Mark Karavite

IDX VL-4S Simulataneous Quick Charger. A friend acquired this charger when purchasing some HD Gear. I thought a recent Power Cube buyer might want a backup charger. $700 Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator 248-618-9000 mkaravite@comcast.net

Dear Robert, Do you have a Nexus base? I know that the PRO2 base has some room for an internal DA, but looking at my Nexus, I questioned if there was enough real estate to fit a DA inside. I have heard great things about Terry's skill & service. If he can fit a DA inside a Nexus, that is a great option. I have his contact info. Thanks, Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net PS: Martin, thanks for the link.

I have longed for a DA since I bought my MK-V Nexus base. Howard tells me that the next version of the D Box will have an internal DA. Also, they can mod the current V2 version with a DA. Does anybody have this mod? I can buy an external DA, but then cabling to the Modulus and Archos becomes messy. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Hey Denny, I may be upgrading, and not need my 3000 shortly. Contact me off forum. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net 248-618-9000

Hey Kareem, I have a couple questions about the 416. I have an upcoming job with it for the 1st time. 1) Does the on board battery get in your way? I expect I would leave it on for the weight. 2) Did you find the weight too light? I have always found light cameras to misbehave a bit, as compared to heavier bodies. I'm sure the antlers helped this in your photos, but did you feel you needed to add weight when not using the antlers? I have kept a sliding baseplate on an SR2 before for this reason. 3) How long into a take did you notice the coaxial mag affecting your horizon? If any other operators have 416 tips / experiences to share, that would be great. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Denny, I have a BL-4 low mode bracket on the shelf in my equipment room. You are more than welcome to have it for the weekend, just pay the freight to and fro. I'll even sell it to you for cheap, because my BL days have been over for a while. Call me at 248-705-4500 if you need it, it would have to ship Wednesday. Good luck, Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Hey Pooki, get the F#@% off our forum with your nonsense! I bought a used MK-V Hummingbird around the end of last year. I bought it mainly for digital cameras, and to see if I liked an LCD. I don't think it's a fair comparison between and LCD and a high end greenscreen. They are two different animals. Pluses for the MK-V are daylight readability, size, color, less wind resistance, less power consumption & it looks cool. I find that it handles contrast poorly. To get enough contrast and brightness to see outside, I end up cranking up those 2 adjusments. When doing so, skies and skin tones tend to wash out. I like to be able to see the actor's expressions, and I miss that when outside on the MK-V. I operate on live concerts, and I loved the LCD for that. I did a whole Bob Seager concert and never swithced batteries (using 3 Dionic 90's). I don't think off angle viewing is a problem to be concerned with on the MK-V. Long ago, I did use a Panasonic LCD backup monitor on a concert, and the viewing angle was a big problem. The only time you can get in trouble on viewing angle on the MK-V is when you go to low mode, make sure the tilt on the monitor is correct. I purposely bought the LCD in conjunction with going to all Dionic batteries (except for 435 work). I lightened up the weight on both sides of the post on the bottom. Although I shed a few lbs. between monitor and batteries, ironically, with heavier cameras, I go to the greenscreen for more bottom weight because I prefer a short post. If I have the LCD on with a heavy camera, I have to extend my XCS post out to number 4. I have given the LCD a fair shake, using it exclusively on a Genesis pilot in March. I still find myself jumping back and forth between greenscreen & LCD, depending on the conditions. For now, I will keep both. It's not perfect, but I think the MK-V is a pretty good LCD. Just don't expect it to look like a TB-6. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

As a guy who has played hockey since 4 years old, I think wearing skates while operating Steadicam is a dangerous proposition. I am as comfortable on skates as anybody, and I have turned down the request several times. For slow moving shots on ice, the proper footwear can make it safe and successful. For quick shots, I have operated handheld with a small camera body. Once up to speed on the skates, I go into a glide mode. The shots are very smooth, and I an "dolly" left or right by simply turning on skates. Imagine crashing on skates in the rig! That is scary. Years back I did a Red Wings promo spot with The Captain, Steve Yzerman. They wanted to track in behind Steve going full speed towards the goalie. Handheld holding the camera by the handle, I would do a full lap to gain speed. I came around the opposite goal with Yzerman on my tail. I would start the glide around the first blue line, & by the red line, Yzerman was in position in front of me. Being a hockey player & huge Red Wing fan, it was about the funnest shoot ever. I was happy to leave the rig at home. I asked Steve if I should slow down a bit so he could catch up to me :) Luckily, The Captain had a sense of humor, he must have been going less than 1/2 speed. Regarding footwear for ice work, Neos has some interesting over boots. Check them out on line. I have ordered a pair of normal over boots (not the ice grabbers) for cold weather work. You can wear normal trail runners, and the over boots are lightweight, and super warm. Just pop them off for the shot, then pop them back on to stay warm. Very nice. Stay safe, Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator

Hey Collin, Sounds like it's time to buy one for yourself. Walter Klassen makes a great vehicle mount, and it's reasonably priced around $800. It is adjustable just like the socket block for his back mounted harness. It will mount to speedrail or a mitchell mount. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net Here's the link to Walter's site, & the hard mount: http://www.walterklassen.com/vehiclemount.htm Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Hey Rick, I'm not sure how you make a color monitor with no chroma or hue adjustments, but the MK-V Hummingbird has neither. I'm wondering if the original Hummingbird has these controls, does anybody know? Jamie? You may be able to get a manual for MK-V, check out their website. Here's my biggest pet peeve about something that all the British companies seem to have in common, no schematics. How can you sell someone thousands of dollars worth of electronic equipment, and not provide them with schematics, let alone detailed manuals? It drives me crazy! Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Interesting that you found a supplier. CIT has been talking about this unit forever. As a customer of CIT who has had problems with his 3000 from day 1, and 2 years later, I still have a problem. Each time I sen the unit in for repair, it takes about 3 weeks to get the unit back, with no loaners available. Combine less than perfect customer service, with the fact that UHF channels may be completely dedicated to homeland security after all TV transmission goes totally digital, I'd be hesitant to drop the $$ on technology that may not be viable for us in the near future. It's one thing to transmit on UHF today, and someone near location may be able to pick up our signal. It's totally another thing to interfere with a governemental frequency in the future. There are many 1.2ghz & 2.4ghz systems on the market. One day, someone will make a perfect one for Steadicam. Food for thought before you spend your hard earned $$. Pesonally, I'm waiting to see what happens. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Thanks Eric & Afton, I wasn't aware that the 504 & 604 needed the dock. I have seen several places on line that still have AV500's for sale. I'm currently flying a frankenrig, with a PRO DB3 & J Box, XCS post, gimball & monitor bracket, and a MK-V Nexus base. I'm sure Fred Davis could make me a tidy cable. One nice thing about the Nexus, is that you can switch the output voltage to match your recorder. I appreciate the input. Eric, I know you are involved with developing another, more sophisticated on board recorder option. I'm just not into spending more than a few hundred on this, but I appreciate the info on the Archos. Best regards, Mark Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Dear Brandon, As Phillip wisely suggested, Dionics are a good way to go. You will be able to power just about anything, except a 435. For the 435, you will need Nicad batteries. The T2 is an excellent charger, but you should also consider having a charger that includes battery diagnostics. I own 6 Dionics, and I have a T2 charger, and a 2702 (4 position) charger with the full diagnostics. This way all 6 of my batteries have a charger home that they live on when not in use. Anton Bauer says this is the best way to insure long life in your batteries. The other nice thing about having 2 chargers is instant backup. If one charger goes down, I can still get through the day on the other one. The T2 is great for on set, because it is the quickest charger to bring 2 batteries up simultaneously. Remember that lithiums require more time to charge, so you need to have enough. With 6, I can have 2 on the rig, 2 standing by, and 2 on the charger. This feels like the minimum to me. I am probably going to buy 3 more. I also have 6 Proformers, so I can rotate those into the mix. In following my own advice, I need to buy at least another 4 position charger so my Proformers have a charger home. Does the spending ever end? Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

What is the latest choice from the Archos line for Steadicam on board recorders. I'm not really interested in spending a lot of money, but I do need a new on board recorder. Is anybody using the 604? I noticed it has the same size monitor as the 504, but a few oz's lighter. Any input would be appreciated. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

FYI, Northwest Airlines has changed their policy on checking film equipment on commercial flights. They have changed the maximum weight from 100lbs. to 70lbs. The airline will still only charge $50 per extra bag, instead of the normal $85 per bag. Any cases over 70lbs. must be shipped as air freight. I'm not sure if other airlines are following suit. If anyone knows of other airlines policies, please chime in. The 70lb. limit is a drag, because I have 2 cases around 85lbs. to limit the number of cases. Also, you must have a letter on the production companie's letterhead detailing the production, and dates, in order to obtain the movie/media rate. I know it's production's responsibility for these expenses. I normally use a freight carrier, but when jobs book up back to back, checking the gear as baggage can sometimes be the simplest route. This new weight limit will prevent us from shipping any carts as airline baggage anymore. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Dear Leslie, I have a Marell HB-5 high briteness greenscreen that I am considering selling. I haven't posted it yet for sale, because I am in the middle of a job. The Marell has been my backup monitor, and not used much at all. It is fully daylight viewable, with built in framelines, image invert, etc... Here' a link to their site: http://www.marell.co.uk/monitors/HBM-5M/ If you are interested in a like new Marell, contact me directly. Best regards, Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator 248-618-9000 office 248-705-4500 cell mkaravite@comcast.net

Hey Matt, Do you have a good demo reel put together? If not, I would suggest cutting a new reel, and spreading the word to the kind of clients you want to be working with. I agree with Janice that a certain rate demands a certain respect from clients. Don't be afraid to ask for a good rate, and be familiar with what your intended clientel is used to paying. The fact is that different jobs can afford to pay different rates. A low budget music video will never be able to pay what a national commercial can. Having a higher rate will put you in the game for the higher budget gigs, and you can always take less for a lower budget job that tickles your fancy. If you stay at a lower rate, you will never be considered for the higher budget jobs. It's perception. A UPM will think you're not good enough for his project if your rate is not high enough. As far as circulating your reel, you may want to take advantage of the Steadicam Operator's Association demo reel service. The service is only around $75 per year. This way you can market to many potential clients via email, by attaching a resume and a link to your online demo reel. I'd still recommend a personal call and DVD to the higher profile clients, but emails to the masses is easy and cheap. Good luck, Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Hello all, For those who might find it interesting, attached is an article breaking down the details on the latest digital cameras. I write occasional articles for a couple of midwestern trade rags. For those who haven't had a chance to attend one of the IA workshops on these cameras (Atlanta or Oakland), or haven't seen them in person, this might be of interest. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net HD_Unplugged_3_07.doc

"Panavision also is not sending the "whaletail" out any more. Instead they are sending out a single battery mount that mounts on the back if camera or active converter box." I just finished prepping Genesis for a pilot. At first, I thought the gear was coming out of Woodland Hills, and they confirmed what Eric said, they will no longer send out the "whale tail" dual Dionic 90 mount. Then our gear came out of Hollywood, and they happily built me a whale tail by mounting a dual AB bracket to the B Camera's low mode bracket. Go figure! Apparently, Panavision doesn't like the whale tail, because you are not supposed to hot swap batteries. The camera needs to shut down prior to changing either battery on the whale tail. I think we are smart enough to understand the proper battery swapping method. It's just a matter of educating the crews on the proper shut down procedure when changing batteries. In a split mode, the Genesis can be powered from the whale tail, or via a PRO Y cable. Note, always order all Genesis cables with a L connector on the camera side (especially if you operate off the left side). Also, they have 2 versions of the BNC box. The old version only outputs 4:2:2 & 4:4:4. The newer BNC box also outputs NTSC / PAL (no need for an additional downconverter on board). Since the BNC box mounts into the mag port, only the newer BNC box allows you to sandwich the BNC box between the body, and the lo mode bracket. If you end up with an older BNC box, and want to use the whale tail (or 1 piece for that matter), you won't have a place to mount a lo mode bracket. Always insist on the newer BNC box. For now, I'm going to insist on a split version, and deal with the cables. This show is mostly 4:2:2, so I only have to deal with 1 cable. Besides the hugeness of it all, I couldn't get any decent run times off the batteries Panavision provided me in a 1 piece mode. Back to the original subject, we should all encourage Anton Bauer to move ahead with new battery technology to help with Genesis, 435, etc... I wonder if they'll take back all the Dionic 90's I just bought? :( Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Does anyone know where I can rent a shelved Magliner cart for a couple weeks? I'm in LA for a pilot, and my set cart is just too big & heavy to ship on the plane. I can bring my Steadicam cart aks if needed, so just the basics would do, but a rigged cart for rental would be nice. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Mark (needs local knowledge) Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator 248-618-9000 mkaravite@comast.net

Hey Steve, Was that you this weekend in Las Vegas for the NBA all star game? I saw an operator with an Ultimate, so I thought it might be you. I saw a lot of Steadicam work on the celebrity game, with many of the shots you described earlier. I was hoping to see some Steadicam on the actual all star game, but I only saw it used for the halftime show. It was nice live work, but I guess the NBA is cautiously integrating Steadicam into the mix. I think it would have livened up the bumpers in and out of commercials quite a bit, the time lapse stuff of the Vagas strip got old. Fill us in on what you know. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Hey Morgan, I've used both Digi Primes & PRO 35 quite a bit. It really depends on the specs of the shoot, as to which way to go. A few things to keep in mind: PRO 35: 1) Zeiss T2 standard speeds do not all cover the PRO 35, many lenghts vignette. You need to go with Super Speeds, Ultra Primes, Master Primes or Cookes. 2) Play with the rotation speed of the oscillating ground glass. When you stop down on the taking lens, you tend to see the grain of the ground glass more (deeper focus). In prep, note what speeds are necessary at what T Stop, and don't vary from your findings. You can always stop down on the PRO 35 itself, and not see anymore grain. 3) The 900's are long, and even longer with a PRO 35. Keep mind of panning inertia. If you're panning between actors, you really need to anticipate your move, because it's hard to get that pig moving, and hard to get it to stop (compared to a film camera). The first time I did some quick pans with that rig, I was late everytime. It takes some getting used to. 4) Remember that the PRO 35 looses 1 stop of light. This may be a factor if you have a lot of night shooting. DIGIPRIMES: 1) For Steadicam, talk production into renting the Digizoom 6 - 24mm. It is a great range for Steadicam, and will save you time in lens changes & backfocus checks. 2) Speaking of backfocus, make sure the AC checks it in the morning, at lunch and if there are any huge temperature changes. It will drift. 3) Regarding depth of field, the PRO 35 will have a shallower depth of field, it's just physics. On most DigiPrime jobs, you end up going on a longer lens, and shooting wide open to soften backgrounds. Although this works, the result is a much tougher time for the AC pulling focus. Living on a long lens at T1.6 takes skill on the AC's part. Make sure they are up to the task before you put them in that situation. Goodl luck, Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator

Hey all, I found a Nike shoe that is VERY comfortable. The Azulikit (pronounced "as you like it"): http://nikeid.nike.com/nikeid/index.jhtml Like many, I have gone from Nike, to New Balance and currently a big Merrel fan. These shoes, at least for me, are lightweight & very comfortable. You can custom order your color preference at the NikeID site above. I tried them on at a store first, then ordered a couple pairs, without the gaudy pimp colors at the store. $110 per pair. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator

Just something I ran across with my old 3A, and now on my new rig. Anywhere that you have a steel screw, that screws into aluminum tapped threads, has the problem of failing over time. The stronger steel threads on the handle will eventually pull out the weaker aluminum threads, usually at the most inopportune time. On my old 3A, I had my machinist helicoil all the tapped aluminum (except the gimbal, which I was afraid to mess with). I recently had my monitor spigot threads misbehaving a bit, so I again had all the monitor spigots helicoiled, and the problem will never return. I've been accused by my AC of cranking things too tight, so maybe this problem is self induced. The first place to fail is always the monitor bracket. Nothing worse than having something moving around on your rig, and you can't get it locked down. For fellow members of overcrankers annonymous, most good auto parts stores have helicoil kits for standard and metric threads. Again, I am staying away from the gimbal, but my machinist replaced a few tapped aluminum threads on my monitor spigots with helicoils, and I feel better now. Who said overcranking was just for inside the camera? Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net

Thanks everyone, McMaster Carr had them to me in 2 days. They have everything there, very cool place. I also ordered some nice levels for mounting various places on the sled. They have all different size vial levels, and nice mounts for them. Mark Karavite A Camera / Steadicam Operator mkaravite@comcast.net