May 27 2008
Steadicam
Is it the equipment that makes the camera operator an artist or the artistry that makes the camera dance?
Wouldn’t you like to be able to create long, gliding tracking shots in your videos? Maybe pan from low to high in a super smooth motion? Never jiggle the camera as you walk alongside your protagonist as she enters a building and runs up the stairs?
Well, you can. You just need between $4,000.00 and $60,000.00 for a Steadicam.
The Steadicam revolutionized Hollywood cinematography in the 70′s. Eventually, smaller, lighter, less expensive Steadicams were developed for the video market as well. Of course, they are still prohibitively expensive for non-professionals. Unfortunately, wanting and needing and paying for equipment are not the same things. Most videographers won’t be buying a Steadicam any time soon. But then, even 5 years ago, who would have predicted that a top-notch Hi Definition camcorder (like the Canon HV20) would be a mainstream consumer camera, with a price point of under $1,000.00?
B&H Photos’ latest newsletter has an interview with Garrett Brown, the man who invented the Steadicam. In an accompanying video, Brown demonstrates the latest line of (relatively) inexpensive Steadicams for lightweight camcorders. It’s a joy to see.
If you can’t live without tracking shots, but you can’t round up the cash for a Steadicam, there’s the Poorman’s Steadicam. Of course, it is in no way a true Steadicam – but it is an inexpensive stabilizer for anyone with a camcorder weighing less than 4-6 lbs. You can build your own for approximately $15.00 or you can order one for $40.00 (currently sold out – more will be available in the fall).
It ain’t sexy – but if you watch the sample videos, you’ll soon find yourself thinking, “Wish I had one.”
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