Hi

Anyone use this combo and can pass on some balancing tips?

I'm really struggling to find the right configuration

Cheers

Hi Bobby, do you have the manual for the 2000, if not it's available here: http://www.glidecam.com/pdf/man/glidecam_2000_4000_pro_manual.pdf

If you have the manual, what is it you're having trouble with?

If you attach the camera as per the manual and then adjust for the drop time and then adjust for forward/backward balance.

I've only had my HD4000 and Smooth Shooter for a few weeks but can adjust it fairly quickly.

Use a stand and docking plate, rather than hand holding it and trying to adjust things.

Get back if you are having trouble.

Peter

Bobby,

The stand we use is a wide base mic stand or lighting stand. We include an adapter with our system (similar to Glidecams in many ways) so balancing really is much easier as Peter suggested.

Make sure the bottom weights are equal on both sides of the post and out towards the edge of the bottom plate. This helps in system stability. Slowly spin the sled with the camera plate in the middle but without a camera connected and see if the post spins without wobbling. If it wobbles then you need to move one set of weights either in or out just a bit.

Now add the camera and adjust it according to the instructions from Glidecam. Remember, if you have a long drop time your balance will be harder to achieve so it's a good idea to start with a shorter drop time and adjust the camera on the camera stage.

Next adjust the drop time to what you would like (usually around 2 seconds for new users) and readjust your camera. It's important to realize that the closer you get to a very good balance the more delicate your adjustments need to be. Sometimes a 64th of an inch is all that is needed.

Hope this helps.

Tery
Indicam