“Cranes and Gimbals”

Announcing Camera Operator Workshop:
“Cranes and Gimbals”
May 31 – June 2, 2024

Registration is now open!

Join the Society of Camera Operators for this two and a half days comprehensive workshop focusing on cranes and gimbals for Camera Operators. The workshop will encompass ample hands-on gear, demonstrations, lecture, and one on one discussions with the instructors.

Cranes:

An in depth look at the multiple choices and specific uses of cranes and their remote heads. Both telescopic (technocranes) and fixed arm cranes (Jibs) will be discussed. This will include instruction and hands on demonstrations. Topics will include:

1. Size and Space
2. Stabilization needs
3. Crane mobility needs, terrain, crane car or base
4. Remote head control options

Gimbals:

Full explanation and instruction on the uses, needs, camera builds and techniques of the popular Gimbals available. This workshop will include hands on work and lengthy instruction of the following:

1. Why use a gimbal -vs- Steadicam
2. Which Gimbal to use, buy or rent
3. When to use a gimbal and when not to!
4. Building the perfect camera setup for a gimbal that can convert quickly to Steadicam, Handheld or conventional setups. This will include lens changes and the use of counterweights. What plates and specialty gear is needed for the best, compact camera setup. What cameras are best for Gimbal use!
5. (2) persons operating -vs- “majestic” or solo work.
6. Body harness choices, why and when to use these. Armorman, Readyrig, EZrig, Slingshot, Steadicam arm, to name a few. What accessories are needed.
7. Hard mounting options, accessories needed, dolly work, what works best, why, how and when.
8. Vertical dampeners and vibration isolators, why, how, and when.
9. Controller options, Wheels, joystick, Mimic or forcepro. Understanding settings and workflow.

Catching and releasing of Gimbal heads:

A lengthy Instruction/demonstration and hands on work with Larry McConkey’s Magnet system.

1. Gear needed/required and techniques for shot continuation from cranes or other mounts (car rigs for example)
2. Support needed for these shots
3. Alternative options for “catch and release” (Hook mount)
4. Best body harness/support and accessories for the job, Armorman with wrist straps

WORKSHOP INSTRUCTORS

Tom Wills, SOC

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Dates:
1pm check in, Friday May 31st
9am, Saturday June 1st
9am, Sunday June 2nd

Location:
Monster Remotes
1 Carol Street, Clifton, New Jersey 07014

This workshop is to open to all SOC member categories.

What’s included:
Two and a half days workshop, shuttle van to and from the host hotel, Friday evening dinner, Saturday and Sunday, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and crafty throughout the workshop.

Cost: $2,375.00 USD

Refund policy:
Refunds will be made minus a $150 dollar admin fee prior to May 10th at 12 midnight. After this date participants will be responsible to replace themselves if they so choose to drop out with another SOC member in good standing.

(You will receive a confirmation email 48 hours after you complete your registration and payment has been confirmed with workshop details including schedule specifics, host hotel, shuttle pick up details, etc.)