Photographed with the DJI Osmo ActionSimple vacation videos - with the DJI Osmo Action in Panama
Reading time: 5 minutes - October 28, 2019 - by Jonas Junk, pictures and videos by Robert Krannich
The video camera as a constant companion on vacation? The days of massive camcorders are over, the market for action cams is booming! Cameras are getting smaller and lighter and are even improving their recording quality. The manufacturer DJI recently launched its first action cam on the market.
Until now, the action cam segment has been almost completely dominated by the GoPro Hero models, but with DJI's multicopter camera technology know-how, a change could be imminent.
Hands-on test of the DJI Osmo Action
We unpacked a DJI Osmo Action and took it with us on a 14-day trip to Panama. We noticed some positive and negative features and problems with the DJI Osmo Actioncam, which we would like to share with you in this article.
First of all, it must be made clear that we have all seen the DJI product videos in which the Osmo Action is presented. Breathtaking footage of skiers in deep snow, motocross racing and deep sea diving. The DJI Osmo Action is undoubtedly made for all these extreme sports, but these videos ultimately provide little reference for you as a customer who wants to document their vacation. After all, promotional videos for action cams are not created on vacation, but during an elaborate film production with professional filmmakers.
We did not miss the opportunity to produce a "real" vacation video at this point.
Vacation destination PanamaPanama as a vacation destination
A trip to Panama offers perfect conditions, as the country is extremely diverse. From white sandy beaches with palm trees, to a jungle atmosphere with volcanoes, to endless Pacific beaches with ideal conditions for surfing. The modern capital of Panama, Panama City in turn as a metropolitan city.
The two-week trip felt like three weeks due to the great variety. In short, Panama is definitely worth a trip, but see for yourself.
Strengths of the Osmo Action
Front screen of the DJI Osmo ActionFirst action cam with two screens
DJI's new Actioncam has a wealth of functions. As many videos are recorded as selfies, the Actioncam has a monitor on the front for the first time so that the image section can also be assessed when taking a selfie.
DJI writes about the two screens
"Whether it's exciting action shots or cool vlogs, with the Osmo Action's two high-quality screens you no longer have to compromise. The dynamic screen on the front of Osmo Action offers perfect selfies and captivating vlogs, while the fast screen on the back allows for highly intuitive operation. This robust and versatile action cam is a thoughtful combination of advanced technology and ease of use. Less time for complicated menus and more time for action!"
DJI Osmo Action SD cardWeaknesses of the Osmo Actioncam
In our first test during the trip, we noticed two negative points. Both relate to the operation of the camera and not the image quality.
1. the Osmo Action has a touchscreen on the back. Unfortunately, this is difficult to operate with wet hands. We are already familiar with this problem from the GoPro with touchscreen and there is probably no other technical solution. However, you can start and stop recording using the physical buttons.
2. The micro SD card is very hidden and difficult to get out. Special care should be taken here, as the small memory cards are easily lost or otherwise damaged. It is better to take one more memory card with you and change it in a safe and clean environment.
Conclusion on the Osmo Action from DJI
The two screens clearly set the DJI Osmo Action apart from existing action cams. The electronic image stabilizer "RockSteady" helps to stabilize the video, whether action-packed sports shots or panning shots on vacation. The 4k video quality of the action cam meets all requirements and the high frame rate allows for time-lapse videos.
DJI Osmo in the online store
