How to balance the camera rig on a tripod?

M

myCharlie

Well-known member
I have seen many pictures in this forum with their 35mm adapter, lens, mattebox, and camera etc. on a tripod. My question is, is there a way to shift some of the weight to the back so that it is balance on the tripod? If so, what are some of the alternatives?
 
Many thanks for a quick response.

I just ordered the Bogen 516 head with a 75mm half ball tripod. Does anyone know how far this tripod plate will allow me to slide the plate back? Would something like this be helpful for sliding the plate back a bit?
 
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Standard Bogen plates don't give alot of room to slide the longer plate is definitely a good consideration - however your rail setup will determine where your camera really sits over the tripod plate - many of the modular rails setups allow the movement of the actual tripod plate adapter on the rails to move to allow a more centered and balanced rail set up on the tripod. My Redrock set up isn't as flexible and my camera tends to be a bit more front heavy on the tripod as a result.

What kind of rails are you using?

cheno
 
I'm thinking about getting the IndiRail S Pro system with 18" rod. I'm not sure if I should get the 30" rod in case I get a 180mm Nikon lens for my Letus adapter.
 
The Cinevate rails system is designed to allow perfect fore/aft balancing. 45cm is generally more than enough for any application.
 
Yes, Dennis is right (then again he should know shouldn't he?). The Cinevate rail system has a tripod base plate that is separate from the camera base plate which allows the whole rig to slide back and forth until the right center of balance is achieved.

I researched all the systems out there and ended up choosing his specifically for the reason (not to mention it's very reasonably priced). So far, it has worked perfectly for 3 or 4 different setups I've tried it on. I've got no affiliation with Cinevate other than being a very satisfied customer.

I'll try and post some close up pictures of what I am talking about first chance I get.

Cheers,
 
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