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Hey gang! After having countless discussions on set about how to train for what we do, I decided to put together an article which outlines in detail; how to train and condition our bodies for the demands we face on set as Camera and Steadicam Operators! Please take a moment to check it out. Share it with fellow Ops! https://www.daviddesiocinematography.com/blog

This arm was purchased new in 2014. It has been my personal arm ever since and was never abused, and it still works great. It went back for service in late 2019, and has been remarkably trouble-free through its life, only having one part fail, which was replaced under warranty. The arm includes all 8 canisters, which means it can carry any loads between 13 and 72 pounds. This has come in quite handy for carrying both small cameras on little rigs, as well as fully built 35mm camera packages. I am also including quite a few spares, tools, brand new parts, and upgrades, which you can easily swap in. I am including several of my own precision-machined Stainless Steel arm posts, which are much stronger and tougher than the original aluminum versions. The arm has special neoprene rubber bumpers on the center section to prevent vibration from moving down the arm when running, and rubber grip tape on the bones of the arm to allow for better grip, especially in cold climates or with sweaty hands. The arm also has an updated arm post friction system, which allows the arm post to be tightened more easily (with a tools-free Kipp handle) as well as having more friction available via a custom-machined sleeve inside of the arm. With a half turn of the Kipp handle, the arm post goes from completely free to fully locked, and can be set anywhere in between at a moments notice. This arm sells new (even with GPI PRO’s recent price drops) for $21,500, and it still works as well as it did when it was new. I’ve even heard an operator with a PRO arm call mine “an especially good one”. I’m asking $18,000 or best offer for the full package, which is in line with recent sales - these arms do not lose much value, and hold up exceedingly well over time. Email me for more info. Tom.Wills.Soc@gmail.com Includes: GPI PRO Titan Arm Chassis # 639 4x Blue Canisters 4x Black Canisters 6” Arm Post w/ 2 Collars 8” Arm Post w/ 2 Collars 12” Arm Post w/ 2 Collars Spare Rod Ends and Screws for Socket Block (brand new) QR Pin for Socket Block Adapter (allows for quick switching from regular to goofy) 7 Spare Pivot Nuts (a part often lost if it loosens up in travel) 2 Spare Canister Pins Kit of standard spare parts (washers, clips, etc…) 2 PRO Arm Tools Soft Bag for Arm Soft Bag for Canisters PRO Arm 5/32” wrench

Selling my back up X1 arm, hasn't been used and have decided to move it on. 9000USD or best offer. Don't wait and get a brand new arm without the wait. Comes in a custom case with lowmode bracket. Can ship worldwide at buyers expense. Arm located in Australia

Selling my Betz Wave, only reason is because I have 2 of them! I absolutely love these things. this one is coming straight back from Germany from service so it’s gonna be in tip top shape. comes with a pelican case i don’t have an extra betz plate but I believe they’re probably easy to order. asking 5500$

This arm formerly belonged to Larry McConkey. It is a Master series arm, and it has been slightly modified from stock with some Seitz modifications - mostly upgraded trunions in the arm. It carries about 65 pounds of weight at the top end of its range, and about 37 pounds at the bottom. This arm will allow you to carry pretty much any camera build you could be asked to fly, and it does it with ease. The arm is very smooth, and quite iso-elastic. I have flown it with a relatively heavy sled and it performs as well as I’ve ever felt a Master/Ultra arm to fly. Includes a 5” .740” (Tiffen) arm post, and can be easily adapted with other arm posts to fit other sleds, including PRO/XCS/Artemis standard 5/8”. Highly prefer local buyers in the NYC/NJ/PA area, as this arm does have a bit of a learning curve for setting it up properly, and getting the most out of it. Asking $4500 plus shipping if applicable. Contact me at willsvideo@gmail.com if you're interested.

Good morning. The Zalex group of accessories started in 1992 with the prototype of a Broadcast video camera low-mode plate. First tested at the Steadicam Workshops in Rockport, Maine, it showed great promise and inspired efforts to make bits that serve my needs. Since that first effort, parts have emerged such as an overhauled Model I/II/III/IIIA Vest, drop-forged steel docking bracket for older sleds, the Longplate, LensLift lens support system, Tally Light Kit, Arm Repo Mount and other items. The full complement of Zalex accessories can be found at our website: https://www.zalex-products.com We’re pleased to share that we have just taken delivery of another 60 Longplates. The Zalex Longplate fits all stages from all manufacturers. There are currently over 350 Longplates in use worldwide. This is the longest, thickest and therefore most rigid, dovetail plate available. Some of the benefits of flying with the Longplate include: º Comes with hardware that allows an Alex/ Amira/ Venice/ Sony camera to be mounted directly to the plate. Stop using a VCT-type of plate and mount right to the Longplate. º Slotted to allow for mounting of 15mm rod clamps for follow-focus, Talent Monitors, lights and other accessories. º Pairs well with the LensLift support system. º Notched for the safety bolt used by some models of GPI/PRO, XCS and Sachtler/ Artemis sleds. º Fully slotted for 3/8-16 lockdown screws, the Longplate kit includes adaptors that allow for ¼-20 screw use as well. º Readily locks into a tripod adaptor to save time on sled-to-sticks turnaround. In addition to the Longplate, the Longplate-M fits the Tiffen Medium Stage sleds. These includes the Archer 2, Zephyr and Scout. Email me for pricing and shipping information at: peter@steadicamproductionservices.com Fly safe !! Peter Abraham, S.O.C.

Selling my extra LX vest with large socket block. QC’d by Tiffen and pads fully hand washed in March. No tears or defects. Comes with carrying bag. In great shape. $1,700 shipped. (*US ground shipping or I'll take off $50 for international buyers; buyer pays shipping)

Betz Wave For Sale Excellent condition. Comes with - 1x Tripodlokplate by Betz-Tools 1x power cable 1x Dovetailplate by Betz-Tools 1x Travel Case USD$6000 include shipping (Exclude insurance, tax and bank charges) Located in Singapore Interested Kindly PM to discuss

New style M2 SledCover Waterproof Lightweight Material Zipper Front for easy installation. WrapSnap closure around post Cable inlets Leg room for bigger batteries Can also be built for slim battery setups Rear battery access YKK Zipper System BongoTies / Pouch $265

Bump

Hello everyone! I'm selling my Tiffen Master Vest and 3A Arm. I purchased everything last year in July along with my first sled to get into steadicam. Now I upgraded to different equipment. Steadicam IIIA arm (incl. free spin post, allen key, and transportation bag) - 3500€ payload ~25kg-55lb The arm was serviced before I bought it last year and works fine. On the outside it has usage marks and scratches which do not affect the performance. Tiffen Master series vest (incl. transportation bag) - 2000€ The pads were new when I bought the vest last year, so they're still in very good condition. The rest has clearly visible usage marks and scratches as shown in the picture. If you want to buy both, I'm offering it as a bundle for 4500€ (with a custom made bag fitting arm and vest) Shipping worldwide at expense of the buyer. Located in Berlin, Germany.

Steadicam Training Videos In the summer of 2022, I found myself sitting at a cottage (not my idea) in the midst of COVID, watching Youtube videos about how to operate a Steadicam. The most clear and concise video is the original Steadicam SK training video: Despite its age and the fact the original Steadicam SK is a single bone arm, I learned a lot from it. Another really key instructional video was the Steadicam EFP training tape: Again, really helpful information. What I didn't have at this cottage was the actual Steadicam rig, I was still repairing it. I think that would have really helped to practice while watching these videos. What really impressed me about these original videos was that they started with basic information, yet imparted expertise that many "beginner" YouTube videos don't. You can see by the way the evolution of the components of Steadicam, if not from the design, the manufacturing and cost reduction over the years. In the SK video, they go over the already simplified vest (that is missing the quick release rip cord functionality shown in the EFP video) and I could see how my Flyer vest was further cost reduced to remove parts while retaining the core functionality.

This XCS HD2 Sled along with a brand new Walter Klassen harness-vest was purchased with the intent of assembling a high quality rig; regrettably a knee injury sidelined me before I could complete my mission. Mr. G Bubb of XTended Camera Support worked with me on the purchase and can be contacted for confirmation. I paid $42.5K for the gear, and Am looking to recoup as much of the money spent. Only serious buyers need reply. All respectful and reasonable offers will be considered and the best will will be accepted. Reach out and we can exchange private email info Respectfully, J R Renaud

Hi all! selling my Tiffen Ultra2 Sled for $15000usd. Comes with Transvideo 8” Monitor, case, and custom made CrampedAttic 3rd battery plate. Buyer pays shipping No it does not come with pristine dabbing dog patch

Hi Max Rever has been on the market for many years, and Luciano -the owner- is very active with all his clients, asking questions into the forum or being attentive to any after-sales service, which is always a great sign. I tried out his new post and the new Rever band arm (The arm is really smooth and strong to lift any heavy camera setup), All I can tell you are positive things. Just my 2 cent Gus

Thank you Gus!! Your reply may be great help to me. I was unsure which volt gimbal to buy. And your advice made a way to go. Thank you so much Have great day!!

Hi James, I sent you 2 DMs

The Bingo Plate is a universal Steadicam dovetail that works with ALL Steadicam manufacturers (Pro, XCS, Tiffen, Betz, Sachtler) and builds - from the smallest cameras to the largest ones. Rarely are we given a perfectly balanced camera. With 14 years of Steadicam experience, I knew that having more flexibility with left and right adjustments was a necessity. Nothing is more frustrating and time-consuming than having the AC pull apart the build, move motors, transmitters, etc, just so you can balance the rig. Most operators with whom I spoke, including myself, do not like having their top stage fully maxed to either side just to offset the weight up top. No more Jenga Tower builds! Works with all Steadicams. Once again, pulling from my knowledge as a Steadicam Operator and countless conversations with other operators and camera assistants, I knew that making the plate modular was important. Most plates presently on the market are quite limited. I wanted to give operators as many mounting options as possible so they could build and mount accessories exactly how they wanted. The Bingo plate allows for multiple configurations using the standard 15mm iris rod bracket and an Arri style single-hole iris round mount. Please see link below for more pics / technical specs. https://jbsteadicam.com/online-store/ols/products/steadicam-bingo-plate

Yo Clean! If you speak of the post that goes in the arm and gimbal handle I have never experienced any issues with Aluminum. So no need for me.

I do have these that I got from Charles recently. 1_Steadicam Model 1 brochure.pdf 1_Steadicam Model 1 brochure.pdf 2_Steadicam Model III brochure.pdf 3_Steadicam Model IIIA brochure.pdf 4_Steadicam EFP brochure.pdf

Hi Mathis, Dig through the picture and history archives section of this forum. You’ll find a lot there. Additionally, I’m not sure how many old heads still hang out here. There are however two big Steadicam groups on Facebook. If you can get the attention of Charles Papert or Erwin Landau or Peter Abraham, I think those three have some of the most extensive archives for what you’re looking for. Best of luck!

I guess i need to add that the wheels in the picture aren't for sale, as well as anything else you may see in these pictures (bike, dead plants, etc.)

@Jennie Jeddry SOC, a friend of mine wanted me to let you know he sent you a a direct message here on the forum with interest in buying your gimbal.

Hi all; I've got a new vendor and all stocked up again with plates. I've even got a couple of new holes in the edges so that you can configure the posts in many ways, rather than just the four corners. I've got some good pricing, probably a bit better deal. Pictures to follow. Janice Have a wonderful 2024 after an horrendous 2023.

Sold

Black Friday. In all seriousness i feel like it's a fair price for all involved.

That's amazing. Harrowing tale of good people doing the right thing! A fun read, too!

*sold*

After a couple of request for individual items, I will entertain offers on splitting the kit.

Sold

Jerry Hill Mag Dock fork only for sale. Great condition, 2” opening (used it with my 1.5” Pro sled with docking ring). Use it with docking assembly or add teal stud receiver (from Jerry Hill) to have an extra place to land on a cart or Moses Pole. Great condition. New strike price: $190

Selling a Flowcine XR3ach in new condition. Great bit of kit but no longer required. Photos attached. Buyer pays shipping. Australia based. 6k USD

I'm sorry the vest didn't work for you - let me know if you need any help in re-selling the vest.

It's time to part with my Zephyr. This rig has served me well but I have since upgraded and do not need it around anymore. The rig is in great condition and I've added some nice pieces to the kit over the years. Price: $7,000 OBO + buyer pays shipping Rig is located in Seattle. Local pickup preferred of course, but I'm happy to ship within the US. It all fits in one Thermodyne case quite neatly. SLED: Steadicam Zephyr sled (AB mount) - Digital Horizon Leveler for the Marshall monitor. This thing is very handy and helps keep the horizons on point for both the x and y. They do not make these anymore and this is the only leveler I've ever seen of this type. - Larger Skymagic Gimbal wrap - Skymagic monitor yoke, easier to manipulate than the original (but will include the original bracket as well) - Steadicam dovetail ARM: Steadicam Zephyr Arm - Payload of 30 lbs, I've flown Amira, Alexa mini, RED, Canon, Sony on this sled with no problems. I never pushed the arm to it's limit VEST: Zephyr vest - Comfortable vest! EXTRAS: - (2x) 4 pin xlr to 3 pin lemo camera power (1 short, 1 longer) - Alexa power cable to lemo - RED power cable to lemo - lemo to d-tap breakout - Low mode monitor bracket - Walter Klassen Hardmount bracket for Zephyr (just need doughty clamp to rig to a rickshaw or speedrail) - Cam Jam low mode monitor bracket Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Don't buy cheap power cables from an unknown source. They are unreliable and can end up causing damage to your sled or the camera. Be it knockoff connectors, the wrong gauge wire or worse, incorrectly wired, if they're cheap, there is a reason. Cableflexer (https://www.cableflexer.com) makes incredible quality cables of all types. In fun colors too if you want. Greg Bubb at XCS (http://www.xcsinc.com/) also does. Terry West (in California) and David Hable (in Canada) also make cables, but I've never purchased any from them.

Thank you Tim.

Hello everyone, How do I deal with a member ( KAPIL VERMA) that asks me on the forum about the Wave 1 that I have for sale since July 19 2023 and then I find out that he puts an Add on the Facebook group Steadicam Gear: RENT | SELL | WANT TO BUY on August 14 2023 , with the same pictures I took stating that the gear is in India? The Wave is with me, but some one is about to get scammed. I believe his account should be banned. Is confrontation the best option with scammers?

Preston Kit Used but in Fair condition Full presotn kit. -HU3 , side hand grip, zoom bracket, 5 pre marked rings, 3 blank -MDR2 , 2 x aerials -Microforce module with all brackets -Radio Microforce Module -10 x batteries -3 motors 2 x DM2 1 x DM1x -10 motors gears (various ) - 10 motor shims (various) -3 x motor brackets -Cinetape Interface Cable - 1 x charger - various power and zoom cables 5 x motor servo cables -Various command. cables -Custom PeliCase 1600 Any questions welcome. More photos also if needed. Located in the UK but will ship anywhere, Buyer pays all shipping costs. £12,000 plus VAT. Pounds Sterling Only. Selling for a friend so enquiries to Rob Hart rob@robhart-steadicam.com Or email myself on tomwilliams@me.com Many Thanks IMG_8426.HEIC IMG_8433.heic IMG_8432.HEIC IMG_8431.HEIC IMG_8430.HEIC IMG_8427.HEIC IMG_8426.HEIC IMG_8425.HEIC IMG_8455.HEIC IMG_8435.HEIC IMG_8436.heic IMG_8437.HEIC IMG_8438.HEIC IMG_8439.HEIC IMG_8440.HEIC IMG_8441.HEIC IMG_8442.HEIC IMG_8443.HEIC IMG_8444.HEIC IMG_8445.HEIC IMG_8446.HEIC IMG_8447.HEIC IMG_8448.HEIC IMG_8449.heic IMG_8450.HEIC IMG_8451.HEIC IMG_8452.HEIC IMG_8453.HEIC IMG_8454.HEIC IMG_8455.HEIC IMG_8456.HEIC IMG_8457.HEIC IMG_8458.HEIC IMG_8459.HEIC IMG_8475.HEIC IMG_8434.HEIC IMG_8435.HEIC IMG_8436.heic IMG_8437.HEIC IMG_8438.HEIC IMG_8439.HEIC IMG_8440.HEIC IMG_8441.HEIC IMG_8442.HEIC IMG_8443.HEIC IMG_8444.HEIC IMG_8445.HEIC IMG_8446.HEIC IMG_8447.HEIC IMG_8448.HEIC IMG_8449.heic IMG_8450.HEIC IMG_8451.HEIC IMG_8452.HEIC IMG_8453.HEIC IMG_8454.HEIC IMG_8456.HEIC IMG_8457.HEIC IMG_8458.HEIC IMG_8459.HEIC IMG_8475.HEIC IMG_8476.HEIC IMG_8476.HEIC IMG_8475.HEIC IMG_8459.HEIC IMG_8458.HEIC IMG_8457.HEIC IMG_8456.HEIC IMG_8455.HEIC IMG_8454.HEIC IMG_8453.HEIC IMG_8452.HEIC IMG_8451.HEIC IMG_8450.HEIC IMG_8449.heic IMG_8448.HEIC IMG_8447.HEIC IMG_8446.HEIC IMG_8445.HEIC IMG_8444.HEIC IMG_8443.HEIC IMG_8442.HEIC IMG_8441.HEIC IMG_8440.HEIC IMG_8439.HEIC IMG_8438.HEIC IMG_8437.HEIC IMG_8436.heic IMG_8435.HEIC IMG_8434.HEIC IMG_8433.heic IMG_8432.HEIC IMG_8431.HEIC IMG_8430.HEIC IMG_8426.HEIC IMG_8425.HEIC IMG_8427.HEIC IMG_8426.HEIC

For sale is the ONLY 87ft Strada Crane ever manufactured. Usually this model Strada Crane is 85ft. This crane has been used on James Cameron’s Titanic, Michael Bay’s Pearl Harbor just to name a notable few. Also countless television productions, events and specials such as all of the X-Games and U.S. Open. If you haven’t been convinced yet, this crane is HUGE! The total crane weight is 5,500 pounds, the base of the crane is 6’ by 8’ and rides on 4 tires, and the crane is transported in its own trailer. The crane has multiple length configurations to meet the need of the shot. An arm length of 40ft gives you a lens height of 35ft. A 47ft arm has a 42ft lens height. A 54ft arm has a 49ft lens height. A 60ft arm has a 55ft lens height. A 74ft arm has a 64ft lens height. Lastly, an arm length of 87ft will give you a whopping 75ft lens height. Over 7 stories of camera movement available! With that amount of versatility, some extra space will be needed for operating the crane. From 40ft to 60ft arm lengths, the operator will need a 15ft by 20ft area, and from 74ft to 87ft arm lengths, the operator will need an area of 20ft by 30ft. A crane this large provides a nose load of 150 pounds. That allows for a lot of options when choosing a remote head and camera configuration to fly. I am asking $85,000 for everything. This includes the crane, weights, cabling, and trailer. Located in Los Angeles. Local pickup is required, as it all fits in its trailer. A few additional notes: This was Rick Johnsons personal crane, it has several features that none of the other Strata cranes have. Only arm with 9ft tail option up to 60 ft, as opposed to regular 12ft tail. Crane base can be completely disassembled and "packed in". The weight bucket is mechanized which allows for it to stay preloaded with thousands of pounds and adjusts forward and aft for balance. I know this is the Steadicam forum, but i figured I may as well try listing this crane on here for exposure. If you know of anyone that might be interested in this, please direct them to this posting!

Selling my beloved Steadicam. I started my career with this Steadicam and it always performed without flaws. Very tough build, has traveled to many different countries. If you are looking for the next upgrade, to fly any weight capacity, this steadicam won’t fail you. The heaviest setup I did was probably the Arri 35 BL4. The Sled was designed to be used with the AR Revolution (Omega) Ring. Sled is located in Toronto, Canada *Buyer pays for shipping and insurance* Preferable local pickup Equipment List - 1 x MKV 4 stage post Sled 2" (telescopic) 12V & 24V (Gold mount) - 1 x 2” MKV Gimbal - 1 x Betz Top Stage - 1 x V2 Top stage Electronics- with HD line - 1 x V3 bottom stage Electronics- with HD line - 1 x Docking Bracket (full size) - 1 x Shogun 7 Recorder Monitor - 1 x Custom Monitor bracket. - 2 x Camera plates for Steadicam - 1 x Low mode bracket - 1 x Pelican 1745 case Cables and Miscellaneous - 2x 4pin female -> 3Pin male - 2pin Fischer 24v -> 3Pin male - Arri mini / LF / 35 -> 3 Pin male - 2x RED 12v -> 3Pin male - 10Pin Fischer -> 3Pin male - 2x 3Pin male -> 3Pin male - 2x Dtap splitter -> 3Pin male - Miscellaneous cables *Comes without Betz-tools wave, Transvideo starlight monitor, and low mode monitor bracket* Price: 19.000$CAD

Hi All, Selling the following items. PayPal welcomed, buyers pay shipping and PayPal fees. Betz Tools Universal Monitorbracket with 15mm rods, Frame/Yoke for Transvideo Monitor HD8“ for 2“ post https://www.betz-tools.com/en/accessories/monitorbracket-105.php Brand New 1385 Euro - Never used on set, just tested. Didn't follow through with a HD8 Purchase Pristine Condition - USD$1100 Betz Tools Universal Dovetailplate UDP (27 cm/ 10.6“) https://www.betz-tools.com/en/universal-dovetailplate-steadicam.php Brand New 195 Euro - The anodizing was like that when I received it but does not affect performance. Used but in Good Condition - USD$150 (or trade for the Short Betz Camera Plate that comes with the Wave) XCS LT3 Sliding Camera Plate Brand New $700 - Pairs with the Wave very well as it is slightly taller than most plates and has side to side adjust Used but in Great Condition (Camera screw scratches as pictured) - USD$500 PRO Misc Parts - Pro 2 Upper Electronics/ Pro 1 Bottom Electronics Was going to build a project sled but giving that up now Used and Good Condition - USD$200 OBO PRO Vest Parts Switched my vest to Goofy and have these parts leftover (Size 38) Used and Ok condition - USD$150 OBO Anton Bauer Gold Mount Plate Not sure what the model is but it works perfect Used and Great Condition - USD$50

How about these: Foam Grip Tubing Handle Grip for Fitness, Tools Handle Support

Received an email from Daniel Crawford, interested in selling me his gyros. he sent me stock images, and stock videos that don’t belong to him , a Google voice number. He said he was a steadicam operator and was unable to tell me what rig he owned. Didn’t know what the 600 was and a few other red flags. Buyers beware.

Up for sale is a smart systems X1 arm never used on the field just for a single practice session. Save waiting for back order and get this arm asap! selling for 9000 flat or best offer. comes with everything included when you buy it from the manufacturer. this gear was purchased by someone trying to get into Steadicam operating only to realize their passions in another field. Check out my other posts as well for sled/vest if you’re interested.

Selling my 'Ready to Shoot' Tiffen M2 Volt, G70x Arm, Flowcine XSpine Vest package. Great for anyone looking to upgrade from a beginners sled and looking for a full package that's ready to go. Kit is 'Like New', never been on set and only rigged up a handful of times. Purchased at retail cost, sales tax already paid. My loss, your gain. Can ship in the US at buyers expense. See spreadsheet in the folder for all components, accessories and more photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HKLnjR7foDu2EgYltWZ2tKJlJtHQPiA-?usp=sharing

Selling Preston Single channel hand set with 8 rings and 3 generic FM50 batteries. Asking $3200.00. Prefer US buyers. Will ship via US Post priority service.

Handsfree Transporter X2 (two InfoKeys included) last Service an Check 30.06.21 (original invoice existing) Handsfree Transporter Professional Kit (including Hardmount with socket block and knee steering) Parkingstand wristband Batteries Check 30.06.21 (original invoice existing) 4,94A 95% 5,44A 105% Please ask for a price with all extras - if you have a serious interest. Located in Germany (Cologne) Buyer takes care of shipping and all fees No guarantees or returns - private sales Because of custom efforts I like to sell it to someone, living in the EU. Please consider, that the transport of the batteries is complicated "hazardous goods", I would prefer you fetch it from my base in Cologne, Germany. Handsfree_Transporter.pdf

Well, my website is gone but don't worry I'm still here. My site was originally hosted at my ISP provider until they stopped offering free hosting. Then I found a place offering free hosting but they went belly up and took my website with them (without bothering to tell me). At this point I do so little business there's no real reason to find someplace else to host it. So if you try to go there and can't be assured I am still here to do repairs and sell any spare parts you might need. My e-mail hasn't changed: jim@bartechengineering.com. Later, Jim Bartell BarTech Engineering

Hi Josh, I remember being in your shoes clearly - it was the late summer of 2012, I was on my first feature film, having operated “semi-professionally” for about a year, and on two occasions I had to either put the 85mm up, or do a shot on the 50mm in low mode, and I remember both being seemingly impossible. So, you’re not alone in the difficulty of doing long lens work on Steadicam when starting out! I’d say about 1/4 of my work is tighter than a 50mm. Generally I don’t see many lenses above 135mm (though I have from time to time), although especially when doing anamorphic, 135mm is a pretty typical lens, and I regularly fly 100mm spherical lenses. A 65mm or 75mm is a sweet lens for Steadicam, and if you can get well in-sync with your actors, you can produce some truly beautiful tracking shots. I’d say to get to the point where I was completely unafraid of long lenses took me about 3 years of operating, and probably about 5 years to actually be able to back up my big talk with the skills to really pull it off. I will say that with long lenses, not only is it a technique issue, but it is also a physical feat with your body, and there is a significant component that the quality of your rig plays. When I upgraded my rig after that first feature, one of the biggest things I noticed in going to a new gimbal was that there had been some friction and play in my previous gimbal that just destroyed any chance of precision in long lens operating. Even the slightest friction in your gimbal will translate your body’s movements into the lens, and those errors will become much more pronounced on longer lenses. The same goes for your arm, although to a lesser degree (as the issues will be translational rather than angular). Additionally, having your rig trimmed for the tilt you will be holding is crucial, as is keeping your speed consistent. If you’re holding pressure with your hand to hold tilt, any little twitches and tremors in your hand will get into the frame, and if you’re speeding up and slowing down, any pendular swing of the sled will also get in, unless you’re good enough to keep 100% of it out (which very few are, although I think we all hope to get close!). And biggest of all, relax! I even get called out on this by DPs I’ve worked with for a long time. If I’m tense, that tends to telegraph into the shot, and sometimes I just need to take a deep breath and shake out my hands and try again. I hope that helps and gives you a few things to think about! Best of luck on your adventures!

I've begun work on piecing together a sled (it'll be a bit of a Franken-rig 3A, but it's a big upgrade from what I have now). However, the starting point of a sled I am looking to purchase does not include any electronics, and the wiring was all done by the previous owner. I'm planning on re-doing it all from scratch, and hopefully with some professional help. In beginning to work up some designs, and it's made me really curious as to whether I need 12v or 24v power for the sled. As more and more work moves to digital cameras, most of which are usable on 12v, would it make any sense to focus on having a really good 12v system, or would it be better to just go 24v from the start. Right now, the market I'm in doesn't even have any film cameras, let alone anything higher-end than a RED. And, while I'm sure I'd love to operate some film jobs, I think that the level that I am (and probably will be) at for some time will keep me planted in the video world. I also anticipate that this sled will eventually be replaced, once I do move up in skill and funds. So, what do people think? Is a 12v only sled viable? I really appreciate the help!