Steadicam Flyer for Weddings

[Chris Day]

Hello,

I would like some advice...I have been filming weddings for about 18 months and use 3 XL2s 2 on tripods and 1 on steadicam flyer with w/a lens. I use the steadicam to film the entrance into the church by the bridal party, bride and groom going out of the church, congratulations outside the church, reception entrance by bridal party, walk through of reception venue (around tables, cake, bridal table etc), bridal waltz, dancing and farewell.

Is anyone else using the steadicam at weddings and if you are what sections are you filming?? and what advice can you give from your experiences.

thanks

Chris Day

[Patrick Jenkins]

a homebrew model - not the flyer. The two scenes where I use it most often are for the ceremony kiss and the first dance. Additionally, I'll either do a dolly style tracking shot or a front perspective (facing them) leading down the aisle - depends on how rigid the ceremony is, if the B&G dig it, etc.

I have it running the whole time though, so if something looks good I'll use it. But those are definitely my money shots.

Everything is handheld (either spyderbraces or custom 2handed homebrew rigs) and except for the steady the cameras are generally stationary.

[Colvin Eccleston]

Check out Dave's videos for sale at dvideography.com

[John DeLuca]

Hi Chris,

I use three PD-170s(one on the bogen 542ART tripod, one on the fig rig, and one on the steadicam flyer). The combination of all three supports produces some amazing footage for shorts.

Creative shot design with the steadicam is endless at live events. The steadicam flyer is great for adding energy into shots because no other support can move through space that explosive. If the bride and groom are willing, set up some creative shots to mix in with the live stuff.

For all live shots I use a spotter, wireless headset, and removable marks(when necessary). Give yourself five or ten mins warm up with the flyer.....dock the rig and clear your mind for a minute....then undock and go right into the live shot. Shots fly best when you dont think about what your doing...alittle TM meditation if you will.

John

[John DeLuca]

Just to add...........I noticed a big improvement in my operating skills after nine weeks of extra core work (incline sit-ups, back extensions, squats, deadlifts, lunges, leg raises, pull ups and pull downs). Fish, hemp, and flax oil also seem to help with the consistency of my walk speed. The oil lubricates your joints.


John

[Terry Thompson]

"Is anyone else using the steadicam at weddings and if you are what sections are you filming?? and what advice can you give from your experiences."

Chris,

I use my Indicam (like Flyer) to shoot the dances (father-bride, mother-groom, and bride-groom) as well as other dances if any. The dutch angle comes in handy in many cases for the faster songs as long as it's not used too much.

I also take some of the preparation for the ceremony as well as the bride getting ready. Yes, I make sure I'm announced.

I agree with John, a steadicam type shot adds energy into shots which can't be done in any other way that I know of.

I use a tripod quick release on both my tripod and stabilizer so I can switch over quickly.

Tery