Hi folks... I really can't balance my T2i with 15mm 2.8 lens, using my merlin, I could not find it on cookbook. Does anyone have the recipe for it ?

Thanks a lot for your attention.

I have to disagree - the training DVD was very helpful in getting me flying my Merlin quickly and successfully (in my case with a 7D) - after all, it's narrated by the guru himself. I also seem to remember some parts of it (if not all) are on the web somewhere - maybe the Tiffen site?

I think most of the people who have problems flying Merlins rush the learning stages and/or don't take time to understand the (albeit) very basic concepts (well to me they are, but I was scientist/engineer in a former career) of how this complex rig works and how to correctly adjust it for coarse and fine balance. Once you've got that in your head it's VERY easy to set-up. The other thing, that is much harder to learn, and can only be gained after lots of practice, is just how light and subtle you need to be with all movements/corrections when flying a Merlin Steadicam once it is fully balanced. I imagine this will be even more so with a very light T2i (compared to my heavier 7D).

I'm still learning (....you always will be with a Steadicam) but the DVD certainly got me flying - and now I'm hooked!

I couldn't agree more. And as for the immediately previous post, I don't have a recipe but I've decided recipes are relatively worthless. The real value is spending DAYS with the instruction manual and DVD. I'm a surgeon, and I can tell you this reminds me of learning new surgical techniques. People who brag about learning the Merlin in a few minutes are either lucky or lying.

I learned the book and DVD well enough to be able to recall it instantly as I was using the device. (A remnant of my surgery training.)

Among the other things it discusses is how to balance a camera without a recipe. In other words, HOW TO BALANCE A CAMERA! I think the recipes might help Tiffen sell a few units, but I'd wish they'd get rid of the recipe book and make a short field guide for rebalancing.