Jump to content

Best Remote Follow Focus System for Steadicam?


KoernerCamera

Recommended Posts

When using a remote focus device for cameras on a Steadicam, what is your preferred brand? Do Steadicam operators need to worry about the weight of the controller and motor like on a Movi?

 

Are operators still using Bartech or are most using CMotion or the Arri CForce mini motor? We carry Preston Single Channel and FIZ units, but they are too heavy for most operators. We have one Arri CForce mini motor that can be used with our Arri SXU-1 controller or by itself on the Arri Mini.

 

Are there any brands that Steadicam operators would like to see carried by a rental house?

 

Thanks everyone!

 

-C

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Premium Members

I think you'll find that the majority of A-list steadicam operators in the US own Preston systems, and I can't imagine anyone stating that a Preston is too heavy to use on a steadicam. Other brands are used of course, but I believe Preston to be the most popular follow focus system on features, television, commercials, etc., at least in the US.

 

Brooks Robinson

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Premium Members

Yes, we do have the DM-2 in with our Preston Single Channel's but still people say they're too heavy.

 

 

This sounds like gimbal operators, not steadicam operators. Or "people" is too small of a sample size. I've never known a Preston MDR and DM1 to be turned down by a steadi op, ever.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Premium Members

Yes, please specify if these are indeed steadicam ops, or electronic gimbal operators.

I don't think that any of the professional steadicam ops in PDX would complain about a preston motor or 3, and an MDR being too heavy. It would make us look pretty unprofessional.
I've got no plans to switch from my Preston.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I think you'll find that the majority of A-list steadicam operators in the US own Preston systems, and I can't imagine anyone stating that a Preston is too heavy to use on a steadicam. Other brands are used of course, but I believe Preston to be the most popular follow focus system on features, television, commercials, etc., at least in the US.

 

Brooks Robinson

 

I concur with Brooks. The new Preston MDR 3 is very light. I own a Chrosziel MagNum which is a very good system at a fraction of the cost. The motor control unit is slightly thinner and lighter than the MDR3 as well. If you were to combine this system with lightweight Heden motors or the new Chrosziel CDM-100 you'll find it's extremely light.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 5 months later...

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

Loading...
×
×
  • Create New...