Camera Stablizing Question

C

Christopher Feder

Member
I was looking into either the Glidecam 4000 Pro with the smoother shooter or X-10 upgrade or the Indicam Pilot. I will be using it in Afghanistan to film my documentary. I am a soldier serving with the US Army. I was reading alot about the balance issues with glidecam etc. My question is this; Weather its Glidecam, Indicam, Merlin or whoever isnt there a balance process for each of them? Are there some that are easier then others? Iwant a system with a vest and arm BUT I also want to be able to just carry it like the 4000 pro. What might the pro's suggest? Also, Is there a "Quick" release for the steady cam systems like there are for tripods? If so will I have to rebalance it each time?

Chris
 
There is a different balancing process for each of the system you mentioned. Many people say that the Merlin is the simplest to balance, but I had one and it was frustrating to do (although I eventually managed). The Merlin has a dovetail QR plate that slides right off, although you'll have to make minor adjustments to get it perfectly balanced again when it comes back on.

One thing is for sure though, none of the systems are pick up and go. You should expect to put in many many hours before you can get comfortable with it. Plus these stabilizers aren't light. No matter how strong you are you'll probably only be able to run with it for five, ten minutes tops depending on the camera you're using. I would suggest more of a shoulder mounted system like the DVrig for documentary use. The footage won't be glass smooth like the stabilizers, but you'll be able to run with it for much longer periods.
 
I wouldn't recommend any of those for a doc in Afghanistan - I am assuming this means camping, being ready to go, rough conditions.

And also it's a doc ... no one expects it to look like a hollywood block buster. I'd look into shoulder support systems possibly with some kind of support stick.

If you want to stay light weight and agile, then none of the vest / sled systems are for you for this application.
 
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