In this
video tutorial, Wess does some research and builds a steady-cam for
under fourteen bucks. Hooray for no more motion sickness!
Steadycams (or camera stabilizers) are attachments used to capture
smooth looking video even when the camera and camera operator are
in motion. The camera operator may walk (or even jog), move through
tight hallways and doorways, and even climb up and down stairs
without shaking the camera. Unfortunately, professional steadycams
cost around $1500. Even the cheap 3rd party ones cost $600+. Not
exactly a bargain considering many of us use cameras in that price
range. So, try to make your own version. It turns out, it only
costs $14. Not too bad, and you'll see how to build your own one
right here. Whether you are an aspiring filmmaker, a videographer,
the family documentarian, or just want more utility out of your
video camera, you'll appreciate a steadycam.
If you know what you are doing, you can probably build one of these
in about 20 minutes. It might take you an hour to make this
steadycam . This steadycam design works with anything that has a
tripod mount and should be fine with cameras that weigh less than 5
pounds. For heavier cameras, it is recommended that you build a
large sled for better support and easier mounting or considering
adding a professional tripod head . If you make it out of steel or
iron, you will have to worry more about the solidity of your camera
than the solidity of the steadycam. Just know that improper or
irresponsible use of a steadycam can quickly result in damage to
your equipment and/or injury to yourself and
others.