On Wed, 6 Feb 2008 9:02 am, Gena wrote: > I would like a few affordable = under $250 steadycam or monopod > suggestions. I've looked at the DIY steadycam but I'm not that > mechanically inclined.
For video, I like shoulder mounts. They can be found for under $200 and are pretty small. The human body is a good stabilizer ... this is why "pro" cameras are big enough to shoulder mount. Mass makes inertia :) Monopods are a good alternative. They add weight for stabilization, can be used in a tripod-ish manner for still shots and give you the reach to pull off shots you would normally need a crane for. Companies make "pockets" to turn spare real estate on your belt into a spot to stabilize your monopod (I have that on my purchase list for 2008). For audio, that shoulder mount is kinda silly. I have a $0.99 tripod from the bargain bin at MicroCenter for my Zoom H2, but I'd never dare put a camera on it. Try the SLR version of the GorillaPod (tripod with flexible legs). DO NOT buy the cheaper/smaller version, they will break ... mine is now in a dumpster somewhere in Germany. The DIY stabilizers work, but are awkard to use ... and not very professional looking. I interview sci-fi stars every year for a DVD project, and I don't think they'd treat me as well if I rolled in with my camera on a length of plumbing pipe. -- Brian Richardson - http://whatthecast.com - http://siliconchef.com - http://dragoncontv.com - http://www.3chip.com
