My name is Scott Warren, and I am somewhat of a new operator. I have owned a Glidecam X-22 for about a year, but have never taken a workshop. I have been getting asked to do a lot more work with my Glidecam, but everyone keeps asking if I can fly the big rigs that can hold the big boy film cameras. My Glidecam of course only support 25lbs max so I have been very limited and have had to turn down jobs even with the Red camera, because they want to have a whole bunch of extras that I can't support. I have also been asked if I have a certification from the higher end jobs and when I tell them I don't they give me the cold shoulder. I wanted to know if the Eastern Classic is the type of certification that these guys are looking for? I also feel it could be beneficial to use some real equipment. I would have to say, I haven't been the biggest fan of the Glidecam x-22 and want to move over to Steadicam. I really want to be a steadicam OP in the industry because I love having the freedom to do what I want with the camera. I think I am ready to take the next step. Just really wanted to know if the Classic is worth all of the money?
What would be the steadicam system you would suggest that could fly the bigger cameras like the red and film cameras? I know a lot of the operators own their own equipment. I would like to by a rig to fly these bigger cameras, suggestion would be great, and if anyone knows of used gear for sale that could move me up to the next level it would be great. Is it easier to land the jobs once you have certified and own a big rig? I have found it extremely hard to get jobs in Utah, because no one wants to pay for anything out there. They all want it done for like $25 a day and I have told a lot of people no. I can't feed my family for that and I also spent a lot of money on my equipment. Sorry that this is a long and somewhat scattered post, but I have a lot of questions. Thanks again. Scott