Whats this for?

[hellboy80]

I noticed this in a many behind the scenes videos - somebody is carrying a grid alongside the camera. For example here:
http://www.traileraddict.com/trailer/the-american/b-roll-i (at 0:40)
Is this because of lens flare?

 

[Alex H.]

Windbreak for the Steadicam.

 

[j]

Correct. And it's a "net" Specifically a 4x double. (unless "grid" is an east coast or some other country term..)

 

[hellboy80]

Oh, net... I dont know the exact english terminology, i I just wanted to know whats the function of it in this situation... So, windbreak for the Steadicam - never heard of it

 

[j1clark@ucsd.edu]

Oh, net... I dont know the exact english terminology, i I just wanted to know whats the function of it in this situation... So, windbreak for the Steadicam - never heard of it

Since I don't work in the biz, I was momentarily mystified by the usage, as the screen was not directed to do anything for 'light' on the subject, and since it was a 'see through' mesh, it didn't seem likely to eliminate any stray glare from the snow coming into the camera... then it occured to me that it was to make a barrier for the camera operator in a windy situation. You can hear the wind in the mic on the BTH camera.

 

[MeAgain]

It's nice to know that professional shoots seems just as awkward as mine during filming.