Steadicam Merlin Problems with XHA1

Not too impressed with the Steadicam Merlin with my XHA1. This could be operator error, but with a balanced steadicam I discover difficulty preventing the camera from tilting downward or upward. I have experienced good shots with basic walking, but throw out the ability to zoom in or adjust your shot at all. Once you put a camera on a steadicam any touch will cause your shot to fly around in ridiculousness. Maneuvering in and out of crowds seems impossible because if you get bumped then your shot is ruined. I'll keep video postings showing any changes as my experience with the Steadicam increases. So far I've used it for 2 weeks.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Steadicam
• Merlin
• XHA1
• Camera
• Help
• Canon
• Balancing
• Tilting

[ClackamasFilms]

Are you only using one hand when operating the unit in this video?

Also, Merlin is much more workable when used with the vest and arm. This is especially true on cameras that near it's weight limit (like the A1). The unit without the arm tends to work better with cameras in the Canon HV20 size.

Yes, I know, the vest and arm are an extra $1,500, but you get what you pay for.

[nathandayton]

@ClackamasFilms Agreed... I just wanted the amateur video maker to be aware that the Steadicam is not a quick solution... It is very time consuming to learn...

[nathandayton]

Good Information, thank you.

[ShoreCamera]

The Merlin is going to fall forward whenever you start or stop walking. The trick is to stabilize it with your free hand after you get up to speed and let go. If it's not overly bottom heavy (and well balanced side to side), it should be pretty smooth. Just keep in mind that you have to stabilize the thing again when you stop.

My decision to purchase this product was from the results amateurs were getting, not the professionals. Stick with it. All the hassle will be well worth it.

[isegoria1]

Aside from your fore and aft movement issues I see yours has the same lean into turn issue my homemade one does. I know that there is some learning curve to operating a steady cam, but your performance appears pathetic, I am sure you agree.

[yputup]

Hi, do you find the weight of the XHA1 is too heavy for the Merlin? With a larger battery it is over 5lbs.

Thanks

[Johnathan136]

Steadicam takes practice, use both hands, and "glide" when you walk

[DXHSTUDIOS]

"Maneuvering in and out of crowds seems impossible because if you get bumped then your shot is ruined."

this is with any Steadicam. Full body or not. I have two full body rigs with Cameras over 30 pounds, you just don't shoot Steadicam with huge uncontrollable crowds, it just doesn't work. When i would do crowd Steadicam shots, they are all preplanned.