2014Cameras (Film/Video/HD) forum
Stabilizing an Aaton Penelope camera on steadicam while managing film weight distribution during a hiking shot
12 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The Aaton Penelope camera experiences significant weight shifts as film travels through the back during a take, requiring continuous rebalancing on a steadicam rig.
- Small metal weights with adhesive backing placed on the mattebox can be added incrementally during a shot to counteract film weight movement without causing visible vibration or imbalance.
- An Angenieux 28-76mm zoom lens is recommended for this camera due to its relatively light weight, minimal weight displacement when zooming, and sufficient optical performance.
- The Penelope can be mounted to a steadicam sled without a bridge plate and dovetail if the pro plate is directly attached to the camera's mounting base.
- Wooden wedges placed under the camera mount can help eliminate vibration issues that may arise from a single attachment point.
Depends on
- The Aaton Penelope cannot be equipped with a steadimag stabilization system, so manual balancing is required.
- Shooting at a smaller aperture like f11 can reduce the need for high-quality optics but may not be necessary with lighter, better-designed lenses.
- This solution was tested on a specific steep hiking path in a particular shooting scenario and may not apply to all steadicam work.