Chris Vermaak

When I got my first rig I knew bubkiss nothing zero zip narda.Point being I had no training or history regarding operating (Tabula rasa).I just looked at all the bits and put them together to start working.I wasn't sure of arm position and tried both ways.The arm on the right "normal" just felt strange!It got in my way when I had to get to the camera as well.(I had to set own exposure ,hyperfocal and sometimes sound levels too after having done the lighting setup of course). After 5 years of blood sweat and tears I know that the rig is by no means controlled by one's hands (except to finesse) but still I operate goofy. Should a middle-aged dog change his spots? If one had a third arm growing out of one's sternum..... (freak) would'nt one want to shake hands with the right? I have recently ordered Jerry Holway's steadicam ops handbook and can't wait to see how I'm actually supposed to do this job!!! Regards

My 1st post. Congratulations to all who were honoured at operators awards. Here in Africa it all feels a long way off....but we get to see your work!This forum allows some much valued insights,thanks to all who share their knowledge so freely.Speaking of first posts...Mine was an actioncam.It has served me well,but will now be upgraded.(PRO 1)Thanks to all who have helped me find an affordable 2nd hand rig esp.Mr Robin Thwaites (tiffen) who went out of his way. Regards. CV