Hi all. Yep, I'm new here. I am planning to build a steaycam system. Well, at least try to anyway. I was wondering how many people have built themselve a rig. It would be nice to see those systems as well.
Another thing, are any being used successfully by videographers? Thanks.

There are quite a lot of people on this site (http://www.homebuiltstabilizers.com/) that have built them.

I've shown hundreds (really!) of people how to build their own. It's not that difficult. Go for it!

Dan
www.DVcameraRigs.com

Dan I'm wondering how everyone says it is quite a difficult thing
to do (especially if you want to make a GOOD rig) and requires
some engineering skill and you say it is easy basically. Some
explenation would be welcomed. What kind of rigs did you built?
Any pictures or movies with those?

Wow! That link you posted is awesome! That look like the real thing. Something like that can't be that easy to build. I mean those guys must have put alot of work into building it. There was one rig, I it was Charles rig, if I'm not mistaken, that really looked awesome. He has also written a book too. I'll be getting it soon. Anyone bought the book?

I also visited the forum to check it out and it seems thare are nice people with strong devotion the steadicam. They seem almost too devoted. :)

Has anybody used their rig to fly a film camera? Now that would be interesting to see.

I bought the Charles' book as well as the Cody's plans. Two must have books if you are looking to build a rig. Well illustrated, well written, awesome! I am in the process of building a rig myself, mostly based on the Cody design and these two books helps me a lot!

Thanks Jean for your recommendation but which book did you get? Cody has one and Charles has three. Which one of the three did you get? Here's the link to the webshop: http://www.cafeshops.com/hbsbooks

I also bought Cody's Camera Stabilizer Plans (http://www.codydeegan.com/).

No time as of yet to do anything with them, though.

I have a Canon XM2.

For the past 2 years I've been hunting for "the" design. I've spent hours and hours looking and reading. I've tried all types of shoulder and suspending type of machines for my XM2 . . but do you know what? I can't for the life of me get on with any of them. They don't "feel" organic or natural.

I know I'm in awe at the ingenuity of individuals with what they've come up with, but as of yet, none feel right or correct. The nearest I've got to what I regard as a "sweet" design is the Anton Bauer set-up. It just feels right on the shoulder, holds a battery and can be used straight onto the tripod. But, the price is magnificent too!

So, that's me . . still looking .. and still wondering about what others have produced.

Best regards,

Grazie

I too bought Charles's book and I have not regreted. His book really digest things down in layman terms. I like that. No big fancy words to describe something complicated. I for one have never been the type to understand all the big technical terms but Charles does his best with this book.
The book is more about how he build his Steadycam. He also explains the pros and cons and what not to do. He gives lots of suggestions, as well as many tips to build a system of your own.
I think I understand the Steadicam system better now then I did before. A big plus for the book.
Both Charles and Cody are very devoted people who know the concept of the steadycam system.

Wow! some really good post here. I like. Keep'em coming.

Simon. I just checked the link you posted. The other two books are not yet available. I was already with my credit card when you mention he had already put out two more books. :)

I think Charles said that the book he's doing for modifying the Glidecam sled will be out by the end of this month/beginning of the next.
Well, I can't wait for them. His other book about his past and present rigs look interesting too.

Yeah, I noticed after checking a second time. Oh well, no problem. I'll just buy the one he has now and buy the others when they come out.

I like to think one can fly a homemade steadycam in a semi professional field but it would have to look good as well as perform well in oder to do so.

Oh yeah. Now you all know I have to jump in. Homebuilt stabilizers! - Can't keep me out even if you tried. ;)

Simon, Homebuilt rigs are not for everybody let alone building them. Regardless of what people say, it takes time and patience. Some would think it's as easy as just knocking two pieces of metal together.

It's only easy if you are not too serious about it and really don't mind the quality of the finish work. Another thing that people don't think is regardless of the unit, you must practice to get perfect shots. Charles P. has stated this time and time again, and I concur hundred times over.

One thing I don't do is, encourage people to build. I prefer to inspire than to say go out and build one and you will get perfect shots.

There are certain elements that need special attention - like the gimbal for instance. One false move and you'll pay for it with the system going of balance regularly. I always say, if you want a descent gimbal then get it machined. You won't regret.

I have chosen to build my system and have been doing so for the past 7 1/2 years. Boy! that long?!! Well, I enjoy it. I always try to better the system even if it means spending more time. That's the key, having the time to produce something of quality will result in a happy operator - ME! ;)

You have to know what you want in a system and what you are willing to sacrifice in order to get the system that you want. Sure you can build a hand held version and practice with it. If it's not a hobby then you will crave for something better and that's where a full rig will come to play.

Don't be discourage by what I'm saying. It's better to know the truth up front and be prepared than walking in ingnorant to the facts. One thing is certain - it can be done but you have to be willing to go the extra mile.

Oh yeah, here is a link I posted of a member of HBS who flew a film camera with his HB rig : http://www.andreaskielb.de/test.htm

Eat your heart out ;)

wow! Thanks Charles. It's the man himself. Thanks for clarifying things for me. I will definately heed your advice. I probably know the stacks and I am willing to to the extra mile as you put it.

That link you posted was a big plus. This an awesome prove that it can be done. This is the first time I've seen a homemade steadycam flying a film camera - Awesome! Now I'm definately inspired.

Thanks again for your website, Charles. It's one amazing site. The first of it's kind. Great job inputting it together. BTW, you have built so many rigs according to the pics you posted. Do you still have any that you might want to sell?

gee, I feel like a big spoilsport, but that particular SRII body in the pictures isn't equipped with a video tap, so there wouldn't be any image on the monitor...! Nice looking rig though, very clean sled.

That's actually the same camera that I flew on my first film job (with tap, however!), somewhere around '87.

Good luck with your project, Simon!

Well Charles P. , he did ask for a HB rig flying a film camera, so I showed him, regardless if it doesn't have a video tap. It's still prove that he's flying it on a HB rig ;)

BTW, how's your project coming along? I'm waiting with my credit card in my hand for that long awaited training video :)

For sure, it's a film camera. Like I said, I was just being a spoilsport--or should I say, wiseass.

Well, I was about to go into production but I got sidetracked into shooting a short film starting next weekend. Hopefully after that wraps I'll be able to get back into that darn video. It really is elusive!

One nice thing is that I will be borrowing a Tiffen Flyer to audition on this short film, so that I can assess its viability as a serious production tool. We are going to be using a DVX100 with a Mini35 and Zeiss speeds on it. I'll be posting some thoughts on the rig when the dust settles. I'm keeping the PRO in the closet for this shoot if I possibly can!

ooooh yessss, baby. Now you're talking. Keep us updated.

"Dan I'm wondering how everyone says it is quite a difficult thing
to do (especially if you want to make a GOOD rig)".

Well, let me see...first, the rig in "Killer camera rigs" is similar to the Glidecam 4000, with one important difference: the handle has bearings to isolate wrist movement. So It's a handheld unit. Much easier to make. The version with the vest, and double arm is going to be in volume II. It will incorporate the best parts of the professional Steadicam and the Basson (a great stabilizer out of Brazil). Frankly, I think the thing that makes it easy to build is the vast amount of photos and step-by-step instructions in the book. I'm not sure how many photos I have for the stabilizer alone, but for the 11 different rigs in total there are over 1,300 photos. I also designed the rigs with materials that are pretty available--which was the hardest part about writing the book. So with some guidance, these things ARE easy to build. Having said that, the Vest/Arm version will be more difficult, but if you can follow instructions...

Also, the most valuble experience I had while writing "Killer Camera Rigs" was that I taught rig building at the USC summer film program. I could see first hand what wasn't clear or what the students were having trouble with, and fix it.

You can see the rig on the website, as well as quicktime movies, reviews, and praise from builders who've made some of the rigs.

all my best,

Dan
www.DVcameraRigs.com

Heja! (for the Svenska)
Or Hi there.,
Soooo, what is the cost difference for building a full vest-system yourself?
How much will the materials cost? Range$?

I'm considering it myself after having good luck building a jib. But my time is precious as well. Info appreciated.
Thanks,

Jeff Patnaude

Thank you for your explenation Dan. I didn't know you where
the author of Killer camera rigs. Welcome aboard! <g>

I made my own steadicam (like glidecam)

http://web.axelero.hu/prechj/pics/steadi1.jpg
http://web.axelero.hu/prechj/pics/steadi2.jpg
http://web.axelero.hu/prechj/pics/steadi3.jpg
http://web.axelero.hu/prechj/pics/steadi4.jpg

The result is good. But not enough for me..
Should i make an arm brace? It's already heavy.

If i run with my cam the video look better than if just walking.
Interesting.

Any tips to make better my steadicam? :)

Hi Prech,

You can cut down on some of the weight by shortening the counter balance. It doesn't need to be so long. Also, if you make it out of aluminum instead of wood, it will be quite a bit lighter as well. Nice job all around though! If you want to have a wrist support, try using a medical wrist wrap (the velcro kind that someone with a spranged wrist might wear) you can find at any drug store. Get one that has removeable plastic splints. This will help alot. In my book, I also recommend getting a tai chi video and learning some of the basics. I picked up this trick from a friend of mine, Kris Malkiewicz (he wrote the filmmaking classic "cinematograpy" and "film lighting") who is a human steadicam. The Tai Chi moves are excellent when working with a stabilizer. Also, work with the rig everyday. Start with 5 minutes, and add time as you grow stronger. These things take practice!

Dan
www.DVcameraRigs.com

I just think, if the wood is longer, it's harder to pan the cam.
More force is needed. Am i wrong?

My only problem now is that ball-bearing is only help for stabilizing the panning. But not enough for tilting/rolling.
I think, it's normal. For the panning, more ball are moving in bearing, and thus the contact with my arm is more fluent.


Anyway, thank you for the tips!

Hey Dan,

I've checked out your website on many occasions in the past, but didn't order the book until today. I am wondering...when will volume II be available? What other camera rigs will be in volume II?

Prech:

You are essentially correct--the principle here is that the further the weights are from the center of gravity, the greater the inertia, which results in more stability. Having the weights live further out in the horizontal axis means greater inertia in pan; by having them arranged as you have, you are also adding inertia in the tilt axis. If the base was rotated 90 degrees, it would add inertia in the roll axis, but it might interfere with your body.

As far as your bearing, yes, you need to build out your gimbal with bearings for tilt and roll to really achieve isolation in all three axes.

Hey! My bearing is a special one.
Check the picture again.
It can rotate in all 3 axis.

"I've checked out your website on many occasions in the past, but didn't order the book until today. I am wondering...when will volume II be available? What other camera rigs will be in volume II?"

Hi Ramon,

First, Thanks so much for your order! I'm hoping to have volume II ready for press by the end of the year. It will mostly focus on building your own lighting, but there will be some rigs: a new stabilizer with a vest/arm. Currently I'm having trouble mimicing the iso arm of the steadicam, but it's a problem I'm intent on solving! There will also be a large dolly with wheels that can crab, a sound boom with a mic shock mount, a different kind of car mount than in volume I, and a motorized pan/tilt head for the cranes. And who knows what else! It seems to keep growing. Another monster!

Dan
www.DVcameraRigs.com

Prech, yes, I saw that your bearing has some movement in tilt and roll, although it looks like it tops out at about 15 degrees or so. I could see that under the best of circumstances it could trim out some simple axial deviation, but:

My main curiousity is how you are using it. The padded grip above the gimbal makes me think you are holding on to the rig up there, but how are you holding the gimbal itself? It's an unusual setup you have there, to be sure.

I hold the bearing itself.
It's hard i know.
The bearing have not only 15 grad rolling.
It can rotate fully in all axis.
(of course the monopod limits this rotating)

<<It can rotate fully in all axis.
(of course the monopod limits this rotating)>>

That's what I was referring to.

<<<-- Originally posted by Prech Marton : I hold the bearing itself.
It's hard i know.
The bearing have not only 15 grad rolling.
It can rotate fully in all axis.
(of course the monopod limits this rotating) -->>>
Just wondering where to get a bearing like the one you're using. What would be its 'technical' name? I realize you're in Hungary, but thought I'd ask anyway...

I don't know the english name.
Here in Hungary we call "önbeálló" :))

(maybe self setting...)

Just chiming in with my .02 here.

I am a happy purchaser of Dan's books. So far I have built the stabilizer and the dolly and have been really impressed with both. Have just used them around the garage but I'll be using them "live" in a month or so. I did test footage of the stabilizer and was amazed at the difference.

Easy is a relative term. Charles is right in that you need to have some skill at putting things together, but if you tinker around the house and change your own oil you can handle this.
His book is set up to take you from easiest to most difficult and the pictures are great. He even goes as far as pointing out any "optical illusions" in the pictures, like if a bolt is reflected in the metal so it looks like two instead of one.

The parts lists are very detailed but you're still going to have to hit probably 3 different places to find it all (the old Lowes-Home Depot-Ace grand tour that one does for any "hour long" DYI project). And you still may not find every last nut and bolt so you'll have to improvise, which is the name of the game doing this type of thing anyhow.

I do recommend building the first one of each as a prototype cuase you're going to learn by doing of course. The stuff is so cheap you can build two for under $100 and the second one will be polished and tight. And the wheels and gimbals can just be slapped on the new one.

Once I get my tripod I'm going to get a plate assembly for the stabilizer for faster changes, but at $40 or so it will cost more than the whole shebang :-o

I did have problems finding some of the metal. I live near DC but I couldn't find a place willing to deal in such small pieces which is understandable. I ordered some stuff over the web but the shipping was more than the metal :-( I would love it if Dan could team with a supplier that could ship the stuff reasonably. Like a "stabilizer kit" or something. Anodized tubing is near impossible to find.

I did have questions during the process which Dan emailed back right away. And he sends out emails to his customers when someone tweaks a design for the better.

No, I don't work for him, know him, or am intimate with him in any way. Just a happy customer.

If you can hang a ceiling fan, use tools in a reasonably controlled fashion and follow clear instructions you can make this stuff.

Wow Reid, thanks for a great review!

The Annodized aluminum in the book is just a suggestion, though. It just looks pretty, but certainly not necessary. If I remember correctly you had ordered the aluminum tube before e-mailing me, otherwise I'd have been happy to pick up the tubing for you. I hate seeing people over-pay for this stuff. The kit is a great idea, and something that I've been thinking about for quite a while. Unfortunately, I am swamped around here (working on rigs for volume II) and haven't had the time!

Thanks again,

Dan
www.DVcameraRigs.com

Yeah, I think that was right. No big deal, it works just as well non-anodized, it's just not as cool looking. :-(

I haven't given up all hope of finding a local supplier. It boggles my mind that I can't find a place. After a couple more tries if I'm still striking out I'll drop you a line and see if you can't hook me up with the anodized stuff.

I also had trouble finding the real beefy l brackets for the dolly wheels. Both Lowes and HD had virtually every other kind of simpson bracket. I went with a lighter bracket but I's still like to find the beefier ones.

I'm getting my tripod tomorrow so then I'm going to configure leg brackets for the dolly sled.

Is the new book going to contain info about floro lights or tungsten sets?

Hi Reid,

Yep, volume II will have a ton of lighting, gaffer and grip stuff. I'll send you the alternate plans for the dolly. Let me know if you need anything for the tripod!

Dan
www.DVcameraRigs.com

That darned Dan, he's the man.

Seriously guys, and Dan isn't paying me or giving me his cool dog, Monk, either. You can count on this guy to tinker and figure and work on these rigs until he soon gives some very seriously bigger companies a serious scare.

Keep it up, Dan.

David Fisher
www.bkkprods.com

Damn! You guys are the best! Thanks!

Dan
www.dvcamerarigs.com

Eh Simon, here's two pics of another homebuilt rig fully loaded flying a super 16mm camera. More prove!

http://homebuiltstabilizers.com/loicpics.html

Nice rig there! (and this one has a tap, Charles K., don't think I didn't look!!)

I never doubted you for a second Charles P. ;) As a matter of fact, I knew you had to look. :)

wow! now that's something. I would have never thought. Thanks.
I guess it's save enough to say, Yes it's possible?!

Yes, it's save to say it but remember it is all due to the amount of careful mechanical machining of the materials involved (not major but enough) to justify putting a film camera on a homebuilt rig.
BTW, his rig can handle up to 25kg. Not bad eh?

That's 55 lbs, and that's indeed impressive! I assume you mean the lifting capacity of his arm, meaning camera+rig...? That means he can fly the lighter 35mm cameras such as the Moviecam SL/ARRICAM LT etc., or a stock Varicam or Cinealta. I see he has a wireless follow focus too--THAT'S not a homebuild item (unless you are Jim Bartell, of BFD fame).

Overall a really professional looking setup. I think my only note for that gent would be...cable management!

Right Charles P. I did mean the arm capacity. Well, I think the focus is the real thing but I'm just referring to the stabilizer in general. Not bad. I'll put a complete setup in the gallery on HBS when I get more pics and info.

Eh, sorry Charles, didn't mean to sound like I was nitpicking on the follow focus. I think I meant to say that if someone followed through with the homebuild philosophy right through the follow focus setup, that really would be something! (come to think of it, it has been done in the past, with modified RC controls, Jimmy Jib motors, etc.)

It's okay C.P. :) We all tend to dive off the deep end at times.

Dan has done a great job. The stablizer has made a difference and has given me more options to choose from while shooting. Thank You, I can't wait for Volume Two, count one copy already sold.