One Year with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3: A Travel Photographer’s Perspective

7 Jan

After a year of traveling the world with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, I can confidently say it’s been a game-changer for my vlogging workflow. Compact, capable, and convenient, this tiny pocket camera has become an essential travel companion. However, as much as I’ve grown to love it, there are a few quirks worth noting after extended use. Let’s dive into the five things I love about it and a few downsides I’ve encountered.

What I Love About the Osmo Pocket 3

Exceptional Audio Quality
The included microphone in the Creative Combo is a standout feature. It delivers clear, crisp audio and is incredibly easy to set up. Unlike bulkier microphone systems, this mic syncs instantly, sparing me from tedious setups. Whether it’s casual vlogging or quick street interviews, I know I’m getting high-quality sound every time.
Reliable Face Tracking
The face tracking on the Pocket 3 is outstanding. I no longer have to constantly check the screen to ensure I’m in the frame—it just works. Whether I’m walking down a bustling street or filming b-roll, this feature gives me the confidence to focus on storytelling, not framing.
Impressive Dynamic Range
Straight out of the camera, the footage looks vibrant and well-balanced. The dynamic range captures details in both highlights and shadows, and the color profile requires minimal grading. For quick-turnaround projects, this has been a lifesaver, allowing me to post nearly daily during my travels.
Low-Light Performance
The Pocket 3’s 1-inch sensor shines in low-light scenarios. Nighttime vlogging or capturing dimly lit street scenes has been a joy, producing clean, usable footage without excessive grain. The dedicated low-light mode is a handy addition that’s been surprisingly effective.
Ultimate Portability
True to its name, the Osmo Pocket 3 slips easily into a pocket, making it ideal for travel. Its lightweight build means I can carry it everywhere without feeling weighed down. Paired with its solid battery life, it’s always ready for a full day of shooting.

The Downsides

Despite its strengths, the Pocket 3 isn’t perfect. Here are a few quirks that stood out over the year:

Fragile Build
The gimbal head feels delicate, requiring careful handling. While it comes with a protective case, I’m always conscious of potential damage, especially when tossing it into a bag. It’s not an action camera, so durability is limited.
Startup Lag
Occasionally, the camera takes a bit too long to power on. In fast-moving situations, this delay can mean missing the perfect shot.
Not Weather-Sealed
One major downside is the lack of weather sealing. For a travel camera, this can be limiting, especially in rainy or dusty environments. I often find myself extra cautious about exposure to the elements, which sometimes disrupts my workflow.
Vertical Mode Glitches
Shooting vertical videos for social media can sometimes be finicky, with the camera not always switching modes smoothly. It’s a minor issue but worth mentioning.

Final Thoughts

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has redefined how I approach vlogging and travel filmmaking. Its portability and ease of use make it a no-brainer for anyone looking to create high-quality content on the go. While it’s not without its flaws, the pros far outweigh the cons, especially if you prioritize storytelling and efficiency over having the most rugged or cinematic gear.

That said, when I’m not traveling, it tends to gather dust—this camera is best suited for life on the move. For travel vloggers or casual creators, it’s a fantastic investment that simplifies the creative process without compromising on quality.

If you’ve been considering the Pocket 3, I hope this review helps you decide.