How about this clever panning trick?

[scottfs]

Will this make a $50 tripod pan as well as a $5,000 one? Probably not but it's a clever idea.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fj6fMcJ18aA&feature=feedrec_grec_index

 

[JT_Productions]

Haha, very professional

 

[Alex H.]

This technique has been around, and has been posted about several times. It's a great trick, though obviously much more effective with a proper fluid head.

 

[AndrewGentle]

I like how intentional the guy is about messing up the move when he's not using the rubber band, haha

 

[scottfs]

rubber dampening

rubber dampening

I've tried it using my seventy-five dollar Vanguard still camera tripod which is light and perfect for a small camcorder, and it worked pretty well. I'll keep the hint and perhaps use it for some of my shots. I principally use my camcorder for oral histories, so there isn't any panning, but sometimes I'll scan a room or an exterior.

 

[ben_r_]

Ive seen this a few times but never tried it. Doesnt seem like a bad idea, but I doubt itll turn any $70 heads into $1500 ones!