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2011Steadi-Newbies forum

Operating Arri 435 film camera on steadicam with power and equipment constraints

15 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • The Arri 435 requires 24 volt power while many steadicam rigs supply only 12 volts, necessitating an external battery belt or converter solution.
  • Removing the eyepiece and video system from the Arri 435 reduces camera weight, which is beneficial when carrying the camera on a steadicam rig.
  • A 100% video top for the Arri 435 makes the camera lighter and narrower, and enables low-mode operation without additional cage structures.
  • The Arri 435 requires specific steadicam magazines that allow film to move vertically rather than horizontally, maintaining camera balance throughout a shot.
  • A clip-on mattebox reduces overall camera weight compared to using a sliding baseplate with support rods.
  • The Arri 3 is an older alternative that runs on 12 volt power, potentially eliminating the need for an external battery belt, but has inferior video optics and viewing system compared to the 435.
  • Carrying a battery belt yourself provides better control over power management during steadicam operation than relying on an assistant to follow with the power source.
  • An upgraded EFP rig with a 3-arm system may not be optimally designed for heavier film cameras, potentially affecting drop time and handling.

Depends on

  • Advice applies specifically to the Arri 435 and Arri 3 cameras.
  • The Arri 3 option depends on availability at the rental house and may require sourcing specialized accessories like low-mode brackets and eyepiece video taps from individual operators.
  • Using Arri 3 at frame rates above 50 fps requires a second discrete 12 volt power source, potentially negating its advantage over the 435.
  • The discussion centered on a specific low-budget student film production and may not reflect practices on fully-funded productions.
  • Advice regarding EFP rig suitability for heavier cameras was based on general design principles and the specific operator's configuration.

Parts

Dovetail Plate, Low Mode, Base Plate

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