Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

M

meddesigner

Active member
Hi -

Hope Pookie is around to give his input on this but others are more than welcome. I want to mount a DVX-100a with a Chrosziel DV Sunshade with 2 4x4 filters. There will be no rods.

I was looking at the GC 4000 when it was pointed out the weight would be a problem for the long hall. With that in mind the company is introducing a new product at NAB called the Smooth Shooter which is a body mount stabilization that can be used in conjunction with the 2000 or 4000.

So does this appear to be a good option or is there good shoulder mount system that can also give good results. I want to achieve the ability to:

1. Have good looking shots withoutthe need for a tri-pod.
2. Be moble.
3. Be able to shoot while in motion w/o the camera jumping all around.

Will be making:
1. Medical videos - in the ED, in the field, in the trauma bays, in the halls of the medical center, etc..
2. My own "movies" - for what that's worth.

Any other options. This setup appears to be about $1,800. I can afford it but want to spend wisely on tools that can help meet the needs of the job.

Thanks for any advice -
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

Actually, I tried out the rig during the final design phase, and I'm quite impressed.

Considering the cost (especially compaired to the higher end Steadicams), it's a very good investment.
Now, it's not a running rig with only one arm, but walking shots are very smooth, and it's quite light.

For the type of shots you describe, and your budget, I think it would suit your needs admirably.
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

Thanks for the quick reply. One more quick question -

Is this type of rig really hard to master or does it just take some practice and patience to get the hang of it?

Thanks -
Richard in Nashville
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

Practice and patience......more or less.

Give yourself a few weeks to get the "feel", you'll get some nice shots, and many duds.
But as with anything, practice is the key.
And time.


btw, I'm talking about the Smooth Shooter here.

As you move up the food chain of Steadicam's, with a 20 pound load on the sled, then you are talking some serious work to figure out without damaging something, or someone.
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

anyone know where i can see a pic of the smooth shooter or get some product info? i checked on line and found nothing.
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

It look quite well done, and the price is more realistic for DV users. ;)
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

yeah it does look pretty neat and well designed.

[quote author=pookie link=board=Links;num=1109298233;start=0#1 date=02/24/05 at 19:04:12]Now, it's not a running rig with only one arm, but walking shots are very smooth, and it's quite light.[/quote]

So you litterally wouldn't be able to do a stable running shot with the unit?  how about stairs?
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

Made that home-built steady device the NYC guy designed.
One of the components is a barbell weight. Plan on doing a lot of curls with a dumbell if you use that. Very heavy for anything but a short shot. It is rusting in peace in the garage.
Moved up a notch with purchase of Steadytracker. Quick to balance and set up,---but heavy load with the DVX plus battery and maybe onboard light. Am going to have to do strengthening exercises if I want to continue using that product. Shoulder, back and lover elbow pain!
If I had it to do again I would have spent the extra for the GC4000. But I can't,--so will perfect skill with Steadytracker.
BTW all of these gizmoz have a learning curve. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
 
Re: Glidecam 4000 w/ Smooth Shooter or...

Hey pookie,
I am a new proud owner of the Glidecam V8. Never used it in my life. I am having it ship monday (Feb 28, 2005) won't get it by the end of the week.

Is there any advice you can give for a newbie?
 
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