Matt Burton

I've been researching similar tech for months all be it based around smaller cameras currently, see the link for a very prominent developer - http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1815204. Its super exciting stuff and even an open source version is being developed along side many other copies and variants - http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1829058 What this means is you could well see very reasonably priced systems in the future, I've been playing around designing a system initially for smaller DSLR type cameras that includes a 4th axis for vertical movement but as the tech progresses could easily be adapted to larger cams. Add a small thumb joystick to pan tilt and even roll allowing a single operator no problems with single user operation. The current systems suit very light gopro or small mirrorless cams like the EOS-M and NEX as they have to be balanced just like a normall steadicam, the motors just keep the axis level with as little force needing to be applied the better. As I say its early days as the main development is taking place for aerial vidoegraphy but the community is massive and thriving and its only a matter of time until things get much more advanced. I was going to post hear a few weeks ago to get feedback on my ideas hoever freefly have got the ball rolling very nicely in opening this up to the film community with a very nice workable system. The potential is awesome it really is !

https://vimeo.com/63357898 discus ! I've actually been developing a system like this recently however these guys definitely are on the ball. The tech I was looking at was more based around aerial multirotor systems like this - however its very similar. Obviously it still takes a good operator to get good content but this is definitely going to be a game changer.

I just herd about this sad news, be strong and my thoughts are with you Hugo.....

:unsure: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xM-vwZrKDnA :lol:

One thing you can bet on is if it's that big now it will be the size of a packet of fags in 5 years time :o

They also sell "steadicam" systems hhhmmm :blink:

2 rigs, twice the fun ehy :D Can you post any pictures of your current low mode setup ? Normally with LCD rigs extra weight has to be placed on the bottom stage to counter balance the camera being below. However with a CRT I would imagine you have plenty of weight up top depending on what camera weight your carrying.

What steadicam rig are you using ? Yes generally you should aim for normal drop times and setup time shouldn't be an issue when you have the correct method in place. 10 mins to change over really shouldn't be an issue if it's well rehearsed

Hi Nick I don't think you realise how insulting that video is to a new operator, yes it's funny to experienced ops but in the context you have put it in it's just not cool. I've spent quite a bit of time with Rory he's a massively talented guy and one of the most natural operators I've ever come across. When I was starting out many years ago this place was an invaluable source of information and i'd hope this is still the case. The problem is I should have explained how this forum differs from the average internet forum when I suggested he should join up. Lars-Erick hope you are well :) I believe Rory is still operating without a monitor and thus may explain the unwanted movement in the frame. The stock x22 monitor is almost useless with the 5D and I believe a marshal is on the way. Also i'm not sure what weights are being used for dynamic balance at the moment to substitute the monitor weight etc (I'm guessing its all pretty make shift at the moment). Taken all this into account I was pretty surprised how good the shot is and can't wait to see what you come up with in the future. It's always nice to introduce somebody into steadicam and see them get hooked just like we all did :o)

I can think of a few jobs I had to turn down back in the day when I had my flyer as it just couldn't deal with the weight of pro level cameras. I think when your starting out as an operator it's important to make a good impression with each and every client you get. Turning down jobs is never a good look !

Of course it helps if you have a good teacher Rory ;) I have to admit the glidecam fits a hole in affordable starter rigs that can fly heavy setups with ease and is almost as smooth as systems costing ten times the amount.

What is the price point ?

I agree totally what your saying actually Tom :D I was rather badly making trying to make the point that at 900 fps + you need to be traveling rather fast to get any noticeable tracking movement into the image. It's sometimes easier or more practical to hand hold/dolly the camera around. Saying that as you mention steadicam is the perfect tool for vehicle mount high speed work where vibrations need canceling out. I'd love to do some more steadicam slomo in the future and it's looking likely i'll get plenty of opportunity to do this. I took a couple of years out of steadicam work to further my skillset, I was faced with an incredibly difficult decision and it's all worked out for the best (to cut a long story short). I will probably writing about what i've been upto in the journal section as i'm returning to steadicam now with much anticipation, and I hope to see you all around soon :D

At 900FPS you wouldn't need a steadicam ?

I found this interesting article on Engadget, perhaps of interest to UK operators looking for some Segway action in the future. Link to article