If you’re an avid videographer using the Panasonic Lumix GH6 camera, you understand the importance of stability and smooth motion in capturing professional-grade footage. A gimbal is a vital tool that can help you achieve precisely that. In this article, we will explore the best gimbal options available for the Panasonic Lumix GH6, taking into consideration factors such as stability, functionality, and compatibility.
Importance of a Gimbal for Panasonic Lumix GH6
Enhancing Stability and Smoothing Motion
A gimbal plays a crucial role in stabilizing your camera, ensuring steady shots even in challenging conditions. With its motorized system and advanced algorithms, a gimbal counteracts unwanted movements caused by handshakes or sudden motions, resulting in silky-smooth footage.
Expanding Creative Possibilities
By using a gimbal with your Panasonic Lumix GH6, you unlock a world of creative possibilities. Whether you’re shooting action-packed sequences, cinematic pans, or dynamic tracking shots, a gimbal allows you to achieve professional-grade motion that adds depth and visual appeal to your videos.
Versatility and Compatibility
The right gimbal for your Panasonic Lumix GH6 offers compatibility and versatility. It should be able to handle the weight of your camera and provide seamless integration, allowing you to focus on capturing stunning footage without worrying about equipment limitations.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gimbal for GH6
- Payload Capacity: Ensure that the gimbal you choose can support the weight of your Panasonic Lumix GH6, along with any additional accessories you might use.
- Stabilization Technology: Look for gimbals that utilize advanced stabilization technologies like 3-axis stabilization or hybrid systems for optimal stability.
- Battery Life: Consider the duration of your shoots and select a gimbal with a battery life that can accommodate your needs.
- Control and Adjustment: Look for gimbals that provide intuitive controls and allow for easy adjustment of settings on the fly.
- Build Quality and Durability: Opt for gimbals made from high-quality materials that can withstand rigorous shooting conditions.
Best Gimbal for Panasonic Lumix GH6
DJI RS 2 Combo - 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
"The RS 2 gimbal is a modification of the Ronin-S with a 10-lb payload. Monocoque carbon fiber axis arms and a shorter grip handle with a smaller battery cartridge make it 25% lighter and more compact. The 20% more powerful motors support the Blackmagic Pocket 6K, Canon 1D X Mark III, Sony a7S III, and ALEXA Mini LF. DJI's website has a list of compatible cameras and lenses.
RS 2 has 1.4-liter engine ""Full-color LCD touchscreen for accessing gimbal settings and features like time-lapse and hyper-lapse.
DJI Titan stabilization algorithm improves RS 2 stability and smoothness. The SuperSmooth compensates for micromovements and increases torque to ensure fluid motion in applications with up to 100mm zoom lenses (optional lens support is required).
Each RSA port includes a NATO mount for rapid release attachment of specific accessories. The left and right gimbal sides have RSA ports. Focus wheel, twist-grip dual handle, and universal mount for mounting gimbal to an automobile, jib, or slider are supported accessories.
The iOS/Android Ronin apps have creative features beyond time-lapse and panorama. The Time Tunnel ""twists"" space and time via roll motion and hyperlapse. A track creates a repeatable camera path for staged shots. Force Mobile follows your phone's movements. Using the bundled RavenEye communication device improves Force Mobile's responsiveness. RavenEye's ActiveTrack feature displays a live image of your subjects on the touchscreen.
The RS 2 has a dual-layer Manfrotto plus Arca-Swiss camera mount with two quick-release plates. For social media content, you can adjust the gimbal to portrait orientation with a button. The RS 2 includes axis locks on each axis so you can balance one at a time. A fine-tune balancing knob lets you fine-tune your camera's balance.
The gimbal runs for 12 hours on a grip-mounted battery cartridge. Separate cartridges can be replaced. When you need to recharge the cartridge, you simply detach the grip from the gimbal. The BG30 grip supports PD and QC 2.0. DJI recommends a 24W, non-included charger. The battery charges at 24W in 1.5 hours.
The RS 2 comes with a splash-proof transport case for the gimbal and accessories. A 1/4-inch tiny tripod is provided ""-20 thread on the grip handle to operate as a stand or extension handle for two-handed gimbal maneuvering."
DJI RSC 2 - 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
"The DJI RSC 2 accommodates up to 6.6 lb of camera and equipment. DJI's website has a list of compatible cameras and lenses.
The RSC 2's motors are 50% stronger than the Ronin- SC's. The RSC 2 folds for underslung mode.
You can spin the gimbal over and utilize it underslung for low-angle pictures without attaching or detaching anything. The integrated gimbal handle features 14-hour built-in batteries. Batteries can be charged via the handle while the gimbal is in use (unless in extreme heat/cold). The handle may be recharged in two hours with an 18W fast charger (not included). Foldable gimbals make transportation and storage easier.
RSC 2's 1 ""OLED black-and-white screen and horizontal dial for adjusting focus with the same hand as the gimbal. Each side of the gimbal handle has a NATO mount with M4 threading for attachments like a suitcase handle.
RSC 2 employs DJI Titan's enhanced stabilization algorithm for better stability and smoothness. The SuperSmooth works with up to 100mm zoom lenses to complement the algorithm. SuperSmooth reduces micromovements and boosts torque for long lenses.
The gimbal incorporates two replaceable Manfrotto and Arca-Swiss fast-release plates. A tap puts your camera in portrait mode for social networking. The RSC 2 comes with an iOS/Android app that offers time-lapse, panoramic, and Roll 360, which spins your camera constantly along the roll axis. The optional DJI RavenEye transmission device offers remote 1080p video transmission, ActiveTrack 3.0 subject tracking, and other functionalities.
The RSC 2 includes a 1/4-inch mini tripod ""-20 thread on the grip handle to operate as a stand or extension handle for a two-handed gimbal operation. Included camera control wires allow for direct camera and function control from the gimbal."
Zhiyun Crane 3S 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
"The Zhiyun-Tech CRANE 3S Handheld Stabilizer has detachable handles, more powerful motors with a 14.3 lb. payload, an improved axis-locking mechanism, external power input, and the ViaTouch 2.0 remote control system. The 55° inclined roll axis fits your camera without impeding the view, and you may purchase an extension arm to fit larger cameras.
The CRANE 3S has an angled, ergonomic grip for two-handed use. The handle lets you convert to underslung mode with one or two hands and take 330° roll photos as you approach a subject. It also has remote control of camera record/stop/shutter using provided cables, an upgraded zoom and focus mechanism from the CRANE 3 LAB, and compatibility with the Transmount Image Transmission System for wireless video transmission. The horizontal arm can be extended to accommodate a variety of camera sizes.
The 3S features two angled handle configurations. The SmartSling is an ergonomic handle with a joystick and control buttons, and the EasySling is a simple handgrip without controls. All controls and an OLED status screen are on the main handle. The free Zhiyun iOS/Android app offers many of the same control options, including panorama, focus time-lapse, motion time-lapse, long exposure time-lapse, and camera settings.
Three batteries can power the 3S for 12 hours. If you need more shooting time, a DC connector lets you add in an aftermarket battery pack like the Transmount PowerPlus, which holds six 18650 batteries. The CRANE 3S may be managed remotely through Bluetooth 5.0 using the new ViaTouch 2.0 iOS or Android app.
The gimbal has nine accessory mounting threads for Transmount or third-party attachments. A revised axis latch lock system ensures robust locking without extra wobble. This function allows you to lock the various axes to remember your balance positions while powering off the gimbal."
MOZA AirCross 2 Professional Kit Handheld Stabilizer
"The Moza Air 2 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer boasts new high-torque motors and a 9.25 lb weight capacity. High weight capacity enables more cameras and lens combinations. The optional Moza iFOCUS Intelligent Wireless Lens Control System offers standard and automated (with preset start/end points) focus and zoom control from the Moza Air 2.
Thanks to an inclined motor arm, the Air 2's camera LCD is unobstructed. The 12 physical buttons control the gimbal and camera and regulate shutter, aperture, and exposure compensation (where applicable). The joystick, smart wheel, and smart trigger are configurable for different shooting techniques. An OLED display shows most settings, customizations, and gimbal status.
The Air 2 has eight working modes, including pan and tilt follow (please see the Features section below for the full list). Sports Gear, FPV, Panorama, Tracking, and Inception are Moza's shooting modes. Inception lets you swivel the camera while zooming in.
Four bundled lithium-ion 18650 batteries power the gimbal for 16 hours. Replacement batteries are available. The Air 2 has an input connector for powering the gimbal and three output ports for powering the camera and accessories with optional Moza adapter cables.
Motion-lapse, tracking time-lapse, and zoom time-lapse are all available on the Air 2. Auto-tuning determines ideal parameters based on load.
Visual markings make the Air 2 easier to balance. A mechanical memory quick release helps adjust the camera without rebalancing the gimbal. The Moza Air 2 has 3/8""-16 threaded holes on the front and bottom for tripod installation and accessory attachment."
Zhiyun Weebill 2 Camera Stabilizer, 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
"The Zhiyun-Tech WEEBILL 2 handheld 3-axis gimbal stabilizer holds up to 7.3 lb and has an Infineon sensor that increases stability and response. It has a 2.9"" color touchscreen that can be folded in and rotated. The touchscreen lets you alter settings, view your shot, and pick panoramic, time-lapse, and motion-lapse without using the app. A camera's focus control wheel controls electronic focus, aperture, and ISO. Optional Zhiyun lens motors can be controlled.
Attaching the provided micro tripod to the gimbal's primary handgrip creates a low-angle handle. It can be added to the primary handgrip as an extension grip or stand. WEEBILL 2 runs for 9 hours on the included batteries, which can be recharged in 1.5 hours with a separate 15V USB PD fast charger.
The iOS/Android app allows balance check, mode change, and remote photo/video capturing. The tiny tripod lets you position the gimbal on a level surface for remote operation from a smartphone or tablet."
DJI Ronin-SC - Camera Stabilizer, 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal
"The DJI Ronin-SC Gimbal Stabilizer is smaller and lighter than its predecessor, the Ronin-S. It's designed for mirrorless cameras under 4.4 lbs. DJI's website has a list of compatible cameras and lenses.
The Ronin-SC is small but packed with features, design upgrades, and technology. The gimbal's stabilization, pan, tilt, and roll controls, plus 360° of continuous panning, generate solid 3D/360° motion shots.
The gimbal weighs only 2.4 lbs, making it ultra-portable and easy to handle for long periods. It has balancing and storage locking modes. The sliding quick release camera plate makes it easy to rebalance your camera after moving to a new location. Balance your camera in the balancing lock position. Unmount it with the plate, put the gimbal in storage mode, travel, remount your camera, unlock and turn on the gimbal, and voilà, your camera is still balanced.
The Ronin-SC has a record button, a joystick, and a re-centered front trigger button for accurate gimbal control. Holding the M button activates Sport Mode, which allows quick tracking when recording action sequences. Active Track 3.0 lets users track a subject with the gimbal using an Android or iOS app through Bluetooth 5.0. DJI's Force Mobile lets you control your gimbal's motion when it's mounted on a rig or tripod using your smartphone's gyroscope, allowing you to do more precise gimbal motions while utilizing your natural motion. Time-lapse and motion-lapse modes are built-in.
The Ronin-handle-mounted SC's 2450mAh 18650 LiPo battery lasts 11 hours per charge. It's charged through USB Type-C and can manage a compatible camera's run/stop or focus using a multiport USB cable. The handle has 1/4""-20 and 3/8""-16 mounting threads for accessories like the smartphone holder.
The Ronin-SC includes an extended grip/tripod, camera riser, lens support, port cover, Allen wrench, quick release plate with 1/4""-20 camera mounting screw, an M4 screw, multicamera USB control cables, multicamera USB Type-C control cables, a USB Type-C charging cable, a USB Type-C to micro-USB adapter, and a storage case."
Zhiyun Crane 2 [Official] Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
The Zhiyun-Tech Crane-2 is a 3-axis handheld gimbal that supports up to 7 lb. Balance your camera on the included Manfrotto-standard fast release plate and shoot for up to 18 hours. A rod-mount mechanical focus motor can be controlled by the gimbal's handwheel or a Crane 2 remote. It can be aligned to your lens' focus or zoom ring for follow focus or zoom. A support rod, USB cable, and two universal lens gear rings are included for attaching and connecting the focus motor.
Crane-2 supports digital follow focus through the gimbal handwheel for various Canon DSLRs and the Nikon D850 with autofocus lenses. After connecting the camera to the gimbal using the USB cords, you'll have direct follow focus control without an extra motor.
Crane-2 can pan, tilt, and roll 360°. Multiple shooting modes make the gimbal more creative. Full-range POV mode synchronizes all three axes for 360° movement. This means the camera will lock onto a single position and follow your motions without stopping. This captures POV.
Onboard controls and an OLED display modify gimbal settings. "Slow-fall" feature prevents camera drop when Crane-2 is turned off.
DJI Ronin-S Essentials Kit - Camera Stabilizer 3-Axis Gimbal Handheld
"The Ronin-S Essentials Kit includes crucial accessories. The Essentials Kit saves money by excluding the focus wheel and other accessories from the basic Ronin-S bundle.
The DJI Ronin-S is a scalable ecosystem for DSLR and mirrorless camera integration into professional workflows. The Ronin-single-handed S's design allows for 8-lb camera payloads. DJI's website has a list of compatible cameras and lenses.
The front trigger, rear mode button, and joystick provide accurate gimbal control. The front trigger locks the gimbal when held, re-centers it when tapped twice, and turns 180° when tapped three times. Pressing the mode button activates three adjustable shooting modes with tunable speed and reaction. Sport mode offers extra-fast response times and gimbal movements up to 45 mph. The Ronin-S fits documentary, event, and feature film workflows and operates 12 hours on a single battery charge."
Pros and Cons of Using a Gimbal for Panasonic Lumix GH6
Using a gimbal with your Panasonic Lumix GH6 comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. Let’s explore the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Enhanced stability and smooth footage.
- Expands creative possibilities.
- Versatile and compatible with Panasonic Lumix GH6.
- Enables professional-grade motion shots.
Cons:
- Additional investment in purchasing a gimbal.
- Learning curve to master the gimbal’s controls and settings.
- Additional weight and bulkiness when using the gimbal.
FAQs
1. Is a gimbal necessary for shooting with the Panasonic Lumix GH6? A gimbal is not necessary, but it greatly enhances stability and smooth motion in your footage, resulting in more professional-looking videos.
2. Can I use gimbals from other brands with the Panasonic Lumix GH6? Yes, as long as the gimbal can support the weight of the Panasonic Lumix GH6 and offers compatibility with its mounting system.
3. How long does it take to learn to use a gimbal effectively? The learning curve varies depending on the gimbal and your familiarity with stabilization systems. With practice, you can become proficient in using a gimbal within a few weeks.
4. Can I use a gimbal for photography as well? Yes, gimbals can stabilize your camera for both videography and photography, allowing you to capture sharp and blur-free images.
5. How do I maintain and care for my gimbal? Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance guidelines. Generally, it’s important to keep your gimbal clean, avoid excessive force or impact, and periodically check for firmware updates.