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Camera operators and video enthusiasts around the world search for the training and information they need to successfully use the Steadicamª, the most versatile tool for moving a motion picture or video camera. Every year, about 500 people in the world are lucky enough to take an intensive training workshop (some of the top workshops are taught by the authors of this book), but these workshops are expensive and sell out as a matter of course: the instructors simply can't keep up with the high demand. As a result, the vast majority of people have no practical way to learn what has become an essential camera operating skill. For the first time, THE STEADICAMª OPERATOR'S HANDBOOK illuminates all aspects of Steadicam operating in one comprehensive package. With over 1300 full-color photos, it's the comprehensive how-to and why-to book for the amateur, semi-pro, and professional. Written by the premier Steadicam instructors in the world, this book covers everything a cameraman needs to get started using a Steadicam rig and to get better. Both informational and inspirational, THE STEADICAMª OPERATOR'S HANDBOOK moves from the physics and balancing of a Steadicam, through a series of step-by-step line dances and practice shots, to the most personal aspects of filmmaking - how individual operators make creative and practical decisions using this unique camera setup. The book discusses the wide array of equipment and accessories currently available, and it also illustrates the latest operating techniques and tricks, a variety of strategies for working with others, and the business side of a Steadicam career. Also included are observations and anecdotes - inspirational, funny, instructive, and cautionary - written by a number of other experienced Steadicam operators around the world, including the legendary inventor of the Steadicam himself, Garrett Brown. THE STEADICAMª OPERATOR'S HANDBOOK is both a master class and a master reference for all camera operators and directors who want to move the camera well. Foreword written by Garrett Brown! * Written by the premier Steadicam experts in the world * Offers the opportunity for novice camera operators to learn the skill sets needed to build and move forward in their careers * Lavishly illustrated in full color to show the various techniques, equipment, and line dances used by Steadicam operators * The techniques presented in this book apply to any type of Steadicam rig * Provides a comprehensive understanding of the skill sets to successfully operate a Steadicam, including techniques not even covered in official workshops ...
List of contents
INTRODUCTION, Cut. Print. Great. The history of the Steadicam is pretty well known, How to begin SECTION ONE: the Steadicam® and its parts, Wearing the Steadicam®,Basic Physics, Getting to know the rig: Basic Steadicam terms, Build the Steadicam, Four balancing acts, Static balance, Dynamic balance, SECTION TWO: getting started SECTION THREE: beyond the basics SECTION FOUR: Steadicam® and filmmaking SECTION FIVE: movement techniques SECTION SIX: framing techniques SECTION SEVEN: getting to work SECTION EIGHT: extending the range of movement SECTION NINE: extending the range of options Steadicam® and vehicles SECTION TEN: the business side of Steadicam SECTION ELEVEN: unique environments and requirements SECTION TWELVE: the experienced operator CONCLUSION.
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"The Steadicam® Operator's Handbook is the most comprehensive and complete text available on Steadicam equipment and operation. It is essential reading for beginners and experienced operators alike."
-Dan Kneece, President of the Society of Steadicam Operators
"This is the first book to demystify the operation of the Steadicam"
-Paul Taylor: Steadicam, owner - operator / fifteen year advanced Steadicam workshop lead instructor and developer of Steadicam instructional techniques
