Using two CAME-TV Elastix ISO Arms on a modified Trailer Hitch for follow shots. The DJI Ronin-M
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CAME-TV ARGO 32bit SBGC Gimbal Stabilizer with Encoder Hardware Product Overview
Here's a product overview of the new CAME-TV CAME-ARGO Gimbal stabilizer which will fly camera setups up to 6 lbs. If you're currently using a CAME-TV 7500/7800 gimbal, the ARGO would support a similar size/weight setup. The difference is this new SBGC powered gimbal also incorporates physical Encoder hardware that makes SBGC gimbals several times more stable and battery efficient.
CAME-TV has been manufacturing and selling more a wide variety of gimbals over several years, and this experience has allowed them to make each new system better over the last. As seen in the video demonstration above, right out of the box the CAME-TV ARGO Gimbal is incredibly stable and moves very the camera very smoothly (video samples coming soon). Build quality feels very solid, but only time can tell how much abuse it will handle during these next few months of use.
Right now the company offers gimbals in various sizes. The CAME-ACTION for GoPro, CAME-SINGLE and CAME-Mini2 for Mirrorless cameras, the 7800 for DSLR sized bodies, and the 8000 for heavier Blackmagic and RED cameras.
As of now only the CAME-ACTION, CAME-SINGLE, and CAME-ARGO have Encoder Hardware (and soon to be released hand held gimbal for Smartphones with Encoders). At some point this year we will see a Mini3, and a larger model to replace the 8000.
The CAME-TV ARGO Gimbal includes a wirelesss joystick, travel hard case, built in wireless video transmitter, 15mm Rod, 15mm clamp, a few other small accessories. Available now following the jump (LINK)
CAME-TV CAME-ARGO Gimbal Stabilizer
While the case is suffice to prevent scratches and should transport the ARGO safely, the foam will probably deteriorate quickly. Because of the similarity in size and shape, if you're looking for a custom cut foam case that would work with the CAME-TV ARGO, the DJI Ronin-M OEM Case will hold all of the ARGO items (and more) perfectly.
DJI Ronin-M ABS Plastic Suitcase
CAME-TV ARGO in DJI Ronin-M Hard Case
Decided to throw the CAME-TV ARGO Gimbal into the official DJI Ronin-M Hard Case. Parts fit almost exactly, and the case holds everything.
Varavon Wirecam Cable Cam System with DJI Ronin-M Gimbal
A few weeks ago we had the opportunity to test drive the Varavon Wirecam. The Wirecam is a Cable Cam system that flies a camera over a rope tied between two points. Although the affordability and use of drones are increasing for aerial imaging, there are still many instances in which a Drone would either not work, would be illegal, unsafe, or would be just a noisy nuisance.
Varavon Wirecam Remote Control Wireless Cable-Cam System
Unlike most Drones that could only fly for about 20 minutes, the Varavon Wirecam could go for hours at a time. Not to mention if you wanted to fly a larger camera than just a GoPro, you'd need a fairly large Drone. In our example we were able to fly a DJI Ronin-M + GH4 + 12mm Rokinon Lens + Radian Wireless Video System. Now that we've made our point that Drones can't solve everything, here's a quick montage video (below) of us setting up and operating the system.
Operating the Varavon Wirecam was extremely simple to operate as it only moves either left or right and the entire system weighs only about 7lbs (without camera). Of course this is not a tool you should show up with without some type of practice setting it up. You'll want to get a few hours in getting familiar with tying down the line, mounting your camera system, and any other accessories.
Setting up Varavon Wirecam Cable-Cam System
The most difficult part about working with the system is finding a good place to attach the rope. Our warehouse project had plently of steel beams, but out in an open area is where you'll need to be creative. When attaching the Rope, you should brush up on your knot tying skills, carry a set of ratcheting tie downs
to pull the braided rope tight. These will make life much easier, and you'll find that with a brand new braided rope, the braids will tighten and eventually produce enough slack that you would have to re-adjust 2-3 times before it starts settling in.
Manual Puller Come-Along Winch
You can mount a camera directly under the Wirecam, but a gimbal will help to stabilize the horizon. And If you're using a gimbal like the DJI Ronin-M that comes with a remote, you'll also be able to control Pan + Tilt as the Wirecam flies.
DJI Ronin-M Gimbal Stabilizer for Cameras up to 8 lbs
Of course in order to frame a shot, you'll want to stream the video feed back from the camera. In our setup, we used the Camera Motion Research Radian Pro System. So as one operator controlled the Wirecam, a second operator controlled Pan + Tilt on the DJI Ronin-M Gimbal, and both operators shared a monitor.
Camera Motion Research Radian Pro Wireless Video Transmitter Receiver
The Varavon Wirecam is a great option for high flying aerials when a drone system just won't cut it. I could see this cable-cam system being used heavily in sports on the sidelines of a field, lap pool, motocross track, or other events in which the camera needs to constantly repeat a forward / back or left /right tracking shot.
For more information about the Varavon Wirecam vist the product pages at https://varavon.com/products/wirecam.
Varavon Wirecam Remote Control Wireless Cable-Cam System
ACTIVEON Roll Bar Mount Clamp
Almost everyday, i'm still asked about a straight forward Monitor Mount for Gimbal Stabilizers. Well, here's one i've been using that's worked out great. This ACTIVEON Roll Bar Mount attaches to roll bars, handlebars, and tubes that are 0.7" to 1.6" in diameter and features a 1/4"-20 mounting thread to which you can attach a mini ball head, or your monitor directly.
One side is notched open for easier mounting and removal
As this clamp can mount to various sized round tubes, i've found great uses for this attached to lightstands, tripod legs, or tripod center columns. But if you just need to mount a monitor on a stabilizer, it will work on every CAME-TV gimbal available, and because you can adjust the clamp size it will also work on both DJI Ronin
