Which gimbal works best with the Sony a7S III for video?

Question

I just picked up an a7S III for a wedding I am shooting next month and I really need a gimbal that wont break my back or my bank account lol. I have got maybe $600 max to spend right now. I was looking at the DJI RS3 because everyone says the auto locks are a total lifesaver but then I saw some reviews saying the Zhiyun Crane 4 is actually better for heavier glass like my 24-70mm GM lens. Im really confused about the payload stuff because I dont want the motors to jitter mid-ceremony if I add a monitor or a mic later on. Is the RS3 actually enough for that setup or do I need something beefier?

Mila Ross · Accepted Answer

Wait, just saw this and had to jump in because I love this setup! Tbh I was in your exact shoes last season trying to balance motor reliability with a strict budget. I ended up grabbing the DJI RS 3 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for my a7S III and it has been absolutely fantastic for weddings! You really have to prioritize motor safety tho when you're running that heavy 24-70mm glass. Here is what I learned from my experience:

Balancing is everything; if it is slightly off, the motors will vibrate and fail mid-shoot.

Use the DJI RS Briefcase Handle to save your back during those 10-hour days.

Always mount accessories like a Atomos Ninja V 5-inch Monitor to the gimbal arms, never the camera itself. It is totally doable under $600! Just dont overload the camera hot shoe. Keeping the weight centered on the motors is the only way to ensure it doesnt jitter during the ceremony. Truly a game changer if you set it up right!

CinderCinnamon · Answer

Been crunching the numbers on your setup and honestly, you gotta be careful with the standard RS3. The a7S III combined with that Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM is a beastly combo. Even though it has a 3kg rating, the physical length of that glass creates leverage that really strains the tilt motor. I would suggest checking out the Zhiyun Weebill 3S Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer as a solid alternative. Its usually priced around $350-$450 and the motor torque is surprisingly punchy for heavy zooms. Make sure to account for the center of gravity shifting when you zoom. If you plan on adding a Feelworld F6 Plus 5.5 Inch Monitor later, the base RS3 might struggle. You might want to consider looking for a used DJI RS 3 Pro 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for the extra arm clearance. Better to have overkill than jittery footage during the vows... let me know if you need more help with the balancing steps.

maximilian_keller · Answer

Payload ratings are basically peak theoretical numbers, so be careful.what is your exact rig weight?using a heavy cage? I'd suggest checking those motor torque curves for that glass.