Bit dramatic, but after several post on the subject, I now have a feeling this year of getting it right, of dotting my I’s and crossing my T’s, so I have relented and accepted a gimbal into my kit, just like the reality that LAV mics are needed..
The Zhiyun Weebill 3S combo pack is on sale for half price at $399au* (less than the DJI RS3 mini and without all of that gimbals short comings** or the cut down 3E), right when I decided to look tentatively at the idea of adding a capable, is restrained gimbal into my otherwise complete kit.
The handle, arm rest and backpack all make a difference (now irrelevant if I get the M3s).
I do have opinions and techniques that support never going this way, but to be honest, I am sick of dodging client requests and trying to sell them on other ideas. If I have one, then I can say ”hey, how about this instead” with no ulterior motive assumed.
What price peace of mind?
The whole kit costs less than the 7Artisans 16mm I bought recently with little thought, half as much as the Video Assist 12g that I felt would add much to my video offer and only twice as much as a set of M2 Lark mics I bought simply to hide them on a suit jacket!
Several reviewers rated it as best in price class, a little dated in interface, but not capabilities and it should last, being over powered for my intended kit (MFT body, probably the GH5s, with a cine prime on or the G9II with an AF 8-18).
I have several tripods, a slider, a heavy hand held rig, top notch internal stabilisers, top, side and under handles, shoulder and chest rigs and other tricks, but now I also have a gimbal.
Unlike some I do not expect it to be the first thing used, but I also have an open mind as to the things it may bring like “Vortex” mode (360 degree roll) and some pan arounds etc. I promise not to over use it, because then I would be a hypocrite ;).
*Since changed to the M3S combo pack for $349 as stock is limited in the extreme. This actually feels better as it is enough, but not a “crutch” to use all the time.
*The DJI RS3 mini would have been plenty, but has a flawed base plate arrangement that requires accessories to fix, comes with no accessories in the box and will only just handle the weight of my gear needs. Some reviewers criticise its fiddly-ness when setting up due to strain on locks and motors and for little gain in size and weight.