Jonathan Bufkin
June 27th, 2009, 07:44 AM
Anyone balanced a Rebel T1i on a Merlin and care to share their settings? I have found the setting for a 5d mkII but not for this Rebel.
View Full Version : Settings for Rebel T1i on a Merlin? Jonathan Bufkin June 27th, 2009, 07:44 AM Anyone balanced a Rebel T1i on a Merlin and care to share their settings? I have found the setting for a 5d mkII but not for this Rebel. Sean Seah June 27th, 2009, 10:11 AM Hi Jonathan, the best way is to do the balancing from scratch. Reason is the balance depends on the lens used and the zoom position if it is a zoom lens. Below is a method I use . I recommend to use a quick release like the one below as i have experienced the 5D2 rotating in the midst of a move. Its very low profile and anti slip which is key, as the Rebel doesn't have an anti rotation pin like camcorders. 618711 Slik DQ-L Magnesium Quick Release Adapter Set with DQ-L Plate, Large (http://www.adorama.com/SLDQLA.html) - Find the CG of the camera with a pencil - Mount the plate with the hole H closest to the camera CG - Open the spar to the maximum position and mount about the same counterweights as the load - Adjust for static balance, slide the plate to a middle or slightly to the rear position (too much to the back may cause the some of the merlin to get into the frame) - Hold the handle and move the merlin side to side. If you get swaying, start closing the spar. The stage will tilt and you have to rebalance statically - Keep repeating the above step until the merlin doesn't sway. If it still swings with the spar very closed up, remove one weight - Once it is ok, u can test the drop time. About 1.5 sec is ok for me I used 2 end weights with the 5D2 and 16-35mm without a quick release the last time. Good luck. Jonathan Bufkin June 27th, 2009, 10:33 AM Thanks Sean for sharing your method. You're right about the lens weight and this will give me a good place to start. |