Event shooters...some questions

C Walker

C Walker

Well-known member
1. Ever get tired of holding the camera? I know I do. What are the cool kids using for shoulder support?

2. Was going to get a lens extender, but for $1000...no thanks. Any suggestions here? Other than "Move closer."

3. Steadicam device or tripod dolly? A Manfrotto dolly is certainly the less expensive option, BUT that means I have to have the tripod. As my fellow event shooters know, that's not always an option. So, what's a cost-effective steadicam device?

Thanks people!
 
Your arms?

1. Have you thought about a monopod? There is also the spider-brace. I think it's lame but others i've known have liked it. You just don't get any access to controls, and there is no back weight, so it doesn't put as much weight on your shoulders as it should (mind you I tried it with a HVX, YMMV with a DVX) There are other shoulder rigs out there... google it. hint: look at Varizoom.

2. Unfortunately a drawback of the DVX is short zoom range compared to say an XL2.

3. If you can't afford an extender, I don't think you could afford a Merlin ($800 last I checked) which seems to be the standard for decent handheld stabilization for budget shooters.

Sidebar - Part of being a great shooter is learning proper balance and stamina to hold it for long periods. Bracing the camera on your body in different positions and using your other arm, your stance, etc will all help you hold it longer. Be sure you are exercising often and staying in shape!

If you are doing handheld work for events, I would imagine it's as part of a multicamera shoot, and you are getting the close ups. This should mean that your shots will be limited... if you are meant to hold it for longer, or shooting solo, than you should get on sticks! They do make quick release plates so you can hop on and of sticks super fast.

Does that help?
 
1. A monopod might be the solution actually, and I've never considered it for a video camera, weird. Fitness is not a problem ;), however you're right about losing controls with shoulder support and I'm definitely not cool with that. Varizoom might be a solution as well.

2. Yeah, I know. I used a TV station's XL2 for several months and liked it, but the DVX fit the bill much better so I'll probably bite the bullet and buy an extender. I'll look for a used one.

3. I'll look into a Merlin, thanks!

All in all, it's really not a big deal, I'm just comparing options. I have a Bogen 190XDB with a 501 fluid head. Which is why I'm considering a dolly, but that has limitations as well. I don't like limitations! As of now, I do solo-cam event stuff with a wedding coming up. I'd love to get another DVX, but I have to admit the zoom on the XL2 would be handy. I just don't like shooting with to different cameras and then balance them in post.

Thanks for the reply!
 
Actually, even though I'm a steadicam pilot operator, I'm thinking of investing in a good monopod for those strenuous Catholic weddings that kill me when I stand with the rig for a super long time. After a while I couldn't do a decent lockdown shot without wavering from fatigue after an hour.

Does anybody have recommendations for a good monopod that won't break the bank? Or perhaps something like the "Jesus Pole" that isn't so expensive?
 
Here's the el-cheapo but very effective approach.

Buy a really cheap monopod - just need to make sure you can fit it to the camera. A long handle on the monopod can be really useful. Buy a soft elastic or rubber belt and put it on with a cell phone pouch right at the front - this will be a holder for the base of your your monopod. You could also get a flagbearers belt t its really overkill. Don't extend the monopod - leave it at it's shortest length, mount your camera and place the bottom of the monopod in the cellphone case. It should be nicely supported by the rubber/elastic belt - your camera should be at a really nice height - adjust the monopod to suit. Now for extra stability place the strap that comes with the dvx100 around your neck. You now have 3 points of support - belt, nexk, and your hand on the monopod. You can use it all day and night, no extra weight and it will be quite smooth if you half extend your arm while walking - using the belt for a bit of resistance.

I wouldn't shoot the ceremony or key elements of the reception without a tripod - but this will work for everything else.

Phil
 
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