OT: Steadicam Merlin for light P&S cameras

Rich Parry wrote on 1/17/2012, 1:32 PM

I’ve seen lots of examples of how the Steadicam Merlin can be used for SLRs like my Canon 5DM2. Is it just as good for P&S cameras that may weigh as little as a half pound?

I will probably purchase the Steadicam from B&H, seems like everyone is charging the same price, $799.

Thanks in advance,
Rich

Comments

PeterDuke wrote on 1/17/2012, 3:00 PM

If it's too light you can always tie a brick (or something) to it. :)

Rich Parry wrote on 1/17/2012, 5:10 PM

Regarding the comment, If it's too light you can always tie a brick (or something) to it. :) ... That is what I thought. I just read the Merlin specs and they said good for cameras1/2 to 5 1/2 pounds.

I didn't want to pay $800 and find there was a problem.

Thanks,
Rich

cybercom wrote on 1/17/2012, 9:02 PM

If your p&s has a typical form factor where the screen is on the back and you hold it in front of you to shoot, e.g., it is wider than long, chances are slim that the Merlin will work for you. Side-to-side balance will be too sensitive. If your camera is longer than wide, then the Merlin will probably be OK.

B&H has a superb return policy so if it doesn't work for you, just take it back.

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Rich Parry wrote on 1/18/2012, 12:40 PM

cybercom,

That is exaxtly the type of information I was looking for, thanks. I think I am going to rent it from BorrowLens for a few days to test.

Thanks again,
Rich

Laurence wrote on 1/18/2012, 12:50 PM

I wonder how the cheap Manfrotto ModoSteady would be on a light point and shoot?

PeterDuke wrote on 1/18/2012, 5:29 PM

Regarding the comment about length and width of the camera, I would have thought that they would not be directly relevant. The key would be the location (height or depth) of the centre of gravity of the camera relative to the support. (Just thinking from pure physics point of view.)

Former user wrote on 1/18/2012, 7:28 PM

I've always been partial to glidecam's gear. The HD-series (in a DLSR's case, the HD-1000 might work - especially with bigger lenses). I put a quick mount on the base plate and the camera (adds a little mass) and then just go from there. I have a counterpart who uses a Merlin, but even after a couple of years the shots still seem a bit nauseating (he might just suck as an operator, but he's pretty good at everything else he does).

Considering the cost of the Merlin, which seems ridiculously high, take a look at a glidecam.

Another good alternative is a fig rig (like a steering wheel). It also allows you some places to mount mics, audio recorders etc. I've seen some really good footage shot with them too.

MTuggy wrote on 1/18/2012, 8:35 PM

I have a Merlin - its pretty finicky and it tough to get some of side to side sway eliminated. I've wanted to try the Glidecam 1000 - I think it may be a better option for any pro-size camera. Puttying my FX1 on the Merlin didn't really pan out very well - heavy camera on a light weight stabilizer is not that easy to use.

Mike

cybercom wrote on 1/18/2012, 9:41 PM

Modosteady is also difficult to adjust to eliminate side-to-side sway with a P&S and does not eliminate wobble when walking. It is, however, great for tripod-like moves such as smooth pans or moving from a low angle shot to a high angle shot - depending, of course, on the operator. It's all in the fingers...!

HTH<

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