Choosing accessories for the action camera

Action cameras are gaining popularity today thanks to their wide range of applications: they are compact, mobile and allow you to shoot in virtually any environment. To make the shooting process even more comfortable, you should buy some accessories. It is a stabilizer that allows you to fix the device, level sharp turns and jolts, as well as a memory card, which makes it possible to record large clips.

Varieties of stabilizers for video shooting

There is no stabilizer as such in action cameras. Some models can be equipped software image stabilization function, but it is ineffective when shooting in motion.In such conditions it is necessary to resort to the help of additional devices. According to the principle of stabilization devices are divided into mechanical (they are manual) and electronic stedikama.

Mechanical stabilizers are based on the principle of weights, because they hold the camera in the desired position with an equal weight in the weight. Incarnations electronic stabilizing devices may be different:

• module built into the camera matrix;
• tripod;
• axial steadicam.

Built-in modules and tripods (self-stick) are more used for photographic equipment and smartphones. For GoPro cameras, an electronic stabilizer is of more interest, the control of camera movement by means of a system of sensors and motors. Sensors determine the displacement, and the motors return the camera to the desired position so that the horizon line does not collapse on the video, and the camera turns left-right and up-and-down smooth.

Electronic stabilizers for action cameras are divided into one, two and three axis. To stabilize video from surveillance cameras, they usually use 1-2 axes of steadicum that control oscillatory movements along 1 or 2 axes. The most advanced devices are electronic three-axis stabilizers.In contrast to the 1-2 axial analogs, they make it possible to damp oscillations in three planes, due to which the image quality is significantly better.

Three-axis stabilizers are used for action shots for amateur and professional purposes: weddings, ceremonial and sporting events, shooting from a quadcopter.

Suspension 3-axis GoPro FY-G3 Ultra Gimbal

Mechanical and especially electronic stabilizing devices of factory production are quite expensive pleasure. The price of the first, depending on the model, varies in the range of 2000 -11000 rubles, for electronic analogs the price range is 4500 -30000 rubles and above. Below are the most popular models and their cost.

Popular models of stabilizers

The functionality of the selected device must meet the objectives and conditions of the shooting. The price depends on the design features of the model. It is worth remembering that electronic stadiaks cost customers more than mechanical counterparts.

Golle Mini

The Golle Mini model is distinguished by its versatility, as it is suitable for any camera models weighing up to 0.8 kg. This device mechanical action complete with sets of washers (large, medium and small, 4 in each size),mounts for action camera and smartphone. Provides a simple adjustment of stabilization by means of a force hinge tightening connecting rod German production. Hinge due to the low coefficient of friction provides high-quality stabilization.

The device is made of aluminum and high-quality plastic and equipped with a convenient control knob. The stabilizer is suitable for shooting in long hikes. The price of the model is 2200-2800 rubles.

DEXP EGS-1

Compact electronic stabilizing device DEXP EGS-1 is a 3-axis type, compatible with cameras of many popular brands. The package includes a USB connector and the corresponding cable, two 850 mAh battery. The device is turned on using a mechanical button. It features simple horizon correction algorithms and switch between shooting modes, as well as smooth image stabilization and silent operation. Compact size allows you to use during outdoor recreation, excursion trips.

The device is made of black plastic. The disadvantages can relate insufficient protection of electronics against dust and water penetration. The average cost of the model is about 8,500 rubles.

XSories GMBL3A013 X-Steady Electro

Model 1-axis, different universal mount, suitable for any GoPro camera, digital camera and smartphone. XSories GMBL3A013 X-Steady Electro combines the capabilities of a mechanical and electronic stabilizer, whereby the stabilization effect is achieved even while the operator is walking. The device is controlled by one button.

Among the shortcomings can be noted the limited time of shooting 1.5 hours (the battery is discharged). Also, the model is inconvenient to use for sports shooting.

The device is made in bright design. Its average cost in the market is in the range of 9,500-10,500 rubles.

Feiyu Tech G4-QD

Electronic model, with 3-axis image stabilization, can be used with a large number of cameras GoPro format ¾. Differs in breadth of control of the angle of inclination and rotation (320 °), roll - 100 °. There is a simple and quick mounting of the camera to the site, several control modes, including fixing the camera in place, switching between which is carried out with a button. Equipped with a device two removable batteries, providing 4 hours of work, a connector and a USB cable.

Among the shortcomings can be noted software compatibility only with Windows-computers. Suitable for conducting amateur filming of special events, on excursion trips. A compact device on the market is offered in the range of 10,000–1,200 rubles.

GoPro Karma Grip

This three-axis electronic stabilizer is the official device of GoPro, which can be used in conjunction with an action camera of the brand in ground shooting and as a suspension for a camera on Karma Drone drones for conducting aerial shooting. The device has a built-in battery, which provides energy for the stabilizer and the camera itself. The quality of the image at a professional level. The average cost of a stabilizer on the market is about 25,000 rubles.

Important! The device is compatible with GoPro cameras and drones only.

This review includes popular stabilizer models for shooting with different technical capabilities, targeted use and price - the choice is up to the buyer.

Making a stabilizer for the camera do it yourself

In order not to spend money on an expensive device, you can try to make it yourself. Many craftsmen owners of action cameras this task will be able to do. For the manufacture of the device The following components will be required:

• a piece of PVC - pipe;
• two bearings of suitable diameter to be placed inside the pipe;
• stud, which should be included in the bearings;
• two metal pads, made in advance;
• fasteners (washers and nuts, large nut, U-shaped plate, bolts, "lambs");
• tools for the job (pliers, wrenches).

The order of assembly of the device reflects the following Video instruction.

Cards for Action Camera

The external memory of the video device is one of the important characteristics of the device. From the volume and class of the memory card for an action camera, the quantitative capabilities and speed of reading / reading information depend.

Action cameras cannot work without a memory card, and the ability to expand the external memory of the device by installing additional memory greatly expands its capabilities. Therefore, the owner of the camera is forced to solve the problem: which memory card to choose. The industry produces a wide range of memory cards that differ in standards, volume and classes. Product selection depends on the following factors:

• specific action models - cameras;
• required memory;
• card format;
• class card.

Important! Most of all, in the modern electronics market, Compact Flash card formats of two options have taken root: I and II Secure Digital, subdivided into sizes SD, miniSD, microSD. In the equipment of most action-devices used memory format microSD.

Depending on the belonging to the generation (there are only 4 of them), the cards are marked with the index:

In addition to volume, an important characteristic of the choice of an element is read / write speed. This characteristic is usually denoted by the appropriate class, which can be selected, focusing on the following table.