How to Install Action Camera on Zhiyun Smooth 4: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking to elevate your action-packed footage to cinematic levels of smoothness? Combining the robust stabilization of the Zhiyun Smooth 4 gimbal with the versatility of an action camera is a fantastic way to achieve stunning, shake-free videos. While the Smooth 4 is primarily designed for smartphones, its adaptability makes it a powerful tool for filmmakers and adventurers who want to utilize their lightweight, rugged action cameras.

However, getting an action camera perfectly mounted and balanced on a gimbal made for a different device can seem like a puzzle. From choosing the right adapter to meticulously fine-tuning the balance, each step is crucial for optimal performance. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, providing actionable tips and insights to ensure your setup is flawless, allowing you to capture breathtaking footage with ease. Get ready to transform your shooting experience as we dive into how to install action camera on Zhiyun Smooth 4.

Whether you’re a vlogger, extreme sports enthusiast, or just love capturing life’s moments with unparalleled stability, mastering this setup will unlock a new realm of creative possibilities. We’ll cover everything from the essential gear you need to the nuanced art of balancing, ensuring your action camera and Smooth 4 work in perfect harmony.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What do I need to attach my action camera to the Zhiyun Smooth 4?

You’ll primarily need a specific adapter plate or a U-shaped clamp designed for action cameras, which then screws directly onto the Smooth 4’s standard 1/4-inch mounting point to properly install your action camera on the Zhiyun Smooth 4.

Is balancing important when I install an action camera on the Zhiyun Smooth 4?

Absolutely, yes! Proper balancing is crucial for achieving smooth footage and preventing the gimbal motors from overworking, so always take the time to balance your Zhiyun Smooth 4 after you install your action camera.

Can the Zhiyun Smooth 4 control my action camera?

Unfortunately, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is mainly designed for smartphone control and typically doesn’t offer direct cable control for most action cameras; you’ll usually operate your action camera’s settings independently after you install your action camera on the Zhiyun Smooth 4.

Which way should my action camera face when I install it on the Zhiyun Smooth 4?

Generally, you’ll want the action camera lens to face forward, similar to how a phone would, ensuring an unobstructed view and easy operation after you install your action camera on the Zhiyun Smooth 4.

Can the Zhiyun Smooth 4 charge my action camera while it’s mounted?

No, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 doesn’t have a power output feature to charge external devices like action cameras; it’s dedicated to powering its own motors, so ensure your action camera is fully charged before you install it on the Zhiyun Smooth 4.

Understanding Your Gear: Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Action Cameras

Before we dive into the nuts and bolts of installation, let’s briefly appreciate the synergy between these two distinct pieces of technology. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is renowned for its intuitive controls, robust build, and exceptional three-axis stabilization, designed to give smartphones professional-grade cinematic capabilities. Its unique control wheel, dedicated buttons, and “PhoneGo” mode make it a favorite among mobile videographers.

Action cameras, on the other hand, are built for resilience and compact performance. Brands like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, and Insta360 offer impressive image quality in tiny, durable packages, often waterproof and shock-resistant. Their lightweight nature and wide-angle lenses make them perfect for capturing dynamic, immersive footage in challenging environments.

The challenge, and our focus today, is bridging the gap between a gimbal designed for a rectangular smartphone and a cube-like action camera. The primary difference lies in their mounting points and weight distribution. A smartphone clamps onto the Smooth 4 directly, utilizing its balanced weight. An action camera, however, requires an intermediary adapter to achieve the correct mounting and, subsequently, proper balance. This combination, when done right, offers the best of both worlds: the ruggedness and POV capabilities of an action camera with the silky-smooth stabilization of a professional gimbal.

Why Combine Them? The Benefits

• Unrivaled Stability: Eliminate shaky footage even in high-action scenarios.
• Compact & Portable: The combined setup remains relatively lightweight and easy to carry.
• Versatility: Capture unique angles and perspectives that a smartphone might miss.
• Enhanced Production Value: Elevate your content with professional-looking, buttery-smooth shots.
• Specific Camera Features: Utilize the action camera’s unique features like hyper-lapse, slow-motion, or specific color profiles with added stability.

Essential Pre-Installation Checks and Gear

Preparation is key to a successful installation. Gathering all the necessary components and performing a few quick checks beforehand will save you time and frustration. Neglecting these initial steps can lead to an unbalanced setup, motor strain, or even damaged equipment. Let’s make sure you’re fully equipped and ready to embark on the journey of how to install action camera on Zhiyun Smooth 4.

What You’ll Need:

• Zhiyun Smooth 4 Gimbal: Fully charged, of course!
• Your Action Camera: Ensure its battery is also charged.
• Action Camera Adapter Plate/Mount: This is arguably the most crucial piece of extra gear. These plates are designed to provide a flat, secure surface for your action camera that can then be clamped by the Smooth 4. They come in various designs (U-shaped, L-shaped, or flat plates) and are often specific to certain action camera models or universal with adjustable screws. Look for one made from aluminum for durability and minimal added weight.
• Counterweights: Depending on your action camera’s weight and the adapter plate, you might need counterweights to achieve perfect balance. These attach to the gimbal arm.
• Small Hex Wrench/Allen Key: Usually provided with your Smooth 4 or the adapter plate, for tightening screws.
• Microfiber Cloth: Handy for cleaning lenses and surfaces.
• Smooth, Flat Surface: For working on your setup.

Pre-Installation Checklist:

1. Charge Everything: Ensure both your Zhiyun Smooth 4 and your action camera are fully charged. A low battery can affect gimbal performance or cut your shoot short.
2. Firmware Update: Check for and install the latest firmware for your Zhiyun Smooth 4. Firmware updates often include performance improvements, bug fixes, and sometimes enhanced motor algorithms that can benefit custom setups.
3. Inspect Your Adapter Plate: Make sure the adapter plate is compatible with both your action camera and the Smooth 4’s clamping mechanism. Check for any loose screws or damage.
4. Read Manuals: A quick review of your action camera’s mounting options and the Smooth 4’s general operation can prevent mistakes.

Step-by-Step Installation: Mounting Your Action Camera

Now, let’s get down to the practical steps of mounting. This is where your adapter plate becomes indispensable. The goal is to securely attach your action camera to the adapter plate, and then attach that assembly to the Zhiyun Smooth 4, ensuring it’s positioned for optimal balancing. Following these steps carefully is essential for a stable and functional setup, laying the groundwork for how to achieve smooth footage.

1. Attach the Action Camera to the Adapter Plate

Most adapter plates will have a standard action camera mount (like the two-pronged GoPro style) or a small screw that fits into the action camera’s tripod mount.

• For GoPro-style mounts: Slide your action camera into the adapter plate’s mount and secure it with the thumb screw, ensuring it’s snug but not overly tight.
• For universal plates with a 1/4″-20 screw: Locate the tripod mount on the bottom of your action camera. Align it with the screw on the adapter plate and twist the camera clockwise until it’s secure. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the camera’s mount.

Tip: Position the camera on the adapter plate so its lens faces forward when the plate is mounted on the gimbal. This might seem obvious, but slight adjustments here can impact balance later.

2. Mount the Adapter Plate (with Camera) onto the Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Smooth 4’s clamping mechanism is designed for smartphones. Your adapter plate needs to mimic the form factor of a smartphone’s width to fit correctly.

1. Unlock the Clamp: Ensure the Smooth 4’s phone clamp is loose enough to accept your adapter plate. There’s usually a locking knob on the back or side.
2. Insert the Adapter Plate: Carefully slide the adapter plate (with your action camera attached) into the Smooth 4’s phone clamp. The adapter plate should be secured firmly, just as a smartphone would be.
3. Tighten the Clamp: Once the adapter plate is in place, tighten the clamp knob securely. Wiggle the assembly gently to ensure it’s not loose. A wobbly clamp means a wobbly shot.

Critical Check: Ensure the action camera is centered as much as possible on the adapter plate, and the adapter plate is centered within the Smooth 4’s clamp. Misalignment here will make balancing much harder.

3. Initial Positioning

With the camera securely mounted, manually adjust the Smooth 4’s arms to a neutral, flat position. This makes the subsequent balancing steps much easier to perform. At this stage, do NOT power on the gimbal. All balancing should be done with the gimbal powered off to prevent motor strain and damage.

The Crucial Art of Balancing Your Setup

This is arguably the most critical step in learning how to install action camera on Zhiyun Smooth 4. Proper balancing ensures the gimbal motors don’t have to work overtime, leading to smoother footage, longer battery life, and preventing motor damage. Think of it like balancing a seesaw – you want it perfectly level with minimal effort. The Smooth 4 has three axes that need balancing: Tilt (up/down), Roll (left/right), and Pan (rotation).

Important: Always balance with the gimbal powered OFF.

1. Balance the Tilt Axis (Up and Down Motion)

The Tilt axis controls the camera’s vertical movement. This is usually the first axis to balance.

1. Unlock the Tilt Lock: Locate the small locking knob or lever on the Tilt axis arm. Unlock it so the camera can move freely up and down.
2. Adjust Forward/Backward: Point the camera straight forward. Loosen the screw that holds the camera clamp (the one your adapter plate is in). Slide the entire clamp assembly forward or backward until the camera stays level when you point it straight up or straight down. It should stay in place without flopping.
3. Adjust Up/Down: Now, tilt the camera slightly to the side (e.g., 45 degrees). Loosen the arm that slides up and down on the Tilt axis. Slide it up or down until the camera remains in that position without falling forward or backward.
4. Test: Point the camera straight up, straight down, and straight forward. It should hold these positions without assistance.
5. Lock: Once balanced, tighten all Tilt axis screws securely.

2. Balance the Roll Axis (Left and Right Motion)

The Roll axis manages the camera’s horizontal leveling. If your footage looks tilted, this axis is likely out of balance.

1. Unlock the Roll Lock: Locate and unlock the Roll axis arm. The camera should now be able to roll freely left and right.
2. Adjust Left/Right: Tilt the camera so the lens is pointing upwards. If the camera rolls to one side, it’s unbalanced. Loosen the horizontal arm that slides left and right (where the Tilt axis attaches). Slide this arm left or right until the camera stays perfectly horizontal.
3. Test: Hold the Smooth 4 upright. If you tilt it slightly, the camera should remain level without rolling.
4. Lock: Tighten the Roll axis screw.

3. Balance the Pan Axis (Rotation)

The Pan axis controls the gimbal’s rotation. This is usually the easiest axis to balance.

1. Unlock the Pan Lock: Unlock the Pan axis arm. The entire gimbal head should be able to rotate freely.
2. Adjust Pan Arm: Hold the Smooth 4 horizontally (like you’re carrying a tray). If the gimbal head rotates on its own, it’s unbalanced. Loosen the vertical arm of the Pan axis (the one closest to the handle) and slide it up or down slightly until the gimbal head stays still in any rotated position.
3. Test: Rotate the gimbal head to different angles. It should remain stationary without drifting.
4. Lock: Tighten the Pan axis screw.

The Role of Counterweights

Due to the lightweight nature of action cameras compared to smartphones, and the added weight of an adapter plate, you will almost certainly need counterweights, especially for the Roll and Tilt axes. These are small weights (typically 10g, 20g, 30g) that screw onto designated points on the gimbal arms.

• When to use them: If, after adjusting the arms as much as possible, your camera still sags or tips, it means the center of gravity is too far from the axis’s pivot point.
• How to use them: Attach counterweights to the opposite side of where the camera is “heavy.” For example, if your camera tips forward (heavy in front on the Tilt axis), you might add a counterweight to the back of the Tilt arm. If it rolls to the left, add weight to the right. It’s often a process of trial and error, adding small weights and re-testing until perfect balance is achieved.
• Placement: Some adapter plates have built-in counterweight slots, or you can use clip-on or screw-on weights for the gimbal arms.

A perfectly balanced gimbal should hold any position you set it to with its motors off. When you achieve this, you’ve successfully navigated the most challenging part of how to install action camera on Zhiyun Smooth 4.

Fine-Tuning and Advanced Tips for Optimal Performance

With your action camera securely mounted and meticulously balanced, it’s time to power on your Zhiyun Smooth 4 and take advantage of its intelligent features. But don’t stop there! A few extra steps and advanced tips can significantly enhance your shooting experience and the quality of your footage.

1. Gimbal Calibration (Post-Balance)

Even with perfect manual balancing, it’s good practice to calibrate your gimbal once it’s powered on. This tells the motors exactly where the true horizontal and vertical are, optimizing their performance.

• Via the Smooth 4: Some Zhiyun gimbals have a calibration option directly on the device. Refer to your Smooth 4’s manual for specific button combinations (often a triple-tap or long-press of certain buttons).
• Via the ZY Play App: Connect your Smooth 4 to the ZY Play app on your smartphone (even if you’re not using the phone for shooting). There’s typically a “Calibration” or “Auto Tune” option within the app’s settings. Follow the on-screen instructions, usually placing the gimbal on a flat surface.

2. Connecting to the ZY Play App (Optional but Recommended)

Even though your action camera won’t integrate with the ZY Play app’s camera controls, the app is invaluable for gimbal settings.

• Motor Strength: In the ZY Play app, you can often adjust motor strength. If your action camera is particularly light (even with counterweights), you might be able to lower motor strength slightly to conserve battery and reduce potential micro-vibrations. If you notice slight wobbles, increasing motor strength might help, but ensure your balance is perfect first.
• Follow Speed: Customize how quickly the gimbal responds to your movements. Slower speeds for cinematic glides, faster for dynamic action.
• Joystick Sensitivity: Fine-tune the responsiveness of the joystick for precise camera control.
• Firmware Updates: The app is the primary way to check for and install the latest firmware, ensuring your gimbal operates with the most up-to-date features and bug fixes.

3. Maximizing Battery Life for Extended Shoots

Running two devices (gimbal and action camera) means managing two battery lives.

• External Power Bank: The Smooth 4 has a USB-C port that can output power. If your action camera can be charged while recording, you might be able to power it directly from the gimbal (check compatibility). Alternatively, a small, lightweight power bank can be attached to the gimbal’s handle to extend its life or charge the action camera during breaks.
• Power Management: Turn off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth on your action camera if not in use. Use lower resolutions or frame rates when high-end settings aren’t necessary.
• Spare Batteries: Always carry spares for both your gimbal and action camera, especially for long shooting days.

4. Shooting Techniques for Flawless Footage

Even with a perfectly balanced setup, technique matters.

• Smooth Movements: Practice smooth, deliberate movements with your body. The gimbal stabilizes, but it can’t magically make jerky body movements smooth.
• Gimbal Modes: Experiment with the Smooth 4’s various modes (Pan Follow, Lock Mode, POV, Vortex, Go Mode) to achieve different creative shots.
  • Pan Follow Mode (PF): Great for following subjects while keeping the horizon level.
  • Lock Mode (L): Locks all axes, keeping the camera pointed in one direction regardless of gimbal movement – useful for static shots or specific lock-on effects.
  • POV Mode (Full-Range POV): The camera follows all your movements, giving a more immersive, “point-of-view” feel.
  • Vortex Mode (V): Rotates the camera 360 degrees for unique “barrel roll” shots.
  • Go Mode: Increases motor speed for quick transitions and fast-paced action.
• Framing & Composition: Utilize the action camera’s wide field of view. Be mindful of distortion at the edges and compose your shots effectively.

5. Considering Accessories for Your Action Camera

Depending on your action camera model, you might be able to integrate additional accessories while on the gimbal:

• ND Filters: Essential for shooting outdoors in bright light to control exposure and achieve cinematic motion blur.
• Microphone Adapters: If audio is critical, ensure your action camera’s microphone adapter or external mic setup doesn’t interfere with the gimbal’s balance or movement range.
• Small LED Lights: For low-light situations, very compact LED lights can sometimes be mounted, but be extremely careful about adding extra weight that could upset the balance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues and FAQs

Even after carefully following all the steps on how to install action camera on Zhiyun Smooth 4, you might encounter a few hiccups. Don’t worry, most common issues have straightforward solutions. Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting and frequently asked questions.

Common Troubleshooting Scenarios:

1. Gimbal Vibrates or Motors Strain:
   • Cause: Most often, imperfect balance.
   • Solution: Power off the gimbal immediately. Re-check all three axes (Tilt, Roll, Pan) meticulously. Add or remove counterweights as needed. Ensure all screws are tight.
   • Another Cause: Motor strength set too low for the weight, or firmware issues.
   • Solution: Update firmware via ZY Play app. Increase motor strength slightly in the app settings, but only after confirming perfect balance.
2. Camera Not Level or Drifting:
   • Cause: Poor balance or incorrect calibration.
   • Solution: Power off and re-balance the specific axis that is drifting (usually Roll or Pan). After re-balancing, power on and perform an auto-calibration via the ZY Play app or directly on the gimbal. Ensure the gimbal is on a flat, level surface during calibration.
3. Limited Range of Motion:
   • Cause: Action camera or adapter plate is hitting the gimbal arms.
   • Solution: Adjust the positioning of the action camera on the adapter plate, or the adapter plate in the clamp, to provide more clearance. Ensure the adapter plate itself isn’t too large for the Smooth 4.
4. Unresponsive Controls (Joystick, Buttons):
   • Cause: Connectivity issues, firmware bugs, or gimbal locked up.
   • Solution: Turn off and restart the gimbal. Reconnect to the ZY Play app. Check for and install any pending firmware updates. If the issue persists, try a factory reset (refer to your Smooth 4 manual for instructions).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I control my action camera from the Zhiyun Smooth 4?
A: Generally, no. The Smooth 4’s camera controls (record, zoom, focus, mode switching) are designed to interface specifically with smartphones via Bluetooth or a proprietary cable connection. Action cameras use different communication protocols and are not natively supported for direct control from the Smooth 4. You will typically operate your action camera directly or via its own app.

Q: What if my action camera is too light/heavy?
A: Most action cameras (like GoPros) are on the lighter side. This is where counterweights become essential. If your action camera is unusually heavy for an action cam, ensure your adapter plate is robust enough and you have sufficient counterweights. The Smooth 4 is rated for a certain payload, usually around 210-230g for smartphones. Check your action camera’s weight + adapter plate’s weight to stay within this limit. An extremely heavy setup will strain the motors regardless of balancing.

Q: What type of adapter plate is best?
A: Look for a dedicated, rigid adapter plate made from aluminum. U-shaped or L-shaped plates that cradle the action camera tend to offer better stability than simple flat plates. Some adapters are designed with specific counterweight slots, which can be very convenient. Compatibility with your specific action camera model is paramount.

Q: Can I use a case on my action camera while on the gimbal?
A: It depends. If it’s a very slim “frame” case that doesn’t add significant bulk or weight and still allows mounting to the adapter plate, it might work. However, thick, bulky, or waterproof cases will almost certainly make balancing impossible or severely restrict the gimbal’s range of motion. For optimal performance, it’s usually best to use the action camera without its case.

Q: My footage still looks a bit shaky sometimes. What gives?
A: Even with perfect balance and calibration, external factors can cause slight jitters. Check for:

• Micro-vibrations: Ensure your action camera’s internal stabilization (e.g., GoPro HyperSmooth, DJI RockSteady) is enabled if available, as it works in tandem with the gimbal.
• Wind: Strong winds can overcome a gimbal’s motors.
• Running/Bouncing: While gimbals reduce shake, they can’t entirely eliminate the vertical bobbing motion from running. Practice a “ninja walk” or “gimbal walk” where you bend your knees and walk smoothly to absorb impact.
• Loose connections: Double-check all screws – gimbal arms, adapter plate, and camera mounting.

Action Camera Weight & Adapter Compatibility Table

To help you choose the right adapter and estimate your counterweight needs, here’s a general table of popular action cameras and their approximate weights, along with notes on common adapter types. Remember, these are approximate, and specific models within a series may vary.

Action Camera Model	Approx. Weight (g)	Common Adapter Type	Notes for Smooth 4
GoPro Hero 5/6/7	117-120	U-Bracket or L-Plate	Very common, often requires counterweights.
GoPro Hero 8/9/10/11/12 Black	126-154	U-Bracket or L-Plate (often specific for Media Mod if used)	Heavier than older models, more likely to need counterweights. Media Mod adds significant bulk.
DJI Osmo Action 1/2/3/4	124-145	U-Bracket or Custom Plate	Similar weight profile to GoPros, counterweights usually needed.
Insta360 ONE R/RS (4K Module)	121-125	Custom U-Bracket or 1/4″-20 Plate	Modular design, ensure base is securely mounted to adapter.
Insta360 GO 2/3 (with Action Pod)	~96-100	Small U-Bracket or 1/4″-20 Plate	Very light, may require more counterweight for larger gimbals or fine balancing.

Note: The Zhiyun Smooth 4 has a payload capacity typically around 210-230g. Ensure your action camera + adapter plate + any minimal accessories stay within this limit for optimal performance and motor longevity.

Conclusion: Unlock Your Cinematic Potential

Congratulations! You’ve successfully navigated the intricacies of how to install action camera on Zhiyun Smooth 4. By understanding your gear, meticulous preparation, precise mounting, and the crucial art of balancing, you’ve transformed your mobile gimbal into a powerful stabilization tool for your action camera. This combination opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to capture dynamic, professional-grade footage that stands out from the crowd.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t flawless. Take your time with the balancing, experiment with different gimbal modes, and fine-tune your settings to match your shooting style. The seamless, cinematic movements you can achieve with this setup will elevate your vlogs, adventure films, and everyday memories to an entirely new level.

Now, go forth and create! Your next epic, butter-smooth shot awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the first step to installing my action camera on the Zhiyun Smooth 4?

Begin by ensuring you have the necessary mounting plate or adapter for your action camera, as the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is primarily designed for smartphones. You’ll typically need an adapter with a 1/4″ screw thread to attach to the gimbal’s phone clamp or a dedicated mounting point.

How do I mount a GoPro or other action camera onto the Zhiyun Smooth 4’s clamp?

You’ll generally use a small adapter (often a GoPro-to-1/4″ thread adapter) that connects to your action camera. Secure this adapter to your camera, then firmly attach it to the Zhiyun Smooth 4’s adjustable phone clamp or an alternative dedicated mounting plate, ensuring it’s stable.

After installing my action camera, how do I properly balance the Zhiyun Smooth 4?

Balancing is crucial for smooth operation and to prevent motor strain. Adjust the tilt, roll, and pan axes of the Zhiyun Smooth 4 until the action camera remains perfectly level and stationary in all directions when you release it. You will almost certainly need counterweights due to the action camera’s light weight.

Do I need any special accessories or counterweights when using an action camera with the Zhiyun Smooth 4?

Yes, because action cameras are significantly lighter than smartphones, a counterweight kit is almost always necessary to achieve proper balance on the Zhiyun Smooth 4. You may also need a dedicated action camera mounting plate or a 1/4″ screw adapter if your camera doesn’t have one built-in.

What kind of action cameras are compatible, and what is the weight limit for the Zhiyun Smooth 4?

Most popular action cameras like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, and similar models are compatible when used with appropriate adapters and counterweights. While the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is rated for a certain payload, the key is to ensure it can be perfectly balanced, which usually means adding sufficient counterweights for lightweight action cameras.

Are there any tips for getting the best video quality when using an action camera on my Zhiyun Smooth 4?

Always ensure your action camera’s internal electronic image stabilization is turned off or set to its lowest setting, as the Zhiyun Smooth 4 provides superior mechanical stabilization. Additionally, meticulously rebalance the gimbal every time you adjust the camera or switch shooting modes to maintain optimal performance.