1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use, setup, operation, and maintenance of your ZHIYUN Smooth 5 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure optimal performance and to prevent damage.
2. Product Overview
2.1 Package Contents
Upon unboxing, please verify that all items listed below are present:
- ZHIYUN Smooth 5 Stabilizer
- Tripod
- USB Type-C Charging Cable
Image: The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 gimbal, tripod, and USB-C charging cable as included in the standard package.
2.2 Key Features
- Orthogonal 3-Axis Structure: Provides ample space and weight capacity, enabling 360° rotation for various shooting modes.
- Intelligent Anti-Interference & Rapid Target Lock: Magnetic AI tracker for responsive object tracking, capable of re-identifying and recovering tracking after reframing.
- Intelligent Gesture Control: Supports starting and stopping object tracking through intuitive hand gestures for remote operation.
- All-In-One Control Panel: Features a comprehensive control panel for parameter adjustments, similar to high-end cameras.
- Integrated Fill Lights: Dual-side magnetic fill lights provide up to 6W illumination with a peak illuminance of 1560 lux.
- PD Fast Charging: Supports fast charging for extended battery life and minimal downtime.
Image: The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 gimbal holding a smartphone, alongside its tripod and charging cable.
Image: An overview highlighting the 6W fill lights, magnetic AI tracking module, advanced stabilization, engraved body, all-in-one control panel, and orthogonal 3-axis structure of the Smooth 5.
3. Setup
3.1 Mounting Your Smartphone
- Extend the phone clamp on the gimbal.
- Carefully place your smartphone into the clamp, ensuring it is securely held.
- Position the phone as centrally as possible to aid in balancing.
3.2 Balancing the Gimbal
Proper balancing is crucial for optimal performance and battery life. Follow these steps:
- Ensure the gimbal is powered off.
- Adjust the phone clamp position until the smartphone remains level when released, without the motors powered on.
- Fine-tune the horizontal and vertical balance by sliding the phone or adjusting the gimbal arms if applicable.
3.3 Powering On/Off
- To Power On: Press and hold the power button until the indicator lights illuminate.
- To Power Off: Press and hold the power button until the indicator lights turn off.
3.4 Connecting to the ZY Cami App
For full functionality and advanced features, download the ZY Cami app from your smartphone's app store. Connect the gimbal via Bluetooth within the app.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Control Panel Functions
The integrated control panel allows for direct access to various settings and modes.
Image: A close-up view of the ZHIYUN Smooth 5's control panel, showing buttons and a joystick for various functions.
4.2 Gimbal Modes
The Smooth 5 offers several operational modes to suit different shooting scenarios:
- Pan Follow (PF) Mode: The roll and tilt axes are locked, and the pan axis follows the handle's movement.
- Lock (L) Mode: All three axes are locked, keeping the camera pointing in a fixed direction.
- Follow (F) Mode: All three axes follow the handle's movement smoothly.
- Point of View (POV) Mode: All three axes follow the handle's movement, providing a first-person perspective.
- Go (GO) Mode: Increases the follow speed of all axes for quick transitions and dynamic shots.
- Vortex Mode: The camera rotates 360° along the roll axis, creating a spinning effect.
Image: A visual representation of the Smooth 5's 360° rotation capability and various shooting modes including GO, Lock, POV, Vortex, Pan-Follow, and Follow Mode.
4.3 Intelligent Features
- AI Tracking: Utilize the magnetic AI tracker to automatically follow a selected subject. This feature is designed for rapid and responsive target tracking.
- Gesture Control: Initiate or stop AI tracking and other functions using specific hand gestures, ideal for solo video recording.
- Dolly Zoom: Create cinematic 'Vertigo' effects by simultaneously zooming in or out while moving the gimbal towards or away from the subject.
Image: A user demonstrating gesture control with the ZHIYUN Smooth 5 gimbal, showing a 'peace' sign to activate a function.
Image: A screen capture illustrating the Dolly Zoom effect, with a subject receding and the background appearing to stretch.
Image: The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 gimbal actively tracking a person in motion, indicated by a green tracking box on the screen.
4.4 Using Fill Lights
The Smooth 5 features integrated fill lights for enhanced illumination.
- Activate the fill lights via the control panel or the ZY Cami app.
- Adjust brightness levels as needed for your shooting environment.
- Optional magnetic multi-color filters can be used to customize the lighting atmosphere.
Image: The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 gimbal with its integrated fill lights illuminated, demonstrating their brightness and the option for multi-color filters.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Charging the Gimbal
The Smooth 5 supports PD fast charging.
- Connect the USB Type-C charging cable to the gimbal's charging port and to a compatible power adapter.
- Charging indicators will show the battery status.
- A full charge can provide up to 26 hours of runtime (gimbal only), 7 hours with one fill light, or 2 hours 20 minutes with three fill lights.
Image: Information on PD fast charging and estimated battery runtimes for the ZHIYUN Smooth 5 under different usage conditions.
5.2 Cleaning and Storage
- Wipe the gimbal with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners.
- Store the gimbal in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Ensure the gimbal is powered off before storage.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ZHIYUN Smooth 5, please refer to the following common solutions:
- Gimbal not powering on: Ensure the battery is sufficiently charged. Connect to the charger and try again.
- Unstable footage: Verify that the smartphone is properly balanced on the gimbal. Re-calibrate the gimbal if necessary via the ZY Cami app.
- App connectivity issues: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone and the gimbal. Restart both the app and the gimbal.
- Motors not responding: Check for any obstructions preventing motor movement. Ensure the gimbal is not overloaded beyond its weight capacity.
For further assistance, please visit the official ZHIYUN support website.
7. Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 4.57 x 7.36 x 4.57 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds (0.5 Kilograms) |
| Item Model Number | Smooth 5 |
| Brand | ZHIYUN |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Folded Size | 2.0 inches (L) x 5.4 inches (W) x 1.3 inches (H) |
| UPC | 727542071434, 884354018191 |
| Date First Available | November 14, 2021 |
8. Warranty and Support
ZHIYUN products are typically covered by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms, registration, and technical support, please refer to the official ZHIYUN website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
For the latest software updates, tutorials, and FAQs, visit the official ZHIYUN support page: www.zhiyun-tech.com
