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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

Top Stage, Low Mode

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