DIY SteadiCam Based on the Merlin design

Based on YB2Normal's model made off the "Merlin" I attempted to make one myself. Materials for the whole thing was under $20 and 6 days (evenings actually) to design and build. The first before and afters in the video were the first trials. 10 minutes prior use maybe. The second set was a day later after more usage.
I know I need a lot more practice but the difference is already amazing.

Thank you, YB2Normal, for a wonderful idea and fun project.

For those interested in some instructions on how this was made, follow this link:
http://gambalnook.spaces.live.com/blog/cns!D6083F79634BB3A8!142.entry

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• DIY
• Steadicam
• steadycam
• camera
• stabilizer
• steady
• cam
• experimental

[DaveDrumstick]

Not good enough

[Gambalnook]

Please understand "Not good enough" is a very vague statement. If you revisit, please provide more information.

[nathannguyen59]

is it possible if you can list all the parts needed? or a tutorial on how to make the steadicam....its the best DIY steadicam out there right now....

[Gambalnook]

I have added instructions to a blog on my website. You can find a link in my profile or at the end of the text info forthe video

[nathannguyen59]

the instructions are pretty hard to follow....but ill give it a try!

[Gambalnook]

Let me know where they fall short so I can improve them. If you are having difficulty with them so will others.

[anxs220]

the difference is already amazing

[minh0204]

Could someone tell me the name of the song in this video? Thanks in advance!

[artisart]

nice, it has a really cool effect with the stabilizer

[TheRagingBeaverCo]

Right now that model is balanced on say the "x" axis but I think in order to reduce that boat ride effect it may be a good idea to try and balance it on the other axis as well. Or maybe I'm wrong, just trying to think outside the box.

[secretvid]

I agree with becasmar. In the broad spectrum of posted videos this is one of the better ones.

[secretvid]

With respect, neither Wsclater nor YB2Normal created the first DIY, Merlin based designs. I think they have both advanced the design tremendously, and arguing who was "first" is a little bit petty. Let us instead revel in the fact that they both seem so willing to share in great detail their efforts!

[kevv101]

I agree with Beeernardo

[anurse1971]

great effort! I think it might be a bit bumpy because of the placement of your handle? do you find you are having to pan or attempt to stop the pan endlessly? otherwise awesome. I'm building one following Wsclater's trial and errors. have you read his outline for building one? goes into lots of detail about balance etc.... . you have probably explored it already. good luck, and thanks to everyone who has shared ideas about steadicams...it's amazing what we can do...

[beeernardo]

Just clearing something out. 'Wsclater' was the first one who came up with this DIY design (Merlin based). YB2normal's design is based on wsclater's. Wscatler's DIY stabilizer design and sample footage is the best I've seen on the web.

[rottenman2010]

Great video! Thanks for sharing.

I just build pro-totype (need to replace parts for stronger) under $25 --- angular for any type of camera Even those over 10 lbs).

cheers