How to Change Settings on DJI Osmo Action 4
The DJI Osmo Action 4 gives you a fast, touchscreen-driven way to control video, photo, and system settings for different shooting conditions.
This guide explains where each key setting lives so you can adjust the camera confidently and get better results in the field.
Before you start: know the main control areas
Most settings on the DJI Osmo Action 4 are changed from the live view screen.
You will typically use one of three paths: the quick settings panel, the full camera settings menu, or the mode-specific options tied to video, photo, or timelapse capture.
- Touchscreen: the primary way to open menus and change settings.
- Shutter/record button: starts and stops capture, and can confirm some actions.
- Mode switch: changes between shooting modes such as video, photo, and slow motion.
If you prefer, many settings can also be adjusted through the DJI Mimo app on a smartphone, which is useful for remote control and firmware-related changes.
How to open the settings menu
From the live view screen, swipe down from the top edge to open the control panel.
This is where you usually find core functions such as screen lock, voice control, Wi-Fi, brightness, and some quick access items.
To reach deeper settings, tap the gear icon or settings option on the camera interface.
Depending on the current mode, you may see tabs for resolution, frame rate, image stabilization, audio, exposure, and general system preferences.
Quick settings versus full settings
Quick settings are best for fast changes while filming.
Full settings are better when you want to adjust image quality, color profiles, or storage behavior before a shoot.
- Quick settings: brightness, lock screen, connection options, and shortcut controls.
- Full settings: resolution, FPS, bitrate, RockSteady, color, ISO, white balance, and formatting.
How to change video settings
Video is the most common use case for the Osmo Action 4, and the most important settings are tied to picture quality and motion handling.
Open video mode, then tap the settings icon to edit the active recording profile.
Resolution and frame rate
Resolution determines detail, while frame rate affects motion smoothness and the look of movement.
Common options include 4K and lower resolutions, with frame rates such as 24, 30, 50, 60, or higher depending on the mode.
- 4K 24fps: cinematic motion.
- 4K 30fps: general-purpose recording.
- 4K 60fps: smoother action footage.
- High frame rates: better for slow motion and fast movement.
Stabilization settings
DJI’s electronic stabilization helps reduce shake during handheld or action shooting.
In the Action 4, look for stabilization options such as RockSteady and HorizonSteady, depending on the shooting mode and resolution.
Use stronger stabilization for sports, biking, or walking footage.
If you want a wider field of view or plan to stabilize footage later in editing, choose the setting that preserves more image area.
Color and image profile
The camera may offer color profiles such as Normal and D-Log M, which affect how footage looks and how much flexibility you have in post-production.
Normal is ready to share quickly, while log-style profiles are better for color grading.
- Normal: faster workflow, less editing required.
- D-Log M: more flexibility for editing and matching footage.
Exposure controls
For manual control, adjust ISO, shutter speed, and white balance.
These settings are useful in challenging lighting, especially when shooting indoors, at sunset, or in mixed light.
- ISO: controls sensor sensitivity; keep it as low as practical to reduce noise.
- Shutter speed: affects motion blur and exposure.
- White balance: keeps colors natural under different lighting conditions.
How to change photo settings
Switch to photo mode to adjust still-image settings.
The menu will typically focus on image size, exposure behavior, and shooting behavior rather than video-specific controls.
To change photo settings, tap the settings icon while in photo mode and select the options that match your subject.
If you are shooting landscapes, prioritize color accuracy and dynamic range.
For quick snapshots, use simpler settings and leave exposure on automatic.
Common photo options to check
- Photo resolution: larger files for more detail and cropping flexibility.
- Exposure mode: auto or manual depending on the scene.
- Timer or burst options: helpful for selfies, group shots, and action timing.
How to change audio settings
Audio matters more on an action camera than many users expect, especially for vlogs, interviews, and ambient sound.
In the audio section, you can usually manage microphone behavior, wind reduction, and any supported external mic input.
If you shoot outdoors, enable wind noise reduction when available.
For clearer voice capture, position yourself closer to the camera and test sound before recording important clips.
- Built-in mic: convenient for quick recording.
- Wind reduction: useful for cycling, beach shooting, and open-air use.
- External microphone support: better vocal clarity for talking-head content.
How to change display and button settings
The DJI Osmo Action 4 also lets you adjust how the camera behaves physically, not just how it records.
These settings can improve usability in bright light, underwater use, or fast-paced shooting.
Screen brightness and orientation
Increase screen brightness when shooting outdoors so you can frame shots more easily.
You can also review orientation-related options if you mount the camera in unusual positions.
Touch and lock controls
Locking the screen helps prevent accidental taps during recording.
This is especially useful when the camera is mounted on a helmet, handlebar, or tripod.
- Screen lock: prevents accidental changes.
- Auto screen off: saves battery life.
- Rotation options: useful for vertical or unconventional mounting.
How to change wireless and connection settings
In the connection or wireless menu, you can manage Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and app pairing features.
These settings are important if you want to transfer footage quickly or control the camera from your phone.
To connect to DJI Mimo, enable wireless pairing and follow the prompts in the app.
Once paired, you can review files, change camera settings remotely, and update firmware when needed.
When to use the app
- Remote shooting from a distance.
- Faster settings changes on a larger phone screen.
- File transfer and firmware management.
How to change storage and formatting settings
Storage settings help prevent recording errors and keep the camera running smoothly.
Use the format option carefully, because formatting erases files on the card.
Before an important shoot, check available space, confirm the card is recognized, and format the microSD card only after backing up anything you want to keep.
A high-quality card rated for fast video recording is essential for stable performance.
- Format card: clears the card and prepares it for recording.
- Auto file organization: helps manage clips efficiently.
- Remaining capacity: monitor before long sessions.
How to save time by using presets
Presets are one of the easiest ways to avoid changing settings from scratch every time you shoot.
You can create or select presets for different scenarios such as travel, sports, indoor recording, or social media clips.
Start with one setup for wide-action daylight shooting and another for low-light or indoor use.
That way, you only need a few taps to switch between common scenarios.
- Travel preset: balanced quality and battery use.
- Action preset: high stabilization and high frame rate.
- Vlog preset: face-friendly framing and audio-focused settings.
How to reset settings if something goes wrong
If the camera behaves unexpectedly, a settings reset can fix menu errors, connection issues, or a configuration you no longer want.
Look for the reset or restore defaults option in the system settings area.
Use reset as a troubleshooting step after checking simpler fixes such as battery level, microSD card health, and firmware version.
If the camera is still not responding correctly, restarting and updating firmware through DJI Mimo may help.
Best practices for changing settings on DJI Osmo Action 4
To get reliable results, change settings before recording rather than mid-shoot whenever possible.
Test one adjustment at a time so you understand how it affects image quality, battery life, and file size.
- Check mode first, then adjust the matching settings.
- Use automatic exposure when speed matters.
- Use manual control when lighting is consistent.
- Match stabilization to the activity.
- Keep firmware updated for the latest features and fixes.
Once you understand the menu layout, how to change settings on DJI Osmo Action 4 becomes a fast routine rather than a trial-and-error process.