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Ions that won’t work, and boil your list down to a manageable size. If you are torn between two stabilizers, and you find that one has more functionality when paired with compatible accessories, it could make your decision that much easier, specifically with quick release mounting plates more suited to your camera.
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Some stabilizers and stabilizer systems may not work with every camera or in every situation, but many of these stabilizers offer accessories like arm extensions or additional battery life options.
Handheld digital video camera how to#
2.3 HOW TO CHOOSE A STABILIZER Which accessories will you need? If you’re in need of guidance, consult our list of the best video cameras for filmmakers. If you don’t own a camera already, I suggest choosing your camera first, and then finding a stabilizer that works best.Įven if you have a general idea of your camera size and weight, it will help you eliminate options that won’t work, and boil your list down to a manageable size. Other times your camera will be too bulky, especially with a lens attached, and may require additional accessories or a different option altogether. Most stabilizer options work best when they are “bottom heavy” because this forces the camera to remain upright.
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Your choice in camera is just as important as your choice in stabilizer, and the two have a symbiotic relationship with one another.Īt times a more expensive stabilizer will work against you because they were often built to handle larger cameras that weigh more than DSLRs. Here is a helpful video from Bart Johnson Productions where they test a DJI Ronin M (motorized 3-axis gimbal) vs the Tiffen Steadicam (vest stabilizer system).Ģ.2 HOW TO CHOOSE A STABILIZER Which camera will you be using? Many of these stabilizers do not require batteries to operate, as they are purely mechanical, but the physical stress can force your operator to take breaks while one set.
Handheld digital video camera professional#
When the vest systems are mounted with professional cameras (camera battery, monitor, lens, etc) they can be as heavy as 60 lbs, but this weight is distributed evenly across your torso, allowing the operator to move with relative ease. The key to effectively using a vest stabilizing system, or any weight based stabilizer is transferring the center of gravity from the camera to the “sled” (weighted plate). These stabilizers are more often used with high-end cinema cameras and depending on their support range can have trouble balancing cameras that are too lightweight. Steadicam is a brand name, similar to “kleenex” or “chapstick.”įun Fact: This is referred to as a “Proprietary Eponym.” Table of Contents Everything you need to know about video camera stabilizers.
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