Stabilizer course?

[Stephen Pruitt]

Hi all. . .

I own a RED and an Actioncam and would like to really know how to use this beast effectively. Can anyone recommend a course or video series or something that will help me to. . . wait for it. . . get off on the right foot?

Thanks much.

Stephen

 

[Nick Gardner]

Most manufacturers have steadicam classes. Tiffen, MK-V, etc, you can check their websites for schedules.

Operating steadicam takes a lot of practice, and you really need to be doing the right things form wise. Also, understanding the physics of whats going on help immensely once you have the basics down. Knowing what effect moving your modulus up on the camera 2 inches and why, that kind of thing.

Also make sure you have a good understanding of dynamic balance. Makes a world of difference on pans.

Learn all the right techniques, don Juan is hard, but it's much better than walking backwards.

Cheers,

Nick

 

[Barry Gregg]

Stephen;
Back when I was operating I found a VHS video on eBay that was a big help. It had good information on dynamic balance and the various operating modes including don juan and low mode.

Lots of practice. Good shoes.

 

[Christian Belzer]

Stephen,

Tiffen has digitallized the Basic Training Video. Its called
The EFP Steadicam Training Video
http://www.tiffen-europe.com/Steadicam_Store.html
This is the link to the eurosite of Tiffen. But you see, pricing is very fair!

Another video, but for advanced level, regarding the use of cars, cranes, cables etc. also from Jerry Holway
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...kshops_VT5_Advanced_Steadicam_Techniques.html
This one is pricey..

Then the bible: Steadicam Operators Handbook
http://www.amazon.de/The-Steadicam-...ie=UTF8&s=books-intl-de&qid=1234216916&sr=8-1
the link refers to the german amazon site. The book is written by j. holway (again) and laurie white hayball.

right now I´m starting to try myself on the steadicam. On this wednesday I have an exam in physics
and the week after that I´ve rent a small rig and will train for four days, then I will shoot a short shortmovie...
I´ve been speaking to a couple of camera operators and they all said: flying the steadicam is an art of itself. Everybody advised me to take a workshop - which I will do after basic training.

Hope it helps!

Christian

 

[Charles Papert]

The Tiffen video, while a tad elderly, has a lot of great advice that is still perfectly relevant. Many newbies these days don't bother to do regimented practice exercises and their operating will inevitably suffer because of this.