Dave Bittner

Still curious about this little magic box, which seems to be more elusive than the Loch Ness Monster, post NAB. I'd love to demo one. Any idea how it works, in terms of technical details? I've got a few guesses. I've got a message in to Frank Rush, asking for a demo unit, but haven't heard back, yet. http://steadicam.com/userimages/Steadicam_WXB-ss.pdf

Folks, let me chime in here and say, once again, that this gimbal wrap grip is a no-brainer in terms of investments to improve your rig. I'm using it every day on a live TV show, and it's remarkable how much subtlety it adds, having more torque available on the center post. Buy it! You'll be glad you did.

I've been using one on my rig for a few weeks, now, and I love it! Much more solid than the original monitor mount, with improved flexibility for monitor position. If you have a Zephyr, this is a no brainer. It's an easy way to upgrade your rig.

I'm in the Baltimore/DC area, based out of Columbia.

How many more people are we going to lose on the forum, all because of one bully? For every person who publicly announces they are leaving, I'll bet we have a handful who simply never come back, with no fanfare. I've considered it, myself. Sometimes it just doesn't seem worth it, having to wade through the gruff, know-it-all, condescending responses to people genuinely trying to learn, genuinely trying to get help from more experienced ops. The comically predictable response to any pushback with, "My IMDB credits are bigger than yours, so your argument is invalid." One of the great things Garrett did, from the get go, was establish a cordial environment where operators support each other and share information as we all try to learn and enhance our craft. There were no stupid questions, and everyone treated each other with respect. There were spirited debates, but very little in the way of personal attacks. And yet, here, because of one bully, that environment is out the window. It's a shame, because he's got a lot of experience to share. Often it's not what he says, it's the way he says it. It's frustrating as hell to see thread after thread effectively shut down, poisoned by negativity.

The grip arrived! I'm really happy with it. It's surprising how much of a difference it makes in my operating. I feel like I have more control, especially over subtle movements. Lockoffs are easier, too. Thanks for making a great product! Highly recommended for everyone with a Zephyr rig.

Another option is to purchase the smaller rig for your "daily driver", and rent a larger rig when the job calls for it. If the Zephyr will handle 80% of the jobs you expect to get, it may not be worth it to invest in owning a big rig, at least not when you're starting out. And sometimes you might just have to say no to jobs that are outside of your capabilities. Find a local operator with a big rig and offer to refer those jobs to him/her in exchange for tagging along and being their assistant for the day. You'll learn a lot, for sure.

Hello Gents, I've got a shiny new Zephyr, here. Been away from Steadicam for a while, but I'm an alum of the Malibu workshop back in 2000, and have owned a variety of rigs, and have monkeyed around with most of the well known sleds, arms and vests over the years. I got a Live TV gig dropped in my lap this year that I couldn't say no to, which prompted the purchase of the Zephyr. Feeling a bit rusty (and fat) but the technique is coming back, slowly but surely. I'm pleased with the rig, so far. It's a lot of steadicam for the money. Not perfect, but as a mid-range rig there's a lot to like. I'm in the Baltimore/DC area. Nice to be back in the saddle. Dave Bittner

Some nice photos and video clips - http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/cinematographer_garrett_browns_game-changing_inventions_16781.asp

I'll be there, Sunday morning through Thursday mid-day. Hope to see a bunch of you there!

Here's a pretty amazing (and technical) demonstration of a new technique for stabilizing handheld footage in post. This is far better than anything I've seen before. http://createdigitalmotion.com/2009/06/30/...es-your-videos/

I'm skipping NAB this year. Just seems like an "off" year for the show, and we're not in the market for anything big right now. Have a cold one for me. (Jim, go ahead and have two!)

It looks funny, to be sure, but there's a part of me that thinks we shouldn't be so dismissive of someone trying something new. This guy clearly thinks he's on to something, and maybe he is. Notice his vest has no shoulder straps - how much of the weight is being transferred to the leg supports?

Gents, Hoping someone has an Anton Bauer battery mount they'd be willing to part with. Thanks, Dave Bittner

http://tinyurl.com/4et5fy I've actually worked with the main guy in this video, Chad. Shot a pilot with him a few years back for Discovery. He's a really fun, really crazy guy. Really crazy.