Glidecam 2000 at DVinfo.net

Boyd Ostroff · September 1st, 2003, 02:21 AM

I got a Glidecam 2000 pro for my PDX-10 yesterday. With lots of practice I think it's going to work well for the type of short sequences I need.

It took about 2 hours read the instructions, assemble and balance the camera. Initially I balanced with the LCD closed, then realized I would need it open. Then I decided I'd also want the wide angle lens and large hood. Wow, I had no idea the balance on these things is so precise! Just adding a filter makes the camera tip forward.

After some initial experiments I ended up reducing the weight and extending the base all the way. The PDX-10 is so light (~2lbs) that I was able to properly balance with only 2 weights. I've shot a few quick tests, and the main problem seems to be side to side sway from pendulum motion.

I know I need lots more practice, but would it help to put more weight on the base platform and telescope it all the way in?

Ken Tanaka · September 1st, 2003, 11:13 AM

Boyd,
Good for you. Using the GC-2000 with my GL2 I've found that keeping the shaft short and adding weight seems to make the whole rig steadier, more resistant to changes in direction. Also, with a shorter shaft there's less hazard of bumping the shaft with your lower body.

But that's just my opinion. I'm sure you'll come to your own ideal configuration.

September 1st, 2003, 02:21 AM	#1
Boyd Ostroff Wrangler Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Mays Landing, NJ Posts: 11,802	Glidecam 2000 I got a Glidecam 2000 pro for my PDX-10 yesterday. With lots of practice I think it's going to work well for the type of short sequences I need. It took about 2 hours read the instructions, assemble and balance the camera. Initially I balanced with the LCD closed, then realized I would need it open. Then I decided I'd also want the wide angle lens and large hood. Wow, I had no idea the balance on these things is so precise! Just adding a filter makes the camera tip forward. After some initial experiments I ended up reducing the weight and extending the base all the way. The PDX-10 is so light (~2lbs) that I was able to properly balance with only 2 weights. I've shot a few quick tests, and the main problem seems to be side to side sway from pendulum motion. I know I need lots more practice, but would it help to put more weight on the base platform and telescope it all the way in?

September 1st, 2003, 11:13 AM	#2
Ken Tanaka Retired DV Info Net Almunus Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Chicago, IL Posts: 6,943	Boyd, Good for you. Using the GC-2000 with my GL2 I've found that keeping the shaft short and adding weight seems to make the whole rig steadier, more resistant to changes in direction. Also, with a shorter shaft there's less hazard of bumping the shaft with your lower body. But that's just my opinion. I'm sure you'll come to your own ideal configuration. __________________ Lady X Films: A lady with a boring wardrobe...and a global mission. Hey, you don't have enough stuff! Buy with confidence from our sponsors. Hand-picked as the best in the business...Really! See some of my work one frame at a time: www.KenTanaka.com