New Operator Advice

[Will Travis]

Hello All! My name is Will Travis and I am graduating Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in Film this Spring. I have taken a liking to Steadicam over the past year and have been operating as much as I can with the school's Steadicam Shadow. I've flown several camera types such as the Alexa SXT, Alexa Mini, Red Gemini, and even a Panaflex 35mm. I would like to pursue Steadicam as a career and continue learning. I have so many questions on what my next steps after graduation should look like, I was hoping to get some advice from the experts! What should my first rig look like? I've been looking at all sorts of different models, but aren't sure which ones are worth the money. Also, what are some tips on getting started and finding jobs? Finally, what kind of resources are out there to help continue learning? I appreciate any and all advice! Thank you! -Will    

[Maxwel Fisher]

Hi Will,

Congrats on your upcoming graduation, that really quite exciting! 

As far as your first steps into the world of steadicam outside of school, there are a few things that we're all recommended when we begin our walk down the path of balance and pain. First, grab a copy of the steadicam operators handbook. Second, sign up for a class or workshop with a certified steadicam instructor (Tiffen, SOA, Maine Workshop, Steadicam Lessons). After that, reach out to your local steadicam operators, get to know them. See if one of them is willing to take you under their wing. I know Savannah has a few and if you ever are in Atlanta, there are a lot more of us. This is going to be the best way for you to get hands on experience with different sleds, arms, vests, etc.

As far as a first rig goes, it's purely subjective. Try everything and decide what you like. Weigh the opinions from others, but ultimately make a decision based on what works for you, not someone else. The vest especially is a very personal piece of kit. The "right" rig for a first time rig again is subjective and depends on what you can afford. A lot of people believe in the "buy once, cry once school of thought". This is practical if you have the money for it. Don't disregard buying gear second hand. Do not, if you can help it, buy anything that is "knock off" gear. It's cheap for a reason.

Since you're a graduating student, consider offering up shooting any thesis films for your friends. Music videos, short films, etc. Paid work comes in time, but focus on mastering your craft first. I've seen and heard of people buying their rigs and then landing a job only to not be able to perform the task. Your ability to operate is your reputation. In time, people will come to know your talents and skill and the phone will ring.

As far as resources go, use the search function on this site. Dig through the archives of the steadi-newbies posts. Too many people overlook the wealth of knowledge that lingers in this forum. If you have specific questions, make sure they haven't already been asked. You'll often find all the answers you need already exist in a thread somewhere. You can also offer to buy a cup of coffee for any of your local steadicam operators. We love coffee and we love talking about our craft.

All the best,

Maxwel