steadycam aid

[solidsnake7993]

hello hello there! so i'm about to rent the HMC-150, along with a decent microphone and all, to make a short film for my college app portfolio. anyway, i was wondering if anyone had any links to tutorials or maybe some personal experience on how to create a homemade steadycam that's compatible with the hmc150. it seems no matter what 'how-to' websites i dig up i'm always finding homemade steadycam tutorials for tiny camcorders and such (aka not compatible with a camera of this size). paying hundreds/thousands for a professional steadycam/Merlin just isn't an option right now. i just need something to keep the camera steady for moving shots/getting that 'floating' camera feel.
anyways if anyone can help me out i'd really appreciate it and i'd be willing to give you candy as reward.

 

[sagemaster]

Personally, the best place ever for finding all you need related to DIY steadicams, is here: http://hbsboard.com. I bought the Cody Deegan book on building his initial design, and have used it with limited success (due mainly to my own lack of skills) with a Canon XH-A1 and Rode NTG-2 mic. Mind you, it's a pretty ambitious and time consuming project. Hope that helps.