2013General Discussion forum
Affordable stabilization options for transitioning between low and normal height shots on a Steadicam rig without motorized systems
13 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 Manual Revolution rig with gravity assistance and internal gyros might work for slow transitions between low and normal height, though it may not maintain perfect level throughout the entire move.
- The Tango system is compatible with Phantom rigs but has limited weight capacity compared to larger systems.
- Walking up a ramp while in low mode is a practical technique shown in professional work to transition from low to higher camera positions without specialized gyro equipment.
- An EasyRig setup with gyros can work for stationary or hands-free situations but is not recommended for crouching and moving shots requiring stability.
- Using a Garfield mount on a Fisher 11 dolly with a camera riser can provide a gradual height transition though it will not reach as high as a full ramp solution.
- A Mini Techno Crane is another alternative option for achieving low-to-high transitions.
- Flipping or inverting the rig mid-take is technically possible but not a professional approach to achieving the intended shot.
- Buddycam is mentioned as a system capable of booming rapidly and panning at various heights.
Depends on
- Attempting to use gyros inside a Manual Revolution to maintain level throughout a full low-to-high transition may result in the rig being tilted at the top of the move.
- The approaches discussed are not equivalent to a dedicated Alien Revolution or Omega Revolution system, which are purpose-built for these transitions.
- Expertise and proper equipment design matter significantly for achieving clean, professional results with these types of shots.
Parts
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