Ever struggled to make your footage feel real and alive? Most gimbal modes keep the camera locked or stiff, leaving shots that look flat or robotic. That’s where  FPV mode changes the game.

If you’ve ever asked what is FPV mode in gimbal?, you’re in the right place. FPV mode is a gimbal setting that unlocks pan, tilt, and roll, letting your camera follow your every move.

Here’s what you’ll learn —

Key Idea

Different Types of Modes in a Gimbal

Usually, a 3-axis gimbal works by using pan, tilt, and roll axes. To shoot different scenes, the gimbal offers multiple modes where you can lock or unlock certain axes as needed.

So, before I explain FPV, I believe you should also know about other gimbal modes.

Point of View (POV) Mode 

In POV Mode, the camera moves like it’s part of you. It tracks your hand’s motion along all three axes: pan, tilt, and roll. It gives your footage a natural, first-person flow. 

When using this mode, the gimbal instantly follows every move you make, whether you turn, twist, sweep, or dip. That’s why POV mode is perfect for making your audience feel like they’re part of the action.

Ideal for: Shooting in a tight space, fast walks, street scenes, or dance battles.

Pan Follow (PF) Mode

Pan Follow (PF) Mode is a camera stabilization setting where the gimbal smoothly tracks your left and right hand movements. However, it locks the tilt and roll, so the camera stays level while panning smoothly. 

You can pivot freely, and the camera glides with you, calm, steady, and professional without overcomplicating the shot.

Ideal for: Walking beside someone, revealing a wide landscape, or following motion in a straight line. 

Pan and Tilt Follow (PTF) Mode

In this mode, the gimbal mirrors your hand’s motion, panning side to side and tilting up or down, while the roll axis stays steady. It’s built for movement. 

This mode gives you control over both the horizontal and vertical planes. 

Ideal for: Filming subjects in motion like walking, running, climbing or when you need to shift perspective mid-shot.

Lock Mode

Lock mode setting holds everything steady by fixing all three axes. That way, the camera keeps looking in the same direction unless you manually shift it. Thus, you get a frame that doesn’t flinch.

If you need control, this mode is for you. Whether you’re moving through space or holding position, the phone stays locked on its path. Lock Mode is your quiet anchor if you’re capturing structures, long walks, or anything that demands calm precision.

Ideal for: Capturing long walks, keeping your subject centered, shooting long-distance motion, or creating hyperlapse footage that doesn’t wobble.

What is FPV Mode in Gimbal?

FPV mode is a first-person setting on gimbals that mirrors your movements by letting the phone rotate in pan, tilt, and roll axes. It lets your camera follow every twist, dip, and roll of your hand.

With FPV, it’s as if your camera moves exactly how you see. Instead of sticking to fixed shots, it lets you capture spins, curves, and swoops with total immersion.

I find the first-person view mode best for fast motion, experimental angles, or anything that feels wild and alive. So, if you want your video to feel human, unscripted, and real, FPV is the way to go.

Benefits of Using FPV Mode in Gimbal

Once you try FPV mode, it’s hard to go back. Trust me on this!

It brings your footage to life and makes filming feel fun again. Now, following are the advantages I’ve enjoyed using FPV.

Immersive Movement

When you switch to FPV mode, it’ll feel like your camera finally understands how you move. By unlocking pan, tilt, and roll, FPV mode lets the camera glide, dip, and twist just like your own head would in real life.

This mode captures that feeling, like when you’re on a roller coaster or running through a crowded street. It drops your viewer right into the action, as if they’re seeing the scene through your eyes.

And honestly, that’s what it’s all about!

Creative Flexibility

Here’s where things get fun. Remember, the roll axis is unlocked in FPV mode. So, you can try out angles that usually take a lot more effort like Dutch tilts or even full 360-degree spins.

You’ve probably seen those rotating shots typically known as the “Inception-style”. Well, that’s also possible because of the FPV mode as it gives you the freedom to move in ways other modes just can’t. 

And if you’re using something like the DJI Osmo Pocket 3’s FPV mode, it gets even easier. The camera lines up perfectly for overhead or tight close-up shots. So, you face fewer awkward tweaks and better flow while you film.

Sharp Footage in Motion

If you’ve ever tried filming fast-moving action like someone sprinting, a car zipping past, or flying a drone, you know it’s tough to keep the footage steady. That’s exactly when FPV mode makes a difference. 

I’ve found it’s the easiest way to keep my shots smooth and in focus when things get fast. FPV mode responds instantly to your movements. It doesn’t lag or lose track. 

Plus, the gimbal’s tilt and roll move with you, especially on drones like the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. This is what gives you those wide, turning shots that look like they’re straight out of an FPV race.

And if you’re using head-tracking gear, that’s even better. The camera follows your direction just like your own eyes would. You get footage that’s full of energy but still looks clean and controlled.

Less Post-Production Work

I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend more time shooting than fixing footage later. That’s one of the reasons I rely on FPV mode. 

It gives you stabilized, dynamic footage straight out of the camera, so you don’t have to clean up messes in editing. Instead of fighting with software to fix horizon tilt or add artificial smoothing, FPV mode handles it as you shoot. 

If you’re someone who values speed and a clean workflow, this matters. 

Improved Ergonomics

Traditional gimbal modes can feel stiff or limited, but FPV reacts smoothly. Take Follow or Lock mode, for example, limit the camera’s movement. They split motion into fixed actions, like keeping the horizon level or locking a direction.

And this often results in robotic-looking footage.

For example, Autel’s head-tracking lets the camera follow your movement up and down in real-time. It’s quick and accurate, with no noticeable delay. If you’ve ever felt held back by slow or clunky controls, this is the opposite. 

FPV removes that barrier and gives you a clearer path to your shot.

How to Use FPV Mode Effectively

Whether you’re filming wild bike trails or high-energy chases, FPV mode can make your shots feel real. So, here is how you can use the gimbal in FPV mode —

1. Use Steady Movements

Fast and jerky moves tend to ruin a good shot. So, I take it slow and you should too. 

When you’re using FPV mode, it’s best to pan or tilt gradually. Think smooth, not stiff. Also, use your two hands. Holding your gimbal with both hands gives you more control, especially when you’re moving. 

In my case, I tuck my elbows close to my body. It helps keep things stable without much effort.

2. Move Alongside Your Subject

If you’re filming someone who’s moving, say, a jogger or skateboarder, don’t just stand still. Walk alongside them.

This makes your video feel alive and gives the audience a front-row seat to the action. Just try to match your pace with theirs. That way, you avoid bumpy footage and your subject stays nicely framed.

3. Add Drama with Side Tilts

FPV mode lets you tilt your gimbal sideways. Well, it’s called using the roll axis.

When you’re turning or following fast action, a slight tilt makes the shot feel like you’re right there in the moment. It adds that “leaning into the turn” effect you see in drone or racing footage. 

However, try to use it in moderation, though. Too much tilt can leave viewers feeling dizzy.

4. Use Motion for Transitions

When you do a transition between scenes, quickly tilt or pan your gimbal right before the switch. Always avoid sudden cuts! It’ll create a smooth and natural flow.

You can do a spin, a drop, or a quick sideways tilt. Later in editing, you can match that movement to the next scene. It’s a simple way to keep the flow going and avoid that jarring jump between shots.

5. Test in Easy Conditions First

If you’re just starting with FPV mode, don’t dive straight into a windy beach or a chaotic event. Wind and speed can make things tough.

Instead, practice in a calm area first, like an empty park or open room. That way, you can get a feel for how your gimbal responds without too many variables. Once you’re comfortable, take on more intense scenes.

Final Words

So, what is FPV mode in gimbal? It’s the setting that lets the camera move with you naturally, so you don’t have to worry about rigid angles or awkward shots. I’ve found it makes shooting faster, smoother, and way more fun. 

You get immersive motion, creative freedom, and less time fixing things in post. If you want your videos to feel real, FPV mode is the way forward. Try it out in simple scenes first, then push the limits. 

I believe once you get the hang of it, you won’t want to shoot any other way.