2010Steadi-Newbies forum
Choosing between a Flyer LE and larger steadicam rigs for television camera work
16 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.
What the thread found
- A steadicam rig is only one part of the investment; additional equipment such as focus control systems, gimbal zoom controls, wireless transmitters and receivers, on-board recorders, and power distribution can equal or exceed the rig cost itself.
- The Flyer LE can be used successfully for self-produced work where you control what gets mounted, but operating it professionally with full accessories on larger cameras approaches or exceeds its weight limits.
- Starting with a smaller rig while building experience and clientele, then upgrading to a larger rig later, is a viable progression path.
- The type of productions you pursue determines necessary accessories; corporate or event work with limited movements requires fewer additions than feature film work demanding vehicle mounts and wireless video.
- Taking a formal course before purchasing is recommended to understand equipment, assess your operating style, and learn gear quality and industry standards.
- Purchasing a used rig can offer better value than buying new, but requires knowledge to identify serviceable equipment.
Depends on
- The advice comes from 2010 and references discontinued or dated camera models and rig specifications.
- The Flyer LE weight limits relative to the digibeta, DSR 450, and Panasonic HDX900 cameras mentioned may not apply to modern rigs and cameras.
- Opinions on exceeding Flyer specifications are divided among operators; some push limits regularly while others advise against it.
- The discussion assumes UK market pricing and availability.