What's this rig?
 

Can you someone let me know what this rig is on the EX1?

I'd be interested in something like that for some handheld stuff I'm workin on.

Thanks

The company is called Zacuto

Redrock M2 Handheld Operation with the Zacuto Universal Camera Support System™

http://www.zacuto.com/

you can read Phil Bloom's post on his blog where he reviews the Zacuto and other shoulder supports. Be prepared to spend an arm and a leg if you buy the Zacuto stuff. While I don't doubt the quality of the stuff, you could easily spend half (or more) than an EX-1 on Zacuto accessories.

I have a zacuto base plate, hand held configuration, and arm - and love it. Great quality, well built, solid. Yes - expensive - but so is everyone else - like RED accessories or Arri, etc...

However, you have to ask yourself - will it save you time and money and give you shots that you would not be able to get otherwise. It's the cost of doing business. I dropped around $3000.

On the good side, it is a universal kit, so when you move up in cameras, you can use this same set up. The arms are $200- $300 for quick release, but considering screwing in attachments and the waste of time or lost shot, one stock shot will pay for the arm.

I highly recommend them if you can afford them. I figure I will be using this gear for many many years so over time its not so bad.

Besides, what's one or 2 months mortgage or rent on cool gear that will make you money - plus you can write it off!

If you want something similar but cheaper, I recommend the Varizoom alternative (from site sponsor Abel):

http://abelcine.com/store/product.ph...4&cat=0&page=1

I just used this for 3 weeks of all-day shooting with my EX1 and it was quite comfy and durable.

Apples and Oranges... Zacuto can mount a matt box, arms, and be handheld, as well as tripod without the arms. So it really matters on what you are doing... $600 bucks for handheld only is not much cheeper than Zacuto that allows you to mount a mattebox, arms, etc... with or without hand held. Choose the best app for what you are shooting. I do not see much savings with hand held only without mattbox.

Here is another great option and even a lower cost to consider.
Again, apples and oranges but at a great "produce" price.
The all hands on camera can be quite "handy" for control too.
http://www.vortexmedia.com/EX1DVD/VSB1.html

here's another one ...