Morgan teaches video production and post production at Downtown Community Television (DCTV) in New York City. A student recently asked me about Steadicams®. I thought I would post some information here for her to retrieve.
From Wikipedia:
Steadicam is a brand of camera stabilizer mount for motion picture cameras that mechanically isolates it from the operator's movement. It allows for a smooth shot, even when moving quickly over an uneven surface. The Steadicam was invented by cameraman Garrett Brownand was introduced in 1975.
The Steadicam® website has sixteen different configurations for videocameras alone. A page to help you pick which model is best for you based on the camera's weight is HERE.
If you go to the B&H Photo/Video webpage you'd find many choices for DSLR camera stabilization:
Support Type
- Hand-Held (107)
- Shoulder (266)
- Cage System (200)
- Tripod-Based System (230)
- Body Brace Support (38)
Not all of these are steadicam systems but I think you're starting to see there are many options.
Beyond the typical steadicam support systems, gimbal systems are getting popular and affordable.
Here is a cool behind the scenes peak into a gimbal being used.
But they are not cheap. HERE is the least expensive model from Defy.
Finally, on Steadicam workshops: 2-day workshops cost $600. The workshop includes breakfast and lunch and attendees receive a Certificate of Completion and a Steadicam t-shirt. Learn more HERE.
