The DJI Osmo Pocket camera caught my eye when I first saw it in a YouTube travel clip in July 2019. It was a young vlogger from Hong Kong who was showcasing the DJI Mavic drone.
She also pulled out a small device and it was the Pocket Camera. Its form factor was unusual and I wondered how it worked.
I did not expect a camera to come in this form and it is strikingly small.
In simple terms it is a camera lens mounted on a 3 axis gimbal.
It allows the user to move and take smooth video footage with a small handheld device. The gimbal reduces shaky footage. The photographic and video quality is not compromised despite its compact size.
The Stabilising Gimbal
The 3-axis gimbal accessory for video cameras have always been important for stabilisation. Essential when cameras are panned or moved to follow the action while shooting footage.
Gimbals then however were bulky, expensive and a separate accessory like the tripod. Used primarily by professionals and serious amateurs. The rest of us just stood still as we operated our cameras. Maybe a slow pan.
In later years, software stabilisation evolved in parallel for sports and action cameras with the likes of GoPro. The gimbal however still remained superior in comparison to software stabilisation.
Drone Technology and Limitations
DJI did something different. It used its proven and popular drone technology of Mavic drone fame. The gimbal was key to the technology as drones are always moving. It is also sturdy and well built.
The DJI Osmo Pocket however is not waterproof. It also cannot handle jarring movements such as bike rides on uneven trails. Believe me it is not usable.
Moving cars on bitumen and walking slowly were fine. It also has a smaller wide angle, noticeable compared to action cameras.
You also could not swap batteries which had to be recharged. Albeit it has juice for 140 mins which is commendable. Sound without an external mic is ordinary. Low light is a struggle.
Backpacking, Touristy Streets & Reviews
Great for travellers, tourists and vloggers who typically meander thru touristy streets capturing people, colour and the atmosphere. Fine for sticking it outside a moving car or bus window for street scenes. Backpackers travelling light come to mind. The selfie mode makes it utility much more creative wise.
This is probably the most impressive YouTube review of it. With Bali and Italy as canvas. Note the quality of colours and sharpness. Here is another helpful clip on how to operate the camera with its many functions.
The DJI Osmo Pocket camera strikes you in 3 ways.
It is pocketable whether in your trouser, shirt or backpack pocket. Easy to hold in the palm of your hand unlike a smartphone or a conventional camera.
Secondly unlike the usual cameras when pointed at a scene involving people it does not evoke cold stares. I found that surprising. People reacted to it differently, curious and calm. I suspect the shape did not tell them it was a camera.
Lastly the range of functions and high quality of still photography and video footage.
The Features and Others
The standard features are 4K Ultra HD from 24 to 60 fps and 12mp still resolution. The video range and quality is seriously impressive. Other features are the shooting modes such as panorama, timelapse to hyperlapse.
Try the hyperlapse as you walk from your home to the shops and you will be impressed.
I particularly liked shooting at ankle level as I walked. With the gimbal set at “tilt lock” with an extended selfie stick pointed downwards. The steady horizon hold gives a view that is rare. The world from ankle height and moving forward is unbelievably captive. Watch as family and friends see the new perspective. Lots of creative opportunities.
Why not Smartphones Cameras?
Smartphones cameras can do a lot but you need to remain still. The DJI Osmo Pocket with its gimbal provides versatility and that difference leads to more creativity. Less missed magic moments. And remember there are no second chances in travel as you are unlikely to visit the same place twice.
If you are the type that likes to capture photo and video moments as you come across them, this is for you. It’s small, convenient and not conspicuous. You can leave it on your cafe table, set it on motionlapse and it will pan and shoot as life goes by. All the while sipping a latte. You can edit the footage later.
It now resides in my accessories travel pack together with charging cables, adapters and other electronic travel stuff. Yes, it’s small enough. It maintains a charge for very long and I don’t have to get it ready. It goes with me on my travel trips both for business and pleasure.
Back to Convention
For those who prefer a conventional compact travel camera with great low light capability, you might want to go for the Sony ZV1 which I have covered here.