2008Steadi-Newbies forum
Stabilizing a Flyer LE gimbal with a lightweight camera by adding weight to the top stage
18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Adding weight to the top stage of a Flyer LE reduces side-to-side wave motion in video when using lightweight cameras around 5 pounds.
- The gimbal should be positioned closer to the camera lens to minimize the effect of operator movement, similar to how holding a pencil near its eraser reduces eraser movement compared to holding it in the middle.
- Weight should be added to the top stage rather than the center post or camera handle to maintain proper gimbal balance and keep drop time between 2-3 seconds.
- A custom steel weight plate weighing around 13 pounds mounted via quick-release adapter allows rapid camera changes without rebalancing.
- Battery boxes or homemade weights secured with gaff tape can serve as practical counterweights when machined solutions are unavailable.
- Securing any added weight absolutely is critical, as loose weights will shift balance and degrade stabilization.
Depends on
- Solution applies specifically to lightweight cameras on Flyer LE within the rig's weight range.
- Experience documented with Sony HVR-Z7 camera and college football shooting conditions.
- The pencil analogy explains the principle but actual gimbal behavior depends on specific Flyer LE design and configuration.
Parts
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