Is there actually a decent DIY shoulder rig?

L

leeburnett

Active member
I've been searching and searching for plans for a DIY shoulder rig that is actually as useable and useful as some of the bought ones such as zacuto etc.

What I mean by this is a rig that has an offset for me to use my viewfinder, has the ability to add a follow focus, and is counter-balanced. I also don't want to look like a complete amateur, so attaching my camera to pvc pipes is a no-go.

The best I have found so far is this: http://nofilmschool.com/2012/12/dirt-cheap-dslr-shoulder-rig-diy-build/
BUT, because it uses threaded rod I don't know how easy it would be to attach a follow focus.

I do have money to put towards it, but if I can build one for a lot less, with the same functionality then I'm all for it.
 
there are just too many things that can go wrong with a "rigged" rig design. id rather drop $500 on an entry level rig. than spend $200 on a bunch of cobbled together mess that may or may not work in the field.

if you're strictly a hobbyist. shooting video for enjoyment. that error margin may be fine. but if you plan to invoice for your work. this is NOT an area where i'd go DIY...

sometimes DIY stuff is as good or better than manufactured gear. but that's the exception - not the rule.
 
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well I made a DIY rig that is sturdier and look just as professional as a 600$ rig. Some people are very handy and can make very professional work, just have to find the right person.
 
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I was looking at all the 15mm rod setups and pieces on Amazon the other day. Kind of seems silly to glue a lot of PVC or plywood together when the prices are what they are these days.

The people that have metal working knowledge and access to tools can do some great stuff of course. But that's a little specialized.

I will say that having a drill press (even a $90 harbor freight model) and a set of taps and appropriate bits is really handy. being able to stick threaded holes in your gear does open up a lot of possibilities.
 
I built the Ikea shoulder rig. While it was fine for a simple DSLR setup, the handles quickly buckled under the weight of the FS100 plus acc.

BUT... the base design with the curved shoulder piece and rods is pretty decent so when supported by the Tilta handles I expect it to hold out a bit more before I upgrade to a full Tilta rig.
DIY is fun, but at some point, the choice for me to go all out in buying a tested design just becomes obvious and easier to rent out.
 
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