Shoulder brace for a novice at DVinfo.net

Dan Measel · April 30th, 2003, 08:52 PM

I was reading some of the threads about the shoulder braces (like the Varizoom VZ-LSP) and tripods. My take on it is that the shoulder brace will steady your shots a little better and decrease fatigue on your arms. I am contemplating whether to get something like this for action shots (following people walking) or panning. Do those of you who use one notice a significant decrease in shakiness for these types of shots? It seems like a dolly (or something similar) is ideal, but that's probably out of my price range. I'm just curious about the amount of improvement I may expect for the $300+ investment.

I also have a cheap entry level tripod, which works fine for steady shots, but is a little jumpy when panning. Any recommendations for a good tripod under $200 or will the shoulder brace be sufficient for panning? Or is this an unreasonable price range for a good tripod.

As always any input is greatly appreciated.

Ken Tanaka · April 30th, 2003, 10:01 PM

Dan,
See this current thread.

Dan Measel · May 2nd, 2003, 06:33 PM

Thanks, you just saved me a lot of money.

Glen Elliott · May 6th, 2003, 07:07 PM

I have the Varizoom VZ-LSP and it DOES help steady shots. At least for my camera. I use both a GL-1 and VX100 both are similar in design in that they aren't meant to be braced against the body like the XL-1. So over time holding the camera in front of you without bracing it against something causes your arms to hold and steady the camera. Let me tell ya how IMPOSSIBLE that is for a long shoot like a wedding, etc. The VZ-LSP definitly helped steady my shots, especially in the telephoto range. And as far as your breathing making the belly bar move and shaking the shots..........wow, you've gotta be one heeeaavvy breather! That or you breath with your belly and not chest. lol

April 30th, 2003, 08:52 PM	#1
Dan Measel Regular Crew Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Athens, GA Posts: 196	Shoulder brace for a novice I was reading some of the threads about the shoulder braces (like the Varizoom VZ-LSP) and tripods. My take on it is that the shoulder brace will steady your shots a little better and decrease fatigue on your arms. I am contemplating whether to get something like this for action shots (following people walking) or panning. Do those of you who use one notice a significant decrease in shakiness for these types of shots? It seems like a dolly (or something similar) is ideal, but that's probably out of my price range. I'm just curious about the amount of improvement I may expect for the $300+ investment. I also have a cheap entry level tripod, which works fine for steady shots, but is a little jumpy when panning. Any recommendations for a good tripod under $200 or will the shoulder brace be sufficient for panning? Or is this an unreasonable price range for a good tripod. As always any input is greatly appreciated.

April 30th, 2003, 10:01 PM	#2
Ken Tanaka Retired DV Info Net Almunus Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Chicago, IL Posts: 6,943	Dan, See this current thread. __________________ Lady X Films: A lady with a boring wardrobe...and a global mission. Hey, you don't have enough stuff! Buy with confidence from our sponsors. Hand-picked as the best in the business...Really! See some of my work one frame at a time: www.KenTanaka.com

May 2nd, 2003, 06:33 PM	#3
Dan Measel Regular Crew Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Athens, GA Posts: 196	Thanks, you just saved me a lot of money.

May 6th, 2003, 07:07 PM	#4
Glen Elliott Wrangler Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Philadelphia, PA Posts: 2,898	I have the Varizoom VZ-LSP and it DOES help steady shots. At least for my camera. I use both a GL-1 and VX100 both are similar in design in that they aren't meant to be braced against the body like the XL-1. So over time holding the camera in front of you without bracing it against something causes your arms to hold and steady the camera. Let me tell ya how IMPOSSIBLE that is for a long shoot like a wedding, etc. The VZ-LSP definitly helped steady my shots, especially in the telephoto range. And as far as your breathing making the belly bar move and shaking the shots..........wow, you've gotta be one heeeaavvy breather! That or you breath with your belly and not chest. lol