What the thread found

• A standard Steadicam® weight cage with adjustable weight plates is the common training method; the cage alone weighs approximately 10 kg.
• One operator reported a Canon 5D Mark II in the cage with an HDMI-to-SDI converter totalling about 12.5 kg, which flies well; power can be supplied via D-Tap from the sled or a P-Tap-to-12 V connector.
• An inexpensive HD-SDI surveillance camera (CCTV, 1080p) with a variable CS-mount lens (5–50 mm, equivalent to approximately 23–230 mm on S35) offers more realistic focal lengths for training than fixed 2.8–12 mm lenses, draws minimal power, survives rough handling, and aids SDI signal testing.
• Another operator uses a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro as a training camera with a Micro Converter, powered via a cold-shoe distribution block and secured to a V-Lock battery with hook-and-loop fastener; a small Tilta follow-focus motor can share the same power source.
• Tall cameras like the Canon 1DX do not fit every cage without removing the top plate.
• Realistic digital camera setups weigh between 7 and 18–20 kg and measure 20 to 70–80 cm in length; training should vary payload mass, height, and length.
• Operators should test different camera packages from rental houses to learn balance and handling across various payloads.
• Older analog-output cameras such as the Sony HDV FX-1 work with cable adapters to the monitor; additional weight can be added using diving weights.

Depends on

• Setup depends on monitor compatibility (SDI input available on Transvideo 8-inch).
• Camera fit depends on cage model and whether the top plate can be removed.
• Power supply method depends on available tap points on the M-2 sled.

Parts

Follow Focus

Same gear or parts

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