Hi, I'm 32, living in Auckland, New Zealand, and have decided it's make or break time. I'm stepping away from directing to pursue what I love most - cinematography and camera movement.
I want to start crewing on stuff - and have a fairly clear idea of where I'd like to be in 5-7 years: working as a steadicam and Trinity op, as well as DPing some smaller projects.
I understand Arri recomends at least 4 years of normal Steadicam opping before even considering a Trinity system, so I want to do that.
I thought it would make the most sense to start out as a 2nd AC and/or camera trainee, get experience, save up $25-35k usd for a used Steadicam rig, pay a respected local op for lessons, then do a combo of Steadicam operating, and ideally camera operating, then eventually revisiting the idea of a Trinity.
Does this sound about right?
As a side question - I currently own a Steadicam Steadimate-S rig (for the Ronin-S gimbal). It has a Aero 15 arm and vest. I wondered if I should consider picking up an Aero Sled (or used pilot sled, or even a used Glidecam and make a custom post) for practicing in the meantime? I know that because it's much lower weight - inertia works quite different etc, but should still be good for practicing no?
Thanks!
Hendrikus