How do you record sharp and stable images with a gimbal?

Written by Sanne

Edited on

30 June 2025

·

09:39

How do you record sharp and stable images with a gimbal?

If you're recording with a gimbal, you want a guaranteed sharp image. But this doesn't happen by itself. With the tips below, you can make sure your videos are as stable as possible when you record with your gimbal. You can use the 6 tricks right away, so you're ready to get started.

walk slowly

Walk calmly

Even if you use a gimbal, it's possible that your recordings are shaky. It's important to be careful with your movements while you record. Bend your knees slightly, because this'll make your walk a bit more steady. Take small steps. Keep your elbows against your body and hold the gimbal with 2 hands. This offers the best support.

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transportation

Use a vehicle

If you're going to record for a longer period of time, you want to have a stable image the whole time. Unless you're going for a specific effect, of course. Because it's still possible that recordings are shaky if you walk around with a gimbal, it's wise to use transportation. You can get on a bike, in a car, or even use a skateboard if necessary. If you move around on wheels, the effect of bumps on the road is the smallest.

lightweight

Use lightweight material

The heavier your camera, the more difficult it is to make stable recordings. The motors in the gimbal function a lot better with lightweight material. Make sure you have a compact camera that isn't too heavy. Don't use heavy batteries or accessories like microphones. Record the audio separately with an external microphone. If you keep this in mind, your arms won't get as sore either.

continuous focus

Make sure you have a constant focus

Most video makers prefer to use manual focus. But when you record with a gimbal, it's almost impossible to use the lens ring to shift the focus. That's why you should use autofocus and the smallest aperture possible. The whole image will be sharp all the time. Also make sure to keep a fixed distance from your subject. This way, you don't even have to shift focus.

turn image stabilization off

Turn off image stabilization

If you're using a gimbal or tripod, turn off the image stabilization on your camera or lens. The gimbal already corrects motion blur sufficiently with a counter movement. It can cause motion blur if you leave the stabilization on, because the stabilization mode and your gimbal both try to correct the movements.

plan

Plan your video beforehand

If you know what you're going to record, you also know what to expect. Try out the route you want to take so that you know which kind of preparations are necessary. You may need to slow down in some places. Or do you need a bike to get that one shot. If you're well prepared, you also get a better recording!

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Article by Sanne

Camera Expert.

Sanne