at the models in which the modern stabilizer GoPro is presented. A review of the best offers of the segment, perhaps, will help determine the choice of a suitable solution.

Model Tech G4-QD from Feiyu

One of the most advanced and technological models of the segment, representing the fourth generation of stedicam. 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 a static mode - for example, in a car, bike or quad. There is also additional space for installing models such as LCD BacPac, not to mention compatibility with the version of GoPro Hero 4. Moreover, the device also allows you to successfully work with Xiaomi products. For example, the use of an improved mounting standard made it possible to integrate models with YI Cam technology.

Flycam Flyboy-III from Proaim

Another premium solution, which is suitable for a wide range of GoPro models. The peculiarity of this development is compatibility not only with lightweight equipment, but also with DSLR devices weighing about 1.5 kg. The device has an anti-slip coating, which increases its reliability in operation. This ensures even distribution of weight throughout the structure, which eliminates the fatigue of the operator GoPro. The stabilizer is basically made of aluminum, and the counterweights are realized with a powder coating, which contributes to high accuracy in the process of damping.

Model Wonder-DSLR from Camtree

Even action cameras are used from time to time in a static position to achieve the most clarity of the image. For a thorough fixing of equipment it is worthwhile to use 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-scale models. In this case we are talking about 4-kilogram DSLR cameras. However, representatives of the line of compact versions of GoPro Hero will organically enter the design, providing maximum sharpness of shooting. Unlike manual stabilizers, this model has an improved balancing system with 10 counterweight elements. Stabilization base is realized by rubberized legs, which can be adjusted depending on the conditions of application of the technique. The rack itself provides a telescopic principle of height adjustment. Although outwardly the design turns out to be massive, but it is not heavy and comfortable to handle.

Model Curve Black

A fairly simple model from the Thai developers, whose advantages include a small mass, versatility in working with GoPro technology and ease of configuration. This version of the stadkama significantly loses in the technological content to previous versions, but this flaw compensates for the low price tag of 5 thousand rubles. In this case, the lack of modern options, characteristic for balancing devices, does not at all abolish the reliability of the element base, which excludes the vibration of GoPro models. Stabilizer is made of strong, but at the same time, light materials. True, a small mass of the cameras themselves may not have the best effect on the effectiveness of damping. Therefore, it is recommended to use models with liquid crystal displays, due to which it is possible to compensate for deviations from the balance.

How to choose the best option?

Take into account, first of all, the nature of the operation of the camera. If you plan to shoot in a mode close to the camera, you can turn to inexpensive models in simple versions. In electronics for this kind of apparatus will not make much sense. If the calculation is carried out for a dynamic survey, then to obtain high-quality material it is preferable to use an electronic three-axis modification. And it may well be a cheap stabilizer GoPro with a minimum of the remaining parameters. The main function will be the ability of the carrier element to perform the primary task of eliminating fluctuations. Of course, from the point of view of ergonomics, it will not be superfluous to take into account the minor nuances of exploitation, including battery capacity, tracking option, camera balancing adjustment, etc. But, again, the wider the functionality, the more expensive the model will be.

Conclusion

The stabilizer itself can be inefficient if the user ignores some of the nuances of shooting action packed 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 third-party gravity. In addition, it is desirable initially to think about the trajectory of motion and to minimize on the way possible fluctuations from oncoming obstacles. In this case, one can count on the optimal realization of the stabilizer function.