Knowledge about a 3-axis gimbal

What is a 3 axis gimbal or stabilizer?

• A 3-axis gimbal (or stabilizer) is a handheld or mounted device with three motors (pan,roll,tilt) that work together to reduce unwanted movements.

  It helps keep your camera or smartphone steady while you move, allowing you to capture smooth, shake-free videos even when walking or running. Simply put, it acts like a “smart anti-shake handle” that helps you get professional-looking stable footage without needing a tripod.

  

What are the main benefits of using a 3 axis gimbal?

• Smooth footage – Whether you're walking, running, or panning, it minimizes shakes and helps you create cinematic-looking videos.

  More creative options – You can easily capture tracking shots, orbits, low angles, and complex camera moves with one hand—shots that usually need professional gear.

  Saves time and effort – It cuts down on the need for heavy post-production stabilization, increases your usable shots, and is lightweight and portable for quick use.

  

What do the four working modes mean?

• 1. Pan Follow Mode (PF)

  How it works: The pan (yaw) axis follows the handle’s rotation, while the tilt and roll axes stay fixed. The camera stays level horizontally and doesn’t tilt up or down with the handle.

  Best for: Landscape shots, side-by-side subject tracking, and walking shots with a wide view. Great for beginners since the footage stays stable and level.

  2. Follow Mode (F)

  How it works: Both pan and tilt axes follow the handle’s movement; the roll axis stays locked to keep the horizon level. The camera moves up/down and left/right while keeping a straight horizon.

  Best for: Everyday vlogging, following subjects while walking, and getting flexible framing with a natural, level look.

  3. Lock Mode (L)

  How it works: All three axes are fixed(not physically locked). The camera keeps a fixed direction no matter how the handle moves.

  Best for: Long shots with a steady-camera feel, mounting on bikes or vehicles when you want a consistent viewpoint, or shots needing a drone-like steady angle.

  4. POV / FPV Mode (Full Follow)

  How it works: All three axes follow the handle’s movements. The camera can tilt, pan, and roll freely, creating dynamic first-person-view effects.

  Best for: Action shots, quick transitions, creative angles, simulating a first-person view (like an FPV drone), or making immersive footage with dramatic tilts and rolls.
   

  Here’s a demonstration video from Hohem gimbal for reference: V3 showing working modes