Tom Bonsignore

Thanks Eric, I pretty much figured that. Thanks for confirming!

I am using a Canon XH-A1 with a Pilot. I was wondering if it is a good idea to have the image stabilization feature off while flying with the pilot. I know I read somewhere that when using the XH-A1 with a tripod it is recommended that you turn off the image stabilization. Just wondering since the pilot is a stabilization rig in itself that the cameras stabilization can hinder more then help. Thanks in advance!

Hi Amelia, I have the canon xh-a1 and several accessories attached to it. When I first tried balancing it I noticed putting the camera's center of gravity right over the post seemed to work better. When I tried it with it 3/4 " behind the post I never was able to achieve dynamic balance. I think the 3/4" rule is just a starting point. I would try getting it with the camera mounted at different positions, just make sure that you have the camera's fore, aft, left and right CG located fairly well. It may take some patience. However I have also learned that going crazy with dynamic balance is not necessary. As long as the camera is fairly stable when you spin it you should be good to go.

I remember in an interview with Garrett Brown he said they were developing some accessories for the pilot like remote Lanc control. I really would love to be able to control record, zoom and focus from the gimble handle. Does anyone know of anything like this available? Thanks

Hello, I been using the pilot for a couple of weeks now and after using it and reviewing the footage, I noticed I have a fair amount of rolling from side to side. I'm sure this has to do with my technique, but I wondered if anyone had any advice on how to improve this. I have the EFP training dvd and I'm guessing more practice would help. I know you need to have a gentle touch when holding the post but when I move I can't seem to control that roll. Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks

The alignment is off when you look at the stage from the top of the stage looking down. The stage is turned a little to the right of the bottom bar. I noticed the bottom bar is a little loose. I see there is a smaller allen bolt to tighten it right above the latch to extend the pst, but the T shaped wrench does not fit it. I will have to find a smaller wrench and try to tighten it up. Hopefully that will fix it. Janice, Thanks for the advice on Dynamic balance. I could see how someone could go crazy. Me being a perfectionist I tought I had to have it perfect. I got it to where there is only a slight sway when you spin it. It will work as is! Thanks all!! I'll let you know how the wedding shoot goes!

Hello all. I have had my steadicam pilot for a few weeks now. I have added some accessories to my camera (canon xh-a1) and have been trying to balance it. I can't seem to get dynamic balance. I put the pilot back in the foam holder of the backpack and noticed that the stage does not align with the bottom of the sled. It seems to be turned slightly to the right. I also see that there is no way to adjust it as the stage is secured to the center post. Is this normal? I can't see how it as as I know that when you attach the camera mounting plate you have to make sure it is lined up and straight with the camera. I am wondering if this is a defect and a reason why I cannot achieve dynamic balance. I have a wedding in a few hours and am now a little worried. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks