DJI has introduced two new handheld camera stabilisers: The Ronin-S has been built for DSLR and mirrorless camera systems, while the Osmo Mobile 2 is targeting smartphone users.
The Ronin-S is DJI’s first single-handed stabiliser for DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It joins the offerings of Ikan, Filmpower, ZhiYun and others. The Ronin-S is available in two frame sizes for either camera type, has three-axis gimbal technology and a framework that elevates camera payload above the roll axis. This avoids the obstruction of the camera's built-in display, keeping it always in your line of sight. The design also frees the Ronin-S from unwanted shake as you shift from underslung to an upright position.
The Ronin-S was designed for easy setup and use. For example, there’s a push mode to adjust the pan and tilt axis by hand while the Ronin-S is powered on and axis locks speed up the setup process. SmoothTrack technology allows you to transition smoothly from motion to camera angle. Dedicated control buttons for the camera and gimbal let you toggle between the two customisable SmoothTrack parameter groups. A new Sport mode allows for fast movements with tight and quick subject following speed.
The DJI Ronin mobile app lets you create complex camera moves automatically like Panorama, Hyperlapse, Track and CamAnchor that lets you designate specific camera positions in a scene and rotate between them on demand.
The Ronin-S can be easily mounted to an RC buggy for low angle shots or act as a stabilised remote head when mounted to a jib. Furthermore, the Ronin-S is compatible with a variety of DJI Pro Accessories. These include a Focus Control Center consisting of a focusing dial and a screen allowing advanced gimbal and focus control without a mobile device, a vehicle mount solution, DJI Master Force, DJI Master Wheels, an external focus motor, and a cheese plate adapter so you can use third-party accessories. A dual-handle support will also be available.
Ronin-S will be available in the second quarter of 2018. Pricing will be announced prior to availability.
The Osmo Mobile 2 is meant to provide smartphone users with the ability to create smooth movement. It’s the second generation of DJI’s handheld smartphone camera three-axis stabiliser that now supports portrait orientation, has simpler controls with cinematic zoom, a longer battery life for more filming, and intelligent features. Portrait orientation is how most smartphone users shoot video and the Osmo Mobile 2 gives in to that bad habit, although my guess is that if you’re buying an Osmo Mobile 2 you’re going to want to shoot like the big guys do. More useful from a filmmaking perspective is the 1/4” universal screw mount.
The Osmo Mobile 2 also comes with SmoothTrack technology.
Simpler controls let you use your phone’s camera like a professional camera with integrated settings for ISO, shutter speed and more. A new zoom slider lets you completely operate your smartphone camera from the handle.
Smart software in the DJI GO mobile app unlocks intelligent photo and video features that help you create professional-looking content automatically.
The Osmo Mobile 2 retails for $129 and will be available exclusively for pre-order at Apple.com on January 23 with a wider roll-out following.