Photo credit: Sachtler
If you’re in too much of a hurry, here’s the short form of this article: sign up now (click here) for a three-day, hands-on workshop this September covering Sachtler’s Artemis camera stabilization system, taught by its inventor.
Now, if you can spare a little time for context…Most every one knows the name steadicam, the now generic name for a camera stabilization rig. Introduced by cameraman/inventor Garrett Brown in the mid-1970s, the gliding dolly-look became one of the few new methods of holding a film or video camera since the introduction of the tripod.
Now owned by filter-manufacturer Tiffen, steadicam soon sparked any number of competitors; with lighter camcorders coming to market, a number of them have been homebrew. (Tiffen is here, while steadicam is here.)
However, the high-end is still defined by expensive rigs (pricing in the mid teens) that offer great control along with multiple power and live monitoring alternatives. One of the top competitors to steadicam, Sachtler’s Artemis system, has gained via its flexibility, the perceived quality name of its maker and on the marketing strength of the Vitec Group, which Sachtler is part of.
Like ballet, top work using a rig isn’t a simple skill: training and experience is key. That’s why Artemis rig owners, renters, DPs, and camera operators will want a chance to take a three-day workshop in September, sponsored by Createasphere.
The instructor, Curt Schaller, designed Artemis. As an experienced cameraman and steadicam operator, Schaller has lots of tips to share, including the proper methods of setting up and using the rig safely, since such gear places particular stresses on the upper body.
Why put this notice up when the course doesn’t start until September 25th? While it does cost $925 (discounted to $800 if you sign up by August 25th), the fifteen spots should fill up pretty quickly, as these courses aren’t that common on the East coast. Click here to start the process.
