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The Best Steadicams for Filming

If you are planning on filming some high-quality movie scenes or pro level photography you are going to need the proper tools.

Finding a good steadicam/camera stabilizer to film with can help you to create professionally filmed scenes that will be sure to impress and that is why we have reviewed and rated the best steadicams currently available to help you choose one.

Inevitable shakes from hours of holding your arm in one position, natural twitches of the body and vibrations while walking will break down that wall of illusion and could leave the end product looking unprofessional.

The steadicam, originally created by Tiffen, helps to overcome that using a specialized rig for seamless shooting while moving up and down steps, indoors and out and meandering through crowds to get those groundbreaking shots – without using the jibs and cranes that are off limits to the small scale photographer.

When choosing the ideal steadicam for filming your project, choose something to best suit your camera and budget. A decent model will give that added professional touch to your filming.

Contents

Which Steadicam Gives the Best Filming Experience?

When looking at the best steadicams on the market bear in mind you want something that’s best suited to the weight of your camera to allow you to capture seamless footage. The ones below are ideally suited for DSLRs – if you are using a GoPro or camera of similar weight you will want to look into a handheld stabilizer specific for these.

For DSLRs though, your best option will have a vest attachment to free you from the action and a quick release so you can easily mount it to your nearest tripod. We tested each of the top models on the market and you can read our reviews here:

(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links in the post are affiliate links meaning we may earn a commission. This does not affect the price you pay.)


Glidecam HD-2000

As with all steadicams perfecting balancing comes with time, but the Glidecam HD 2000 works flawlessly once you are fully familiar with it.

Features:

  • Supporting up to 7lbs
  • Telescopic central post
  • Easy to adjust the counterweight

This is enabled by a telescopic central post for your perfect positioning. An evolution of the Glidecam HD-2000 and HD-4000 Pro, users of this predecessor will find better camera balance, gimbal movement and easier adjustments.

With the added comfort of its ergonomic handle and fine-tuning gimbal lock, it makes high quality filming on long days a breeze.



SevenOak SK-SW Pro 2 Carbon Fiber DSLR Stabilizer

The carbon fiber and chrome features make this a really good looking camera mount and the fact that is light and easy to use make it a great choice.

Specs

• Max length: 45cm
• Min length: 72.5cm
• Max weight: 3kg/6.6 lbs

You can unscrew the 4 removable chrome counterweights to adjust depending on your camera and the length is easily adjustable for adapting to different shots.

This is a nice mid-range option with adjustable teeth for extra precision in movement.



Flycam 5000 

Flycam 5000 combines precision and execution with comfort. The vest support takes the weight off your arm enabling the use of weightier models without compromising your picture quality. Ideal if you will be shooting for several hours.

Features:

  • Supports Cameras weighing up to 5kg
  • Includes comfort arm & vest
  • 16 counterweights at 80g each

For professional shoots, it eliminates shaky camera work and blurring while avoiding the need for a more cumbersome dolly and track. What you have as a result is the ability to spend hours on what you love, focus on the shot and get the fluidity you need.



Glide Gear DNA-6001

Glide gear combines their two top stabilization systems to give an unparalleled performance. The DNA 6000 is a vest and arm support brace that takes the weight off your arms while allowing the movement of a handheld stabilizer. Glide Gear has learned from other uncomfortable, cumbersome vest-and-arm systems with 6061 CNC-machined 6061 anodized aluminum and stainless steel, making it lightweight and durable.

Features:

  • 6061 CNC-machined aluminum and stainless steel
  • One size fits all adjustable
  • Suitable for left and right handers
  • Includes separate deluxe padded carry case
  • Supports up to 3kg

An adjustable chest plate allows you to fit the vest to your size, while the arm can be mounted either side making it ambidextrous. The DNA-5050 Stabilizer in this DNA-6001 Vest and Arm Stabilization Kit slots nicely into the support arm to allow optimum movement in and out of shots. Whether you’re taking shots on the run, around corners or upstairs it enables you to get the maximum smoothness possible.



Opteka SteadyVid SV-HD Camera Stabilizer

This is nice and affordable and is perfect for the entry level filmmaking. It has a quick release plate and safety mechanism to keep the plate in place.

Specs

• Max length: 23.6″
• Min length: 14.6″
• Max weight: 6 lbs

It will take a DSLR or camera up to 10lbs in weight and is highly flexible and allows for shooting at high and low angles. It is sturdy and robust when filming but with a lightweight aluminum frame.

The gimbal is sturdy and flexible and the grip can slide when moving with the camera if you have a heavy load and there are 2 places to add weights to counterbalance.


Glide Gear 6002

This steadicam is at the top of the range. It is sturdy and well-made meaning it eliminates the pendulum sway you can find on some lower end models.

Features:

  • Adjustable central post
  • 3 axis gimbal
  • Offset padded handle for added comfort

A camera can be mounted easily on the removable top plate and the light aircraft-aluminum construction offers tight tolerances for your most ambitious shoots. The ability for finer adjustments and a quick release mount gives you full flexibility over when and how you shoot and allows you to easily demount the camera when not in use. If you have the budget we highly recommend this model as it provides a perfect balance between comfort and quality.


What is a Steadicam?

A steadicam or steadycam as they are also was originally a brand of camera stabilizer use to keep your camera steady when filming and taking photographs. In a similar fashion to all vacuum cleaners are known as hoovers, camera stabilizers have adopted the name generally.

How to Use a Steadicam Stabilizer

So you’re investing in a steadicam – now how do you get those dream shots you lusted after? Our first point of advice is that before buying, check your model comes with a manual or at least some form of tutorial online.

As you will have noticed, steadicams come in different shapes and sizes, so we’ll start with the simplest handheld gimbal. Depending on what you’re using – smartphone, GoPro, DSLR or above, there will be some form of attachment.

Smartphones typically snap in using the adjustable bracket. You’ll have to check before you buy that it fits yours – most phones fit into the popular stabilizers. If it’s designed for a smartphone like the DJI Osmo the bracket will be built in – some others will include a smartphone bracket. If not a simple trick is to buy a selfie stick or phone tripod as these come with brackets. Once you have one it works the same as a GoPro or DSLR. Screw your camera into the mount so that it aligns squarely.

The next step is to set the counterweights. Add weights sparingly until your stabilizer holds at an angle. Your job is then to adjust the position of the camera on the stage – or length of the sled if possible – until it balances vertically. If your stabilizer swings from side to side keep making millimetre adjustments until you get the balance. Once you have the balance you want you’re good to go!

Now we move onto supports. Some versions like the Flycam offer an arm bracket to take the strain when you mount a heavier DSLR. This takes the strain off your wrist for longer periods. Set up your camera as above, then put on the arm bracket so the insertion part faces your wrist. You then remove the stopper at the end of your steadicam handle and insert the arm bracket connector. Shoulder mounts work similarly. Attach your camera as above and adjust the shoulder pad and/or distance of your camera mount to the grips to adjust the balance you want. Depending on your camera you may want to add counterweights as well.

Finally, if you are using an arm and vest steadicam, start by mounting your camera on the sled like you would a normal handheld and balance accordingly. Then put on the vest, connect the arm to the vest and snap your mount into the steadicam arm.

Last Words 

That concludes our list of the best steadicams. Steadicams are a crucial accessory to bring your film or video to the next level.

They smooth out human imperfections, allow more dynamic shots and add the extra edge you want. Plus for longer videos, something like a mounted steadicam or vest and arm is infallible to save your body wear and tear.

Decide on your budget, the features you want and your camera needs and select one right for you. No matter how much you have to spend, taking on one of these is sure to take your photography up a notch.

Richard Hammond

I am the founder of 9Mousai and am deeply interested in creativity and what inspires it. My main passions are writing, film and music but I have huge respect for all the arts. I'm also an animal lover and have a little cat called Winston and enjoy the occasional whiskey or two...

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