Nowadays every mobile brand is adding AI, telephoto lens, 100 megapixel sensor, 10-bit log and DSLR-like software to their cameras. Means a high-level improvement has come in mobile photography. Now at a time when everyone was thinking what more improvements could be made, a new product has created a stir in the market and its name is Osmo Pocket 3.
It looks like a futuristic mobile gimbal, but it is not a normal gimbal. I also first thought that this is only for cinematic shots, but when I tried it, then I realized how different it is from normal gimbals.
When it becomes difficult to keep the frame stable
The biggest challenge comes when you have to keep the subject at a fixed position in a moving shot. This is quite difficult in normal gimbals, especially if you are using a portrait focal lens. But imagine, what if there is a system that can automatically lock the subject in the frame of any lens? No matter what the movement is, the subject should remain the same.
This was just the beginning! You can easily attach the phone using the NFC spot in this gimbal. Just put the clamp on the phone, turn on max mode and done! I have never seen such an easy setup.
Ready To Flow – But How?
Once setup, your normal camera will also work in cinematic mode without changing any manual setting. Yes, it supports up to 4K 120 fps! I personally like control a lot, so I connected it in AI mode. It gets connected automatically as soon as you turn on Bluetooth and then you get the full cinematic experience.
In Gimbal settings you can adjust follow mode, FPV mode and pan mode. Apart from this, you can also control the speed so that the movement feels smooth. By using joystick you can take full control of framing, and it is completely effortless.
AI Tracking – A New Magic
Its biggest highlight is AI tracking. You just press the trigger button and AI tracking gets activated automatically. When it shows green light, it means tracking is on. If you press it again, it will get deactivated. It can track any object up to 5X zoom, and even if there is a fast movement, it remains locked-on.
With active zoom tracking, you can zoom even far objects and film smoothly. Its 360-degree auto-tracking feature is a blessing for solo creators and filmmakers. If you are shooting alone, then this can be a best tool for you.
Tripod Mode and Dolly Zoom – Enjoy Filmmaking
If you are using Osmo Pocket 3 on a tripod, then both hands-free tracking and zoom tracking options are available. Once the subject is locked, no matter how much you move, the frame will remain perfect. Dolly zoom effect is also available, in which just select the subject and the camera will automatically zoom in or out.
Selfie Stick or something else?
At first glance, this may seem like a normal selfie stick, but as you use it, you will understand that it is not normal. I initially thought that its tilt mode was not working properly, but then I understood that there is a lock system which enables the free-tilt mode.
This free-tilt mode will help you take low-angle tracking shots and cinematic reveals. If you want to take amazing Christopher Nolan-like shots without much effort, then this mode is quite useful.
360-Degree Panorama and AI Editing
Apart from normal photos, it also has panorama shots. But one special thing is 360-degree panorama, in which it automatically merges different images and gives a stunning output. All this happens without any manual editing.
The controls are also quite advanced – you can remote control it from another phone and the AI tracking works on multiple apps, like Blackmagic Camera and Instagram. Meaning, if you are live streaming as well, this gimbal will smartly keep you in frame.
Learning Curve – Learning is a must
It took me a while to get used to it, especially understanding the controls and modes. You need to auto-calibrate the gimbal once it is placed on a flat surface, otherwise horizon shift can occur. Its build quality is top-notch, but it needs to be understood properly.
Is Osmo Pocket 3 Worth It?
Yes, it can improve the level of shooting from any phone by 10X. If you want to take cinematic shots without much effort, then this is a perfect gadget. And yes, if you want portability then its compact size also gives you the option to easily carry it in your pocket.
Just remember one thing – no matter how unstable moments come in life, if the support is right then anyone can be made a star!
