Hi,

Recently ( or perhaps most of the time :-) I had to film in difficult positions, or where tripod was out of question but steadiness is the no1 requirement (ENG).
As I'm on EX1, the shoulder options are not real alternatives.
I have a really great video monopod but still I'm not 100% satisfied with that either.
So I'm eagerly searching all useful solutions which can serve a budget production and can be taken into use really quickly with a max. ease.

I heard of a thing named as STEADYSTICK and I was just wondering if anyone have user experiences?

I don't go shoot without it, a must for handheld type camcorder, I like it better than any type of shoulder mount device, and yet it can quickly come out and the stick doesn't get it your way if you are trying to do some different angle shots.

I don't go shoot without it, a must for handheld type camcorder, I like it better than any type of shoulder mount device, and yet it can quickly come out and the stick doesn't get it your way if you are trying to do some different angle shots.

The one I'm querying is made in Germany, name written in one word,
this is because there could be other stuff out there too, like glidecams which look also interesting if operator needs to move, yet dunno how the EX1 works with any of those. Experiences?

I also love my Steadistick.I use it for the smaller cameras (DVX100/200, etc.) and for the EX3. I took off the extra handle, and find that it is invaluable for holding the camera steady, and also always me to move easily. I used to use the monopod, and it good for holding shots, but it is an awkward transition from static to motion, and what do you do with it when you don't need it? The Steadistick just hangs down when I don't need it, so it is very convenient.

No reason why you couldn't shoot EX1 with it. I've shot FX 1 and bigger on mine.

What some people don't understand is that this support isn't a steadicam device. In other words, you won't be doing too much walking during the shoot. You can stand in one spot and have the camera "float" but once you put try walking to any great, your hip motion will create too much movement

I find 2 different products:

Steady Stick (http://www.tiffen.com/SteadyStick.htm)
&
STEADYSTICK - DAS ULTIMATIVE STABILISIERUNGSSYSTEM (http://www.steadystick.de/e/system.htm)

I have a DVrigPro from DVtec and it has the belt and spring loaded stick...

Thanks for all posts

Attila I sent you an e'mail.

Terry Taravella
Studio Vieux Carre
New Orleans, LA
studiovc.com

If you already have a monopod you can make a Steady Stick cheaply.

Get a cheap waist pack or fanny pack (black)

like this one: Jansport Fifth Ave II Waist Pack : TAN1- - Buy.com (http://www.buy.com/prod/JanSport-Fifth-Ave-Waist-Pack/q/loc/17250/202447123.html)

I bought a different one at Walmart here in the states for Six US Dollars.

Then get a Manfrotto/Bogen Swivel / Tilt Head Model 3232 or 3229 or similar

Bogen Swivel Tilt Head (http://www.camcor.com/cgi-bin/cat/id=1056143073&fg=BOG3232)
Amazon.com: Manfrotto 3229 Swivel Tilt Head with Quick Release: Camera & Photo (http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-3229-Swivel-Quick-Release/dp/B00006J053)

Also get a Manfrotto/Bogen Shoulder Brace Model 3248:

361 Bogen - Manfrotto Shoulder Brace for Monopods, for Extra Stability (#3248) (http://www.adorama.com/BG3248.html?sid=12404864081037914)


1. Attach the swivel tilt head and the shoulder brace to the top of the monopod .

2. Stick the bottom end of the monopod into the waist pack.

3. Mount the camera and adjust the shoulder brace and tilt of the camera until it is at eye level.

Now you have a Steady Stick.

I have been doing this for several years. It works great. I use it at weddings or for anything else hand held.

John

John, Exactly what does the shoulder brace add to the equation. i've been using the other parts of your system for years and love it.

John, Exactly what does the shoulder brace add to the equation. i've been using the other parts of your system for years and love it.

The shoulder brace allows you to steady the camera better if you pull back on the whole rig toward your shoulder. I find it especially useful when I pan. I get much better control and it just flops down flat against the side of the monopod when not in use. I don't always use it, but it's there when I need it. It is also helpful if I have to hold the camera in one position for a long time.

John