I Need a (Cheap) Crane Shot

D-76

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Feb 28, 2014
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Just a fixed camera position about 4-6 meters in elevation. I was thinking a step ladder would do for half a solution, but what's a good way to mount the camera?

I could put a tripod on top of the minivan, but I don't think I want to put myself up there.

No fancy remote viewing permitted (by the technology).

Thanks for your ideas.

Dan
 
How about a Manfrotto Super Clamp, brass stud with 1/4" threads? How big of a camera are you mounting? Do you need to be able to tilt the camera? If so, maybe you could mount a tripod head onto that 1/4" brass stud.

Something like this: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Manfrotto-Super-Clamp-with-Stud-and-Tripod-Head-/400195289807

You could 'clamp' the Super Clamp onto the top step of the ladder, and then you can use the tripod head adjustments. Should be pretty sturdy.
 
Yes, super clamp and a magic arm.. Ive hung cameras from tree branches with that setup.. very sturdy, branch was not though.... :)
 
Slaps forehead! Oh yes, I didn't know what that piece was called, but I recall buying one in the early '90s from that place in Hollywood, and clamping a cheap motorized 35 onto the mountain bike handlebars. I didn't know they were commonly available. OG gopro.

Thanks guys for the label. Right in budget, too.

Almost forgot to add: it's a Mamiya Super 23, so it should be robust enough to secure the thing, but I can usually manage the image stabilization pretty well. (Proposed group shot of people and two-wheeled devices.)
 
Times Ive used it was with a Nikon D200 with either a 24-70, or a 70-200 .. Plenty heavy, and never had an issue..
 
I can't remember the thing flying off the handlebars ever, but that was a much lighter camera. This will be a static shot. Unless something goes wrong.
 
Or just check google for apple picking ladders. I found one aluminum one that's 15" tall-just be ready to pay thru the nose for one.
 
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