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Flying a Panavision Platinum camera on a Steadicam rig

16 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • Weight is the primary challenge when mounting a Panavision Platinum on a Steadicam, and using a full sliding baseplate instead of a lightweight bracket can max out a G70 arm.
  • A G-70 arm can support the Platinum but has limited headroom for additional weight beyond what a fully rigged camera requires.
  • Follow focus systems present difficulties because Panavision accessory bars can rotate even when tightened, and some focus wheel units may spin too stiffly or too loosely.
  • Low mode operation is possible with the Platinum if appropriate mounting brackets are used, though it is not ideal.
  • The Panavision Lightweight camera, designed as a stripped-down version of the Platinum, is better suited for Steadicam work including jogging shots and low mode.
  • Balancing a heavy camera like the Platinum requires substantial counterweight at the opposite end of the arm, typically multiple weights of varying sizes.
  • Conducting a test day before production is essential to solve rigging and balance problems rather than troubleshooting during actual filming.
  • Custom mounting solutions and accessory kits are available to address specific rigging challenges with this camera setup.

Depends on

  • Accounts are based on limited experience from specific jobs, some details are recalled from memory and may be incomplete.
  • The advice relates to the MK-V Nexus Steadicam model and may differ with other Steadicam generations.
  • No detailed specifications provided for weight limits or exact counterweight requirements.
  • The focus motor mounting issues mentioned were not fully described or resolved in the discussion.

Gear in this thread

G-70catalog

Parts

Low Mode, Follow Focus, Base Plate

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