Flowpod Versus Other Stabilizers
 

I'm considering a FlowPod by Varizoom. VariZoom FlowPod Camera Stabilizers & Supports, monitors, Zoom controls, Camera Stabilizers & Supports, Batteries, Monitor Kits Phone:512-219-7722

The dual utility of a monopod and a stabilizer is appealing. I am looking for opinions / advice. The FlowPod has a gimbal on it and a nifty balancing plate that looks like it will simplify balancing. It seems to me the "heart" of a stabilizer is the gimbal. Is there anything lacking in the FlowPod gimbal? It doesn't have an Italian name but I can muddle along without that if it works well.

What camera (and how heavy is it) are you planning to use with the flowpod.

The Flowpod is heavy. It's not as use multi-use functinal as it appears. The low-mode of the flowpod is worthwhile. It has been used on large productions to hold a camera just above the ground holding it outside a moving vehicle.

How are you planning to use it. What kind of shooting? I think you should try to see one in person before buying it.

If you need a good hand-held stabilizer for flying shots, I would suggest looking at the new BlackBird, very good from all reports.

I have a FlowPod but found it semi-functional. I subsequently bought a Merlin and then a Steadicam Pilot. I keep the FlowPod for very low shots, as I describe above.

If you need a stabilizer and a monopod, I think you'd be better off getting a stabilizer such as the BlackBird and a lightweight monopod, such as a Gitzo, and putting quick release plates on both of them.

With that all said, for just the right uses, the Flowpod could be okay, so that's why I suggest trying to see one in person and trying it before buying.

Others may have other opinions.

Thanks for the input Jack; I am going to look into the BlackBird. Do you think it would help their sales if they called it Uccello Nero?

Sorry, couldn't help the pun. I want a stabilzer for a variety of applications. The thing that caught my eye about the FlowPod is the flexibility in extended shooting sitations such as receptions where it wold be nice to switch back and forth with one piece of hardware.