DIY Jib QR Plates
I’ve received a few questions in regards to how the tripod and camera QR plates are attached to the DIY jib. I’ve taken some photos so you can get a better look at the screws and where they connect. Read the full blog post with details HERE.
*The first picture is the tripod QR plate and the second split screen gives two perspectives of the camera QR plate.
Basic Build Instructions:
The top square tube is 0.75″ and 4′ long. The bottom square tube is 0.75″ and 3′ long.
The rear brace is made from (2) pieces of 0.75″ square tube cut to 7″ long. Start by drilling a 1/4″ hole at the top of the brace, and then drill the next hole about 2.75″ below the first hole.
The base of the rear brace is (2) pieces of 1″ angled aluminum cut to 3″ wide. Fit the angled aluminum to the bottom of the brace and drill through. This will create a base large enough to mount a quick release.
The front brace is made from (2) pieces of 1″ angled aluminum cut to 7″ long. Start by drilling a 1/4″ hole at the bottom of the front brace, and then drill the next hole about 2.75″ above the first hole.
The top stage where your quick release will mount is made from 1″ angled aluminum cut to 3″ wide. Mount the top stage and drill holes through the front brace. You can use a bolt under the stage to hold a small camera quick release adapter.
Use nylon washers between any pieces of metal for less friction. We used small (but heavy) scuba diving weights bolted to the back of the jib. Click the image below for some additional information on assembly.
Thanks for the video:)
It looks stunning, it’s perfect with your GH2 Camera Olivia.
I’m gonna have to try building these for myself oneday, looks interesting project.
Btw, Slightly off-topic What lens do you own/Recommend for your GH2?
I personally do not Own this Camera, however read a lot of praises and visual reviews of it. Hrmmm was planning to get 16-35mm f2.8 IS L canon Lens for 5D Mk2 but have 2nd Camera body with wide angle kit combo for the same price would be greater move I think?:p
Your thoughts…
Thanks.
Kamran, I think this totally depends on your workflow. Personally I’d rather keep my footage consistent and shoot multiple camera videos with a single camera type. ie: all 5D mk ii or all GH2. Another factor to consider is that with a m4/3 camera, you are limited to m4/3 lenses if you want to keep the electronic communication. For video, you wouldn’t be auto focusing but you may want the IS. If you’re adapting Canon lenses to a GH2, you will lose electronic communication between the lens and the camera. If you invest in all Canon and build on your Canon collection, this is different from expanding out into the m4/3 realm simultaneously. I see your point.. I don’t think there is a right or wrong way to approach it, just personal preference and budget.
I know u mentioned your tripod was cheap old thing but what type of tripod was it?
Thanks!
It’s a discontinued Velbon, I don’t even know if it has a model number. I’m sorry I don’t really have the answer to this!
Built one of these last night, very fun and fast build. Spent a total of $58, and had extra pieces left over and I also live in Alaska, so things are bit more. Quick note from playing around already, for the angled pieces I would go with slightly thicker stock so help with strength. Currently working on an adjustable weight system for it. Thanks for the temptation to make this.
Just built one works good and helps when I am at car shows did a couple test runs. Just need to get the weights right using Canon T2i. Again thank you for this DIY.
I can’t really tell from the pictures. Did you just drill a hole in your QR plate?
Hi Andrew, no hole was drilled into the QR plate, there is one at the base of the jib, however and the QR plate is attached to that.
Just starting to get into some video and really interested in some of the cool toys such as jibs, sliders and steadicams. This DIY jib looks like a nice, less expensive version to most of what’s on the market.
One main question . . . . . in your video, the camera is mounted with a very level, straight ahead viewpoint. What if I want the camera angled either down, or up? Is that possible with this jib?
@Mark You can attach a small video head onto the front of the jib and tilt or articulate the camera in any orientation you’d like. The Manfrotto 700 RC2 is a nice example.
Where exactly did you purchase all of these items? I recently built a camera dolly and got all of my stuff from Lowe’s for like $38…
I really wanna start this project! Thanks for all the measurements
@Patricia OSH Hardware Supply out here in California.
Found this great blog a year after it was posted. A great build. Got most parts from a salvage metal dealer for $12.00 . Awesome! Thanks Oliva!
Thanks so much for this so-easy-to-do jib. For now everything’s under $10, whoa..! I am doing some minor modifications to fit my camcorder. My major concern now is the attachment to the tripod’s quick release plate. I am worried if the QR lone screw could hold long to support all the weight and force from the crane..
Hi olivia,
We are about to make this project
But missing the black plate to sit the camera
Whats it called, much and where to buy it.
Thanks
@Grace This is just a quick release plate that can be purchased on Amazon CLICK HERE for EXAMPLE.