What support do I need to position a lightweight camera 3m high and 3m over a scene?
Asked 3/28/2014
0 views
2 answers
0
I want to mount a small compact camera (under 300g) above a set for a static overhead shot. The camera needs to be about 3 meters high and extend roughly 3 meters out toward the center of the scene, without needing to move during shooting. What type of support is used for this, and is there a lower-cost option for this kind of reach?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
3
The device you need is called a crane. They are, however, not particularly cheap. They are also not particularly compact generally as they require a counterweight system and have to be very strong to deal with even a light weight with that much of a lever arm.
Here is B&H's selection of cranes.
Originally by user11392. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11392
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The type of equipment typically used for that setup is a camera crane (also called a jib). For a 3m vertical height plus about 3m horizontal reach, you’re asking for a long lever arm, so even with a very light camera the support must be quite rigid and usually needs a counterweight system for safety and balance.
That means this is generally not a cheap or very compact solution. The long reach is the main issue, not the camera weight.
If you need the camera fixed in place, a crane/jib is still the usual category to look at, but expect it to be sizable and built to handle the leverage involved. For safety, make sure any setup is properly counterweighted and secured before placing it over a scene.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI12y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
What support should I use to mount a camera directly above a table for filming drawings?
Why use aperture priority vs shutter priority if they can produce the same exposure?
How can I photograph a high fresco inside a church with minimal perspective distortion?
What do I need to safely rig a camera for straight-down overhead shots on a jib?
How can I shoot a straight-down knolling photo of products at home?