2008Vehicles and Mounts forum
Operating experiences and techniques with the Hands Free Transporter camera mounting system
18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The newer Hardmount version uses weight shifts for steering control and is reported to be easier to operate than the previous model
- The newer Hardmount is approximately 12 centimeters wider than the previous version, providing increased stability
- Operating a softmount while the hardmount is telescoped up is considered unsafe and risky
- Shooting in certain positions such as Tango on Modified DJ with the lens pointed toward the arm creates difficult monitoring conditions due to obstructed monitor view
- Monitor placement should be positioned as far out as possible to improve visibility during operation
- Don Juan position is considered the most difficult to operate because the monitor is behind the operator while driving forward
- Operating backward on the Hands Free unit results in reversed steering controls and the unit will shut down if pushed too fast
- The device can be used body-mounted only without the transporter base
- Adjusting the mounting stick outward creates more clearance between the vest and socket block
- Rental rates for a Hands Free Transporter package typically command an additional 300 to 400 dollars per day over a standard steadicam rental
- The equipment cost is approximately 20000 dollars when fully rigged
Depends on
- Discussion includes a user who is affiliated with the company
- Some claims about operation difficulty are based on personal observation rather than documented testing
- Rental rate information is limited to one operator's market experience and may not represent broader industry standards
- The backward operation shutdown behavior is mentioned but not explained
- Specific shooting scenarios described are tied to particular production types such as golf course and motorsports work
Parts
Same gear or parts
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- 2026Hard-mounting the rig to a vehicle: the two riggings, the honest speeds, and when not to do it at allOperator practice
- 2025Case organization and transport strategy for steadicam operatorsGeneral Discussion