2017Operating forum
Weight distribution and foot positioning during steadicam starts, stops, and holds
What the thread found
- Positioning weight on the foot on the same side as the sled creates better stability because the operator's center of gravity stays closer to the rig.
- When stopping a shot, prioritize stopping the sled last rather than stopping the operator's body, sometimes with only milliseconds of difference between the two.
- Developing the ability to start, stop, and hold the rig with weight on either foot is essential since shot requirements vary and perfect positioning is not always achievable.
- Landing with most weight on the back foot provides a stable base and allows the front foot to reposition quickly for the next move, similar to martial arts stance.
- Initiating movement by rotating shoulders in the direction of travel, which moves the hips and sled accordingly, helps establish the initial motion.
- Applying force through the gimbal rather than gripping the post produces cleaner stops and starts.
- The operator may need to chase the sled during the first half of the initial step when starting from a stationary position.
Depends on
- Different shot requirements mean the ideal weight distribution cannot always be achieved, and operators must be flexible.
- The difference between when the operator stops and when the sled stops can vary from milliseconds to much longer depending on the specific shot.
- Environmental constraints such as walls or limited arm extension may require non-ideal stopping positions.