VariZoom Flowpod - Sistema Estabilizador

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

My first flowpod broke immediately. My second one is still in working condition.

The flowpod allows you to get decent stabilized shots after balancing it for your camera. Since your arm will get very tired after about 5 minutes of continuous use with any handheld stabilizer, having a monopod extension built in is great. The Flowpod has a quick release plate, but be warned, once you remove the camera you're going to have to re-balance the entire thing again.

If this device was sub $200, it would be 5 stars. At almost $400 it's 3 stars.

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

I was very excited to buy and use the FlowPod... Sadly I never even got to test it. Maybe I should say thankfully, because if I did, my $3000 video camera would be smashed on the ground...

The screw that holds the head onto the monopod snapped off. All that holds your camera to this stablizer is a small 1/4" screw threaded into a 1/8" thick piece of metal. That's a scary thought.

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

I really wanted to like this. I really did. The price was great but this is the perfect example of the addage "You get what you pay for." I've had the system for about 2 years, taken it to Afghanistan, used it in the states and have come to the conclusion that it's not suited for professionals with real equipment. I've attempted to fly a variety of cams from my ex1 to my small 7D and like previous reviewers have noted, it's an exercise in utter futility... If there is even the slightest bit of wind your shot will be ruined. I've found that even when properly balanced, adjusting focus will throw this puppy off. I recently purchased a competing stabilizer with the same weight classification and it's a night an day difference. I sincerely apologize for the negative review but pros need to know to stay away from this.

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

use it for weddings and events. is solidly built and very versatile. when you use it as a monopod hand gets tired. works with many types of video or photo camera. adjusts immediately and stabilization is perfect.

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

This is the cheapest professional stabilizer I found, I was in the game between other stabilizers, finally I decided.
Instructions are very clear and simple, at the beginning you simply start playing with the FlowPod and realize that was the best choice.
Very well manufactured, very steady, professional look and as I mentioned before, it has the lowest price tag.
It feels a little heavy but is easy to get used to it.

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

I use this product for filming of weddings.

It was the good idea-make a universal product, but quality - very bad.

At first the small screw which holds the handle has broken.
After that head fastening was loosened.
After that the small screw, which stick has become loose.
The main thing-small screw which hold a head -has fallen off!
And last:at work, all jingles and is unsteady!

Very bad quality workmanship!

P.S.Sorry for my English.

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

I have shot in wind but you would never know it by the look of the video it is totally smooth. The combination of the monopod which is always available to user in seconds make this a great dual purpose and very practical tool. Shot with DVX camera, EX1 and other similar size cameras all smooth shooting. See actual Flowpod video footage on youtube or [@] and judge for yourself.

Comments about VariZoom Flowpod Stabilizer System:

The key to achieving good stabilized video is balancing the camera. The FlowPod is impossible to balance, for more than a minute. This is so sensitive that even adjusting the LCD screen a degree or two will throw off the balance. Using the supplied table-mounted balancing bracket, I have been able to balance a camera. However, I can walk away and within a few minutes time the camera will be leaning to one side.

If shooting outdoors, and there is even the slightest breeze, forget it. It's a weathervane.

If using it at a wedding or other "one-take" event it's impractical to spend several minutes setting up, and then having to stop every few minutes to rebalance.

I know these things take practice to master, and I would love to. But when I spend all my time balancing it, I don't get much of a chance.

I bought this to use with my XH-A1, which is within the manuafacturer's weight specifications, but it's too touchy. I get better results using a lighter camera like a JVC GZ-HD7. But let a client catch you using a "handi-cam" and see if you get taken seriously.