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Zephyr roll call


Mark Schlicher

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Maybe I missed it before, but did anyone figure out a mount workaround for keeping the 651STX from rotating around on the Zephyr monitor mount? I took the Allen set screw out just to the side of the mount to get the STX on, but just wondering if anyone found something to keep the monitor from spinning on the mount? I know Tom makes a yoke for it, but trying to save a couple bucks at first before I jump into that. :)

 

Thanks!

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I use a small piece of fabric tape ... it holds for now, but a more "permanent" solution is definitely in order.

 

Maybe I missed it before, but did anyone figure out a mount workaround for keeping the 651STX from rotating around on the Zephyr monitor mount? I took the Allen set screw out just to the side of the mount to get the STX on, but just wondering if anyone found something to keep the monitor from spinning on the mount? I know Tom makes a yoke for it, but trying to save a couple bucks at first before I jump into that. :)

 

Thanks!

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I imagine a lock washer (the "star" type) would do the job, though it could gouge things up. I've been using my 7" Marshall without anything and it holds well enough for now. (and being able to rotate it while in low mode has been helpful). I suppose a neoprene washer or some automotive gasket material might work pretty well too.

 

Tiffen's version of the Marshall 7" includes a bracket that has a hole for the mounting pin. Don't know if it would work on the 6.5", and it eliminates the possibility of a battery mount on the back of the monitor (without further McGuivering). If they would actually sell it to you separately my guess is that it would be not cheap.

 

If I had the 6.5 I think Tom's yoke is the shizzle, and a real bargain.

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There's one other thing I'm considering, and I'm stealing the idea from my Redrock Micro DSLR baseplate. It has a tiny stud that threads into the baseplate, which then fits into the bottom of my 5DM2. It keeps the camera from rotating on the 1/4-20. If you drilled a tiny hole in the square mount at the bottom of the monitor, and added the threaded stud to the monitor mount ... wouldn't that work?

 

http://store.redrockmicro.com/Catalog/DSLRClamps/DSLRbaseplate)

 

Maybe I missed it before, but did anyone figure out a mount workaround for keeping the 651STX from rotating around on the Zephyr monitor mount? I took the Allen set screw out just to the side of the mount to get the STX on, but just wondering if anyone found something to keep the monitor from spinning on the mount? I know Tom makes a yoke for it, but trying to save a couple bucks at first before I jump into that. :)

 

Thanks!

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Hmmm I think like you say Mike, some sort of neoprene washer or tape would do for now. Drilling is a possibility, I could take that plate off and fashion a hole without worrying about damaging the monitor...

 

I'm still puzzled why Tiffen stopped putting yokes on everything. Even the JR had a monitor yoke for crying out loud.

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John,

 

Welcome! My post clamps don't swivel freely, but they do swivel, and so it required a little practice for me to work with them quickly and confidently. I did find that, from the factory, neither clamp was adjusted tightly enough to keep from slipping under heavy load, so I had to slightly tweak them, and I check them at every prep.

 

I found that, on my last two shoots, the gimbal/post would make its way up to the top stage - the post clamp somehow loosened. I can understand maybe that first time, but even after I tightened it pretty well?

Just ranting. Sorry.

 

We'll see if it's a regular problem....

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  • 2 weeks later...

Hey guys, I am quite excited to join this Forum. My Zephyr is coming in the mail tomorrow. I bought it from B&H, standard vest with V-lock. I am quite new to Steadicam operating and I have only flown much older rigs and broken ones... So my question is. I am shooting on the RED EPIC on the end of November for a commercial in SF. What do I need to do to get the rig ready?

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Welcome to the forum.

 

The best way to answer the question for yourself is to do a prep of the camera well ahead of time.

 

You'll need to decide what rod and baseplate system, what mattebox, what lens(es), and figure out how everything balances out.

You'll need to rent or buy a wireless follow focus with cables, brackets etc. and figure out how best to mount it (hint: velcro is your friend)

You may want an Epic-to-sled power cable (custom-made), but the camera is light enough you might get away with the onboards.

You may want to purchase the optional Zephyr second battery hanger plate

Plenty of batteries, Epic is power-hungry

If your sled is SD, you'll need a Decimator downconverter and cables. Or buy an HD monitor.

 

Also, what are you doing to get yourself ready? Sounds like your experience is limited...If you've not taken at least a weekend workshop, take one. Get the EFP training DVD and Steadicam Operators Handbook and study. Find another operator who can help you set your rig up properly (vest adjustment, arm setting, etc.) Get a practice camera and buy a weight plate/cage. And Practice, Practice, Practice.

 

These topics are mostly covered in detail in older threads, get friendly with the search function.

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Thanks Mark,

 

I have been reading the book none stop since I bought it on Monday, It's a great resource. One of my teachers from school has a lot of experience Operating and we have plans to get together and practice. Thanks for the quick Epic to Sled tips! Yeah my sled is SD, I have been reading your other posts and I am going to your advice on which one to upgrade too. I will search for the Epic to Sled power cable on this site to see if I get any hits. I own a 7D with a set of primes and 2 zooms. And in my previous life I was a strutural welder so im going to build a heavy cage for my 7D.

 

I'll keep you guys updated. Thanks again Mark.

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