DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Review: A Filmmaker’s Perspective

In this comprehensive long-term review, renowned filmmaker Philip Bloom shares his experience with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, a highly anticipated camera released in October 2023. After six months of extensive usage, Bloom offers his insights on the camera’s capabilities, strengths, and weaknesses, providing a valuable resource for aspiring vloggers and filmmakers.

Impressive Features and Upgrades

Bloom highlights the Pocket 3’s stacked 1-inch sensor as a significant improvement over its predecessors, resulting in enhanced image quality. The camera’s ability to shoot up to 4K 120 fps in 10-bit D-Log M, HLG, and normal profiles without any cropping is a standout feature.

The addition of a rotatable 2-inch screen makes the Pocket 3 more user-friendly, allowing for easier operation without the need for a smartphone.

However, Bloom notes that the autofocus, while quick, can be erratic and often shifts to the wrong subject. He suggests that face tracking and single-point autofocus could be improved through future firmware updates. The 5D joystick offers various functions, but Bloom points out that manual focus remains challenging due to the small screen size.

Audio Excellence and Accessory Ecosystem

One of the Pocket 3’s strongest suits, according to Bloom, is its audio capabilities. The internal microphones deliver surprisingly good quality, and the seamless integration with the DJI Mic 2 is a game-changer. The Creator Combo, which includes the Battery Handle, extends the camera’s recording time to around 2 hours, making it an essential accessory for longer shoots.

Low Light Performance and Optimal Settings

While the Pocket 3 features a dedicated low light mode, Bloom advises against using it due to the unsatisfactory combination of noise reduction and over-sharpening. Instead, he recommends shooting in normal profile with sharpness and noise reduction set to -2 for the best low light results.

Post-production noise reduction using neat video can further improve the footage. Bloom also suggests using D-Log M only when the scene is well-lit to avoid underexposure.

Wrapping up, Philip Bloom’s long-term review of the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 offers valuable insights for vloggers and filmmakers considering this camera. Despite some autofocus quirks and low light limitations, the Pocket 3’s impressive image quality, audio capabilities, and portability make it a top contender in its class.

Bloom’s expertise and real-world experience with the camera provide a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, helping potential buyers make an informed decision.

Photos courtesy of Philip Bloom.