Setting up the Hohem iSteady V3 is straightforward. The gimbal’s built-in tripod features thin metal rods that pull out from the base, creating a stable platform on any level surface. This ensures the gimbal remains level for balancing and makes it easier to set up and start using quickly.
Once the tripod is set up, the main gimbal arm can be unfolded, making it ready to mount your mobile phone. Before mounting the phone, it’s worth mentioning the detachable light and AI camera module that attaches to the side of the smartphone clamp. This module, included in the box, simply clicks into position and can be positioned to face either forward or back. This means that you can adapt the AI for different situations, say if you’re taking a selfie or filming someone else.
Starting up the gimbal involves pairing it with your mobile phone via the Hohem Joy app. The App is intuitive, and once the gimbal is powered on and the App is loaded, the pairing process starts automatically and completes within seconds. After pairing, hitting the camera button in the App’s interface gets you ready to start filming. This really is one of the simplest Apps and hardware combos.
![Hohem iSteady V3](https://camerajabber.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hohem-isteady-V3-05.jpg)
Looking at the base functions of the iSteady V3, like all other gimbals, it offers several modes that allow you to adjust how the gimbal responds to movements. In PF Mode (Pan Follow), the roll axis is locked, allowing the gimbal to pan left and right following your movements. In PTF Mode (Pan and Tilt Follow), the roll axis is locked, but the gimbal allows the phone to pan left, right, and tilt up and down, following the operator’s movements. This is the most commonly used mode for versatile shooting. POV Mode (Point of View) activates all three axes, allowing the gimbal to follow the operator’s movements and providing a dynamic, drone-like look. Finally, L Mode (All Locked Mode) locks all axes, keeping the phone stationary regardless of the gimbal’s movements, ideal for achieving the most professional and smooth footage.
The control pad on the gimbal handle features control buttons and a joystick for manual movement and adjustment. What’s interesting is that the control pad is detachable and can be used as a separate remote control, enabling you to control the gimbal from a distance. This feature is particularly useful for filming workshops or online tutorials where you need to adjust the gimbal without physically touching it.
The AI camera and fill light module are what really separate the use of this gimbal from its competitors and enhance the gimbal’s performance. Starting with the fill light, which is easily activated and adjusted for brightness and colour temperature using the dial on the side of the grip. Through this, you can quickly click to warm or cool the illumination and then rotate the dial to increase or decrease the brightness of the light. As the light is side-mounted, you can see a light and shadow effect on your face that helps add a little more depth than the look that would be achieved by direct light.
The AI camera offers advanced tracking capabilities, allowing for human and animal tracking, making it perfect for all sorts of situations. This AI camera really is the standout feature of the iSteady V3. Simple hand gestures can be used to activate the AI camera, start and stop recording, and adjust the composition through the App or without. Unlike competitors, this built-in AI camera can be used with the App control or independently, so if you want to use your video app but with the gimbal’s advanced tracking and gesture control, then you can. However, starting and stopping recording would need to be done manually.
The gimbal also includes various pre-programmed video modes and AI enhancements for quickly creating professional-looking videos. These features allow you to add music, effects, and filters to your videos, enhancing the overall quality and appeal. The performance of the Hohem iSteady V3 is truly impressive. It offers a range of advanced features and ease of use that make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to achieve professional-level video stabilisation with their smartphone.