So, you’ve got your hands on a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera (BMPCC) – congratulations! You’re already on your way to capturing stunning, cinematic footage. But let’s be real, even the most beautiful shots can be ruined by shaky hands. That’s where a top-notch gimbal comes in. It’s not just about getting smooth video; it’s about unlocking the full potential of your BMPCC, allowing for dynamic moves and professional-looking results.
Choosing the best gimbal for BMPCC isn’t always straightforward. These cameras, especially the 4K and 6K models, can be a bit heavier and often require specific balancing needs or extra accessories. We’ve rounded up a selection of 7 crucial gear pieces, including the leading gimbals and essential accessories, to help you achieve buttery-smooth footage and enhance your filmmaking workflow. Let’s dive in!
1. DJI RS 3 Pro
The DJI RS 3 Pro isn’t just a gimbal; it’s a professional-grade stabilization system designed for serious filmmakers. It’s built to handle a variety of camera setups, including your BMPCC, offering exceptional stability and intelligent features that make shooting a breeze. What really sets it apart is its ability to automatically lock and unlock axes, speeding up your setup and teardown process significantly. This model offers robust performance for those looking for a reliable, high-end solution for their Blackmagic camera.
- Key Features:
- Automated Axis Locks for quick setup and storage.
- Extended Carbon Fiber Axis Arms providing more leveling space for professional cameras.
- 4.5 kg (10lbs) Tested Payload, supporting heavy setups like the BMPCC 6K Pro with lenses.
- Dynamic & Versatile Solution with extensive ports for accessories and integration with various mounts.
- Pros:
- Excellent stabilization for heavy cameras.
- Automated locks save time and effort.
- High payload capacity.
- Versatile for different shooting scenarios.
- Cons:
- Higher price point compared to entry-level gimbals.
- Can be bulky for smaller setups.
- User Impressions: Users rave about the RS 3 Pro’s rock-solid stability and intuitive controls. Many appreciate the auto-locking feature, calling it a game-changer for quick transitions on set. It’s often praised for its ability to handle heavier cinema cameras with ease, making it a favorite for professionals.
- See it on Amazon here
2. NICEYRIG Counterweight 50g
Sometimes, even the best gimbal needs a little help, especially when you’re working with a BMPCC and a heavier lens. This NICEYRIG Counterweight is a small but mighty accessory that can make all the difference in achieving perfect balance. Designed to work with popular gimbals like DJI Ronin and Zhiyun Weebill/Crane series, it’s essential for preventing axis strain and ensuring your camera rig stays perfectly level, leading to smoother, more consistent shots.
- Key Features:
- Includes one 50g counterweight for balancing heavy-sided cameras like BMPCC 4K/6K.
- Threaded with 1/4”-20 for adding multiple weights if needed (total 150g).
- Compatible with various DJI Ronin and Zhiyun gimbals.
- Made from durable, corrosion-resistant stainless steel.
- Pros:
- Crucial for achieving optimal balance with heavier lenses/accessories.
- Easy to install by hand.
- Durable construction.
- Affordable and effective solution.
- Cons:
- Requires a compatible clamp (sold separately) for some gimbals.
- May need multiple units for extremely front-heavy setups.
- User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight how these counterweights are indispensable for balancing their BMPCCs, especially with vintage or cine lenses. They appreciate the simple, effective design and the significant improvement in gimbal performance. A true lifesaver for tricky setups!
- See it on Amazon here
3. ZHIYUN Weebill 2, 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
The ZHIYUN Weebill 2 takes a fresh approach to gimbal design, offering a unique effort-saving sling grip that’s incredibly comfortable for low-angle shots. Beyond its ergonomic design, it boasts a powerful Infineon chip for super-smooth stabilization and a handy 2.88″ full-color flip-out touch screen. This makes adjusting settings on the fly a breeze, allowing you to focus more on getting the perfect shot with your BMPCC. It’s a fantastic option for creators who value both performance and user-friendly features.
- Key Features:
- New Infineon Chip for dynamic stabilization and quicker response.
- Effort-saving Sling Grip design for comfortable low-angle shooting.
- 2.88″ Full-Color Flip-out Touch Screen for easy parameter adjustments.
- Focus Control Wheel customizable for various camera functions.
- Wider Compatibility, including BMPCC 6K, making it a versatile choice.
- Pros:
- Excellent stabilization performance.
- Ergonomic sling grip reduces fatigue.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface.
- Broad camera compatibility.
- Cons:
- Payload capacity is slightly less than some professional models.
- Touchscreen can be small for some users.
- User Impressions: Users love the Weebill 2’s compact size combined with its powerful performance. The flip-out screen is a standout feature, praised for making adjustments quick and easy. Many filmmakers find the sling grip revolutionary for comfortable all-day shooting, especially with cameras like the BMPCC.
- See it on Amazon here
4. DJI RS 3 Pro Combo, 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
If the standard DJI RS 3 Pro caught your eye, the DJI RS 3 Pro Combo takes things up a notch by including essential accessories that truly complete your professional filmmaking kit. While sharing the same stellar performance and features as the base RS 3 Pro – like the impressive 4.5 kg payload and automatic axis locks – the combo pack adds critical tools like the Ronin Image Transmitter and Focus Motor (2022). This comprehensive package ensures you’re ready for any shoot, providing enhanced control and monitoring capabilities right out of the box, making it an excellent choice for a complete BMPCC gimbal setup.
- Key Features:
- Automated Axis Locks for quick transitions.
- Extended Carbon Fiber Axis Arms for larger camera setups.
- 4.5 kg (10lbs) Tested Payload for professional cinema cameras.
- Long-Range O3 Pro Video Transmission for real-time monitoring and control.
- Includes Ronin Image Transmitter, Focus Motor (2022), Lower Quick-Release Plate (Extended), and other accessories.
- Pros:
- Exceptional stabilization and payload.
- All-in-one professional package.
- Wireless video transmission for collaborative work.
- Focus motor adds precision control.
- Cons:
- Highest price point among the options.
- More components to manage and transport.
- User Impressions: Filmmakers who opt for the combo often express how it streamlines their workflow significantly. The included accessories, especially the image transmitter and focus motor, are frequently cited as game-changers, enabling more complex shots and better team coordination on set. It’s seen as a worthwhile investment for serious productions.
- See it on Amazon here
5. ZHIYUN Crane 4 Combo, 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
The ZHIYUN Crane 4 Combo is built to handle the big guns, making it a perfect match for full-frame DSLRs and compact cinema cameras like the BMPCC. What makes this gimbal truly stand out is its enhanced compatibility, thanks to longer arms and stronger motors, coupled with an innovative quick-release module that allows seamless switching between horizontal and vertical shooting modes. Plus, it comes with an integrated 10W fill light and an adjustable sling grip, offering unparalleled versatility and ease of use for demanding shoots.
- Key Features:
- Enhanced Compatibility with longer arms and stronger motors for heavier setups.
- Seamless Shooting Modes with quick-release module for horizontal/vertical switching.
- Versatile Sling Grip for reduced fatigue and precise control.
- Built-in 10W Fill Light (3200 Lux, CRI 95+, 2700K-5500K CCT) for instant lighting.
- Bluetooth Control and 1.22″ Color Touchscreen for easy adjustments.
- Pros:
- High payload capacity suitable for BMPCC and pro lenses.
- Quick switching between landscape and portrait.
- Integrated fill light is a handy bonus.
- Comfortable and customizable sling grip.
- Cons:
- Can be quite large and heavy with a full setup.
- The combo package adds to the overall cost.
- User Impressions: Users are highly impressed by the Crane 4’s robust build and its ability to effortlessly stabilize heavier cameras. The built-in fill light is a pleasant surprise for many, proving useful in run-and-gun situations. The comfortable sling grip and intuitive controls also receive high praise, making it a solid contender for the best gimbal for BMPCC users.
- See it on Amazon here
6. SMALLRIG Coiled HDMI Cable 2.0 (A to A), 4K@60Hz 18Gbps
You’ve got your amazing BMPCC, a superb gimbal, and maybe even an external monitor – but don’t forget the small stuff! This SMALLRIG Coiled HDMI Cable is an unsung hero in many gimbal setups. Its coiled design is a game-changer, preventing tangles and snags while still allowing enough slack for full camera movement on the gimbal. Crucially, it supports 4K@60Hz, ensuring your high-resolution BMPCC footage makes it to your monitor without compromise, and it’s specifically designed for use with camera rigs, making it perfect for your setup.
- Key Features:
- Durable Coiled Design (stretches to 47 inches) for cable management.
- 4K@60Hz Ultra HD Support (HDMI 2.0, 18Gbps bandwidth).
- Wide Compatibility with devices like BMPCC 4K/6K, monitors, and transmitters.
- Stable Connection for pure signal transmission and EMI/RFI protection.
- Designed for gimbal, camera stabilizer, monitor, and wireless video transmitter setups.
- Pros:
- Coiled design prevents cable clutter and snags.
- Supports high-resolution video for professional workflows.
- Robust and reliable connection.
- Ideal length for gimbal use.
- Cons:
- Can be a bit stiff initially due to the coiled nature.
- Might be too short for setups where the monitor is far from the camera.
- User Impressions: Filmmakers universally appreciate the coiled design, noting how it drastically cleans up their camera rigs and prevents accidental disconnections. Its reliability in transmitting high-quality video from cameras like the BMPCC to external monitors or transmitters is a consistent highlight. It’s often considered an essential accessory for any professional rig.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Portkeys LH5P II 5.5″ 4K HD HDMI Camera Monitor
A high-quality external monitor is almost as important as the gimbal itself when working with a BMPCC. The Portkeys LH5P II is a compact yet powerful 5.5″ 4K HD HDMI camera monitor that brings your image into sharp focus, even in bright daylight, thanks to its 2000 nits brightness. What makes it particularly special for BMPCC users is its built-in wireless module for camera control, allowing you to wirelessly control essential functions of your BMPCC 4K/6K/6K Pro directly from the monitor – a massive convenience when your camera is on a gimbal!
- Key Features:
- 5.5” High Brightness (2000 nits) for daylight viewing.
- 3D LUT Monitoring support for accurate color grading previews.
- Strong Functions including Anamorphic, Zebra, Waveform, False Color, and more.
- New Touch Screen Focus UI for easy zooming and settings.
- Built-in Wireless Module & Wireless and Wired Control for BMPCC 4K/6K/6K Pro.
- All Aluminum Alloy Body for durability.
- Pros:
- Extremely bright screen for outdoor use.
- Wireless camera control for BMPCC models.
- Comprehensive monitoring tools.
- Durable all-metal construction.
- Cons:
- Smaller screen size compared to some other external monitors.
- Wireless control specific to certain camera models.
- User Impressions: Users are blown away by the LH5P II’s brightness and its comprehensive feature set. The wireless control for BMPCC cameras is a significant draw, often cited as a workflow enhancer, especially when the camera is mounted on a gimbal. Its robust build quality also gets high marks, making it a reliable companion for demanding shoots.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need a gimbal for my BMPCC?
A1: A gimbal provides smooth, stable footage by counteracting unwanted camera movements. This is crucial for achieving professional, cinematic shots, especially when doing complex moves like tracking shots, dollies, or even simple walking shots with your BMPCC.
Q2: What payload capacity should I look for in a gimbal for BMPCC?
A2: The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K weighs about 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg), and the 6K/6K Pro models are heavier, around 2-3 lbs (0.9-1.3 kg) without a lens. With a heavier cinema lens, batteries, or a monitor, your total setup can easily reach 5-10 lbs (2.2-4.5 kg). Look for gimbals with a payload capacity of at least 8-10 lbs (3.6-4.5 kg) to be safe and allow for future upgrades.
Q3: Is balancing a BMPCC on a gimbal difficult?
A3: Balancing a BMPCC can be a bit trickier than smaller mirrorless cameras due to its body shape and weight distribution. It often requires careful adjustment and, in many cases, additional counterweights, especially if you’re using heavy or long lenses. However, once you get the hang of it, it becomes much easier.
Q4: Do I need extra accessories for my BMPCC on a gimbal?
A4: Yes, often. Besides the gimbal itself, you’ll likely need counterweights (as seen with the Niceyrig product) for proper balance. An external monitor (like the Portkeys LH5P II) is highly recommended for better viewing, and a coiled HDMI cable (like the SmallRig one) is essential for connecting it without snagging. Wireless video transmitters and follow focus systems are also popular additions for more advanced setups.
Q5: Can I control my BMPCC from the gimbal or an external monitor?
A5: Many modern gimbals and external monitors offer camera control capabilities. For instance, the DJI RS 3 Pro and ZHIYUN Crane 4 allow some control via their interfaces, and the Portkeys LH5P II monitor specifically offers wireless control for BMPCC models, which is incredibly convenient for a gimbal setup.
Q6: What’s the difference between a gimbal stabilizer and a Steadicam?
A6: Gimbals use motorized axes and intelligent algorithms to electronically stabilize your camera, offering very smooth motion even during complex movements. Steadicams are mechanical devices that use weights and counterweights to achieve balance, requiring more physical skill and practice to operate smoothly. Gimbals are generally easier for beginners to pick up and provide excellent electronic stabilization.
Q7: How important is video transmission for a gimbal setup?
A7: Very important, especially for professional shoots or when working with a crew. Video transmission systems (like the one included with the DJI RS 3 Pro Combo) allow you to send your camera’s feed wirelessly to an external monitor or director’s monitor, enabling real-time viewing, focus pulling, and shot review without being tethered to the camera.
Wrapping Up
Finding the best gimbal for BMPCC involves more than just picking a single stabilizer; it’s about building an ecosystem of gear that works seamlessly together. Whether you opt for the robust DJI RS 3 Pro, the ergonomic ZHIYUN Weebill 2, or the powerful ZHIYUN Crane 4, remember that accessories like counterweights, coiled HDMI cables, and high-quality external monitors are just as crucial to unlocking your BMPCC’s full potential. With the right setup, you’ll be capturing incredibly smooth, cinematic footage that truly stands out. Happy shooting!
