2012Steadi-Newbies forum
Balancing a Steadicam Merlin with Nikon D800 and 14-24mm lens to reduce pendulum oscillation
14 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A system combining a Nikon D800 with a 14-24mm f2.8 lens weighing approximately 1980 grams can be mounted on a Steadicam Merlin, though some pendulum effect may persist.
- Oscillation during lateral and forward-backward movements typically indicates excessive bottom-heavy weight distribution.
- Increasing drop time to at least 2 seconds helps stabilize the rig.
- Repositioning the gimbal downward or moving weight upward can reduce bottom heaviness.
- The focal length shift between 14mm and 24mm on the same lens affects balance and can be compensated by adjusting trim settings.
- A lighter alternative like a 20mm f2.8 lens provides better stability but sacrifices the wide-angle coverage and image quality of the 14-24mm.
Depends on
- The specific mounting configuration and final working balance settings were not fully documented.
- Drop time achievement of exactly 2 seconds was a target but actual final result unclear.
- The comparison with 20mm lens is anecdotal and based on single user experience.
- Video evidence link may no longer be accessible.