Mike Reyher
The reviews are in and the DJI Pocket 3 is a big hit with content creators with its 1” sensor, long battery life and great video and sound quality and we use it for most of the videos we share here and elsewhere on social media. If you are new to the Pocket 3, here are some of the reasons we bought it. Or you can skip to the details of the rig here.
Overview of the Pocket 3 Camera
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a compact, handheld gimbal camera designed to deliver professional-grade footage with ease. Its standout feature is the 1-inch CMOS sensor, which captures high-quality, low-noise images even in challenging lighting conditions. This sensor supports 4K video recording at up to 120 frames per second, allowing for smooth slow-motion playback. 
The device features a 2-inch rotatable OLED touchscreen, enabling seamless switching between horizontal and vertical shooting modes to suit various content formats. Its three-axis mechanical gimbal stabilization ensures steady footage, even during dynamic movements. 
For color grading flexibility, the Osmo Pocket 3 offers 10-bit D-Log M and HLG color modes, capturing a wide dynamic range and over a billion colors. This capability is particularly beneficial for post-production work, ensuring vibrant and accurate color representation. 
The device’s full-pixel fast focusing system locks onto subjects swiftly, maintaining sharp focus even in fast-paced scenarios. Additionally, the ActiveTrack 6.0 feature intelligently follows subjects, keeping them centered in the frame. 
Audio recording is enhanced with a built-in three-microphone array that reduces wind noise and captures stereo sound. The Osmo Pocket 3 is also compatible with external microphones, providing flexibility for various recording needs. 
A range of accessories, including a battery handle that extends operating time and a wide-angle lens that expands the field of view to 108°, further enhance the device’s versatility. 
In summary, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 combines advanced imaging capabilities, user-friendly design, and intelligent features in a compact form factor, making it a powerful tool for both amateur and professional content creators.
Popular Uses
The camera has found widespread adoption among social media creators, travel vloggers, and mobile journalists, praised for its improved image quality and professional-grade stabilization.
Small camera… big hands - Our Rig for the Pocket 3
It’s also very small compared to similarly capable cameras and maintains the pocketability of its predecessors. But small can be a double edges sword when it comes to being able to comfortably hold the camera and hold it steady while operating the controls. Add having HUGE hands like I do and it creates the opportunity to rig up the tiny camera with a side handle to enable two handed operation and stability.
So the first step is to find a cage that works for the camera. I found one made by Tilta. There are other mounts and cages out there but one of the best things about this one is that it provides for quick snap-in and one button release of the Pocket 3.
Features of the Tilta Cage
The Tilta Accessory Mounting Expander is specifically designed for the DJI Pocket 3 and offers several key benefits:
- Quick-release mechanism allows for fast camera mounting and removal with a single button press
- Multiple 1/4"-20 mounting points for attaching accessories like handles, monitors, or lights
- Cold shoe mounts enable the attachment of microphones and other accessories
- Built-in Arca-Swiss compatible base plate for quick mounting to tripods and gimbals
- Precision CNC machined aluminum construction provides durability while keeping weight minimal
- Does not interfere with the camera's gimbal movement or touchscreen operation
The cage maintains full access to all camera controls and ports while providing a more substantial grip and mounting options. This makes it an ideal foundation for building a more ergonomic handheld rig for the Pocket 3.
I had a handle from another build that has ARR, 1/4-20, and a cold shoe mount on top. I also had a phone holder that mounts to a cold shoe.
SmallRig NP-F Battery Adapter Mount Plate
The last piece is a power plate that holds Sony NP style batteries which are the most common battery used in photography these days and are widely available.
The SmallRig NP-F Battery Adapter Mount Plate features and benefits:
- Mounts to cages using 1/4" screws
- Provides 36W of USB-C power output
- Can power various accessories like cameras, displays, and other devices
- Uses Sony NP style batteries, which are widely used in photography and readily available
The plate is versatile and practical, offering common voltage outputs to support different camera equipment while providing a reliable power source for extended shooting sessions.
Batteries
There are a wide variety of NP type batteries available from Amazon and camera stores that can be used with the above battery mount. One interesting choice is the SMALLRIG NP-F970 Battery 10500mAh USB-C Replacement Battery (pictured above) that features a USB Type-C charging port that reduces charging time by 65% compared to conventional charging. With a maximum power of 36W, you can have a full charged battery in just 3.5 hours, ensuring efficient power replenishment for uninterrupted creative workflow. It also is equipped with touch buttons and a battery level display screen, monitoring the precise remaining battery level is convenient at any time, ensuring you always have enough power for your creative endeavors. When the battery level is below 10%, the screen flashes to indicate a low battery.
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