Jeremy sent me this link to do-it-yourself steady-cam instructions.
$14 is a heck of a lot better than what a real steadicam rig costs. I've got the tools necessary to do it, though I might need a sturdier drillbit. (I don't break out the powerdrill often, and I've never used this drill on steel.) There's a hardware store just around the corner, but I'd need to go further to find a sports store for the counterweight. Does REI sell barbell weights?
I think I'll try the tripod trick first, and shoot some test footage using it as a steadicam. If I'm not happy with the performance of tripod-as-steadcam, I'll start looking for a sports store not far off the bus routes.
3 comments:
If you need help, I can easily build something of this nature. I could even make the weight for you. But it will cost you... FIVE DOLLARS! Or the equivalent in beer.
The standard bits that come with your drill will not work on steel properly. Those are generally just for wood. (Unless you have a more expensive setup than I picture you having.)
When drilling metal, which I did a lot of at that job where I fragged my knee, you always want to start with a divot to keep the drilling in place. (Yeah, real technical, I know.) Since you're only doing a one-time project, the easiest way is to get yourself a sturdy nail, put it exactly where you want the hole, and tap it with a hammer. Trust me when I say that it makes a huge difference. (We had a special tool whose name escapes me right now.)
I will however not ramble on any further about the things I learned assembling electronic control panels. Though I will suggest that if you don't have access to a decent vice at home, you should do this project in the workshop of someone who does.
Or buy Jake some beer.
Any sporting goods store has individual free weights. I'm almost positive that Sears does as well. Just make sure you tell them you want to buy an individual free weight, not a set, when you call.
James, thank for the advice and info. Since I've always been a bit of a stick in the mud, I don't have any vices worth talking about.
So, I guess it's beer for Jake, then.
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