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OT: Steadicam Merlin
Just wondering if anyone out here is using one of these. How is it? Is it worth the $800?
Yes, I know that it uses small camcorders like the Z1, that’s why I’m asking. We have a young camera person who needs some real help with steadying up on hunting shows. A pheasant/quail hunt is tough to follow without some sort of stabilization. Any ideas?
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Wayne Carey
Schazam Productions
http://www.schazamproductions.com
https://blogs.creativecow.net/waynecarey -
2 Replies
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I’ve had a Steadicam JR for many many years. (very similar) It’s AWESOME for shorter durations, maybe a few minutes max. Much past that and your hands/arms get tired… after a minute rest you’re ready to go again, but forget holding without a break for a extended shots, like you might with a shoulder-mount. Hold a 10 lb weight steady in front of you at a 45 degree elbow bend & see how long you last…. it’s about the same. Don’t let your elbow rest on your torso – that’s cheating.
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i tried one out at Broadcast Live in London a few weeks back. Next day i tried tap the boss for a rig – but i need a better reason than just “wow… its fantastic!”.
Correctly balanced, a Z1 felt so easy and smooth to control. Literally is fingertip control for pans and tilts. I was also told by the saleman that the rig now comes with a body harness included – a definite plus because its not a featherweight bit of kit, and you’ll soon start getting achey shoulders and arms without one.
It was a short time i played with it, but i would certainly stump up the money for one given half a chance.
adam
Editor/Mixer
Character Options Ltd
Oldham, UK
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