Gimbal zoom control for video cameras?

[Tomas Riuka]

Not sure if this is the right section, but probably closest...

 

What solutions are available for zoom control on steadicam's gimbal for controlling

zoom on broadcast 2/3 cameras? I'm currently looking at jimmyjib's zoom control,

any other solutions available that i'm not aware of?

 

What eurovision ops are using for this?

 

Appreciate,

Tomas

[Kevin Garcia]

Hey Tomas

you can try Libec ZC-9PRO Zoom Control I've used it on a couple of shoots I had to mode the clamp with a longer screw

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/361367-REG/Libec_ZC9PRO_ZC_9PRO_Zoom_Control_for.html

 

KevinG

[Mike Germond SOC]

G-zoom product

 

and

 

Discussion

 

and for the record, I do not get compensation for promoting Erik's product...I'm just a very happy customer!

[Tomas Riuka]

Thanks Mike for pointing out, already contacted Erik about that, Libec does not seem like quality stuff and furthermore, i work with Angenieux lens and Libec supporting only Fujinon and Canon..

 

Any comments about Jimmyjib device? despite the fact that's is almost 4 times more expensive than G-Zoom, is it worth it? G-zoom has only zoom control and jimmyjib's packages comes with one motor for focusing on the same handle, how does that work?

[Mike Germond SOC]

G-zoom has only zoom control and jimmyjib's packages comes with one motor for focusing on the same handle, how does that work?

 

Correction - G-zoom will zoom AND focus natively on digital lenses (ie. no external motors needed like the stanton/jimmyjib controller). And if you don't encounter a digital lens regularly, G-zoom will use your BFD receiver for focus.

 

I cannot speak about focus control on Angenieux lenses, because I have never encountered one...but I'm sure Erik knows. I certainly know that G-zoom will focus anything that you can attach a BFD to.

 

Try stanton if you wish, too bulky for my taste..

[Mark Schlicher]

Libecs aren't bad for zoom and start/stop only, I find it to be fairly robust. They do need to be rewired with a thinner cable for best results, though.

 

Also there's a Bebob Zoe model for zoom and start/stop. Lots of positive reports but I've never tried one.

 

Both are setup for Canon/Fujinon.

 

If you ever plan to fly the Sony EX series, you can get a zoom control adapter cable for the Zoe or Libec for $100 from Jonyjib. You can order through B&H.

[Tomas Riuka]

Having start ant stop is not really important for me, but as it does have focus control, so it's awesome, if only it could be wireless..

[Kris Torch Wilson]

Tomas,

 

The Stanton/JimmyJib zoom/focus controller is widely used here in Los Angeles by us TV guys. The cable is stiff and sucks and the handle is big and bulky. I've heard of guys rewiring with smaller, more flexible cable. That being said, it works well and I'm happy with the two I own. Except for the workshop a few years ago, I have never operated with my hand directly on the rig, but on the zoom handle so I'm used to it. The focus function works as advertised but the motor and mount on the lens itself is a bit wanky. Might be worth upgrading to a higher end motor if you have the dough.

 

Kris

[Tomas Riuka]

Thank you for the information. I think i will go with g-zoom solution, much smaller and no second handle, also cheaper. For now it will do the job. Thank you all again.

[Alfeo Dixon SOC]

Correction - G-zoom will zoom AND focus natively on digital lenses (ie. no external motors needed like the stanton/jimmyjib controller). And if you don't encounter a digital lens regularly, G-zoom will use your BFD receiver for focus.

 

I cannot speak about focus control on Angenieux lenses, because I have never encountered one...but I'm sure Erik knows. I certainly know that G-zoom will focus anything that you can attach a BFD to.

 

Try stanton if you wish, too bulky for my taste..

I've rented the Stanton from a fellow op and now looking to maybe get my own... getting more and more live shows with no focus puller. I'm use to using the controller as a handle now and comfortable with the thumb focusing and

finger zooming.

 

Has anyone used the G-zoom after being accustomed to the Stanton?

Any one got any better pics of the G-Zoom... the website is vague and nearly useless for that info. I was with Tomas in thinking it was zoom only. Thanks for the clarification Mike, did I miss something on the site which said this? [ still vague ]

 

-Alfeo

[Mike Germond SOC]

Hey Alfeo,

 

Here's some shots of my G-zoom on the U2:

 

Zoom Speed knob side:

 

VTR/Return button side:

 

As you can see, my thumb is on the zoom lever and my pointer finger is on the focus knob. Here's the interface that it has with my Canon HJ11ex4.7B lens:

 

 

I ordered the G-Zoom Custom Edition which came with the Canon zoom cable and an adapter for Fuji. It also came with the Canon focus to Mini XLR adapter that you can see in the photo. I didn't order any other adapters because I only use Canon with this rig, but this is where you could adapt a Fuji lens or BFD adapter.

Edited November 26, 2010 by Mike Germond

[Alfeo Dixon SOC]

Why do you need the mini-xlr? what purpose those it serve? is that the power source?

Does the focus knob have end stops or is it just a servo wheel that keeps turning?

[Mike Germond SOC]

The focus knob has end stops and a good friction feel too. The Mini XLR is on the focus cable only so you can interchange adapters for different types of lenses. I think Erik offers Canon, Fuji, and BFD adapters for this.

 

I should note that the zoom cable comes with the connector for Canon, and the adapters for other lenses extend off of the Canon connector.

Edited November 27, 2010 by Mike Germond

[Scott Jason Gill]

Another vote for the G-Zoom. Very nice and versatile. Super-low profile too.

[Robert Starling SOC]

In a live show does the VTR button key your headset mic somewhat like the Stanton does?