How to Get Smooth Handheld Footage: Top 5 Techniques for Beginners
Hey everyone, Omar here! Today's post is inspired by a DM from a subscriber named Soale from Bistan, asking about shooting handheld video with a 50mm lens. His camera broke, and the price difference between cameras like the GH4 and GH5 is significant in his area. So, I'll be showing how I handle handheld shooting with my Fujifilm XT3 using minimal accessories.
Challenges with a 50mm Lens
A 50mm lens has a medium telephoto focal length and a shallow depth of field, which makes it prone to shaky footage when shooting handheld. Here’s how you can stabilize your shots without a stabilizer:
1. Use Your Body as a Stabilizer
Think of your body as a stabilizer and shock absorber. Hold the camera close to your body with loose elbows and a slight bend in your knees. The more points of contact between your camera and your body, the more stable the footage will be.
2. Leverage Your Camera Strap
The camera strap can add stability. Use the strap around your neck or arm, pulling it taut to create a stable shooting setup. This works well for holding your camera at a comfortable distance without straining your arms.
3. Intentional Movement
Keep your movements slow and deliberate. Whether you’re panning, tilting, or orbiting around a subject, controlled movement makes your footage look smoother and more natural.
4. Use Your Environment
Lean against stationary objects like walls or railings to support your body and reduce camera shake. This helps a lot, especially during longer handheld shots.
5. Warp Stabilizer in Post
Warp stabilization can help clean up shaky footage in post-production. But use it sparingly—overdoing it can lead to unnatural effects like the “jello” effect. If you must use it, shoot at a high frame rate for smoother results and apply stabilization to specific parts of the clip.
Bonus Tip: Consider a Monopod
A simple, inexpensive monopod can provide extra stability and reduce strain during longer shoots. It also allows for high-angle shots and adds flexibility without the bulk of a tripod.
In summary, bend your elbows and knees, use your strap, move with intention, take advantage of your environment, and save warp stabilization as a last resort. With these techniques, you’ll have stable, professional-looking footage without needing expensive stabilization gear.
Thanks for reading, and catch you in the next one!
