Hey everyone! I finally upgraded to the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 after using the original for years. The image quality from that 1-inch sensor is honestly incredible, but I'm having a bit of a hard time getting my shutter speed where it needs to be. I usually shoot in 4K/60fps, so I'm trying to hit that 1/120 shutter speed for smooth motion blur, but on sunny days everything just ends up completely overexposed or looks way too choppy because the shutter speed is way too high.
I know I need a good set of ND filters, but there are so many options out there now and I'm a bit overwhelmed. I've been looking at a few specific brands:
One concern I have is the magnetic strength. Since the Pocket 3 is a gimbal, I really don't want a filter flying off while I'm moving around quickly. I've also heard some people mention that certain thicker filters might interfere with the gimbal calibration or cause issues when the device shuts down and rotates the head, which would be a huge pain.
Has anyone here been using a specific set that they really love? I'm looking for something that doesn't mess with the color accuracy too much. Which ND filters would you guys actually recommend for the Pocket 3?
If you want something super reliable without the premium price tag of some other brands, definitely check out the SmallRig DJI Osmo Pocket 3 ND Filter Set ND8 ND16 ND32 ND64. SmallRig is known for precise manufacturing, so they fit perfectly and dont interfere with the gimbal calibration or the flip-back motion. Magnetic strength is solid too, so you wont have to worry about them flying off mid-shot.
Just saw this thread and wanted to chime in from a more technical side. If you are really worried about the gimbal calibration and weight, you should definitely check out the K&F Concept DJI Osmo Pocket 3 ND Filter Set 4-Pack ND8 ND16 ND32 ND64. From a spec perspective, these use Japanese AGC glass with 28 layers of nano-coating, which is crucial for reducing flare and maintaining color neutrality. Ngl, some cheaper filters have a nasty green or magenta tint, but these stay pretty clean across the range. The magnets are solid enough that they wont fly off during fast pans, but the profile is thin enough that the gimbal still closes properly. Another solid alternative if you want flexibility is the Neewer DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Variable ND2-ND32 Filter. VNDs are super convenient for changing light conditions without swapping glass, though you gotta watch for cross-polarization. Personally, I prefer fixed NDs for the best image quality tho.
Quick reply while I have a sec... honestly I feel your pain. Its so frustrating trying to get that 180-degree shutter rule on a bright day without everything looking like hot garbage. I hate how hard it is to get it right. Just be super careful with cheap generic filters tho. If the magnet is weak, itll fly off during a move and youll be down some cash. Plus, heavy glass is gonna stress those gimbal motors.
Congrats on the upgrade! That 1-inch sensor is a total game changer compared to the original, right? I went through the same dilemma when I first got mine. Tbh, I think the Freewell All Day 6-Pack ND Filters for DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the way to go if you want the best bang for your buck. I've been using them for a few months now and the magnetic attachment is super solid... I havent had any issues with them flying off even when doing some fast movements. Plus, they're thin enough that the gimbal still closes properly when it shuts down and rotates to its parked position. I did look at the PolarPro Vivid Collection ND/PL Filters for DJI Osmo Pocket 3 but honestly they're a bit pricier and the color shift on the Freewell set is basically non-existent anyway. Since you're shooting 4K/60, you'll probably live on the ND32 or ND64 on sunny days. Hope that helps!