DIY Steadicam Merlin

Version 2 of my DIY steadicam was modeled after the 'Merlin'. More details on the stabilizer can be seen here: http://www.yb2normal.com/DIYsteadicam2.html

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• DIY
• Steadicam
• steadycam
• glidecam
• camera
• stabilizer

[artdv1]

ball joints have more friction than a gimbal. stay away from ball joints.

you won't regret it.

[yb2normal]

It's all a big cost-benefit analysis. Ball joints have their place... while not perfect, they are easy to work with, and a 'good' ball joint can be better than a poorly assembled gimbal. Trust me, I know ;)

[malouni95]

Hi yb2normal, I just can't wait to do one of your steadicam version (1,2,3,4,5)but i have a problem..... I don't know wich version is the version that works better than the others, so please respond to this message, i will apreciate because I've been looking a thousands of DIY steadicams and yours is the best so far.

Thanks a lot!!!!!!!!

(If my English is don't right is because I am Mexican, so sorry, but I hope that you understand what I say)

Thanks again!!!

[yb2normal]

Hi there! Your english is fine :)

Each stabilizer has it's benefits and problems. Amount of friction, ease of building etc... all different factors in deciding. You've seen my results... they are all capable!

[Screenwriter314]

What is the maximum weight that this steadicam is capable of holding? How much does it cost in it's entirety?

[yb2normal]

I don't know the max weight but I'd say the main limiting factors are the wood block that holds the ball joint, and the fact that you would need to add a corresponding amount of weight on the lower arms, making the unit difficult to carry. Cost is also hard to say since I made it from scraps around the house. The really expensive parts were the tools I bought to build it! But now I have a very nice little bench grinder :)

[SoRealCereal]

@malouni95 I had trouble putting together a DIY steadicam that I could trust my DSLR on. I've been using the Cam Caddie Scorpion with great success i suggest to anyone in search of an effective independent setup.

[TheMidwestbear]

So is this footage using the 1/4" right angle ball joint model?  I just ordered one of the ball joints.

[oasotam]

cool, but would be better in iron

[HiroIndo16]

ummm, maybe you don't mind to explain how you build this?

[Winnerslay]

I'm pretty impressed...

The video is very, very smooth, although you are using a homemade Steadicam...

I guess I'll make one myself.

[BDGLZ]

It's leaning right. Give it some weights on the left side and you're good.

[JeffysPlayhouse]

Is there anyway i can purchase one from you, sir?

[Lucianolmm]

Hello, what the correct measures to use? very nice. As was done for Steadicam Gimbal? what kind of material? Thanks - msn?

[Lucianolmm]

Hello, what the correct measures to use? very nice. As was done for Steadicam Gimbal? what kind of material? Thanks - msn?

Luciano.

[bestamerica]

'

bravoo,,,

very good make this steadicam