Merlin question at DVinfo.net

Brett Daly · March 27th, 2008, 01:09 AM

Hi,

I purchased my A1 with a Steadicam Merlin last week, as I wanted a stabilizer that could hopefully give me the smoothest shots I could get for under $1000. I plan to be doing a lot of tracking type shots for sporting events, and even some home movies. I realize there's a steep learning curve, as I've been finding that out just practicing through the mountain trails. I've definitely got the up and down bobbing issue perfected I think, as motion sickness has struck me a few times after watching the footage I shot. :)

I guess my question is, did I choose the right stabilizer? I realize everyone has their personal favorite, but if I'm going to be walking or running behind or in front of people on rough terrain, but want to avoid the shaky cam effect as much as possible, was the Merlin the right decision or is there a better alternative in that price range? One thing I've come to realize is that if there's a gust of wind, or if it's just a windy day in general, the Merlin almost becomes impossible to keep steady, at least in my hands, and I plan to be doing a lot of outdoor filming. I'm hoping I didn't make the wrong decision, but now I'm really beginning to wonder.

Thanks,
Brett

Buba Kastorski · March 27th, 2008, 11:18 PM

I love Merlin, I think it's just the best value for money you pay, I used to fly merlin handheld with FX1, then with A1 and now EX1 (now with the arm and west); for the A1 (IMO), merlin is perfect, but I'm 200Lb and I could do up to 2 min straight no problem, for shots much longer than that, you might need an arm and vest,
No doubts Brett, A1 is awesome camera and Merlin is the best steadicam for the price, give it 2 -3 weeks of practice, you'll see it for yourself,
don't forget to post some footage,
:-)

Mikko Wilson · March 31st, 2008, 01:15 AM

Wind is the enemy of all Steadicam operators. It affects all rigs about as much, best thing you can do is - well - get out of the wind.

Wind sucks. Blows. Whatever...

- Mikko

March 27th, 2008, 01:09 AM	#1
Brett Daly Regular Crew Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Vancouver Canada Posts: 28	Merlin question Hi, I purchased my A1 with a Steadicam Merlin last week, as I wanted a stabilizer that could hopefully give me the smoothest shots I could get for under $1000. I plan to be doing a lot of tracking type shots for sporting events, and even some home movies. I realize there's a steep learning curve, as I've been finding that out just practicing through the mountain trails. I've definitely got the up and down bobbing issue perfected I think, as motion sickness has struck me a few times after watching the footage I shot. :) I guess my question is, did I choose the right stabilizer? I realize everyone has their personal favorite, but if I'm going to be walking or running behind or in front of people on rough terrain, but want to avoid the shaky cam effect as much as possible, was the Merlin the right decision or is there a better alternative in that price range? One thing I've come to realize is that if there's a gust of wind, or if it's just a windy day in general, the Merlin almost becomes impossible to keep steady, at least in my hands, and I plan to be doing a lot of outdoor filming. I'm hoping I didn't make the wrong decision, but now I'm really beginning to wonder. Thanks, Brett

March 31st, 2008, 01:15 AM	#3
Mikko Wilson Major Player Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Juneau, Alaska, USA Posts: 624	Wind is the enemy of all Steadicam operators. It affects all rigs about as much, best thing you can do is - well - get out of the wind. Wind sucks. Blows. Whatever... - Mikko __________________ Mikko Wilson - Steadicam Owner / Operator - Juneau, Alaska, USA +1 (907) 321-8387 - mikkowilson@hotmail.com - www.mikkowilson.com

March 27th, 2008, 11:18 PM	#2
Buba Kastorski Trustee Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Toronto Posts: 1,414	I love Merlin, I think it's just the best value for money you pay, I used to fly merlin handheld with FX1, then with A1 and now EX1 (now with the arm and west); for the A1 (IMO), merlin is perfect, but I'm 200Lb and I could do up to 2 min straight no problem, for shots much longer than that, you might need an arm and vest, No doubts Brett, A1 is awesome camera and Merlin is the best steadicam for the price, give it 2 -3 weeks of practice, you'll see it for yourself, don't forget to post some footage, :-)