2022From a Facebook group: Steadicam operators group
Selecting a used Steadicam® rig under 20 lb capacity for RED Komodo with larger lenses and follow focus.
DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.
What the thread found
- For approximately 9 kg payload capacity, a used Steadicam® Zephyr is recommended; secondhand offerings are available in relevant buy-sell groups.
- The complete assembled camera package should be weighed first—in this case approximately 13 lb—to determine the correct rig class; for approximately 5 kg payload, a Steadicam® Pilot may suffice.
- Steadicam® operation requires significant practice before producing usable footage; for a single film without prior experience, a three-axis gimbal such as a Freefly Movi Pro or Freefly M15 with Ready Rig is often the better choice despite higher cost.
- An alternative is to hire an experienced operator with their own rig rather than purchase a system.
Depends on
- Choice depends on total camera package weight including lens and follow focus system.
- Steadicam® learning curve and available rehearsal time.
- Budget for purchase versus rental or operator hire.
Gear in this thread
Parts
Same gear or parts
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- 2026Reducing voltage drop in standard Steadicam® Zephyr cabling for high-power broadcast cameras.DisputedFacebookSteadicam operators group