Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

Love it! Amazing!

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

[...].I had prior and extensive experience balancing the Glidecam 2000, which I purchased from B&H; accordingly, "dynamic" balancing of the Steadicam Pilot Sled took about 10 minutes. Setting the arm(s) took another 10 minutes, and the vest turned out to be the most challenging—taking about 20 minutes.Thankfully, the Steadicam Pilot came with the docking bracket that plopped right onto one of my existing C Stands, and I strongly suggest that one either have a C Stand or purchase one in order to have a painless experience balancing the sled.While I am still practicing with the rig, I began to record exceptional video clips (using Panasonic HMC150) within 10 minutes!The monitor on the sled is great indoors, though it is a bit difficult to see outdoors around Noon.I will be using the Steadicam Pilot to document bounty hunting, live seminars and online education classes.Overall, I am ecstatic to put the Steadicam Pilot into action, and I would like to extend my appreciation to all those who participated in the reviews. You all helped me make a great purchase!!!

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

It esay to use after the first adjustment
in the first adjustment the opertor's handbook so useful to understand the balances (static and dymanic forces) of the prodect.
It get's prfect resalts after useing in camera moving shots.

It's very useful prodect for small Business

Thank's
Alasker

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

We used it with my students and it was a great tool. The major problem is that the monitor is basically unusable in sunny conditions outdoors.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

I've had this for 2 days now and I'm still trying to figure out how to stabilize it but I've already shot some test footage and even with bad stabilization the results look amazing. Other than the frustrating struggle to get it stabilized I have no other complain.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

This does exactly what you need it to. It takes a little while to learn how to balance it, but once you get it, it's not that difficult. My only complaint is that if you don't own a C stand, you will need to purchase one. Otherwise, balancing will be near impossible.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

Use Steadicam Pilot for Independent film shoots. Shots look great and the whole set up is not too hard on the body after a few hours. Stabilizing arm is a good concept. Initial balancing is quite irritating but once you get the hang of it one can become more tolerant. The velcro vest design could be improved to use adjustable buckle clips instead. The gimbal tool seems a little flimsy and bends while you try o turn the screw on the gimbal.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

[...] when I opened the box I was surprised to see that the steadicam came in a bag since it wasn't listed under "what's in the box."The steadicam doesn't come with directions on how to put it together, just a packet that tells you all the pieces you should have. It also doesn't come with any video or directions on how to help you balance the device. However, once you figure all of this out (and you will, it's not hard just frusterating) you will find that the steadicam is a great tool to add to your toolbox of video equiptment. I like he AA battery option the best because it tends to be lighter and for the most part, cheaper.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

The pilot is perfect we got the pilot for local access we were doing more and more things that could use the interesting smooth and cool shots that the pilot can provide us. Also the pilot is a better product than the glide cam. It was cost effective for us.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

This by far the most professional stabilization system I ever used.
I could not find any negative aspects yet

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

We are using the pilot with our sony ex3 and the results are great. It is a bit hard to use at first but once you get the hang of it, you will thoroughly enjoy your film making.

The gimbal is very easy to handle after the first few uses. One suggestion though, we didn't buy the steadistand and if you are going to buy this kit dont forget to add it to your cart as the whole process of balancing the camera is pretty much linked to it. We are currently using a light stand and the docking bracket(included with kit) to balance our rig.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

I have had the Steadicam for a couple of weeks now and am just about to use it for its first job.As other reviewers have said it is very well built, the cables connecting the LCD screen do seem a bit exposed and the 'backpack' is bigger than a suitcase but excellent at keeping the steadicam safe all the way to New Zealand even!The unit is well built, easy to understand, and the instructions are excellent. I also bought the Steadicam Operators Manual book by James Holway from BH because I need to use this unit professionally and long term so want to maximise my chances of doing well. I recommend this book - it's excellent.There is a learning curve to balancing the Pilot properly - but you can get it going well (though not perfectly) quite quickly. I consider myself quite hamfisted and yet was able to get my camera balanced by following the video and directions that come with the unit.My only concern to date is that I use Panasonic DVX102Bs and they are very light, as is the steadicam pilot and that means it's hard to eliminate ALL extraneous movement. I am still working through balancing and currently have all the supplied weights added to the steadicam which is giving me the best result so far but it is not quite as smooth as I had hoped.I think lightness will always be a bit of an issue with the Pilot - it's just physics - bigger, heavier things have more inertia - light cameras on Steadicam Pilots have less. It is obvious technique will be important and will take time to learn.That said - I have no regrets. It is everything you'd expect from Steadicam. Quality construction and an absolutely excellent stabiliser solution.FYI: The LCD screen works both NTSC and PAL! [...]

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

I use the Pilot with a 5D Mark II and a Sony EX-1. Completely different weighting setups required for the two cameras, so it takes time to change from one to another.

Takes a couple of days of mucking around to get familiar with correct weighting etc... if you haven't setup a steadicam before. (Easiest with the optional stand for getting the weights right.)

Now that it is balanced, I a few days into using it, about an hour a day and I'm getting better. I would expect to be producing reasonable results within 10 hours of use.

The product pretty much works as advertised, however it is the sort of tool that requires regular use to stay proficient at.

Compared to hand held options, there is no other way to be on the move and capture steady shots.

24mm lens seems to be about the best combination.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

You'll never accept shakey cam again. Easy to use but not to master, that will take time and patience.
Static balance, easy - dynamic balance, not so. Light enough to carry around all day without aspirins. You will raise the bar on the production value of your projects over your competition with a minimal investment of money and time. Build quality is excellent.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

We produce all types of video productions and were looking for a reasonable cost for some nice smooth shots. The pilot really fits the bill. I thought it would difficult balancing but as it turns out it is really very easy. The only drawback is the vest. Too many velcro straps to figure out. They really need to fix this.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

We use the steadicam for weddings. It's really a great way to produce professional Video. Highly recommend

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

I am using the steadicam to make an Independent Film this year. I have several other things I use such as the manfrotto fig rig (fully loaded), small dollies and tripods. I really like the steadicam and it can be used to film anything. The footage came out very steady and fluid. I have studied the concepts of stabilizers long before I purchased this, so I would say it took me about 2-3 days to get a good grasp on how to use this. Others will say that classes are definitely needed, but I would disagree. Practice, practice, practice and you'll be able to use the product very well. I taught my bro how to use this and the camcorder in 4 hours and he filmed a 20 minute scene very well. The biggest problem in setting this up, is balancing. It took me much more time to learn how to balance properly, than using the item itself. This does not come with the steadistand (it is not needed) and I was worried but I figured out how to balance with the rig on. It only takes a few minutes now. One thing to consider, if you aren't planning on using the steadicam throughout most of the shooting, I would save the money and use it on other budgets. Don't get me wrong, the Steadicam works very well, the gimble and the rest of the design are top notch. I would just consider using the fig rig if you aren't going to film long uncut shots. The Fig Rig (even though it gets heavy) will work for any of the smaller shots. Even though I have mentioned the Fig Rig, the Steadicam Pilot is the best out there if that is what you are looking for. The LCD is very clear (MY LCD seems to turn off due to a loose connection) and the components are very well built. The BACKPACK that comes with the product is big (still lightweight) but awesome! Lots of space for everything! If you are looking for a stabilizer I would consider this over the glidecam. The price tag of the steadicam includes the BAG(the bag isn't listed on included items) and an LCD. If you take the cost of those away, pound for pound, this product is easily better than the rest! If you want and have the money, GET THIS NOW!

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

I received the steadicam pilot a few weeks back and have been nothing short of thrilled with it! It's very stable,silky smooth,extremely adjustable,built like a stabilizer should be built and handles just like one of the big boys.I'd recommend this to anyone flying smaller cams!You can wear this thing all day!

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

Ok...I'm a total novice...been filming for MAYBE 5 years using handheld stuff. Took the leap after experimenting with a Merlin.

Since I shoot with a Canon XHA1 loaded up with shotgun mic and wireless lav receiver, I need the extra weight capacity.

I opted for the AA battery setup because I wasn't going to drop another $1300 for pro style batteries and charger.

Batteries last about 4 hours using the LCD.

LCD is good, but suffers in sunlight.

The Steadicam itself is fantastic and despite being intimidating, I got it balanced in about 45 minutes to where I could use it.

I know I have a lot to learn yet...but for now, my shots are much improved.

Wore the thing for 4 hours a day for about 4 days straight with minimal fatigue.

The unit it top quality and the DVD they provide shows the VERY basics...I went online to learn more but as I said, I have much to learn.

Turns out they have training classes....for $3000! That part is weak.

In short, don't be intimidated. These units are superb quality, and if I can get it up and running in less than an hour, any knucklehead can.

Comments about Steadicam Pilot-AA Camera Stabilization System:

This is my first venture into the world of Steadicam and without a doubt, it is the best tool to start off with. I considered settling for the less expensive Merlin but opted for this model because of the attached LCD and flexibility for future camcorders.

Up front, most of the construction is top notch. My only beef so far is the very thin connectors for the LCD and where the cables are located. I think they are prone to snagging while in use or when being stored. A way to fix that is some tape but makes it more difficult if re-balancing.

Secondly, you have to use NiMH batteries -- and 10 of them! One charge of 2500mah batteries lasted about 4hrs of continuous use. I'd recommend bundling a high performance set of batteries with a charging system. I guess I could've just opted for a different battery pack...

The LCD isn't all that great outdoors so consider purchasing a solution that'll create shade on the screen... I have yet to do that. Remember that any weight you add to the rig will require re-balancing... and I've been going at it for a few weeks now - it's not easy.

Otherwise, this product is fantastic. Setting up takes a bit of time but with any gear, practice, practice, practice. The smooth flying this rig provides is outstanding. It is a worthwhile investment - and don't forget the protection plan. Like I said, there are a few things that are easy to damage from regular use... the plan will cover this!