When I first entered the world of video production, the idea of creating cinematic stills and smooth, professional-looking videos seemed like a pipe dream. Two years later, that dream has become a beautiful reality, thanks to my trusty companion, the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE.
I remember the moment I held the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE in my hands for the first time. Its sleek design and compact build exude beauty and promise to deliver stunning videography. But appearance alone won’t attract a content creator. What’s important is under the hood. In this review, I’ll provide an unbiased analysis of its pros and cons, as well as suggest a substitute available for mobile video creators in the Indian market.
Pros:
- Foldable Design: The Osmo Mobile 4’s biggest advantage is its foldable design, making it incredibly portable. It easily fits into a backpack or even a pocket, which is a game-changer for on-the-go video creators.
- Intuitive Controls: The control layout is user-friendly, providing quick access to essential functions. The joystick, zoom slider, and dedicated buttons make it easy to adjust settings on the fly without interrupting your shooting flow.
- Gesture Control and ActiveTrack 5.0: Gesture control and ActiveTrack 5.0 are standout features. Gesture control allows for hands-free operation, while ActiveTrack 5.0 excels at keeping the subject in focus, even during dynamic movements.
- Long Battery Life: With up to 15 hours of battery life, the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE outperforms many competitors in its class. This extended battery life ensures that the stabilizer won’t run out of power during a day of shooting.
- Affordable Price Point: Considering its features, the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE is competitively priced. It offers a good balance between performance and cost, making it accessible to a wide range of video creators.
Cons:
- Limited Payload Capacity: While the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE is suitable for smartphones, it may struggle with larger and heavier devices. Users with bulkier phones or additional accessories might find the payload capacity limiting.
- Plastic Build: The choice of materials, particularly the plastic build, may raise concerns about durability. It might not withstand accidental drops or rough handling as well as some competitors with more robust constructions.
- Limited Tilt Range: The tilt range of the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE is somewhat restricted. While it performs well in most shooting scenarios, it may not be ideal for capturing extreme low or high-angle shots.
A few words for beginners
For those just starting out on their video production journey, I have some advice: Consider the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE your best friend and mentor. It is a tool that not only improves the quality of your videos but also improves your skills as a videographer.
As you begin your creative journey, remember that practice makes perfect. Experiment with different shooting modes, create stories your audience will love, and most importantly, have fun along the way.
The DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE is more than just a gimbal for me; He is the partner who changed my career in video production. And I can’t wait to see how it does the same for you.
DJI Osmo Mobile SE Substitute in the Indian Market:
For those looking for an alternative in the Indian market, the Zhiyun Smooth 5 presents itself as an interesting alternative. The DJI Osmo Mobile SE offers rugged build quality, increased payload capacity, and advanced features like a focus/zoom wheel. However, it lacks the foldable design of the Osmo Mobile 4, making it a little less portable.
In conclusion, the DJI Osmo Mobile 4 SE is a reliable and portable stabilizer with great features at an affordable price. Its foldable design, intuitive controls, and longer battery life make it a strong contender for video creators on the go. However, users of larger devices should consider payload limitations. Zhiyun Smooth 5 is a viable option in the Indian market and offers different features for people with special needs.
