The Zhiyun Weebill 3S Combo Review | Shooting Vertical With A Gimbal

Handheld stabilizers have become an essential tool for capturing smooth, professional-looking footage. Zhiyun has recently introduced its latest flagship addition to the highly acclaimed Weebill series — the Weebill 3S. This remarkable feat of modern engineering is available in two options: the standard set priced at $319 or the enhanced combo assembly open at a slightly higher cost of $439. It seamlessly combines the compactness of its design with an array of powerful features, making it an ideal companion for filmmakers.

Fortunately, I got my hands on the gimbal during Golden Hour, and the results were captivating. I took my pal to the race track and loved how smooth the footage seemed.

Gear I Used:

• Weebill 3S Combo
• Sony A7 IV
• Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II
• Moment 10% Cinebloom Filter
• Moment 2-5 Stop VND Filter
• OneWheel
• Behind The Scenes Captured with iPhone 13 Pro and Insta360 X3

Vertical Mounting Solution

Vertical shooters rejoice — Zhiyun has introduced a new feature that allows you to mount your camera vertically onto the same baseplate, eliminating the need for complex rigging or modifications. This fantastic addition lets you fully capitalize on the gimbal's exceptionally smooth cinematic stability while shooting in the 9x16 aspect ratio.

To utilize this feature, simply slide your camera off (if it was mounted horizontally), rotate it 90 degrees, and then slide it back onto the rail using the newly provided attachment point. Make sure to fasten it in place securely. While using this setup with my Sony A7 IV, I encountered a minor inconvenience: I couldn't fold the camera's screen as it came into contact with the motor at the back. Although this limited mobility was a small drawback, it's worth mentioning.

New Handle / Wrist Support

Zhiyun calls this 'Sling mode 2.5', a welcome upgrade. The ability to hold the gimbal in a wide range of positions is excellent, as it prevents fatigue in your arms and hands during extended shooting sessions. The adjustable length and position of the handle gave me added confidence as I zipped around the track on my OneWheel. This enhanced support system empowers users to capture the shots they need with increased assurance.

Bluetooth Record

A simple yet efficient upgrade is the introduction of Bluetooth connectivity. Now, you can seamlessly pair your camera with the gimbal. Once connected, the gimbal's physical record button becomes a convenient trigger for your camera's recording. The record button on the gimbal operates in two stages: a firm press activates the recording function, while a light press does nothing. It's an intelligent move by Zhiyun to ensure the button is not overly sensitive, preventing accidental activation mid-shot. I've always preferred to rely on something other than third-party apps to access all the features of a gimbal, so this direct wireless connection is a must-have setup.

Lightweight and Portable / Quick Release Base

I've always appreciated the Weebill line of gimbals' excellent balance between size and performance. The Weebill 3S continues this trend, allowing you to easily pack it into a small bag without occupying excessive space (it can fold down quite slim). Despite its compactness, it can accommodate a decent-sized camera load. I used it with my Sony A7 IV and a 24-70mm lens, and it effortlessly kept up with my shooting needs. This perfect balance keeps me returning to the Weebill gimbals, which offer the best of both worlds.

A significant upgrade with the 3S Combo includes a quick-release mechanism for the bottom section (handle, wrist support, and mini tripod). This means you can swiftly transition from using the tripod and grips to achieving an ultra-compact setup (if necessary) by detaching the gimbal's stem. This quick-release feature makes shooting convenient, and packing up is even more accessible, as the gimbal can be disassembled in seconds.

Excellent Battery Life

The Weebill 3 is equipped with PD fast charging, allowing it to reach a full charge in just 2 hours. With a 2600 mAh capacity, this gimbal offers an impressive operational time of up to 11.5 hours. Additionally, it supports a 5V 1A camera power supply, providing further convenience during extended shoots. This feature is particularly advantageous for my run-and-gun style of filmmamking when I'm on the go.

Side note: It's essential to pre-balance your gimbal effectively to ensure optimal stability, performance, and battery life.

The Zhiyun Weebill 3S Gimbal is a standout choice thanks to its sleek and compact design, making it perfect for travel, professional work, and everyday use. The ergonomically designed handle and wrist support offer a comfortable grip and reliable support for shooting throughout the day. Combined with the high-capacity battery and the ability to mount the camera vertically, this gimbal empowers users to capture their creative vision without interruption.

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