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I was wondering if anyone here has used a stabilzer for shooting video with a DSLR. I have a Nikon and recently started exploring the video capabilities. I would like to be able to walk with the camera and not have it bounce around too much. Without one of these things, it is difficult to do that. There are all price ranges and I am not a pro, just a hobbyist that wants to take some decent videos while on vacation. TIA
Manual or Motorized? I've rented both the Merlin and the DJI Ronin before. I had zero luck with the Merlin. There's a huge learning curve for manual stabilizers, both in balancing the rig and using it. It's not a skill that you can develop in a day. The Ronin motorized was a whole different experience. Effectively self-balancing, and can be used effectively after just minutes of playing with it. But it's priced between $1K and $6K depending on the model. So probably not what you're looking for.
There are a million manual stabilizers out there. Glidecam is well-known brand and has XR-Pro which is new and runs about $250 on Amazon. Laing has a very similar offering for the same money. Not as well known a brand, but I've heard they're very well made. Beware of the really cheap knock-offs. They look similar, but you may never get them balanced right. Watch youtube video reviews and instructions on any of these which will be very helpful.
I think it would have to be manual. I don't want to spend a fortune. This is a hobby and I will not be doing it that often. I certainly do not want to spend more than I did on the actual camera. Thanks for the info, I will look on YT.
Your camera should have built in stabilization. Otherwise the arm mount that allows it to be held on your shoulder like a real television portable camera.
Otherwise you will have to get creative. The stabilizer is not meant for usage. Your need to have a rack type shoulder mount. They have all kinds of setups. All of them mimics the TV camera.
Stabilization should be built into the camera. I have invested in such items. You get it to work is it worth it.
Usually when using any camera ( non-camcorder ) to make videos, you would resort to a lens set. As most lens do not do there job under the conditions of videoing.
Another important thing to note is that tv lens are able to focus infinity. Which means it can focus like a special eye lens. Where everything is in focus but not super facially in focus.
Personally most phones including the Lumia 1020 and Apple iphone series cameras for HD video. Even samsung has models with built in zoom lens.
It's a Nikon D3200. I have a 18-55 VR (Vibration Reduction) lens which is what I use the most. I may be asking for too much. What I wanted, was to be able to walk and take video without the image jumping around. It's just a casual hobby, so I don't want to spend $100's.
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