2011Monitors forum
Optimal monitor size for Steadicam operation
15 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
- Monitor size preference for Steadicam operators varies based on viewing distance and scanning requirements
- Smaller monitors around 6.5 to 8.4 inches allow operators to take in the entire frame without requiring eye movement across the screen
- Larger monitors such as 9 inches require the operator to scan across the display rather than seeing the complete image at once, which some operators find disadvantageous
- An 8.4 inch monitor provides sufficient visual information while maintaining a manageable image size for comfortable operation
- Jib operators and remote head technicians may have different monitor size requirements than handheld Steadicam operators
- The effective usable image size is smaller than the stated screen diagonal due to overscan area and framelines
- Some operators intentionally reduce the displayed image size on larger monitors to match their preferred scanning distance
Depends on
- Operator preferences for monitor size are subjective and individual
- One operator reported using a 9 inch monitor successfully without noting specific disadvantages
- The discussion includes anecdotal reports rather than systematic testing
- Screen size effectiveness may depend on rig type and working environment
- Discussion dates to 2011 and does not reflect current display technology