Which Glidecam should we use....

A

ahmedmalik

Active member
With these attachments on the HVX?

24mm lens Nikon Lens
P+S 35mm adapter
Base plate with rods

I've been told that a Glidecam smooth shooter can't support the weight. What about a GlideCam V-8? Would we also need a wireless follow focus
for this setup?

Additionally, how would this setup do for night time shooting? We're planning on going atop the roof of a Brooklyn building to try and get the NYC skyline in the shot, but we don't have much of a budget for any lighting.

Thanks!
 
I presume you don't have the budget for a Steadicam Flyer?

Yes you will need a remote folow focus system if you are shootign with 35mm lenses. Look to budget about $4k and up for a decent one channel system. You may want a 2nd channel to control Iris too depending on teh circumstances of your shot, which shoulds like it woudl be chalenging.

Keep in mind that whatever stabilizing solution you choose, it will take some practice ([at least!] a few monthes) before you'll be able to reliably perform most basic shots. Also consider the option of hiring a Steadicam Operator with their gear to perform the shot(s), You'll save both time and money on and off the set. Same goes for the AC/Focus/Iris Puller.

- Mikko
 
By the way, you might also want to take a look at a Sachtler Artemis PRO DV.

From what I've seen online of this, it all looks very nicely engineered. The vest also mounts the arm at the rear, which I understand is a back-saver.

That said, I also had a chance to "fly" the Steadicam Flyer and it handled very nicely. Seemed a lot more comfortable than either the Glidecam V16 or V25.
 
DCSensui said:
The vest also mounts the arm at the rear, which I understand is a back-saver.
Click to expand...
This is a common misconception. It is easier to build a "front mount" vest that works properly and is comfterble than it is to build a "back mount" vest that works.

Due to their design of bypassing the body's natrual support system, back-mount vests are very personal and must be correct to prevent pain, and possible injury.

The Sachtler back-mount vests I have used I have found very uncomfteble. This is not to say that they won't work for anyone, but that you have to be the right shape for a Sachtler back-mount vest to work. This is why most Pro Steadicam operators who choose to use back-mount vests, have vests that have been custom built to their shape.


Not that it won't work for you, but a back-mount vest is not an instant ticket to a "comfterble" vest. Most profesional operators use front mount vests.

It is always recomendable to try out any, and as many as possible, system(s) with proper guidance before you buy.

- Mikko
 
If you don't use the P&S you'll gain a couple stops of light in addition to needing a lighter ie cheaper steadicamlike rig. Besides don't you get infinity focus at about 8 feet with a 24mm? Good Luck.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top