I would like to start by thanking Robert Holland from IDX for taking the time and trouble to demonstrate how to setup and use the Easy Steady. Robert showed me how to balance the sled and thats no mean task though after a couple of tries I got the hang of it. The kit consists of a vest, sled, arm and multipurpose stand and some allan keys. The vest comes in various sizes and if buying a kit you will be fitted for the vest that fits your build.
You see steady systems like this used regularly on Sky Sports, especially live football matches and I can assure you I have a great admiration for the cameramen who adorne such vests with broadcast cameras twice the weight of the EX-1 I was using.
This is a specialist area of camerawork and many have accomplished their skills using Steadycam units. Easy Steady is a system made in Italy and in my opinion just as good in both quality and workmanship as any steady system. It’s a knack, you have to spend time getting to know your partner.
In fact the Easy Steady is a combination of two half’s, the first getting the camcorder balanced to a nat’s whisker, the second is how you move around with the unit strapped onto your torso. The moving about is a bit like dancing although more like Michael Jacksons “Moon Walking” you need to learn to slink along with your camcorder rather than the conventional walking motion.
As you can see I started off wobbly as expected and with time got to level two…never hoping to reach level five after two days training, but it looks the business and if you become accomplished could hire yourself out for various productions.
If you would like to learn more or buy an Easy Steady contact Robert Holland at www.idx-europe.co.uk
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