Habbycam SD Shoulder Brace, Supports Any Camera Up to 20 lbs.

2011-09-03T21:00:00

Aside from it's strong architecture and light weight I found the Habbycam SD perfect for the work that I do. Most of my documentaries are interviews supported and connected by B-Roll. The interviews are always shot on a tripod, and 70% of the B-Roll is shot OFF a tripod. This shoulder mount gives me the mobility and flexibility of hand-held with far more stability. I use my free hand for zoom, focus and other camera controls. When I need additional stability I cup the handle and my right hand in my left hand and rest my elbows on my upper torso. That's a very stable position to shoot from.

Videotero

2011-01-11T19:00:00

I'm a retired film/digital still and motion picture photographer..... I've now used the unit with a Canbon 5D mark II and a Panasonic AG-hmc-40p vid-cam. First, I recommend this unit . It enables you to hold a 'steady' shot and smooths your movement. It is not a substitute for a tripod shot but if you need to move with the scene, this halps a lot.

ROBERT S.

2011-01-11T19:00:00

This shoulder brace is a great value and a good starting point for building a dslr rig. Solid/ sturdy construction, easy to adjust. One of the factors that lead me to purchase (besides price) was the height adjustment. Many shoulder rigs have a fixed or limited adjustable height, the Habbycam adjustable height is a great feature. The handle grip feels great in hand and the foam pad provides comfort with out sacrificing durability (the foam wont start to peel any time soon) The metal shoulder brace has 1/4-20 thread holes pre-drilled into it. This opens up the possibilities to attach accessories! If you're considering this as a dslr rig for filming here are some factors to consider: 1. You'll need to purchase or diy a counter weight. Despite what you might think or hear, for shoulder rigs a counter weight is EXTREMELY helpful if not necessary for video shooting over 3-5min at a time. Especially if you have or plan to have a battery grip / heavy lens / lights / mics / shoe adapter... attached to your camera. 2. The possibility of needing a 'Rail System' This will allow you to attach "Industry standard" accessories to the brace like a follow focus. The only negative I have is more towards the Habbycam company and it's support for accessories. It seems, out of their entire catalog of equipment, the Habbycam is their only reasonably priced item. Everything else is over priced. A 2 pound counter weight is $60 bucks? you'll need 4 pounds for sure so that's $120 bucks? Almost half the price of brace!!! I did a diy on the counter weight for $7 buck that I pat myself on the back for. I'm still looking for a follow focus solution and rail system. In all this brace is ready for action out the box. And if money is tight (which it probably is or you'd already own a fancy multi-thousand dollar rig and wouldn't be reading this review)I definitely diy a counter wieght and save up for a rail system and followfocus.

Na'im M.

2010-10-30T21:00:00

This support was perfect as a take along on a trip to the U.K. It breaks down quickly into 3 lightweight pieces that easily fit in a camera bag as a carry on item.

Upperkut E.