Nick is the best! Had an opportunity recently to spot him down a narrow stairway forwards and backwards; he definitely knows his stuff and is just an awesome guy! Good call having him on, Luke!
Oh you.... We've definitely had some intense scenes together, but I am always so stoked to see a call sheet and know you have my back (literally and figuratively) for wahtever lays ahead.
We appreciate the opportunity to work on your thoughtful and creative projects! It’s nice to see the steadicam used so liberally and effectively. It’s also fun to light for actor/camera movement. Sorry to be so gushy, but Thank you, Lincoln Street Studios!
Nick, thanks... you saved me tons of money. I had idea to buy this vest and steadycam gimbal. But, I am 57 and easily get out of breathe, so it is not for me. This vest just restrict your lungs and abdomen, so hard to breathe. Now, summer is there and things will be even worse. Thank you for really inspirational video.
Shout out to Luke who was killing it with his hand held rig. Id love to know how his handheld rig was set up. Looked like he had a vest as well but couldn't tell very well. Solid video!
I just got my first really cheap 50$ steadicam from amazon. will take a while to get used to it. its pretty heavy setup even with a camera+lens weighing only just under 2lb and nothing else at all. I'm thinking of getting a vest and arm sometime even just for my tiny setup! its quite exhausting holding it with just one hand alone.
Hey Luke! Really great show! These interviews are very informative for a non-film school guy like myself. I understand that you use the GH5 and Veydra lenses. I just bought this package. Im interested in learning what you used in this interview for your rig. I see you have some sort of harness as well. Can you write down what you used or better yet do a video showing?
Hi Colin, I was wondering if you ever made the investment? For others coming to this post, Investing in a rig like Nick's is about $50k for the GPI Pro Cine Live Steadicam rig (I own one myself) if you want it setup right (rig, arm, Hill dock, Betz top stage, various canisters, low mode bracket, battery doubler etc...) + $5-6k for a vest, + $8-15k for monitors, batteries, cables, monitor mounts, stands with set of wheels, "Moses" pole, cases with custom foam + a good cart... add another $3-4 if you want an "Innovativ" cart like Nick's... It adds up really fast. My advice for anyone looking to invest in a rig of their own is to first have good experience doing Steadicam on a show that keeps you busy enough that you can hone your skills 3-4 days per week. Then find a customer (a new show) who wants to hire you to Steadicam; you will then be able to pay off the rig that way, knowing that you can bill them for the rig rental. Run your numbers and make sure it works for you. There are a few outfits that can provide capital (Leasing) to cover your expenses, but just know that in today's $ (2020) a lease can run you about 10-12% interest... If you're going the lease route, my advice is to look for a lease where at the end, you own everything with no balloon payment, and keep the lease term as short as you can afford to do without painting yourself into a corner. The longer the lease the more interest you'll pay on the same amount borrowed...
Great b-roll Luke! How do your clothes affect your comfortability? Also, how many days or weeks did it take to get you to feel comfortable/happy with your results?
I was asking if Nick has a preference in shoes, clothes, etc. while steady operating. I was also asking how long it took him to feel comfortable using the rig ( in case he can answer on this channel)
I personally like wearing shorts when I can. Not only does it help me feel more comfortable while operating, but admittedly I get sweaty VERY quick. It gets hot under that vest really quick, so I try to wear shorts and a dark T-Shirt (breathes well, sweat marks are not as apparent) because at the end of the day your image with clients/DP/Director are important, and you don't want them to see you as getting too fatigued.
Need to correct you on walk-n-talk. It refers to two or more actors walking and talking, not the operator. The move was heavily used in West Wing series. Been a owner operator since 1978. The Don Juan move is the better move compared to the reverse missionary, don't need a spotter and you can move faster...in my opinion and experience.
Good question! I think the answer is similar to what you would hear from a jib operator or the owner of a captured slider verses a Dana Dolly, that it’s a different tool. In terms of larger cameras, it’s more of a precision tool than a gimbal. I think there is certainly room for both!
Luke is right, it really isn't so much adapting as it is just another tool to use. There are some situations where Steadicam is more appropriate than using a Movi or Ronin, and there are situations where using gimbals may be more appropriate. Anytime new gear comes out I feel it is less the idea of what it is replacing, and more so how can this new tool do something different for me.
Nick Schwyter great video. I got to meet and work with you on the "Inches Apart" video. Great to see you and Luke collaborate and share some knowledge.
It's really a question of the look you want out of the move. Gimbals are primarily used in narrative for vehicle and arial coverage, as well as moves that would be impossible with a steadicam (think space/clearance restrictions as well as something like a handoff between operators). Steadicams provide a much more natural gliding look than a gimbal can in most cases, and provide a direct input on movement from the operator rather than a remote input controlled by the gimbal itself. As Luke said, it really isn't a switch at all (or at least it shouldn't be), it's more of a new tool that people are learning to adapt to and figure out how to use correctly.
I am one of those that never got into the stedicam gimbal and got a Movi Pro and THEN put it on a Zephyr arm and steadi vest. For what I do it works great and I'm guessing the learning curve is less than a full-tilt boogie steadicam system. It's a tool and that's how I use it. I would no way in hell with a plastic banana pointed to my head say I'm a steadicam op! Those guys and gals are a different and higher breed. But again, the movi pro is a tool and with Movi's remote control that controls the gimbal it is a great tool to have when the budget is not quite big-daddy bucks. Thanks again to Mr. Luke for yet another killer video.
Do you see the motorised gimbals replacing steadicam? Or combining the 2 which I'm going to try. I still see unnecessary movement with just gimbals. I just purchased the zhiyun 3s and I'm going to bvb try to connect it with my arm vest.
Not sure about the combo, but most people see each as a tool for a particular look, not so much a replacement as an either/or. More tools to choose from!
What rig is Luke wearing there? I'm surprised that the batteries are on the arm, rather than on the back as a counterweight for the operator's torso (and less weight on the arm). I get that it's better to not have wired connections off the gimbal through the arm to deal with, and that some mass on the gimbal helps, so I guess those trade-offs must be worth it.
I’m wearing a modified baby carrier that provides a little shelf where I can rest the back rails/battery for longer handheld shots. The only real stabilizer is internal to the GH5:)
Cool! Makes sense when you don't want the camera up high on your shoulder as a tallish guy to avoid that 'news crew' look where the camera is slightly above the subject's eye height looking down. Made for a nice steady/smooth shot.
I know this is a steadiop video, don't mean to steal his thunder, but would love to see a run-down on your mirrorless hh shooting rig -- I've seen a couple of 'camera bjorn' solutions and would be interested to see how you have yours rigged (for the taller folks as Thomas says above).
I'm not sure if anyone will see this. I'm just wondering where it is I'm able to purchase a weight plate as you mentioned. I cant seem to find anyone or anywhere that sells them. Any help would be appreciated.
What’s funny is that was so long ago I don’t really remember exactly, but it was probably a GH5 in a small rig cage with a couple extra hand grips and a SmallHD monitor. So nothing out of the ordinary. The GH5 is such a good handheld camera for vlogging that when I had a Ronin-S it was too cumbersome. In this episode I should have done a better job with the audio, but when ur one-man-banding it, sometimes u forget to cover all the variables! That said, I swear by the Sennheiser AVX system, paired with Sanken lavs. It’s great for vlogging.
@@meetthegaffer thanks for the info! I think it’s that it looks like you have it pressed against your chest using some kind of rig. Either way, the gh5 definitely is a beast. Thanks
Yes, It’s just a set of rails so that I can run it off a v-lock batt which also powers the monitor. I may have a follow focus on there too, but I don’t really use that anymore either🤪
@@iforssberg74 What? the point is to send minimal ammounts of energy from your pelvis and body into the rig, therefore you want to generate as little rocking as possible, If you walk stiff legged the arm will have to work a shittonne to try and isolate the energy from your body.
Walk normally! If you set up the arm settings properly, it will take out "the walk" input. I own a Steadicam Archer 2 and providing you set it up correctly, you'd be amazed at how smooth you shoots are. I guess that’s why it cost me small fortune, the engineering involved is of the highest quality.
Thanks for your reply. I have another question, there seems some discrepancy in some video tutorials on bending knee's or not. What is your view on this/stance? Props for going for this, respecting this skill!
What kind of daily rate can you charge for 10 Hour and 5 Hour Day as Steadicam operator? I know it depends on what type of shoot, but what is the " median rate"? Thanks!
Nick is the best! Had an opportunity recently to spot him down a narrow stairway forwards and backwards; he definitely knows his stuff and is just an awesome guy! Good call having him on, Luke!
Oh you....
We've definitely had some intense scenes together, but I am always so stoked to see a call sheet and know you have my back (literally and figuratively) for wahtever lays ahead.
I'm thinking of retraining as a Steadicam Op (after 10 years in the lighting department) and this video is great. Thank you Luke and Nick 🙏🏾
I’m here for the exact same reason 😂 hope your transition is going well
Thank you Mr. Schwyter for sharing your valuable knowledge.
awesome video! as an aspiring steadicam operator I really enjoyed it. Keep up the good work.
"Ahhh! My steadicam vest just crushed the lav!"
Pretty much!
Even as someone who works with you both often, this was super informative- thanks guys! (And thanks for showing a bit of our bts as well : )
We appreciate the opportunity to work on your thoughtful and creative projects! It’s nice to see the steadicam used so liberally and effectively. It’s also fun to light for actor/camera movement. Sorry to be so gushy, but Thank you, Lincoln Street Studios!
Ahh, thanks, Luke! And this artsy director appreciates your creative solutions - gushing back at ya!
:)
Nick, thanks... you saved me tons of money. I had idea to buy this vest and steadycam gimbal. But, I am 57 and easily get out of breathe, so it is not for me. This vest just restrict your lungs and abdomen, so hard to breathe. Now, summer is there and things will be even worse. Thank you for really inspirational video.
Interesting and helpful, thank you!
Great, thanks for sharing
4:46 am and I'm watching meet the gaffer 😂👍
Ha, ha!
Shout out to Luke who was killing it with his hand held rig. Id love to know how his handheld rig was set up. Looked like he had a vest as well but couldn't tell very well. Solid video!
I don’t even remember:)
Analog steadycam makes the footage looks cinematic, even with a simple dslr.
I just got my first really cheap 50$ steadicam from amazon.
will take a while to get used to it.
its pretty heavy setup even with a camera+lens weighing only just under 2lb and nothing else at all. I'm thinking of getting a vest and arm sometime even just for my tiny setup! its quite exhausting holding it with just one hand alone.
Hey Luke! Really great show! These interviews are very informative for a non-film school guy like myself. I understand that you use the GH5 and Veydra lenses. I just bought this package. Im interested in learning what you used in this interview for your rig. I see you have some sort of harness as well. Can you write down what you used or better yet do a video showing?
Others have asked too. I will talk about it soon:)
Seems for a small DSLR a Glidecam could do about the same?
Maybe the extra wires and monitor etc you need the big rig?
Great episode, I have been considering making the investment into a Steadicam myself. Its a big step.
Not for the faint of heart or weak of back:)
Hi Colin, I was wondering if you ever made the investment? For others coming to this post, Investing in a rig like Nick's is about $50k for the GPI Pro Cine Live Steadicam rig (I own one myself) if you want it setup right (rig, arm, Hill dock, Betz top stage, various canisters, low mode bracket, battery doubler etc...) + $5-6k for a vest, + $8-15k for monitors, batteries, cables, monitor mounts, stands with set of wheels, "Moses" pole, cases with custom foam + a good cart... add another $3-4 if you want an "Innovativ" cart like Nick's... It adds up really fast. My advice for anyone looking to invest in a rig of their own is to first have good experience doing Steadicam on a show that keeps you busy enough that you can hone your skills 3-4 days per week. Then find a customer (a new show) who wants to hire you to Steadicam; you will then be able to pay off the rig that way, knowing that you can bill them for the rig rental. Run your numbers and make sure it works for you. There are a few outfits that can provide capital (Leasing) to cover your expenses, but just know that in today's $ (2020) a lease can run you about 10-12% interest... If you're going the lease route, my advice is to look for a lease where at the end, you own everything with no balloon payment, and keep the lease term as short as you can afford to do without painting yourself into a corner. The longer the lease the more interest you'll pay on the same amount borrowed...
Great notes!
Great b-roll Luke!
How do your clothes affect your comfortability? Also, how many days or weeks did it take to get you to feel comfortable/happy with your results?
???
I was asking if Nick has a preference in shoes, clothes, etc. while steady operating. I was also asking how long it took him to feel comfortable using the rig ( in case he can answer on this channel)
I personally like wearing shorts when I can. Not only does it help me feel more comfortable while operating, but admittedly I get sweaty VERY quick. It gets hot under that vest really quick, so I try to wear shorts and a dark T-Shirt (breathes well, sweat marks are not as apparent) because at the end of the day your image with clients/DP/Director are important, and you don't want them to see you as getting too fatigued.
Nick Schwyter I’m sure the California heat doesn’t help too. Thanks for the reply!
How long does it take to balance that bad boy? I can't even imagine.
Need to correct you on walk-n-talk. It refers to two or more actors walking and talking, not the operator. The move was heavily used in West Wing series. Been a owner operator since 1978. The Don Juan move is the better move compared to the reverse missionary, don't need a spotter and you can move faster...in my opinion and experience.
Why is it named Don Juan, google has failed me 😂
@NgaTaeOfficial steadicamforum.com/index.php?app=forums&module=forums&controller=topic&id=638
@@meetthegaffer cheers!
schweet :)
How's the steadicam comunity adapting to the switch to gimbals?
Good question! I think the answer is similar to what you would hear from a jib operator or the owner of a captured slider verses a Dana Dolly, that it’s a different tool. In terms of larger cameras, it’s more of a precision tool than a gimbal. I think there is certainly room for both!
Luke is right, it really isn't so much adapting as it is just another tool to use. There are some situations where Steadicam is more appropriate than using a Movi or Ronin, and there are situations where using gimbals may be more appropriate. Anytime new gear comes out I feel it is less the idea of what it is replacing, and more so how can this new tool do something different for me.
Nick Schwyter great video. I got to meet and work with you on the "Inches Apart" video. Great to see you and Luke collaborate and share some knowledge.
It's really a question of the look you want out of the move. Gimbals are primarily used in narrative for vehicle and arial coverage, as well as moves that would be impossible with a steadicam (think space/clearance restrictions as well as something like a handoff between operators). Steadicams provide a much more natural gliding look than a gimbal can in most cases, and provide a direct input on movement from the operator rather than a remote input controlled by the gimbal itself. As Luke said, it really isn't a switch at all (or at least it shouldn't be), it's more of a new tool that people are learning to adapt to and figure out how to use correctly.
I am one of those that never got into the stedicam gimbal and got a Movi Pro and THEN put it on a Zephyr arm and steadi vest. For what I do it works great and I'm guessing the learning curve is less than a full-tilt boogie steadicam system. It's a tool and that's how I use it. I would no way in hell with a plastic banana pointed to my head say I'm a steadicam op! Those guys and gals are a different and higher breed. But again, the movi pro is a tool and with Movi's remote control that controls the gimbal it is a great tool to have when the budget is not quite big-daddy bucks. Thanks again to Mr. Luke for yet another killer video.
What is the typical focal lenghts clients want?
Every focal lenghts
Do you see the motorised gimbals replacing steadicam? Or combining the 2 which I'm going to try. I still see unnecessary movement with just gimbals. I just purchased the zhiyun 3s and I'm going to bvb try to connect it with my arm vest.
Not sure about the combo, but most people see each as a tool for a particular look, not so much a replacement as an either/or. More tools to choose from!
RIP Lav:( 4:43
What rig is Luke wearing there?
I'm surprised that the batteries are on the arm, rather than on the back as a counterweight for the operator's torso (and less weight on the arm). I get that it's better to not have wired connections off the gimbal through the arm to deal with, and that some mass on the gimbal helps, so I guess those trade-offs must be worth it.
I’m wearing a modified baby carrier that provides a little shelf where I can rest the back rails/battery for longer handheld shots. The only real stabilizer is internal to the GH5:)
Cool! Makes sense when you don't want the camera up high on your shoulder as a tallish guy to avoid that 'news crew' look where the camera is slightly above the subject's eye height looking down. Made for a nice steady/smooth shot.
I know this is a steadiop video, don't mean to steal his thunder, but would love to see a run-down on your mirrorless hh shooting rig -- I've seen a couple of 'camera bjorn' solutions and would be interested to see how you have yours rigged (for the taller folks as Thomas says above).
I can do that! Mostly I don’t have time for all that and just go regular handheld with the GH5...
Sir y didn't show examples of 360 angles ....like any moments
I'm not sure if anyone will see this. I'm just wondering where it is I'm able to purchase a weight plate as you mentioned. I cant seem to find anyone or anywhere that sells them. Any help would be appreciated.
I see it! If you search online for Janice Arthur, she's an operator who makes plates of variable weights. That's where I got my mine in the video.
steadicamforum.com/index.php?app=core&module=members&controller=profile&id=888
@@Taynerang Thankyou very much.
@@Taynerang Also, just wanted to ask what size threads you have on your plate? Thanks again
@@CalebNichols99 Her plates include 3/8 and 1/4 inserts to fit most pratice camera packages, and also the same fittings for top stage plates.
Steadicam operating. That was my dream job but now that gimbals are here, they changed everything
They are not the same, but I know what you mean... sorta like how rail dollies have made large inroads into ride dolly usage:)
Did you make a video on the rig for this video?
The rig? Do you mean how I shot Nick working with the steadi?
@@meetthegaffer yes please? You mention in other comments that you’ll post your set up for how you shot nick. Amazing work!
What’s funny is that was so long ago I don’t really remember exactly, but it was probably a GH5 in a small rig cage with a couple extra hand grips and a SmallHD monitor. So nothing out of the ordinary. The GH5 is such a good handheld camera for vlogging that when I had a Ronin-S it was too cumbersome. In this episode I should have done a better job with the audio, but when ur one-man-banding it, sometimes u forget to cover all the variables! That said, I swear by the Sennheiser AVX system, paired with Sanken lavs. It’s great for vlogging.
@@meetthegaffer thanks for the info! I think it’s that it looks like you have it pressed against your chest using some kind of rig. Either way, the gh5 definitely is a beast. Thanks
Yes, It’s just a set of rails so that I can run it off a v-lock batt which also powers the monitor. I may have a follow focus on there too, but I don’t really use that anymore either🤪
Is it necessary to bend knees ?
If you want a smooth picture, yes
@@mrsneakyburt6305 No, bending knees might actually work against the function of the steadicam arm. You should "always" walk as normal as possible.
@@iforssberg74 What? the point is to send minimal ammounts of energy from your pelvis and body into the rig, therefore you want to generate as little rocking as possible, If you walk stiff legged the arm will have to work a shittonne to try and isolate the energy from your body.
Walk normally! If you set up the arm settings properly, it will take out "the walk" input. I own a Steadicam Archer 2 and providing you set it up correctly, you'd be amazed at how smooth you shoots are. I guess that’s why it cost me small fortune, the engineering involved is of the highest quality.
@@bonym371 Are you happy with your Archer Tony? I'm receiving my Archer 2 with Volt any week now.
what is AC?
An AC is an Assistant Cameraperson. AC is also Alternating Current, as opposed to DC which is Direct Current:)
Thanks for your reply. I have another question, there seems some discrepancy in some video tutorials on bending knee's or not. What is your view on this/stance? Props for going for this, respecting this skill!
danosdotnl without a vest/arm support bending your knees will help hide your footsteps. With a good vest/arm you don’t have to do that.
freak note: u live in the same building appartment than spenser sakurai youtuber loool to much internet for me i guess
What kind of daily rate can you charge for 10 Hour and 5 Hour Day as Steadicam operator? I know it depends on what type of shoot, but what is the "
median rate"? Thanks!
Please, oh God, just get a boom mic
😂