ProAm DVC200 Camera Crane / Jib Setup

J

jmlau

Well-known member
Hey so I have some parts that I want to put together for a crane set up. I'm planning on purchasing the ProAM DVC200 and Benro A3580F sticks. I have a spare Davis & Sanford V12 head laying around was wondering if I'd be able to combine these three for a stable crane setup with my HMC150.

Crane/Jib: http://www.bargain-camera.com/store/ProAm-R-DVC200-Camera-Crane-Jib.html
Legs: http://www.benrousa.com/products_details_A3580F
Head: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/494457-REG/Davis_Sanford_V12_V12_Fluid_Head.html
 
33lb limit on the legs, only 12lb on the head... the head doesn't sound like its going to be 'stable' like you are wanting at all. Your jib with cam, accessories and counter balance weights will probably push the 33lb mark too... I would recommend legs with a mid or floor spreader and a beefy head. You can always try it - but be careful. Weak un-counter balanced heads dont lock down very good and will tilt very easy (and fast) which may break something.
 
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You can search B&H for tripods that support 50+ lbs... Can't really tell ya which is best since I use a old film tripod on wheels i got on ebay.

This looks good as an example: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/459153-REG/Libec_T72_T72_75mm_2_Stage_Aluminum.html

If you want to add more support to the tripod you mentioned - you can get a tripod dolly, this will let you move around the jib and also prevent the legs from spreading out. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/543324-REG/VariZoom_VZ_D50_VZ_D50_Light_Duty_Dolly.html
 
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I'm also looking at the KC-Lite 8.0 crane. Their complete system doesn't look sturdy with the Davis & Sanford tripod system...does it still work, or would I probably run into the same problems as I'd have with my current setup?
 
I have the KC-12/8 with most options and to balance the 12/8 takes about 20-40 pounds. 10 pounds on the camera and accessories and 30 pounds for the structure, so roughly 80 pounds with counter weights. I think on the KC-Lite if you load it up you would be pushing 35 pounds. It is a very scary thing not to have sufficient support for your crane because you sure do not want to drop your camera. I went ahead and got the K-Pod so I could relax a little more.
 
Buy a Kessler product. You will NEVER regret it. I own a fully loaded 8/12 with a PT20 head. I often just use the 8 footer with the Ball relocater for projects and it is smooth. Their tripod and head options are also excellent, though I use a Manfrotto 528XB and Kessler Fluid Swivel and Manfrotto 159 both are older and the Kessler swivel is not made anymore . The other thing to consider is when you buy a Kessler or any pro level quality gear it keeps its value, cheaper alternatives are hard to work with most of the time. My next jib will be the Kessler Pocket Jib for sure.
IMHO
Brian
 
I habe the DVC200. Not the BEST crane, but it is still great for the price. However, I recommend paying extra to get the stand instead of tripod mount. Makes it a lot easier. Also, get the bearing inserts.
 
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