ZHIYUN launches FIVERAY F100 and M40 go-anywhere pro lights.

ZHIYUN, a pioneer and world leader in innovative gimbals and stabilisers for cameras and smartphones, has launched the FIVERAY M40 pocket fill light and the FIVERAY F100 stick light. With their launch, ZHIYUN pushes the boundaries of lighting technology and performance to put studio-quality, ultra portable lighting products in the hands of content creators. Used with ZHIYUN handheld gimbals, content creators can access silky-smooth footage with stable and soft lighting, even in dark outdoor settings, thanks to its stay-cool technology.

From 7-8 December 2022, to mark the launch, ZHIYUN is giving readers a buy one get one free offer on all purchases of the FIVERAY F100 and the M40.

Both of the photography and filmmaking tools adopt ZHIYUN’s patented and disruptive DynaVort Cooling System™. Inspired by a panel of expert physicists, its intelligent stay-cool technology applies fluid dynamics and consists of advanced algorithms, controlling fans and a gyroscopic modelling heat sink. By raising the cooling efficiency through intelligent control, its two-way cooling system prevents overheating.

The palm-sized ZHIYUN M40 360° fill light epitomises simplicity and utility. Based on the attitude-control algorithm applied on gimbals, DynaVort technology enables better heat dispersion, allows for smaller fans, and therefore, a compact device without compromising on its 40W power. Products of a similar size currently only give 5-13W of power. Weighing only 320g, it fits neatly in pockets, looks stylish and is the ultra portable illumination companion for videographers, whether amateur or professional.

Yilun Liao, CEO, ZHIYUN, said: “we are passionate about using breakthrough innovations –  whether it’s with our iconic gimbals or our new FIVERAY lighting devices – to simplify and reshape content creation. With several industry firsts under our belts including the M40’s DynaVort Cooling System™, our products offer full creative control and convenience for anyone wanting to experience and express their inner filmmaker.”

The ZHIYUN M40, embedded with 176 LED chips rivals the key lights provided by bulkier products on the market with:

  • Incredible illuminance of 14,000 lux at its peak

  • Adjustable dual colour temperature ranging from 2,700-6,200k and consistent power output peaks at 40W with no strobes providing a stable light source

  • A standard fidelity offering for both photography and videography with CRI reaching 96+ and TLCI reaching 97+*

ZHIYUN’s FIVERAY F100 is the second professional lighting stick in its FIVERAY product range, bringing power, portability and accurate colour rendition in one versatile tool. Weighing just 950g, F100 is designed for one-handed control and comfort, offering a pro lighting solution without the need for complicated set-up or setting adjustment. The lighting tool reaches 20,708 lux at its 100W maximum power. Embedded with 5 times more LED chips, F100 gives you ultra-bright output compared to similar-sized lights. F100 offers six creative lighting effects that help build up the atmosphere easily when inspiration strikes.

For maximum versatility, F100 can be mounted on ZHIYUN’s holder, H stand, tripod and light stand, fitting in various filming settings for lighting solutions and additional accessories, including a diffuser and grid, offer multiple lighting options.

The ZHIYUN F100 is packed with features:

  • One click operation of Hue Saturation Intensity mode via the control dial: HSI Mode. Adjust H-Hue (0-360°), S-Saturation (0-100%) , I- Intensity (0-100%) and experience rich, vibrant colours via the dial.

  • Frosted casing creates a diffused, warm ambience while its groundbreaking structure integrates portability and performance.

  • Professional colour rendition with the RGB increased by 47% from 2700K to 6200K in CCT Mode

Pricing and availability

Available from 23 November 2022.

The ZHIYUN FIVERAY M40 is available for £99/$99/€119 from the ZHIYUN and Amazon store.

The ZHIYUN FIVERAY F100 is available for £249/$249/€299 from the ZHIYUN and Amazon store.

From 7 – 8 December, the F100 and M40 will be available on a buy-one-get-one-free basis from selected channels including Amazon, ZHIYUN Official Store, AliExpress, B&H. Please see this link for more details.

ZHIYUN Announces Huge Black Friday Discounts of up to 57%

ZHIYUN, the world leader in professional camera and smartphone stabilization systems, is pleased to announce its Black Friday discounts for 2022, covering a wide range of its most popular gimbals and professional-grade video making accessories, including the popular SMOOTH 5, CRANE M3 and WEEBILL-S. These discounted prices will only be available between November 15 to December 31, 2022, available at ZHIYUN Amazon store.

SMOOTH 5: Ideal Gimbal for Smartphones

Film like a pro with the latest ZHIYUN Smooth 5. It makes cinematic smartphone filmmaking possible with its 3-axis design that allows movement through all angles to be amazingly smooth, even at the extremes. Its carefully considered ergonomic controls, high performance motor, professional anti-shake system, and magnetic twin fill lights empower new creative opportunities.

The Smooth 5 is now available for £139 (13% off), while the Combo option is reduced to just £189 (10% off).

Learn more about the ZHIYUN Smooth 5: https://www.zhiyun-tech.com/en/product/detail/490

CRANE M3: For Ultra-portable Professional Handheld Filmmaking

The CRANE M3 is a portable, compact and professional camera gimbal. It provides an excellent grip and balance, with an ergonomic array of control panel, buttons, wheels and joystick for full control of the powerful motors that can carry different kinds of cameras and lenses in stable and smooth movements. The two-in-one universal quick release plate makes camera changes during a shoot safe and efficient.

The CRANE M3 is now available for only £319 (14% off), the Combo options is now only £379 (16% off) and the Pro is just £399 (39% off).

Learn more about the ZHIYUN CRANE M3: https://www.zhiyun-tech.com/en/product/detail/479

WEEBILL S: Unleashing Possibilities for Professional Filmmakers

The WEEBILL S professional camera gimbal easily handles mainstream mirrorless and DSLR camera & lens combos. Thanks to its lightweight body and a unique Sling mode, the WEEBILL-S imbues an effortless shooting experience. Featuring strong motors with an advanced stabilization algorithm, the intelligent ViaTouch 2.0 system, as well as an ultra-low latency HD image transmission module, the WEEBILL-S pushes the limit of filmmaking even further to unleash boundless possibilities for professional filmmakers.

The WEEBILL S is now available for just £289 (22% off) and bundled with ZHIYUN’s Image Transmission Pro Kit for £519 (9% off).

Learn more about the ZHIYUN WEEBILL S: https://www.zhiyun-tech.com/en/product/detail/70

ZHIYUN Black Friday 2022 Full Discount List:

Smooth Q3

  • Standard: Now £79 (7% off, original price £85)

  • COMBO: Now £99 (6% off, original price £105)

Smooth Q4

  • Standard: Now £99 (17% off, original price £119)

  • COMBO: Now £119 (20% off, original price £149)

Smooth X

  • Standard: Now £29.99 (50% off, original price £60)

  • Package: Now £39.99 (43% off, original price £70)

Smooth XS

  • Standard: Now £39.99 (42% off, original price £69)

Smooth X2

  • Standard: Now £69 (47% off, original price £129)

  • COMBO: Now £89 (44% off, original price £159)

Smooth 5

  • Standard: Now £139 (13% off, original price £159)

  • COMBO: Now £189 (10% off, original price £209)

CRANE M2-S

  • Standard: Now £199 (23% off, original price £259)

  • COMBO: Now £259 (21% off, original price £329)

CRANE M3

  • Standard: Now £319 (14% off, original price £369)

  • COMBO: Now £379 (16% off, original price £449)

  • PRO: Now £399 (39% off, original price £649)

CRANE 2S

  • Standard: Now £379 (37% off, original price £599)

  • COMBO: Now £429 (34% off, original price £649)

  • PRO: Now £519 (39% off, original price £849)

CRANE 3S

  • Standard: Now £559 (27% off, original price £769)

  • PRO: Now £899 (14% off, original price £1049)

WEEBILL S

WEEBILL 3

  • Standard: Now £399 (11% off, original price £449)

  • COMBO: Now £449 (15% off, original price £529)

Fiveray FR100C

  • Standard: Now £149 (25% off, original price £199)

  • COMBO: Now £189 (24% off, original price £249)

Where to Buy

Promotion period: November 15 to December 31, 2022.
Available online from: ZHIYUN Amazon store

ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S Combo – First Look

The SMOOTH 5S is the latest addition to ZHIYUN’s iconic SMOOTH range. As well as offering several upgraded features that make it more powerful and compatible with larger smartphones and superior image stabilisation, it features a new, powerful built-in fill light in addition to the two modular magnetic lights. This, together with features like its wider shooting angle and intuitive control panel provide an integrated and convenient film-making experience for everyone.

Today we take a first look at the latest gadget from ZHIYUN and see what the combo pack looks like before we take it off for testing as we always do and give you a look at how it works in real life rather than a stock image report.. So stay tuned for that and lots more cool tech here for the Christmas Season and on our YouTube channel.

The ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S is available for the price of £299 from the ZHIYUN or Amazon store.

USD 169, Euros 189, GBP 169
For the SMOOTH 5S combo, pricing is:
USD 219, Euros 239, GBP 219

ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S – the perfect smartphone gimbal for a one-man film crew

ZHIYUN, the world’s leading gimbal brand for filmmakers with cameras and smartphones, today launched the SMOOTH 5S, its new, 3 axis professional smartphone gimbal; providing content creators everything they need to realise their creative filmmaking ideas in one portable package.

The SMOOTH 5S is the latest addition to ZHIYUN’s iconic SMOOTH range. As well as offering several upgraded features that make it more powerful and compatible with larger smartphones and superior image stabilisation, it features a new, powerful built-in fill light in addition to the two modular magnetic lights. This, together with features like its wider shooting angle and intuitive control panel provide an integrated and convenient filmmaking experience for everyone.

Xin Wang, Product Manager, ZHIYUN, said: “our creative tools enable content creators to realise their filmmaking goals and allow them to explore the furthest limits of their creativity. With its innovative features and its second fill light, the SMOOTH 5S elevates your smartphone into the perfect one-man day to night filmmaking tool. It’s perfect for content creators or anyone wishing to express themselves creatively.”

Illuminate any scene

The light offers a 5,000k colour temperature, a 90+ CRI and 2W rated power in the stabiliser’s tilt arm. The new fill light is in addition to its 300-lumen lights and both illumination sources enable 360° allround lighting up to 15 square metres and allows for play with shadows, contrast and brightness of any scene.

Unbreakable stabilisation

The SMOOTH 5S offers superior anti-shake footage which preserves the original definition quality  of the shoot. The magnetic steel motors with upgraded algorithms firmly power up larger sized mobile phones; while the wider phone clamp supports external lens options.

Breadth of vision and full control

The position of the SMOOTH 5S’s rear motors and professional cut out design, facilitate wider vision capture, extreme-angle shooting – thus putting more creative options at a filmmaker’s fingertips. Filmmakers have full control thanks to ZHIYUN’s iconic intuitive control panel and wheel allowing easy adjustment of gimbal parameters. Visible shooting modes combine with a round-cap joystick to get to you shot-ready with effortless one-handed operation.

Up to 25 hours of uninterrupted shooting

Getting the SMOOTH 5S up to 100% power only takes 2 hours via PD fast charging, giving content creators a maximum of 25 hour of non stop shooting.

Content that wows

The ZY Cami APP offers multiple template, filters, music, transitions, and stickers, including:

  • Multiple quick-switch shooting modes including PF, L, F, POV

  • Zoom and focus switch support as well as focal length adjustment via the control wheel – enabling entry level to film professional dolly zoom effect.

  • SMART FOLLOW – secures the spotlight for your subject. Remotely control the camera via gestures.

  • MagicClone Pano, Slow Motion, Timelapse features.

ZHIYUN’s StaCam professional app, dedicated to video filming has a simple yet multifunctional interface and handy operation. The app will brighten up your daily vlogs and can also make your videos more cinematic.

The SMOOTH 5S has dimensions of 311 x168 x 52mmand weighs 660g.

Pricing and availability

ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S is available for the price of £299 from the ZHIYUN or Amazon store.

USD 169, Euros 189, GBP 169
For the SMOOTH 5S combo, pricing is:
USD 219, Euros 239, GBP 219
The SMOOTH5S combo includes:
Tripod (M2)
Fill Light
Fill Light Filter
Wrist Strap (Q2)
Protective Bag
Membership Card
USB Type-C Charging Cable

ZHIYUN Unveils its Best Gimbal Discounts for Amazon Prime Early Access Sale

ZHIYUN, the world leader in professional stabilization systems, will offer its best gimbal discount deals during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale on Tuesday 11 October 2022 to Wednesday 12 October,  for a wide range of its products including, SMOOTH Q4, SMOOTH 5 WEEBILL 3 and the CRANE M2S. On selected gimbals, get up to 51% off or save up to £330 on selected gimbals.  The deals can be accessed at: ZHIYUN UK Amazon Store and ZHIYUN Official Store.

The first-ever Prime Early Access Sale is part of Amazon’s Prime Day follow-up and is a members-only shopping event

For any amateur or professional photographers who want to improve their skills, this is the right time to purchase their dream gimbal(s) for cameras or smartphones.

CAMERA GIMBALS

Crane M2 S — is highly portable, just like a phone gimbal, but with the capacity to hold cameras up to the Sony A7SIII with small prime lenses. The super-lightweight body is combined with stronger motors and extended axes compared to the standard CRANE-M2 series, making it a must-have for high-velocity, run-and-gun filmmakers.

Original price: £ 259
Discounted price: 20%  –  £ 219

WEEBILL 3 — has enhanced responsiveness and stabilization capabilities to accurately eliminate shaky movements in a lightweight frame sporting an industrial design that gives users maximum control through a flip-out touch screen.

Original price: £ 449
Discounted price: 10%  –  £ 409

Crane M3 — upgraded motors with stronger torque guarantee stable movements and filming with cameras in different sizes. Easy compatible with smartphones, action cameras, compact cameras, and full-frame mirrorless cameras with certain lenses.

Original price: £ 369
Discounted price: 11%  –  £ 329

SMARTPHONE GIMBALS 

Smooth X2 –  with its one-step design allowing swift unfolding to shooting, and an innovative 360° rotatable design of the axis, making silky smooth Hollywood quality video with the SMOOTH-X2 has never been easier.

Original price: £ 129
Discounted price: 43%  –  £ 69

Smooth Q4 —  With a brand new look for better grip and easier folding and double-sided powerful magnetic fill light, filmmakers can create the right atmosphere for their stories, even in the dark.

Original price: £ 119
Discounted price: 11%  –  £ 109

Smooth  Q3 —  from a rotatable fill light to 17 smart templates, the Smooth-Q3 is a compact, feature-rich three-axis gimbal with a simplified and detail-oriented design and unrivalled functionality.

Original price: £85
Discounted price: 12%  –  £75

ZHIYUN demos latest gimbal technology at The Photography Show 2022

ZHIYUN, a pioneer and world leader in innovative gimbals and stabilisers for cameras and smartphones will be showcasing its award-winning products at The Photography Show, a UK event that attracts everyone passionate about photography, moving image and content creation, from professionals to enthusiasts on 17 – 20 September 2022.

ZHIYUN’s product range will be available on its UK distributor Transcontinenta’s stand G500 where demonstrations will take place. Visitors will be able to take a closer look at ZHIYUN’s innovative gimbals from its highly-regarded CRANE series, including its latest stabilisers, the Weebill 3 for cameras, its FIVERAY stick light, the SMOOTH Q4 for smart phones all launched in June 2022.

WEEBILL 3 product highlights include a new SLING 2.0 system with improved ergonomics; extendable SLING handle and wrist rest; convenient built-in microphone and fill light; next-gen Quick Release system and powerful in-built battery supports all-day filming.

The FIVERAY FR100C is Zhiyun’s first portable LED Light Stick. The powerful device is 5X brighter than other portable lighting accessories; offers a full temperature range control; large 6-cell battery; extremely fast 120W PD charging via USB-C and an ergonomic control wheel and status display.

ZHIYUN SMOOTH Q4 smartphone gimbal is aimed at on-the-move lifestyle, fashion, filmmakers, live-streamers, vloggers and influencers, the new 3-axis stabilizer, is designed for super quick-shooting capabilities and ultra-creative output, day or night. With a new quick-fold mechanism, revamped extendable arm and grip, 5500K fill light and SmartShooting enable ultra-creative shots

ZHIYUN full CRANE range will be on display including latest additions CRANE M3 and CRANE M2S. The CRANE-M3 claims five industry firsts for design aesthetic, unmatched versatility, easy operability and trademark high-performance ZHIYUN design. The 500ml water-bottle sized CRANE M3 is compatible with smartphones, action cameras, and full-frame mirrorless cameras with certain lenses.

The CRANE-M2S is a small, strong and super-light camera gimbal. It is more cost-effective than the CRANE-M3, yet packed with many of its features, including an ultra-bright fill light built-in; ZHIYUN Quick Release 4.0; long battery life, faster charging and direct camera charging and Pan Follow, Follow, Lock, POV, Vortex, Go and more operating modes built in.

A full list of technology on show is:

Camera gimbals

WEEBILL 2

WEEBILL 3

WEEBILL S

CRANE M2S

CRANE M3

CRANE 3S

FIVERAY FR 100C light stick

Smartphone gimbals

SMOOTH 5

SMOOTH Q4

SMOOTH Q3

About ZHIYUN:

ZHIYUN Tech is a pioneer and a world leader in gimbals and stabilizers for both professional filmmakers and personal video creators. ZHIYUN believes in innovation as the primary productive force, keeps making breakthroughs, and pushes forward technological and industrial development. Its product line ranges from professional to consumer gimbals. ZHIYUN is dedicated to arduous research and innovation for delivering a better experience for global filmmakers and video content creators.

Commonwealth Games photography tips: Capture sporting action like a pro this summer

Mario So is a filmmaker and photographer specialising in visual story telling as well as high impact product commercials. He is part of ZHIYUN creator’s club. Mario So is also an educator in the field. You can find him teaching tutorials or talking about gear on his YouTube channel.

The Commonwealth Games will be held from 28 July to 8 August 2022 and are set to be the biggest sporting event of the year. If you’re lucky enough to have tickets for this or any other major fixture, taking the perfect video will be something to share and marvel at in many years to come. Film like a pro with these top tips.

 

  1. LIVE AND BREATHE YOUR SPORT

Having extensive knowledge of the sport you are shooting will show in your footage. By being passionate about the sport you are filming, you will be more able to anticipate where an athlete is going to move for those next level shots.

It takes practice and dedication to be able to feel your shots by instinct, so the more events you capture, the more you will understand where to go for the best shots. Watching lots of sports games will also give you a better idea of what players to look out for and understand what the audience likes to see.

  1. FREESTYLE SHOTS FOR AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

Filmmakers (whether amateur or pro) can create an immersive experience for their audience in so many ways including by following the action with close-up shots of, for example, in outdoor or extreme sports.

Raise the camera, we like using the Sony a7siii for it’s great video capabilities, above your head for an overhead view of the action or sweep in lows for added drama. One way to do this while keeping the camera steady is by using a gimbal.

Gimbals offer versatility, and lightweight models like the Weebill 3 or smartphone champions such as the SMOOTH Q4 offer more freedom for you to move around and try different techniques such freestyle shots and can be used to get the perfect dolly shot.

Why not capture the classic push-in or pull-out shots you see onscreen by moving your camera steadily forward or backwards?

Alternatively, you can hold your camera or gimbal vertically or inclined, push in at a low angle, tilt up or down, and pan. The options are almost endless. As long as the camera is steady and facing your subject, you can shoot some excellent sports footage.

  1. SMOOTH, DYNAMIC ACTION SHOTS

To get the best out of your footage, ensure your camera is in focus and steady. The Sony A6600 offers a compact body with excellent autofocus. With many sports, like basketball you still want to be mobile – which is not always possible with a tripod.

Standing in one place, follow your subject with the camera by rotating your body and camera in the same direction as your subject is moving. This is a great shot for those sports that require the camera to stay focused on a moving subject over a shorter distance, such as a cricketer running between wickets or for swimmers.

  1. CAPTURE ACTION FROM ALL ANGLES

With a gimbal, you’ll get smooth footage that shows the action from all angles. This is called a parallax shot  – a 180 or 360 rotating motion that places the subject in the centre of the frame.

Parallax shots are particularly suited for slower, indoor sports like snooker, darts, or chess and work best if you’re a short distance from what you’re shooting. Your subject can be stationary or mobile.

  1. BEAUTIFULLY UNBROKEN SHOTS

This type of shot is called the handover. Equipment like gimbals make it possible to hand over the camera to another operator mid-shot for continuous, unbroken filming.

Take parkour for example. Users stand on different levels, handing the video stabiliser to another operator while the initial subject leaps and rolls over obstacles. For extreme sports like these it’s always a great idea to get a gimbal with a secure locking system for your smartphone or camera.

 

  1. FAST PACED, LONG DISTANCE ACTION

For fast paced, long-distance sports such as cycling or marathons, be ready to capture the action from a moving car or motorbike. You can film as you walk, run or bike alongside your subject too, depending on the sport.

Professional photographers should consider the Sony A9 Mark II  to capture shots that need to be delivered to a news desk or website quickly…with super-fast WiFi transfer, a class-leading autofocus system and attractive burst shooting, this camera is leading the way in sports photography.

  1. NON STOP WIDE SHOTS FOR BREATHTAKING ANGLES

For extreme or winter sports, filmmakers can opt to record the action while also participating in sport such as skateboarding, skydiving and skiing. While it does take fitness and certain skill from the videographer, the potential results are worth it.

Stabilise your camera as you follow your subject for a start-to-finish action scene. Make sure you choose equipment durable enough to withstand a few bumps along the way.

  1. GETTING GREAT AUDIO

Great audio is a key component of the video. When shooting outdoors or where there is an audience, there are various factors that you need to be aware of, such as the weather.

Strong winds and background noise could interfere with the microphone and negatively impact the sound quality. Noise-cancelling microphones, a deadcat, or capturing your audio with external recorders can be of great help.

Images from Mario So around parkour/gymnastics training and skating:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kFJUSc8pHs0q8-LhZRi5RhitATbeMJTb

Capturing smooth shots of sporting action is easy using a camera stabiliser. Here are three of our top picks:

Crane M3 –  professional, 3-axis gimbal, claiming five industry firsts for looks, unmatched versatility, easy operability and trademark high-performance ZHIYUN design. The CRANE M3 is compatible with smartphones, action cameras, and full-frame mirrorless cameras with certain lenses.

CRANE M3 £329.00 from the official ZHIYUN store

Weebill 3 – portable, high performance gimbal for DSLR cameras. Incorporating a new SLING 2.0 design for improved ergonomics, built-in microphone, fill light and a powerful, inbuilt battery supporting all-day use

WEEBILL 3 £449 from the Official ZHIYUN store

Smooth Q4 – aimed at on-the-move filmmakers, live-streamers, vloggers and influencers, the new 3-axis stabiliser, is designed for super quick-shooting capabilities and ultra-creative output, day or night.

Smooth Q4, from £119 on the Official Zhiyun store

About Mario So

Mario So is a filmmaker and photographer specialising in visual story telling as well as high impact product commercials. He is part of the ZHIYUN creator’s club. Mario So is also an educator in the field. You can find him teaching tutorials or talking about gear on his YouTube channel.

More about Mario So:

www.mariosomedia.com

www.youtube.com/MarioSoMedia

www.tiktok.com/@maritoso7

ZHIYUN Unveils its Best Gimbal Discounts on 2022 Amazon Prime Day

ZHIYUN, the world leader in professional stabilization systems, will offer its best gimbal discount deals on 2022 Amazon Prime Day for a wide range of its products including, SMOOTH 5, CRANE M3, WEEBILL 2, CRANE M2S, CRANE 3S. Get up to 51% off or save up to £350.

ZHIYUN Amazon Prime Day Deals officially kicked off on 6 July and will continue till 20 July 2022 on the ZHIYUN UK Amazon Store and ZHIYUN Official Store. For any amateur or professional photographers who want to improve their skills, this is the right time to purchase their dream gimbal(s) for cameras or smartphones.

Below is a complete list of the discounted gimbals:

CAMERA GIMBALS

Crane 3S —  is a powerful redesign of previous ZHIYUN gimbals with the addition of detachable handle options, more powerful motors with a large 14.3 lb payload, an updated axis-locking system, and an external power input, and the ViaTouch 2.0 remote control system.

Original price: £ 799
Discounted price: 30%  –  £ 559

Crane M3 — upgraded motors with stronger torque guarantee stable movements and filming with cameras in different sizes. Easy compatible with smartphones, action cameras, compact cameras, and full-frame mirrorless cameras with certain lenses.

Original price: £ 369
Discounted price: 11%  –  £ 329

Crane M2 S — is highly portable, just like a phone gimbal, but with the capacity to hold cameras up to the Sony A7SIII with small prime lenses. The super-lightweight body is combined with stronger motors and extended axes compared to the standard CRANE-M2 series, making it a must-have for high velocity, run-and-gun filmmakers.

Original price: £ 259
Discounted price: 12%  –  £ 229

WEEBILL 2 — has enhanced responsiveness and stabilization capabilities to accurately eliminate shaky movements in a lightweight frame sporting an industrial design that gives users maximum control through a flip-out touch screen.

Original price: £ 509
Discounted price: 8%  –  £ 469

Crane 2S — the upgraded version of the legendary gimbal CRANE 2 with optimized motor control algorithms and motor power that handles BMPCC 6K, Panasonic S1H, Canon EOS 1DX Mark II, and Nikon D850 with total ease.

Original price: £ 599
Discounted price: 35% –  £ 389

SMARTPHONE GIMBALS

Smooth 5 —  the industry-standard 3-axis design allows movements in all angles to be amazingly smooth, even at extreme angles.

Original price: £ 159
Discounted price: 13%  –  £ 139

Smooth X — the world’s first pocket-size selfie-stick phone gimbal that makes phone shooting such fun. It comes with the ZY Cami APP featuring functions like gesture control, object tracking, beauty camera, and smart filmmaking.

Original price: £ 59
Discounted price: 51%  –  £ 29

Smooth  Q3 —  from a rotatable fill light to 17 smart templates, the Smooth-Q3 is a compact, feature-rich three-axis gimbal with simplified and detail-oriented design and unrivalled functionality.

Original price: £ 85
Discounted price: 12%  –  £ 75

Tech Review – ZHIYUN CRANE-M2S Gimbal

The kit came in a great looking package, a case with numerous accessories, without the bag a high potential to lose all the parts. The bag facilitates the carrying of additional items in the case.  The gimble is designed to allow it to use its motor and sensors to ensure the camera is supported and stabilised to ensure video footage is smooth and stable even when on the move.  The kit is stolid to allow weight cameras from a variety of the major brands to work. The OLED display while small allows the setting visible.

 

Features:

  •       Small Size Strong Power Crane-m2s is super light yet strong enough to hold various cameras, like your phones, action cams, and mirrorless cameras. The 549g super lightweight body, combined with stronger motors and extended axes, makes it a must-have for run-and-gun filmmakers
  •       Power up FastSupports PD Fast Charge protocol. Charging time can be minimized to 1hr 41min. Runtime up to 10hrs
  •       Extra Bright In Tiny LightThe integrated fill light adopts outstanding lumen amplifier technology to offer 1000 lumens of brightness in a 2.8c㎡ light source. The adjustable 5-level light and 4-color filters give you unlimited possibilities of creation in various filmmaking environments next-level quick release
  •       Unleash Your Creativity Various shooting modes available: Pan Follow, Follow, Lock, POV, Vortex, Go, etc
  •       Next-Level Quick ReleaseCRANE-M2S comes with the newest quick-release plate that’s only seen on Zhiyun flagship gimbals. It features a V-shape design and dual safety locks which ensure utmost safety and efficiency. You could also choose to upgrade to a universal balance-free quick release plate for run-and-gun scenarios

 

Accessories:

  •       1xZhiyun Crane M2S Gimbal Stabilizer
  •       1x Mini tripod
  •       1x Fill light filter
  •       1x EPP carrying bag
  •       1x TypeC to Micro Camera Charging Cable
  •       1x TypeC to TypeC Camera Charging Cable
  •       1x TypeC to USB cable

 

Setup:

The manual and marketing advise  easy  “ Easy Setup – Get Ready Anytime” Quick depending on your view of Quick, don’t expect to get operational within 1 hour, this is not due to the setup, but rather to understand how the kit works, download the software, connect to Bluetooth and calibrate the unit. The manufacturers manual as supplied has limited info with the main website as a marketing tool. This does give a full video on the Button introduction and installing and balancing.

The setup is crucial to the use of the gimble, which can involve the use of the App ZY Play in terms of calibration and the mechanical mounting and balancing on the unit.

The setup required various adjustments depending on the product type and weight of the unit and requires to be balanced to ensure the motor does not burn out which can be confusing. This is paramount to spend time on this balancing as if not done correctly can cause various issues afterwards.

 

  •       Pan Follow mode (PF): The tilt axis and roll axis motors are locked, and the camera rotates with the handle while panning horizontally. Push the joystick up/down to control the tilt axis angle, and push it left/right to control the pan axis of the camera.

 

  •       Follow mode (F): The roll axis motor is locked, and the tilt axis and pan axis motors follow the rotation of the handle. Push the joystick up/down to change the tilt angle of the camera and left/right to change the horizontal orientation of the camera.

 

  •       Point of View mode (POV): All three motors move when the handle is rotated.

 

  •       Vortex mode (V): The tilt axis motor rotates upward by 90° , and the tilt axis, roll axis, and pan axis motors follow the rotation of the handle. Push the joystick to the left/ right to control the rotation of the pan axis. How to Use CRANE-M2 S

 

  •       Go mode (GO): The roll axis motor is locked, and the tilt axis and pan axis motors quickly follow the rotation of the handle.

 

Compatible :

The crane can be used on a variety of cameras of various sizes and weights.  This includes the main brands on smartphones, iPhones, Samsung Galaxy,  Huawei, Xiaomi or traditional cameras from the Sony, Panasonic   Nikon, Fujifilm and the GoPro HERO. Connection with a smartphone mount is included while action camera accessories need to be purchased separately.

Warranty:1 year

Conclusion:

The CRANE-M2S is solid with excellent accessories and response to the buttons, The kit is required to be set up and balanced on initial use but changing from 1 unit to another again required the kit to be balanced. This balancing time with practice can be reduced with experience and the use of the quick release. This setup for each time the kit is used is by far the biggest niggle, It does work, but a novice could take an hour to get an understanding of the levers and adjustments. During this time errors in terms of zzz and axis, often come up. There is little in the way to advise on the messages rather than trial and error until balanced correctly. Again changing a camera when familiar required the balancing to be done, this can be reduced down to less than 5 minutes if used constantly but again take practice and experience to set up.

Once operational the operations are smooth, the button reactive logically, and the app works as expected with the quick mounting screw a real possible allowing for a large range of compatible units from the main brands, Overall a great product for the budding amateur to provide stable footage while on the move.

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