I believe your iPhone videos are missing that professional, cinematic touch. That’s why you probably got a gimbal, yet your video still lacks that professional vibe. Well, that’s why you need to know how to use a gimbal for iPhone. 

You can use a gimbal with your iPhone by removing the case and securing it tightly in the holder near the tilt axis motor. Also, you need to balance it using the roll axis adjustment. Power it on, connect to the gimbal’s app for extra features, and lock your camera settings for steady shots.

No worries; I’ll explain each step thoroughly so that you can easily follow till the end. Moreover, you’ll learn a few essential techniques to master movement and lighting. And how you can choose the perfect gimbal for your needs.

How to Use a Gimbal with iPhone Like a Filmmaking Expert

Using a gimbal with your iPhone is a game-changer for capturing smooth, professional-looking videos. Based on my experience, here’s how to use gimbal for iPhone.

Step 1: Prepare Your iPhone

First things first, remove your iPhone’s protective case. It’s important because a snug fit is vital to avoid any wobbling during filming. Once that’s done, place your iPhone into the gimbal holder. 

Make sure it’s aligned close to the tilt axis motor; it helps the gimbal do its job effectively.

Step 2: Balance the Gimbal

Balancing might seem tricky at first. In that case, start by loosening the roll axis thumb screw, then slide the horizontal arm until your iPhone stays level on its own. 

Here’s a quick test I always do. I turn off the gimbal and check if the phone stays steady. If it tilts in any direction, make small adjustments until it’s perfectly balanced. 

Step 3: Power Up and Connect

Now that your iPhone is balanced, turn on the gimbal. In most cases, it stabilizes your phone automatically. To unlock extra features like panoramic shots or time-lapses, open the gimbal’s companion app on my phone. 

For example, if you’re using a DJI gimbal, the DJI Mimo app is fantastic for fine-tuning controls and exploring creative options.

Step 4: Adjust Your Camera Settings

When you’re shooting, start by selecting the right mode for your goal. 

Here, depending on the look, you can use the 1X zoom for a natural frame or switch to 0.5X zoom for a wide, dramatic feel. 

To keep the lighting consistent, tap and hold on the brightest area in the frame. It locks the exposure and prevents those annoying shifts in brightness during the shot. It’s a small step, but it makes a huge difference.

Step 5: Work With the Light

Lighting can make or break your shot. That’s why you should try to film just after sunrise or before sunset. It’s called the golden hour because this is the time when the light is soft and adds a warm, cinematic tone. 

Sometimes, I shift my position slightly to let shadows create depth or highlight specific details in the frame. 

Step 6: Maintain Stability While Walking

When filming on the move, smoothness is everything. I always use what’s often called the “gimbal walk” technique. It’s simple!

Just bend your knees slightly, take slow, controlled steps, and move as if you’re gliding rather than walking. By keeping your upper body steady, you can minimize any unnecessary movement that might transfer to the gimbal. 

Well, it takes some practice, but once you get the hang of it, your shots will look effortless.

Step 7: Turn Off Before Unmounting

Here’s a golden rule: always turn off the gimbal before taking your iPhone out. Then, gently release your iPhone from the holder, and then store the gimbal properly. 

Trust me, skipping this step can lead to erratic motor movements that could damage both the gimbal and your phone. 

How to Get Perfect Shots Using a Gimbal for iPhone

Here are a few of my favorite moves you can follow after you learn how to use gimbal with iPhone —

How to Pick the Right Gimbal for Your iPhone

I’ve spent quite a bit of time experimenting with different gimbals for my iPhone. To be honest, the right one depends on what you plan to shoot and how you like to film. 

So, here’s what you should consider when choosing a gimbal.

1. Choose Between 2-Axis and 3-Axis Stabilization

Look, you should know how does a gimbal work. See, if you’re just looking to smooth out basic tilt and roll movements, a 2-axis gimbal might be all you need. It’s a simple, affordable option for everyday filming.

But if you want the ultimate smoothness where tilt, roll, and pan are all stabilized, a 3-axis gimbal is the way to go. 

2. Think About Weight and Portability

Trust me, carrying a bulky gimbal around all day can get tiring. If you love filming on hikes or vacations, go for something light and compact. The Insta360 Flow Pro, for example, is easy to pack and carry while still giving you great performance.

On the other hand, if you plan to add heavier accessories like external lenses or mics, you’ll need a gimbal with a higher weight capacity. The Hohem iSteady MT2 is a solid choice for handling those kinds of setups without breaking a sweat.

3. Pay Attention to Build Quality

Durability matters, especially if you’re filming outdoors or in challenging conditions. Models made with aluminum, like the Hohem iSteady MT2, feel sturdy and reliable, even after heavy use.

For lighter, occasional filming, a plastic option like the Beginner 3-Axis Gimbal might be enough. It’s not as tough but does the job if you don’t need anything too rugged.

4. Stick to Your Budget

Gimbals can range from affordable to pricey. If you’re just starting out, there are plenty of great budget options like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6. It combines great stability with advanced features, making it ideal for more serious projects.

Final Words

I hope it was easy for you to learn how to use a gimbal for iPhone so far. Just take your time to set up and balance your gimbal correctly. In addition, apply simple techniques like “gimbal walking” and filming during the golden hour to add a professional touch to your footage.

Remember, choosing the right gimbal is key—whether you need something portable for travel or sturdy for advanced setups. With a little practice and experimentation, your iPhone can create cinematic videos that truly stand out.

FAQs

Can I use iPhone gimbal with a GoPro or DSLR or Action Camera?

You can use an iPhone gimbal with a GoPro or action camera by adding a compatible adapter plate for a secure fit. However, DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are too heavy for smartphone gimbals and require specialized gimbals designed for larger cameras.

Can I use a gimbal with my iPhone case on?

Yes, you can use a gimbal with your iPhone case on. However, it depends on the gimbal model and the case design. Bulky cases may interfere with the clamp or buttons, while thinner cases or those leaving buttons exposed work better. 

How do I avoid damaging my iPhone when using a gimbal?

To protect your iPhone when using a gimbal, balance it before powering on, remove the case for a secure fit, and turn off the gimbal before unmounting. Avoid extreme temperatures, limit high vibrations, and ensure accessories don’t exceed the gimbal’s weight limit.