The Sony FS700 is renowned for its remarkable image quality and versatility, making it a favored choice among videographers and filmmakers. However, to truly harness its power and ensure smooth footage, pairing it with an excellent gimbal is essential. In this blog, we’ll explore the best gimbals that support the Sony FS700, focusing on their features, benefits, and unique applications in various filming scenarios.

Understanding Gimbals and Their Importance

Gimbals are stabilizing devices designed to support cameras and ensure steady shots, even during movement. They use advanced motors and algorithms to counteract vibrations and disturbances. For handheld filming, especially with a heavy camera like the FS700, a quality gimbal is key to achieving cinematic shots. Whether you're shooting a wedding, a documentary, or completing a commercial project, the proper gimbal can make all the difference in the final output.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gimbal

  • Weight Capacity: Ensure the gimbal can accommodate the FS700 along with any additional gear.
  • Battery Life: Long-lasting battery ensures uninterrupted shooting sessions.
  • Portability: A lightweight and foldable design enhances mobility for on-the-go filmmakers.
  • Compatibility: Check for compatibility with additional accessories such as monitors and microphones.
  • User Interface: An intuitive interface is essential for quick adjustments during production.

Recommended Gimbals for Sony FS700

1. DJI Ronin-S

The DJI Ronin-S is a versatile gimbal designed for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, boasting a maximum payload of 3.6 kg, which comfortably accommodates the FS700. It features a smooth, ergonomic design and a powerful battery life of up to 12 hours, providing extended shooting capabilities. The Ronin-S also includes features like 360-degree rotation and automatic tune settings for easy setup and operation.

2. Zhiyun Crane 2

Another excellent choice is the Zhiyun Crane 2, which offers a payload capacity of 3.2 kg. Its Enhanced Focus System, with a follow focus controller, enables precise focus adjustments, making it perfect for cinematic shoots. The Crane 2 supports a variety of shooting modes, including follow, lock, and POV, granting filmmakers the flexibility to achieve their desired shots effortlessly.

3. Moza AirCross 2

The Moza AirCross 2 is praised for its portability and lightweight design, making it a great companion for handheld shooting. With a payload of up to 3.2 kg, this gimbal can easily handle the FS700. It boasts a unique "Magic Mode" for advanced shooting styles like time-lapse and panorama, along with an impressive battery life of up to 12 hours, ensuring reliability during long shoots.

4. FeiyuTech AK2000

For those looking for a feature-rich gimbal, the FeiyuTech AK2000 provides a robust solution with 4.5 kg of weight support. Its five operation modes cater to a variety of shooting scenarios, while the touch screen makes navigation a breeze. Anti-shake features and a high-resolution OLED display are perfect for achieving professional-quality shots with the FS700.

5. Gudsen MOZA Air 2

The Gudsen MOZA Air 2 gimbal is an ideal option with a 4.2 kg payload, ensuring compatibility with the FS700 and accessories. It offers a wide range of shooting modes and can be controlled via a smartphone, enhancing creativity and control during production. The gimbal's sleek design and exceptional motor power ensure smooth stabilization, making it perfect for dynamic filmmaking environments.

Tips for Using Gimbals with the Sony FS700

To maximize the potential of your gimbal with the FS700, here are some useful tips:

  • Balance Your Setup: Properly balancing your camera on the gimbal is essential to ensure smooth operation and to prevent motor strain.
  • Use Correct Shooting Modes: Familiarize yourself with different modes of your gimbal to take full advantage of its features during various shooting scenarios.
  • Regularly Update Firmware: Keeping your gimbal's firmware up to date ensures optimal performance and introduces new features over time.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Spend time practicing with your gimbal to master movements and achieve smooth, dynamic shots.
  • Consider Accessories: Utilize additional accessories like follow focus systems and microphones for enhanced shooting experiences.

Real-World Applications of Gimbals with the FS700

Gimbals paired with the Sony FS700 open up a plethora of creative possibilities for filmmakers:

  • Event Coverage: Capture smooth footage at weddings, parties, and live events, ensuring clients receive professional-quality videos.
  • Documentary Filmmaking: The steadiness provided by a gimbal allows for immersive storytelling, even during dynamic action sequences.
  • Corporate Videos: Produce visually stunning promotional materials, giving businesses a polished look in their marketing efforts.
  • Short Films: Enhance storytelling through cinematic shots, using various gimbal techniques to add creative flair to your projects.
  • Travel Vlogging: Share your adventures with smooth and steady footage that captivates your audience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right gimbal to support your Sony FS700 is pivotal to creating stunning visual content. With invaluable features for stability and movement, gimbals like the DJI Ronin-S, Zhiyun Crane 2, Moza AirCross 2, FeiyuTech AK2000, and Gudsen MOZA Air 2 can fit various needs and shooting styles. Invest time in learning how to best utilize these amazing tools, and you’ll be rewarded with high-quality, professional-grade footage that brings your vision to life.