Steadicam....I know I know

Make sure that the scuba weight used will correctly counter balance your specific camera/accessories. The side to side adjustment is a plus with the bottom weight (looks like the suba weight does this). You may need to have more/less weight at the bottom depending on what camera/accessories you are using.

The Gimbal (handle part) only moves in one direction which might make it a little more difficult to get a steady shot. You might want to check out homebuiltstabilizers.com for ideas and modifications.

Here is one that I built some time ago.

With that being said... if you are building this thing for the hero-fest and are a bit rushed, I would just build it and make it work. With some practice and a few takes, I think pretty much any design can make a reasonably steady shot. I know the feeling by the way. I am rushing to finish my DIY 35mm adapter and a few other small pieces of equipment for hero-fest. It's crazy, but a great way to learn. Good luck in the fest!
:)

Oh yea, if you have problems getting a steady shot, try using both hands with your arms forming a diamond shape between your body and the stabilizer. One hand on the handle and the other on the stabilizer itself. The hand one the stabilizer itself should be a very light hold, maybe even a finger and thumb... just to aid in keeping a fluid movement.
 
Wow thanks Sno dart more then I could ask for AWESOME! I am going to look into other stabilizer options as well and thinking about a way to mount that weight so its a little better. Not sure if I will be able to access a scuba weight.
 
I have those plans, I bought it about a year ago. I forgot I had those plans! Must look for them.
 
No prob JwrFord. I would probably use something other than the scuba weight if you can. You could use gym weights with the larger diameter inside hole. The inside hole is big enough that with a bolt, washer, and wing nut; you can adjust the weights side-to-side around the bolt to balance the rig. I'm not sure what monitor you will be using, but if it is heavy and hangs off the side, the weights might not be able to be adjusted far enough to balance ... so keep that in mind.

You both should check out these plans also for a DIY body-mounted rig (steadicam style).

http://codydeegan.com/

I bought them for $40 or so, and they are great plans. I will be building it once hero-fest is over. I changed my camera set up and now have the DVX, a 35mm adapter, follow focus, and varizoom monitor. I still use my hand held with my new cam set up, but WOW it gets heavy. Anyway, with the full rig, the weight won't be a problem anymore since the arm is designed to carry the load. Just FYI.

Good luck.
 
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