Gimbal Basics

Setting up the Gimbal

Gimbals are a great option to creating seamless shots within motion picture. The stabilise sudden movement or irregularities between shots using 3 axis Initial measurement units.

Currently only those with access are able to lend out our gimbal range, but after this walkthrough we believe you will be equipped to use any gimbal with ease.

How to setup a gimbal:

Balancing the tilt axis

The main objective of balancing the tilt axis is to ensure the camera can be placed in any direction without swinging back down. This usually involves a trial and error process.

Setup may vary depending on the particular gimbal you are using but you want to ensure the following parts have been attached and assembled before sliding the camera in place:

• Attach the extended grip to the battery of the gimbal

• Camera, focus wheel and control camera should be attached to the camera also

• Screw the mounting plate onto the bottom of the camera, and attach the lens support to the side of the lens.

Now slide the camera into the gimbal

You can loosen the lock knob and tighten to adjust the cameras sizing.

You then want to slide the camera back and forth to find a positioning to which it naturally stays put.

Once you have found that, ENSURE you lock the camera locking latch to hold it in place.

Rotate the camera by facing the lens straight up and let go to see how the camera moves. We want to check if the camera it able to stay still regardless of its positioning.

If in response the camera swings back and fourth, repeat the previous step until you are able to tilt the camera lens in any direction and it stays put.

Balancing the roll axis:

We want to ensure the camera does not slide horizontally. You want to unlock the axis knob near the top of the extended grip and slide the camera until it stays put, and then lock to ensure the camera is safe. This is also a trial and error process to ensure the tilt and roll axis work cooperatively.

Balancing the pan axis:

Loosen the lock on the pan motor and slide the gimbal forward and backwards. After re-locking you should be able to tilt the camera without it swaying back and forth.

Please note the three above elements need to work in sync for any gimbal to work and ensure the camera is safe and steady. Patience is key in assembling the gimbal as you may need to adjust previous axis’ multiple times so all 3 work collaboratively.

For the specifics of each gimbal we offer at ABP Print and Loans, please see our Gimbal page.