There’s no doubt that the amount of camera moves that can be performed with the DJI Ronin-S gimbal is unprecedented. From simple crane shots to pre-programmed time-lapse sequences, the single-handed stabilizer has won the hearts of filmmakers with its ability to easily replace bulkier film gear, while being able to pull off some unique-looking shots.
One particular camera movement that can be done with the Ronin-S is dubbed as the Infinite Spin. As the name suggests, the camera move involves the gimbal spinning endlessly – a very simple technique to perform granted that you’ve adjusted the appropriate settings. Kevin Lin of KAL Media provides a few tips and tricks on utilizing this mode more efficiently that should also help you get the best results possible with ease.
To reproduce the Infinite Spin move, you will first need to set your gimbal into Flashlight mode, wherein the device is basically laying flat. As you enter Flashlight mode, double tap the front trigger to instruct the gimbal to re-center itself, ensuring perfect leveling of your camera.
As a next step, access the Ronin-S smartphone app and go into Configuration > Control Settings > Channel. Inside of this page, disable Channel 2. Finally, enable Channel 3 and make sure that the latter is set to Roll.
After you’ve made the appropriate configurations, all you need to do is moving the joystick either left or right to trigger the rolling motion of the gimbal. Try experimenting with the spin movement in multiple directions to explore different looks that would be possible with this particular camera move.
While the setup process is rather straightforward, there are a couple of aspects you need to keep in mind while shooting. Although this is not required, Lin recommends also disabling Channel 1 (Tilt). That’s because when you’re using the Ronin-S joystick to control the roll, you might accidentally tilt the gimbal, thereby causing an imbalance in weight.
In addition to accidental tilting, ensure that you move with your gimbal in a single direction only. Do not attempt panning or tilting the gimbal body as this too will cause an imbalance in weight as well as a malfunction in the system.
In case the motors begin to spasm, quickly double tap the power button to toggle the mode off. By doing so, you will prevent your system from sustaining any damage. In addition, temporarily disabling the device will give you an opportunity to readjust any necessary settings before resuming the camera move.
As you perform the Infinite Spin, you may also notice a bit of jitter in your footage. To fix this, try shooting in slow motion. In the video, Lin captured his clip at 30 frames per second, slowing it down in a timeline set to 24 frames per second – a smart trick that can be used to balance between smooth camera movement and near-real-time motion in the frame.
Also, while you may begin the move horizontally, it’s recommended to preview your shot from a vertical perspective to better understand how your final video clip will look like. To do this, simply disable the gimbal motors by pressing the power button twice. Afterward, manually orient the gimbal vertically.
Overall, the Infinite Spin technique is definitely an impressive camera move, only attainable with powerful and intuitive gimbals such as the Ronin-S. While this trick can add value to your production, be careful when using it as any unwanted movements may cause the gimbal to malfunction thus ruining your shot completely.
[source: KAL Media]
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