The Steadicam Operator's Handbook

Camera operators and video enthusiasts around the world search for the training and information they need to successfully use the Steadicama, the most versatile tool for moving a motion picture or video camera. Every year, about 500 people in the world are lucky enough to take an intensive training workshop (some of the top workshops are taught by the authors of this book), but these workshops are expensive and sell out as a matter of course: the instructors simply can't keep up with the high demand. As a result, the vast majority of people have no practical way to learn what has become an essential camera operating skill. For the first time, THE STEADICAMa OPERATOR'S HANDBOOK illuminates all aspects of Steadicam operating in one comprehensive package. With over 1300 full-color photos, it's the comprehensive how-to and why-to book for the amateur, semi-pro, and professional.

Written by the premier Steadicam instructors in the world, this book covers everything a cameraman needs to get started using a Steadicam rig and to get better. Both informational and inspirational, THE STEADICAMa OPERATOR'S HANDBOOK moves from the physics and balancing of a Steadicam, through a series of step-by-step line dances and practice shots, to the most personal aspects of filmmaking - how individual operators make creative and practical decisions using this unique camera setup.

The book discusses the wide array of equipment and accessories currently available, and it also illustrates the latest operating techniques and tricks, a variety of strategies for working with others, and the business side of a Steadicam career. Also included are observations and anecdotes - inspirational, funny, instructive, and cautionary - written by a number of other experienced Steadicam operators around the world, including the legendary inventor of the Steadicam himself, Garrett Brown. THE STEADICAMa OPERATOR'S HANDBOOK is both a master class and a master reference for all camera operators and directors who want to move the camera well.

Foreword written by Garrett Brown!

* Written by the premier Steadicam experts in the world * Offers the opportunity for novice camera operators to learn the skill sets needed to build and move forward in their careers

* Lavishly illustrated in full color to show the various techniques, equipment, and line dances used by Steadicam operators

* The techniques presented in this book apply to any type of Steadicam rig * Provides a comprehensive understanding of the skill sets to successfully operate a Steadicam, including techniques not even covered in official workshops

Jerry Holway has been a Steadicam operator for 30 years, with many feature film credits including Donnie Brasco, As Good as it Gets, Rounders, The Apostle, All the Pretty Horses, and Reign Over Me. Over the past 18 years, Jerry has been the head instructor at more than 60 week-long Steadicam workshops worldwide. He is generally regarded—along with Garrett Brown, inventor of the Steadicam—as one of the premier Steadicam workshop instructors in the world.

Laurie Hayball has been a Steadicam operator and workshop instructor for 15 years. She earned a degree in Motion Picture and Television from UCLA’s School of Fine Arts. Her training as a cinematographer brings a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of media production, especially as it pertains to visual storytelling. Laurie is the author of The Infrared Photography Handbook, The Advanced Infrared Photography Handbook, and How to Photograph Your Baby's First Year, all published by Amherst Media.