Luke, you said you were interested in taking the weight of your arms... ABC make a spring arm and vest type system that goes with the handheld handyman series...

Take a look....
http://www.abc-products.de/english/HM_ueber_e.htm
Click on "Easy Flex"

I can't say how well this works as I dont use HandyMan... I just know it exists.

James

That support vest for the Handyman looks awfully funky--it doesn't appear to be properly supported. The other problem with an arm that length that attaches that low is that the camera rides below most people's eye line.

I don't know why they call it a vest!! More like a thick belt I suppose.

James

Thanks for the tip there James!

Hmm, I think I'd have to try ABC's vest/belt first before parting with my money. As Charles mentioned, it doesn't look particularly effective and might limit camera movement somewhat (but who knows without trying it).

I'm not planning to use the Handyman continuously for extended periods, plus I prefer the unrestricted flexibility of movement you get from hand-held operation. With these things in mind, I'll probably be happy just to hold the thing without additional supports, though it might prove a bit exhausting if I start moving into productions that require longer durations of continuous camerawork.

Luke

Hey Luke,

I agree with what yourself and Charles say. I personally wouldn't consider it (then again, I dont use Handyman!). I too enjoy the freedom of movement you get without strapping your rig to a spring arm.

Hope your liking your handyman
James