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2025General Discussion forum

Adding weight to the top stage of a Steadicam rig for lighter cameras

What the thread found

  • Lightweight cameras such as compact cinema models benefit from additional weight on the Steadicam top stage to improve performance
  • Weight can be mounted between the stage and quick release plate using a heavy dovetail adapter or cheese plate to allow faster camera swaps compared to screw-in weights
  • Dedicated practice weight plates designed for Steadicam use are available commercially and can provide 6.5 pounds or more of mass

Depends on

  • Most commercial cheese plates are designed for weight reduction rather than weight addition, making them difficult to source
  • The specific weight requirement depends on individual camera and rig configuration

Gear in this thread

Zephyrcatalog

Parts

Top Stage

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