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How to Build a Steadycam

In television programs and movies, a steadycam is used almost every time the camera follows a person. It is an attachment for the camera that allows the operator to capture smooth video when in motion. The steadycam props the camera on top of a pole and features a handle, giving the operator a chance to steady the camera as he is moving. For student or amateur filmmakers, a professional steadycam can be quite expensive, ranging from $600 to $1500. Luckily, you can build a makeshift steadycam for about $15.

Things You'll Need

  • Drill (with a ¼-inch drill bit)
  • Wrench
  • Screwdriver
  • Hammer
  • 3 pipes -- ½-inch galvanized steel, approximately 10" long
  • 3 end caps
  • T-Joint
  • Barbell weight (2-5 pounds, 1-inch diameter hold)
  • 2 machine bolts (1.5-inch long, ¼-inch wide)
  • Wing nut (1/4-inch)
  • 3 diameter flange washers (1.5-inch)
  • 3 lock washers (for 1 ¼-inch bolts)
  • 2 machine nuts (1/4-inch)
  • Stationary vise (recommended)
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Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Attach the T-joint to one of the three steel pipes to form a handle.

    • 2

      Drill a ¼-inch hold in the middle of the three end caps. Use a stationary vise if possible so as to make the drilling process easier.

    • 3

      Place a lock washer on one of the machine bolts.

    • 4

      Thread the bolt through one of the end caps. The bottom of the bolt should come out of the outside of the end cap.

    • 5

      Place a lock washer on the other end of the bolt.

    • 6

      Place a machine nut at the end of the bolt, after the lock washer.

    • 7

      Tighten the lock washer/nut with a wrench. This will keep the bolt from turning and becoming loose.

    • 8

      Dent the center of the flange washers with a hammer. An easy way to do this is to put the washer on top of the hole in the weight, put a bolt in the hole and hammer the bolt. The center of the washer should be higher than its rim.

    • 9

      Thread a bolt through the washer with the top of the bolt resting in the "bowl" area of the washer.

    • 10

      Place a wing nut on the bolt and tighten it with your fingers. Do NOT use a wrench.

    • 11

      Set the piece you have just created aside. This is the camera mount.

    • 12

      Place a flange washer on the final bolt.

    • 13

      Thread the bolt through the hole the weight.

    • 14

      Place the final flange washer at the end of the bolt.

    • 15

      Attach the end cap to the bolt.

    • 16

      Place the final lock washer and a nut on the end of the bolt.

    • 17

      Tighten the bolt by using turning the weight clockwise. It is best to use a vise to do this, so the bolt will turn, while the cap will remain stationary, thus tightening the bolt.

    • 18

      Set this piece you have just created to the side. This is the base of the steadycam.

    • 19

      Screw the two remaining pipes into the T-joint.

    • 20

      Attach the base (the part with the weight) to the bottom of pipe.

    • 21

      Attach the mounting (the part with the wing nut) to the top.

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