The FotoPro Transformer flexible tripod (released sometime last year), has optional replaceable feet that can be swapped out from standard rubber balls, to suction cups, to magnetic, and also spiked feet. The different options screw in through standard '1/4-20 threaded inserts'. This particular flexible tripod is good for cameras weighing under 3lbs (lightweight cameras), or small accessories like lights and flashes.
FotoPro Transformer tripod already setup with 1/4-20 threaded mounts
Having standard threaded inserts makes it very easy, if you decide to mount something else. You'll start seeing these tripods pop up in various colors with different package options, on both eBay (click here)
Linco is showing off a new light head that can be turned on/off with an included remote. The only problem is that from the specs, each head is linked to it's own remote. If you're running a few of these in studio, I can see how carrying a pocket full of remotes can get ugly confusing. Outside of the wireless remote gimmick, these Linco lights are one of the best performing CFL lighting kits for the buck with brighter light output, better color temperature, and less flickering. The heads are more durable and the proprietary umbrella-like softbox breaks down and sets up quick. It's about twice the price of the cheaper CFL Softbox lights I'm using in studio. Mine suck if you ever have to travel with them, but luckily they don't need to leave the building. The Linco Flora lighting kits are available on both Amazon (click here) and via eBay (click here).
Wondlan's showing off some type of 'wearable support' (shown above) that can be used to unload the weight from camera stabilizers like the Wondlan Ares (Merlin-like). Seems like the same idea Glidecam has with their Body-Pod.
Glidecam Body Pod for Hand-Held Stabilizer
But unlike Glidecam's Body Pod, Wondlan shows how it can be used to support a shoulder rigs as well. In that case, it sort of reminds me of the Tiffen (Davis & Sanford) Steady Stick.
IMO, the price is too high for something that doesn't come with a professional padded belt and strap. The images and descriptions aren't very clear either on how it all connects together. From this end it just looks like an adjustable stick on a belt.
Juicedlink first introduced this slider idea as a prototype during NAB2011 (found here). The kit consists of a few different parts which are bundled or sold separately. The basic set will have at least a trolley (rolling carriage) and end clamps to hold a set of rods. The end clamps have three 1/4-20" threaded taps to mount stands. A benefit to this slider kit is that you choose any type and length of 5/8" rod you require. You're not limited to specifically choosing a 24" or 36" like IGUS or Konova sliders. With JuicedLink, you can carry multiple sets of rods if you want to run short or long. Suggested rails to be used are stainless steel rods for it's clean smooth surface and hardness, which run about $20 dollars each for 4 feet (48").
The setup in the video (above) is on 4ft. stainless steel rods with a few modifications done to get it motorized. This is pretty much the same equipment used on the motorized Konova slider by Vimeo member C Light. On one end I have a freewheeling Idler Pulley. On the opposite end is the servo motor, servo controller, and 4 AAA battery pack. These all simply plug in together seamlessly without any soldering to give you a reversible slow speed motor. For the string, i'm just using Nylon Mason Line. Fairly thin, but strong, and readily available at your local Home Depot. I decided on using Velcro at the ends so that I can adjust the tension of the Line. Below is the remaining parts list of what you'll need if you wanted to do this to other sliders.
It's definitely a smooth slider, but the design means you'll need two stands to elevate it. It's important to get solid stands on each side if you want to minimize any rocking or swaying when used in windy environments. Especially if you're shooting with a long lens. Before you consider the JuicedLink DIY slider kit, you should check out some important information about the slider over at the JuicedLink website. He's started a 'CookBook' of ideas and tips about using the slider, and pointing out a few things to keep in mind when going to a longer set of rods. You can find more information and pricing on the JuicedLink sliders (click here).
Another Hollywood Ultralight turns up on auction. This ultralight stabilizer is a discontinued product, but works like a mini Glidecam (as seen in the video demonstration above). It can support cameras of up to 4lbs, but with all the new GF3 like cameras with HD video, it's too bad they don't start making these things again. eBay auction found (click here)
This new adjustable shoulder camera stabilizer, is a simple design. A pad that wraps over the shoulder combined with a long chest plate supports the weight of your camera. An adjustable / rotatable stage with support handle positions the camera. Simple but effective, especially for super small video cameras.
Now the unusual feature is what looks like a compass (if i'm correct). If you require a compass to navigate to what you need to shoot, I don't think you should be allowed to handle a camera. Now if it were an electronic touch screen GPS navigator, that might be a different story. I wonder what would happen if you hacked two of these together (one on each shoulder). Fairly new, but you can find the shoulder support stabilizer on eBay (click here)
Video Camera Shoulder Support Stabilizer w/ Compass?
Even the cheapest ProAim mattebox runs you well over $280 (including shipping), so this new single filter MatteBox complete with side flags for half price + free shipping is a much better option than the recent cheap plastic version (found here) that holds NO filters.
The shallow hood looks like it can accommodate wide lens setups, but no information on if the filter can be rotated (for polarizers or grads). Not the best of the best, but I know some of you were excited about the $70 dollar version matte boxes for pure aesthetics, so I suggest you at least hold out and get something like this. Not only uses more metal in construction (except hood), it looks much better, and also serves a better purpose by holding a filter (like ND). New mattebox can be found on eBay (click here).
[Update] Prices starting to move upwards since this post. [Update again] Seems like they dropped pricing back down hearing complaints.
Inexpensive Single Filter MatteBox with Full Flags
(Above) Video was just for fun, don't take it seriously
I've probably tested more stabilizers than the Brady Bunch Family has fingers and toes (combined). Not everything makes it on the blog, because it just ends up as wasted sapce. Now i'm not saying some of these stabilizers 'won't fly'. What I look into and weigh in on is Stabilizer vs. Price. With enough muddling around (a few days and a few modifications), you can probably get some decent shots with most stabilizers.
Since I just posted about questions on other Random stabilizers I don't think is worth the asking price, here's another one for you - not to consider. Besides looking quite odd, the current asking price is several times that of other stabilizers which are easier to fly and faster to balance. The handle has shock absorption, the stage can be positioned forward/back, and the weight can be shifted left/right. The odd color choice and design might have been based on old Buck Rogers technology. You would think the tripod stand base design would work well to sit your camera down, but it acts as a counterweight. If you are required to shift that weight to an angle, it will no longer sit as a tripod and just topple over.
The video demo was shot just for fun, and it was the first time out with it. It's definitely not easy to fly. I don't agree on the price tag running several hundreds of dollars while there are already existing units on the market that are much cheaper and already have proven results. If they dropped this down to about $80 dollars, it might be worth considering for those on a budget and a lack of aesthetic appeal. There is also a low mode version, and a kit that doubles as both low mode and tripod base mode found on eBay (click here).
If you're like me, I have no straps mounted on my camera. Not always ideal, so here's something a friend showed me. This is a Calumet Aircell Neoprene quick strap. Not only comfortable, flexible, and padded, but it allows you to quickly remove the strap when it's not needed. A good thing for people who want to use Shoulder Rigs, Sliders, Cranes, Steadicam / Glidecam stuff since it can easily throw off the balance. Or people who move from doing Photography to Video. Can be found via Calumet's website (here).
FotoPro Flexible Transformer Tripod – via eBay
