Handheld Stabilizers for Video on a DSLR
Canon 60D. Tokina 11-16mm 2.8. Flycam Nano (first generation).
OTech reader, Veronica, recently asked me about a few different handheld stabilizers. After some discussion and research, my best bet for the price range she’s considering would have to be the DSLR Flycam Nano. This is a light and relatively affordable stabilizer that uses a stage for the camera, a wheelbarrow bearing gimbal system and a telescopic drop feature that allows you to control balance aside from adding extra counter weights. It is specified that the DSLR Flycam Nano can support a payload of about 4.5 lbs. I personally think that number can be pushed a bit. The only drawback to a heavy load though is muscle fatigue after long shoot times.
DSLR Flycam Nano
As with any stabilizers, the real trick is within finding the perfect balance for your setup. Next comes the art of flying it properly (this take a bit of practice but you get the feel for it quickly). The Flycam does not have the ability to micro adjust so this can get tricky with this particular stabilizer. Any slight adjustments or changes to your setup will throw the center of balance off entirely, keep this in mind.
Tech Specs
Aluminum build
Weights made of MS nikle
Each weight disc diameter: 65mm
Each weight thickness: 4.5mm
The weight fastening screw: 1/4″
Stabilizer weight: 1.60 Kg
Weight of one weight disc: 95grm
Length of Stabilizer: 14.5″
Complete Length with telescopic: 22.5″
Top plate dimensions: 7″ (L) x 4″(L)
Diameter of sled: 23mm
The smaller version is Flycam’s Nano for camera setups up to 1.5 lbs. This version is not as improved as the DSLR version. The stage and bearings have been changed for the DSLR edition to address user concerns about balance (still no micro adjustments for either stabilizer). There are also to be heavier counter weights for the DSLR version.
Flycam Nano- First Generation
Tech Specs
Aluminum build
Weights made of MS nikle
Each weight disc diameter: 48mm
Each weight thickness: 4mm
Weight of one weight disc: 54grm
The weight fastening screw: 1/4″
Stabilizer weight: 2.2lbs
Length of Stabilizer: 10″
Complete Length with telescopic: 14″
Top plate dimensions: 5.25″ (L) x 3″(L)
Diameter of sled: 16.25mm
New DSLR Flycam Nano Video Camera Stabilizer
Flycam Nano Video Camera Stabilizer
DSLR, Flycam, flycam DSLR, Flycam nano, gear, handheld stabilizer, stabilizer, video
Thank-youu~
hi olivia, thinking about a long time to buy an steadycam. i have an eos 7d and an sigma 24-70mm objectiv. all together it is about 1.7kg (about 3.7lbs). i read on the ebay page that it is for cameras about 1.5kg (3.3lbs)… so the equipement i use would be a bit overweight.. what do you think, would i still be possible to use it or would you recommend another one? i had a look about glidecam 2000 but its about twice as expensive…
many thanks in advance
andre
Hi Andre, here is a video (CLICK HERE) from last year that gives a little insight into what the smaller version (Flycam Nano) is capable of. As for your setup, I don’t think it will be too heavy for the DSLR version at all.
thank you olivia. i’ll order the dslr flycam now. i agree with you,if the flycam nano can handle this weight, the dslr version should not have any problems at all… btw, who is this beautiful woman in that video?
) have a good day and keep this good work going on.
Olivia, do you know if this this particular steadycam will work for smaller video cameras (Canon Vixia HFM41). I shot a wedding this weekend and had to use my monopod.
Alex, this both of these FlyCams will work with your Canon Vixia HFM41.
Here’s my personal footage test with the Flycam Nano HERE
It’s good for the low price, but I decide to sell it and certainly buy a Glidecam HD 2000
I bought 1 of these, I spent hours trying to balance it, then got another 1 from the supplier and exactly the same problem. the supplier directed me to Youtube for balancing tips, all the vidoes show people making modification. If you don’t have patience this is a waste of time and money.
Hey, thanks for posting my vid!!
Just noticed on youtube it said as featured on OliviaTech
THanks for the video!