Custom Steadicam®

[CptTrips]

For those who don't know, a Steadicam is a sort of hand-held tripod that helps keep your camera shots steady especially while moving/walking.



This model costs from $500 to $700.

I made one from pipe and workout weights for about $15, and it works pretty well! The camera screws in on top.
(the cat is in the pic for scale purposes)

Weight on the bottom helps change the center of gravity for the camera, as well as negates the "bob" it would get while I'm walking. It takes some practice to get it to look really smooth, but so far, it looks like a good investment!

I found a tutorial on how to do it here

[ÆSiR]

Looks like it could get heavy after awhile...
(Both of them)

[h2g2Fan]

Looks like it is merely a couple of pipes with weights attached...
(Both of them)

[igofast]

Originally Posted by ÆSiR

Looks like it could get heavy after awhile...
(Both of them)

You should see a full, professional steadicam rig. Those are feathers compared to a full one.

[CptTrips]

It does get a bit heavy, but it's worth getting steady shots.

[Scott]

Steady cam operators make SERIOUS bucks

most of them own their rig