BMPCC4K/6K Gimbal - Simply The Best? Zhiyun Crane 3s Pro
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- čas přidán 5. 09. 2024
- I've finally bitten the bullet and bought a gimbal for my BMPCC4K rig. It wasn't an easy decision as to which one, but the end result is much better than I anticipated. There are some ideas here that may be very helpful to other BMPCC4K/6K users who are contemplating a gimbal. I forgot to note, but it's fairly obvious, that I don't need to use a power pack with the gimbal.
Music: Pangelic -The Mini Vandals
This is by far the BEST video I have seen on this or any gimbal. No BS - just giving us the information we need to make an informed decision especially for the BMPCC4/6k. Crane should GIVE you a Gimbal for free. I am purchasing one just because I watched your video. Blessings ....
Thanks, I appreciate that. If you want to make the handling of the gimbal even better, see this one where I describe the addition of a side handle, as this makes a world of difference: czcams.com/video/uNvZ6tF7iyM/video.html.
hi
I just wanted to thank u for what you're doing. you're doing what is really missing in other youtubers contents which is honesty and knowledge. most of them just make skin-deep videos with a shallow perception and knowledge. and of course who knows that maybe they are payed to do this.
as you know there are so many controversial opinions about this gimbal. and I found that your background about steady cam system just solved this terrible headache about the vibrations of this gimbal specially with pocket 4k/6k. your solution which is understanding the center of gravity just saved our lives and the value of your work is so much beyond your subscribers and view numbers.
Salute...
Thank you. I'm just trying to offer some balance and as honest information as I can give. Just to correct a misconception, I don't have a background in the Steadicam system, but have played around with Glidecam clones. My CoG experience comes from some years in the Air Force and learning about load balancing of aircraft. The principles are roughly the same when it comes to balancing gimbals.
@@AustralianImage And you did a great job sir.
@@AustralianImage and guess what! I purchased the crane 3s after I saw your videos and I've been playing with this beast for 5 hours. No Vibrations!!!!!!!!! And there is maybe something interesting for you to know! I could balance Blackmagic pocket 6k, Tilta Full cage, Tilta Side handle with a Sony NP-F Battery inside it and canon 70-200 f2.8 lens on this gimbal. I mean I can not really believe this. Can you imagine a Tilta side handle with battery inside attached to the pocket 6k on a gimbal?
It's all because of you and I don't know how to thank you...
@@pedrambahrami1374 No thanks necessary, I just hope that you get great use from it and enjoy the fitness that you'll gain from its use, as I do. It's an amazing gimbal indeed and what it can hold when the rig is properly set up will make many think twice about gimbals.If you intend on doing firmware updates to the gimbal, if the mobile app fails to connect for updates, you can do an update via their calibration update tool and your PC. The gimbal tools (calibration upgrade tool) and firmware is available here: www.zhiyun-tech.com/crane3s/en?from=download. The site can be very slow to upload. I just wanted to add that V1.83 fails via Bluetooth and PC, but is not really an important update as far as I'm concerned.
@@AustralianImage I had no problem with the mobile app and it just updated successfully, but thanks for the tip.
And yeah I hope you the same and good luck with the beast.👍👍👍
I have been searching far and wide for a gimble that can support a rigged out pocket 4k, thank you!
I'm glad I could be of help.
Found your videos through bmpcc subreddit... very very helpful info, thank you so much!
I added the SmallRig Dual Handgrip for ZHIYUN CRANE 3S Handheld Stabilizer (#2857) to my Crane 3S and BMPCC6K and this has helped me hang on to the gimbal. I have weighted my complete rig set-up and it comes to 15lbs 4oz...and that's before the gimbal. I tried an Easyrig Minimax and after about a week of that one had to send it back. I just ordered the Vario 5 with Stabil G2 arm on it to handle the weight...and save my back. Good video, thanks for making it.
Thanks for your kind words. I've seen those handles in use and have contemplated one, but I want to get a better feel for the current setup before deciding whether it's what I need. There's no doubt that the handle provides a different feel to handling the gimbal and would allow much easier use of an Easyrig. There are some far less costly vests on the market now but, again, I'm really trying to avoid going the full Ghost Buster route if possible. If the belt option I spoke about provides some relief, then it may be enough. I found one on eBay for US$20, so ordered it and hopefully it will arrive around the same time as the handle.
@@AustralianImage I actually saw this one come out this week from DigitalFoto and the price is extremely attractive. I am just concerned about the quality. ( www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1578323-REG/digitalfoto_solution_limited_er_da_17_6_39_6lb_easyrig_hook_vest.html/mode/edu/mode/edu ) Let us know if you find a solution!
@@Justin_Allen The one I was thinking of was: www.amazon.com.au/DF-DIGITALFOTO-Stabilizer-Compatible-Steadimate-S/dp/B07XRT43F6. As conspicuous as an Easyrig. From what I have seen of DigitalFoto products, in some reviews, they appear to be of good quality.
Thank you for the video, very comprehensive and seeing the full rig - which is similar to mine - on there is amazing. Gives me confidence. If you go to 15:20 tho, look in the corners, the shot is going everywhere. I've heard Zhiyun released a firmware update and many of the jitters are gone, so I guess that could've helped with these shots. I got the gimbal in my virtual basket, just looking at many YT videos before I press confirm...
That video I took is pretty awful. It was the first time that I used it and the first time that I'd walked with a gimbal. I was also walking around in gum boots, up a hill on rough ground and then I applied too much stabilisation in post to try and eliminate the up and down bobbing that you get when you don't walk correctly. That video should not really be used as an example of what you can do with the Crane 3s, it's more of an example of how not to use a gimbal.
@@AustralianImage hhaha, last sentence was funny
Great video mate! I too own a Feiyutech ak4500 and a Ronin M but none really make the bmpcc 6k plus gear any justice. Now with gimbals dropping every month now, I found it hard to pull the trigger on some oldish one like the crane3s. But then again I have a gig coming up and I ordered one. Now after watching your video I’m really relieved to see your setup glide like butter! My setup isn’t that much different to yours so I’m glad that gimbal is on its way :) thanks for sharing your video!
You should find it very nice indeed. I have the SmallRig collar and handle in hand now and early tests prove that it does work. I want to see how it works in the field first and will be providing feedback to all fairly soon. When you get yours and you go to install the extension arm, do this on your bed, as the softer surface makes it much easier than doing it on a hard surface. Also, the rubber insert that goes in the gap of the arm needs to go with the small dot to the inside. This rubber insert needs to be put in last.
@@AustralianImage Awesome thank you for them tips! I will deffo try that out on a softer surface. Should arrive tomorrow :)
That SmallRig Handle is not available in Germany right now... I would have to order from China. I might wait until they get restocked over here.
But I will watch that video of yours now. I am pretty eager to see what you have to say about it.
@@liamback.mp4 That's good. I just got back from a morning in our usual park and really got to try out the handle. It makes a world of difference to the handling. Holding the gimbal was much easier, as was the use of the follow focus wheel. I tried out some focus racking and will find out later today how that fared. I just hope that my lack of artistic skills can still produce something interesting. Either way, the handle stays.
Thank you for your video and I am hoping Australia fights off the cancer that is spreading.
Thanks. I suspect that COVID is something that we, and the world, will have to learn to live with. It's not going away any time soon, if ever. I just hope that karma visits those who decided that it was a good thing to experiment with this sort of crap.
You're a legend. I've seen you active in the subreddit and always appreciate your comments - keep it up. I'm curious, in the test footy your provide here, approx 14:45-16:15, did you add any stabilization in post?
My apologies for responding so late in the piece, but for some reason I missed your post (I have no idea why). I did add stabilisation in post, but I was still getting the hang of doing this in Resolve.
This has been a very hard search for me too. I just want a gimbal that works! Not one that needs jury-rigging to get it working some of the time and not one that needs extra parts to almost fit. If it's a grand, tough. I just need one that works consistently.
If you have a very heavy and awkwardly shaped rig, then I can certainly recommend the Crane 3s. I couldn't find anything else in the price range that would do what the Crane 3s does. It's not perfect and there are things that could be improved, especially in the software, but otherwise it works well. If your needs aren't in that category, then the latest DJI gimbals might be a good option, I was very disappointed with the FeiyuTech. The only thing with the DJI gimbals is that I couldn't find any reviews that I thought were completely open and honest about the pros and cons for my style of rig.
@@AustralianImage I had a light feiyutech as well and it just isn't strong enough. It's an annoying camera to gimbal up at a lower price, but I appreciate the recommendation. Thank you. DJI products require phones and constant tracking, so i'm not a fan at all.
@@dpc4548 Yes, I'm a bit wary of DJI's requirements as well. The other gimbal worth considering is the Crane 3 Lab, if your rig is no more than 4.5kg. I needed the Crane 3s for the extending arm because of the shape of my rig.
Well done and spot-on suggestions.
Thanks. I know that it's helped a few people, so it's been worthwhile.
Looks like you used warp stabilizer on the example footage. I can see the warping at the top and bottom of the frame. That wouldn't be cool to do because that would give us an unclear idea of what the gimbal is doing. Can see it really bad at 15:10 in the upper right of frame.
I used the Resolve equivalent and only noticed it after I'd posted the video. The bobbing was quite bad, walking about in gumboots on a potted road, but in hindsight I should have left things alone. And because CZcams won't allow a video to be updated, I just left the video as it was. Like any gimbal/glidecam, this is something that is impossible to avoid, no matter how good your gimbal might be or even a very experienced user. But thanks for that, as it leads me to another video I did a day ago to explain this, something that those who review gimbals often leave out.
Thanks for the transparency! So many shoot slow motion when showing their gimbal work too. It makes the movement look extra smooth but I have to do gimbal work where it's not slow motion most of the time so I like to see examples shot in real time.
@@outbackatl Thanks again. I try to show things warts and all when discussing the pros and cons of gear that I use so that people aren't misled. I've have been shooting at higher frame rates, but not slowing thing down to glacial speeds, just so that I can see what works and what doesn't. That video was shot at 24fps and given my level of experience with a gimbal, it showed. I'm also not really a fan of the constant slow motion stuff that you see everywhere, which is why I got the gimbal in the first place, so that I can shoot at 24fps and get reasonable results when hand holding. I'm going to put more of the 24fps stuff up when I'm confident enough with my handling of the gimbal.
I wish the 3D focus system would work on the Crane 3s pro. If it did, or if Zhiyun comes out with an autofocus tool like DJI, it would truly be a no contest (I think it already is)
I think third-party LIDAR systems, that will work with any camera, will hit the scene sooner rather than later. It's not a panacea for every situation, but it means that every lens can become an auto-focus lens if you want. The technology is there and the means to deliver looks to be reasonably simple, and the customer base is already holding up their credit cards in anticipation.
@@AustralianImage Thanks for replying to my comment. You just reinforce my decision in getting the Zhiyun. I just think it goes better with the BMPCC6k instead of the RS2. I think you're right. That third party lidar system is coming rather sooner than later.
@@pierrejoseph8065 I really do try my best to provide honest opinions about anything that I use. No one pays me or gives me freebies and I think I prefer it that way. While the RS2 is no doubt a very good gimbal (all are very good nowadays), the Crane 3s is going to be a far more flexible gimbal, as it will allow you to do more with your camera setup in the long term, modifications and whatnot. If you can go the extra cost, the Pro kit is well worth it. I bought mine via Toby Deals (I've bought a few things through them and no affiliation) and have had no issues whatsoever.
GREAT VIDEO
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it.
Thanks for this video. It was great! 😁👍
Thank you, much appreciated.
Thank you for this advice. What kind of Arca Swiss plate are you using and how long is it?
This is a really great video, but I have some questions. Im not able to choose between the crane 2s and dji rs2. My bmpcc4k has a full cage and ssd but none of the other attachments that your rig does. But i do have a heavy lens. Which gimbal do you think is better? I heard the crane 2s has some vibration issues for the bmpcc4k while the dji rs2 isnt wide enough to support a fully caged bmpcc4k. Can you please give some insight on the issue?
Wow! Nice setup and solution. Could you share what elements are in your kit? I want to get something similar and im complete beginner at this.
I also missed your post for some reason, so my apologies for such a late reply. It's probably way too late now, but what aspects of the kit are you interested in?
@@AustralianImage not a problem mate! :)
Im a complete beginner. I was doing some live streaming before pandemic and now i want to get back to it and also shoot some video for YT. So i was thinking about something light that would sit on a tripod and i could just detach and put on a gimbal and go out. I was also thinking of using gimbal for remote control while i love stream to have additional angles? And or some movement with slider.
I know its a lot. I just dont want to make mistakes and buy things that i wont need or not buy enough.
@ This video: czcams.com/video/zfE0BAoa_mI/video.html shows my camera breakdown and the important part is the Arca Swiss system that i use instead of the typical Manfrotto system. It's far more versatile and adaptable to any condition. I simply modified the standard Manfrotto plates on my fluid head, the gimbal etc to take an Arca Swiss clamp, which then allowed an easy switch from one to another. This is a photo of how I modified the Manfrotto plate: australianimage.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/arca-1.jpg.
Thank you for doing this video!
I have a GH5, but this helps.
Where did you get the rail system for the follow focus motors? I have to strip my rig down in order to fly it on my Crane 3s and use the Zhiyun follow focus system at the same time. Looking for ways to keep my 15mm rails attached to the camera AND use the proprietary Zhiyun rail system simultaneously....
The rail system comes with the Crane 3s package, if you buy the complete kit. I have my camera rigged out differently to most others, using the Arca Swiss system instead of Manfrotto. I've explained my setup in this video: czcams.com/video/zfE0BAoa_mI/video.html. By attaching a120mm Arca Swiss clamp to the Crane 3s Manfrotto plate, it becomes very easy to swap my rig over from gimbal to tripod to slider and everything else.
It's not so easy if you use 15mm rails, as they tend to raise the camera height and bulk considerably. I started off with the 15mm system, but gave up on it after about a year as it proved far too cumbersome and awkward for me. Coming from a photographic background, the Arca Swiss system just fell naturally to hand and I already had most of the components.
@@AustralianImage thank you so much for this! I truly appreciate the education!
It will be nice if you had links to the setup. I like the matte box. I'm buying the crane 3s for my black magic pocket 6k.
See here: czcams.com/video/zfE0BAoa_mI/video.html
@@AustralianImage Thanks
I have a BPCC6k with small rig full cage and core SWX powerbase V mount that I used below the camera with the D tap. Can I use that on this and still use the focus controller?
Having the V-mount will provide a challenge for balancing, but if everything is secure, I imagine that it should be doable. What I'd consider doing is attaching the V-mount to the bottom of the Manfrotto clamp. If you have the Pro kit, it comes with the TransMount transmitter and an adapter plate that attaches to the bottom of the Manfrotto clamp and has a 1/4"x20 thread that would take the V-mount battery. This would provide a better balancing situation that having all the weight above the Manfrotto plate.
Regarding the focus control, I assume that you mean the focus motor. If you have the battery attached to the camera, you may have to do some creative mods so that the motor sits high enough to engage the lens. That said, It might be possible that the motor will still connect to the lens, but much lower down. This shouldn't be a problem. But if you place the V-mount as suggested, then there shouldn't be a problem at all.
Hi I read the wireless transmitter internal battery for the Crane 3S only last 1.5 hours, seems short and have to recharge during a shoot? Will the additional Zhiyun battery power pack provide continuous power or is there another solution? Would like to have feed to an iPad all day for client. Thanks!
Yes, the TransMount transmitter draws a lot of power and the battery isn't very long lasting, I would not expect it to last for 1..5 hours. For my CZcams videos I use a battery pack to power the transmitter as I've had it switch off in around 1/2 hour, even when it's been fully charged beforehand. The battery pack will provide a very long operating time, but it's also a very heavy solution.
The transmitter can be powered directly from the gimbal (it's actually designed to do that), but I have no idea how that will affect overall operating time of the gimbal and transmitter. Rather than getting the battery pack, which was mainly designed to add extra power to the gimbal, if the motors required such for a heavy rig (mine doesn't even at 4.1kg weight), I'd just consider extra 18650 batteries and change them in the gimbal during breaks. Top quality 18650 batteries will last for quite some time and Zhiyun sell these (via Amazon etc) at what are pretty reasonable prices.
@@AustralianImage So helpful thank you. Glad to know the video transmitter can be powered directly through the gimbal!
@@filmingyu6623 You're most welcome. The important thing for me is that I've been helpful.
Hey I have a vmount battery on me and it seems to get a bit wobbly would you suggest doing a set up like yours? Or is it possible to run a vmount?
Not sure how I missed your comment, so sorry about that. It is possible to use a V-mount if you position it in a vertical manner close to the LCD and don't use a large V-mount. The only downside may well be that the camera will need to go much further forwards and that will make the balancing a lot more difficult as you won't be able to place the camera close to the pitch motor like I can.
I've found my setup to be the most versatile for moving the camera from one platform to another, gimbal, slider, tripod, hand held. A V-mount battery adds just that extra size and weight which makes fitting and balancing a lot more difficult. I have a V-mount battery on my other rig and have pondered the fitment and just gave up.
@@AustralianImage I have removed the vmount and did a set up like yours and it balances great and no shakes what so every in underslung. Watching your video saved me honestly because I film the rest of my movie in August and my weebill s did not perform well with the black magic. So I got the crane 3s in hopes of being able to handle the battery and monitor all on one rig and your way did the trick. Thanks I'm going to pick up the vest as well because this thing gets heavy!
@@silentshadowproductions7510 That's great to hear. Hopefully you have better luck than I have had with the vest if you need to move about a lot. I'm still trying to figure out what I'm doing wrong with the setup while walking.
I think we should really think of something for the weight issue. My setup is as heavy as yours. last week I shot a music video in 6 days and my arms were shaking most of the times because of the weight. And it is damn hard to focus on your movements and framing or pulling focus with this heavy setup. Any ideas?
Yes, the weight is an issue for long sessions. I thought about using my Easyrig (clone), but that means inverting the gimbal and having to use everything backwards. Not ideal. I've just received my Steadicam vest (alternative brand) and will be putting it through it's paces over the next few weeks and then giving my views on how well or not it works. Initial impressions are promising, though with some annoying things to iron out.
@@AustralianImage I'm looking forward to hear more about it but the Steadicam system is a pain in the ass and makes you very limited in every aspects. How about attaching some kind of metal part beneath the Crane and then using the Easyrig without inverting the gimbal?
@@pedrambahrami1374 I've had the Proain Flycam Galaxy vest and arm now for about a week. I'm going to use it for perhaps another week at least to really get used to it before making a video, but I can honestly say that it does work and works much better than would my Easyrig. Inverting the gimbal would mean having all the controls reversed and not easily accessible and using a ring to hold the gimbal and camera, as some have done, would still not allow me to move smoothly. You may be surprised.
@@AustralianImage Then let's just wait for the video. Thank you so much
@@pedrambahrami1374 Definitely. I don't want to rush this, as I want to make certain that I'm providing proper feedback on the setup. It's not going to be a review of the product (I don't do reviews), but real user experience with the vest and arm, Crane 3s and BMPCC4K and how its all come together. I want to show how around 8.5kg of camera and gimbal can be used with relative ease for long periods of time and what you can and can't do with it.
can it do autofocus
You can control the focus via the gimbal hand control and the attached focus motor, but there's no such thing as what would be considered autofocus. It's conceivable that you could use something like the DJI 3D focus device, but I have no experience with this.
Hi 🙋🏻♂️. Tell me, how did you balance, what is so smooth when walking? Have you used Auto Tune?
This might help in understanding how to balance a gimbal: czcams.com/video/7tgBDQPXnnI/video.html. This is how I've put together my rig: czcams.com/video/zfE0BAoa_mI/video.html. It's really important that you have nothing loose on the camera setup and that includes ensuring that the lens is fully supported. I haven't managed to get things smooth yet when walking, but I'm working on it.
@@AustralianImage Thank you 🙏 , I'll take a look. For half a year I have been suffering, I cannot balance. The picture twitches when walking
@@AustralianImage Tell me, what kind of motor power did you use for your gimbal? Pitch, Roll and Pan?
@@very9000 Once you have the camera properly set up and the gimbal balanced, you should not get any twitching. The only movement that will/may be evident is bobbing up and down as you walk, because a gimbal cannot remove that sort of movement. Very careful walking will help, but that takes a lot of practice and with a heavy setup, it's not easy. That's why I'm trying out a vest and balance arm and, even with that, it's not easy, but it sure takes the load off your hands.
@@AustralianImage Thanks, but so far I can't
Hey. tell me, when you used the stabilizer when moving forward was everything perfect? Video picture did not twitch, smooth stabilization is ideal?
As far as the gimbal (gymbal - see follow-up video for more info) was concerned, it was completely stable and smooth. The up and down movement that was visible was just me not being able to ninja walk. You would have no issue getting perfect movement with this gimbal if you take note of what I've said about balancing your camera first.
@@AustralianImage I have a twitch when moving forward, if around the object then everything is super. Now I ordered a Segway scooter, maybe it will help and the video will be smooth
@@very9000 The only unwanted movement that you should get is that up and down one if you don't do the full Ninja walk. A Segway, one wheel skateboard, or anything with large, soft, tyres will mostly remove the up/down movement. If you're getting any gimbal jitters, then it could be a matter of better balancing of the camera and gimbal. Take note where I suggested establishing a centre of gravity for the camera that you're using, so that this aligns with the gimbal motors. Also, make sure that everything on your camera setup has no movement, no matter how small and ensure that the camera is firmly locked onto the gimbal. The pitch motor appears to be the most sensitive (or problematic) when it comes to eliminating vibration, no matter what gimbal you use.
@@AustralianImage I HAVE ALREADY HALF A YEAR SOLVING THE PROBLEM AND NOTHING IT WILL TURN OUT. EVEN THIS MAN SAID ABOUT THE BLACKMAGIC 6K PROBLEM CAMERA czcams.com/video/WOR1aGVXZu0/video.html
@@very9000 I saw that video and commented that it was one that convinced me that the Crane 3s is the gimbal that I needed. As you can see in my video, I have a heavy and complicated BMPCC4K rig, a setup that I've not seen anyone try out on any gimbal. If I can get that sort of rig working perfectly on the Crane 3s, then anyone can, if they follow what I've done. I balanced my rig on the first try and had no problems whatsoever. I don't need the power pack and the motor power setting is at its lowest level. Without seeing your setup, I can't identify any issues that you might have. All this assumes that your gimbal is functioning properly.
What lens is that?
It's an Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-35mm F2.0 SWD: www.four-thirds.org/en/fourthirds/standard.html#i_014-035mm_f020_olympus, an absolutely incredible lens. Very hard to get now and still demanding very high prices.
can you balance a 6k pro on the zhiyun crane 3 s?
Again another comment that I missed, sorry about that. I see no reason why you can't, but it would become more awkward if you use the battery grip, the height may cause some balancing issues. It's all a matter of working out a good CoG so that the camera will sit well on the gimbal.
I’m wondering also with the grip,dzo Pictor zoom,tilta cage and tilta mini
@@vsproductions894 If there is a gimbal that can handle that combination, I think it would be the Crane 3s. If the centre of gravity of the combination is such that the camera body sits behind the pitch motor, I can't see a problem. Basically, if the centre of gravity is near the lens bayonet, then it's probably good to go.
that footage with the dog is very very bad
It very much is, as I wasn't even trying with that one, just seeing what the results would be like when clomping along in gumboots holding the gimbal to my side in one hand. As I've noted, I'm not that experienced with gimbals (yet) and more so with one of this size and weight (8.3kg). Give me time. I might also add that the sequence was shot at 24fps, which isn't the best for those conditions no matter how experienced you might be.
I couldn’t the swallowing of the saliva!,, had to stop. Sorry
It is what it is.
Stop. FAcking. SWALLOWING EVERY TWO SECONDS.
I do my best, but sometimes it's not so easy. But then, don't shoot the messenger.