The Importance of a Steady Shot
Since movies were first being created, the importance of ensuring your shots were clear and steady was of the utmost importance. Companies made tech to create these steady shots, shaky photographers/videographers were let go, and even the famous term "crab walk" was coined. As an aspiring videographer, what are the best ways to ensure the smoothest video possible, all the while not breaking the bank on an expensive GIB or gimbal? Firstly, practice your crab walk. Having steady motion is important in keeping your camera steady, and by getting this motion fluent, you can ensure high-quality content. Achieve this by placing your feet about one or two feet apart and moving on the balls of your feet. Just as a car has suspension, use your legs to keep the camera steady. Secondly, you could opt out for a tripod. These are cheap stands you can rest your camera on for a super steady shot, the only downside is you can't move the tripod. That is, unless, you have a dolly. A dolly is the next step up in creating a steady shot, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Anything from a small skater dolly to a large electronic rig, dollies help move a tripod around for a steady shot with added motion. Finally, the last affordable option (and in my opinion, the best option) is to get a gimbal. Gimbals are electric stabilizers for cameras that can be tweaked externally. Anything from when the camera turns on to the direction it is aiming, gimbals offer high levels of customization. I have the DJI Ronin SC, and it works very well for the work I do! It cost me around $250, but it has elevated all the shots I get with it. If you are looking for an affordable way to stabilize your shots and get cleaner-looking final projects, I would recommend going with the gimbal. If you have all the money in the world, GIBs and Glidecams are the industry standard. Good luck with your shooting, and always remember to keep your shots steady! By any means necessary...