Programmable tripod/dolly/crane; focus pull, etc?

F

filmguy123

Veteran
Is there such a thing as dollies/cranes/or tripod heads that can be programmed to execute and repeat the EXACT same camera moves? And devices that can execute and repeat set focus pulls, etc.?

If so, I am guessing they are insanely expensive - how much?

Just wondering, because I see some effects shots in movies that I think must be done with a device like this, but I just wanted to confirm they are real, and how much they cost?
 
They are called "Motion Controll Systems" - basicly an programmable Industry roboter arm with a camera attached. And yes - insane expensive.

But there is a lot potential for DIY.

A Slider, a Dolly and a motorized head can be made "motion controll" pretty easy with relative cheap industry standard parts ready aviable.

A jib arm or even a crane is more complex because of the weight and momentum involved.

Frank
 
Motion Control System - awesome, thanks!

There are so many cool shots you could do with that - basically it is like having the ease of use of manipulating a tripod shot, but with a moving shot instead...

For DIY potential - any possibilities for a Tripod head, for camera pans/tilts?

And what about programmable zooms or focus adjustments, for us lay people?
 
How fast do you need the pan to be and what kind of camera are you using. There is a thread somewhere about a telescope mount that can be used as a motion control rig, all that needs to be modified is adding an L bracket but its not a very fast pan.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top