Using a tripod gimbal - Birding in Singapore

[@genemcloud4114]

I’ve watched a ton of gimbal videos and this one is by far the most informative. Now I feel I fully understand the mechanics of the gimbal. Thanks so much.

[@JamesTann]

Glad it was helpful!

[@johnd7564]

This video and Steve Perry's are the best gimbal adjustment videos I've seen. Nice, accurate work! The only suggestion I'd add for people watching this is, you can find the correct vertical position. If you set it too low, the camera will tend to level. if you set it too high, it will tip forward or back (so be careful). As James says, when it stays where you put it with all friction controls loosened, then it's correctly adjusted. One more tip: loosen your lens collar so you can freely rotate it between landscape and portrait if you want. No need to tighten it to shoot. Very freeing!

[@kwok-penglooi799]

Thank you so much James for this instructional video. I learned so much.

[@peterrussell7667]

Very interesting information for all Bird Photographers . James

[@fredalexander9549]

Clearest explanation I have found. Thank you.

[@ungavaproductions]

Excellent presentation. Accurate info, all aspects are there...very good for beginners. Thanks to share....you made a very good job !

[@jameswong334]

Thank you, James. This is such a wonderful and simple to understand video!

[@adamsutton45]

Thank you very much James, a wonderfully informative video!

[@Yushmantha]

Wow, thanks for the excellent video!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@ramonperezsanchez]

James... Thank you for everything you do!!! your videos have been absolutely helpful! Big hello from The Dominican Republic! I am a fan!

[@JamesTann]

You are very welcome

[@studio1410]

Thanks. I enjoyed your presentation.

[@godfreyyeo1629]

Thank you for your very instructive and informative videos!!!

[@JamesTann]

Glad you like them!

[@cystopus]

great video

[@CheikoSairin]

Thank you for the tips and information in this video. You got 1 LIKE from me. Greeting from Bedok

[@anyhowyoutuber619]

Wow !

[@soonteelee4199]

Thank you so much for producing this useful and informative video.

[@xingjian79]

thank you for this video James! I've learnt so much from you!

[@Photography-ps8sg]

Just found this video and it is super helpful as I look for a gimbal + tripod combo for my 600 mm! Thank you.

[@gingertompuss2653]

Thank You!

[@tariktrad]

Excellent video. Thank you so much, especially explaining that the side of the gimbal (left or right) is a personal preference and will not affect the balance.

[@cksimonsee]

Happy New Year James Tann Greeting from JP (869) Simon

[@incrediblelee007]

Awesome !

[@steventan63]

hi James. tks for sharing this very useful information. I didn't know this until I watched your video. Happy New Year 2021 to you and your family. stay healthy and stay safe

[@wildlifeenvy]

Thanks so much for such detailed and informative video! James, may I know is the jobu gimbal (one of the gimbal you used to produce the video) working as smooth as a wimberley?

[@JamesTann]

The 'smoothness' of the rotating axis on all gimbals depends on the quality of the ball-bearings used. Yes, the Jobu Jr3 that's featured is very smooth and works as it should. It has 3 fixed vertical positions which may not be suitable for every long lens as compared to a sliding vertical rest. You should compare and select one that works for you.

[@wildlifeenvy]

@@JamesTann. Thanks very much for your prompt reply James. Appreciate your help.

[@rickyeng56]

And if you use a zoom lens like 100-40mm, the calibrated gimbal will not work well?

[@JamesTann]

If it is an internal zoom lens, it won't make much difference but if your zoom lens is extendable externally, then the centre of balance will shift each time you extend or retract the lens. You will need to make minor adjustments to bring the centre of balance back in line. This goes the same for adding or removing accessories like battery packs, dot sights, remote controls, lens hood, etc.

[@rickyeng56]

@@JamesTann Thank you James for sharing!

[@travelbugs4280]

Thanks! What’s the model of gimbal head and tripod you will recommend to birders?

[@JamesTann]

Tripods and Gimbals are functionally the same regardless of brands. You should visit your dealer for more specifics depending on the weight of your camera gear and lens AND your budget. For the gimbal, you'll want one that has a very smooth ball bearing that allows you to swivel/rotate without jerks. Also look at the locking mechanism (knobs or levers) and see if you prefer one type over the other. Keep in mind also the weight of the entire setup as it might be a burden if you walk a lot on your birding trips.

[@travelbugs4280]

@@JamesTann thanks for the detailed reply. Yes, weight is one of my consideration as I like to be mobile. One more question. The gimbal head can be mounted on a ball head tripod?

[@JamesTann]

@@travelbugs4280 If you remove the ball-head first, then yes. But you also have an option to use a special gimbal that attaches to a (larger) ball-head when it is positioned sideways - similar to a side mounted gimbal.

[@travelbugs4280]

@@JamesTann very helpful! Thanks James!

[@opsroom123]

Hi, Travel Bugs alternatively you might want to consider Manfrotto 393, can be mounted on a tripod & monopod. Here's the link www.manfrotto.com/global/long-lens-monopod-bracket-393/

[@AdrianChoopx]

Are the cheap gimbals in the market any good?

[@JamesTann]

It's usually 'cheap' due to cost cutting reasons like using cheaper ball bearings, less precise tolerances that may lead to wobbles or movements between parts etc. Cheap may not be good and good may not be cheap.

[@AdrianChoopx]

@@JamesTann What would be a reasonable budget gimbal for someone new starting in birding? Are the brand's from Chinea like Xiletu, Andoer, Neewer be considered? Thank you.