Rig Weight?

[treynolds]

So with my rig built out it weighs in at right around 4.5lbs
This includes for most run and gun shoots
t2i
grip
tamron 18-270 (this is my go-to lens and my heaviest, most others are lighter primes)
RJ follow Focus
Manfrotto baseplate (modified to hold FF)
3" carbon rails
carryspeed veiwfinder


I was talking to a fellow operator who agreed that a heavier rig made a big difference in how steady his shooting was (both on sticks and handheld)
As an example he rented a CP.2 50mm and it seemed like the added weight of that on top of a bare t2i made everything a good bit smoother.
have you guys found that some added weight helps make your operation smoother? What does your average rig weigh?

 

[Alex H.]

There's no doubt that weight can work in your favor. The traditional shoulder-mounted cameras for ENG and EFP, as well as 16mm and 35mm film cameras with shoulder rigs, would routinely weigh in at or above 15lbs. For those accustomed to shooting with those, these little rigs can be a bit of a shock.

But it's not just a matter of weight. Balance is crucial. The aforementioned >15lb. rigs are also balanced front to back. The weight on the back side offsets the wieght of the front, meaning that the hands and forearms can be dedicated to operating the camera and not responsible for supporting it. A heavier rig, properly balanced, will suffer much less from shaking and will lend itself to much smoother hand-held work.

 

[treynolds]

I know i have recognized this with shoulder mounted setups but do you guys find this same results with a rig on sticks?