The Steadicam® Operator's Handbook

Lightweight Steadicam^®

tips and tricks

Comprehensive information about the Flyer, Pilot, and Merlin can be found in their respective DVDs and manuals, but here are some useful techniques and hints for light rigs:

Quick adjusting lift for light arms:

• Load the arm with the rig as if you were about to shoot. The arm will likely be either too weak or too strong, or the two arm segments may lift unequally.
• Just as one does for the G-arms, lift or press down the camera and sled until the forearm (nearest to the camera) is held just above level, and then adjust the lift knob up or down as needed until the forearm stays level by itself.
• Lift or press down the camera and sled until the upper arm section is just above level. Adjust its lift up or down ...