Balance and Setup Zhiyun Crane M3 in 60 seconds!

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Balance and Set Up Zhiyun Crane M3 Gimbal

Step 1: Unlock the Motors

• When you first buy the Zhiyun Crane M3 gimbal, locate the locks on the motors.
• Unlock the tilt motor at the top and the roll motor at the bottom to ensure the gimbal is not restricted in movement.

Step 2: Attach the Base Plate to Your Camera

• Choose an all-purpose base plate that works for most cameras, similar in weight to a Sony a6500.
• Ensure the arrows on the base plate point to your right when the camera is held out with the lens facing away from you.
• Secure the base plate using a screwdriver or a knife.

Step 3: Mount the Camera to the Gimbal

• Hold the gimbal in a V-shape with a latch and ensure the roll back is facing you.
• Press and hold the unlock button on the bracket to mount the camera onto the gimbal securely.

Step 4: Balance the Gimbal

• Start by adjusting the tilt of the camera so that it remains straight when you let go.
• Align the center of gravity of the camera with the center of the motor by making micro adjustments until the camera stays balanced when released.

Step 5: Adjust the Camera Angle

• Unscrew the knob at the front to adjust the camera angle upwards.
• Slide the camera to achieve the desired angle, ensuring the lens points straight up towards the sky.

Step 6: Fine-Tune the Roll Motor

• Click to unlock the roll motor and adjust the camera's roll to ensure it stays level when released.
• Align the center of gravity of the camera with the motor for proper balance.

Step 7: Balance the Bottom Motor

• Unlock the bottom motor and adjust the camera's position so that the lens points parallel to the ground when released.

Step 8: Power On and Calibrate the Gimbal

• Press and hold the power button on the side to turn on the gimbal.
• Access the settings through the touch screen and perform auto calibration to ensure proper weight distribution and balance.

Step 9: Explore Different Modes

• Experiment with different modes like Pan Follow, Lock Mode, Follow Mode, Point of View Mode, Go Mode, Portrait Mode, and Vortex Mode to suit your filming needs.

Step 10: Additional Features

• Utilize the thumbwheel to adjust the 800 lumens adjustable light, color temperature, and brightness.
• Connect your camera to the gimbal via USB-C to control settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO using the scroll wheel.

Step 11: Final Checks and Tips

• Ensure the gimbal is fully charged before use for optimal performance.
• Practice balancing and setting up the gimbal to get comfortable with the process.
• Remember to leave any questions in the comments for assistance.

By following these steps, you can effectively balance and set up your Zhiyun Crane M3 gimbal for smooth and stable footage while vlogging or filming.