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How to Balance A Glidecam
Be sure that the bottom part of the sled is tightly screwed onto the shaft. You don't desire any movement or misalignment later on.
Collapse the bottom shaft section with the intention of your Glidecam shaft is as short as possible.
Align the bottom-most section (with the weights) with the top section where the camera mounts. Using a smooth, flat surface like a floor or Impact Master Century C Stand , wall or counter top will hurry things up. It's a excellent idea to make an alignment mark so you can quickly align your Glidecam in dim light where you may possibly not be able to use the floor, like in a crowded reception hall.
Make use of a stand and set your Glidecam handle on top of the shaft so that it is supported by the stand. You could balance your Glidecam handheld, but your body will introduce movements that complicate things and your wrist may get tired.
Mount your camera. It is advisable to utilize a quick-release mount so you can quickly remove and remount your camera and have only minimal re-balancing issues. Be sure and open the LCD and have the same battery, shotgun mic, light, wide-angle lens, etc. That you intend to operate with. It can be helpful to find your camera's balance center initially, subsequently mount it close to this point.
Add an equal number of weights (heavy washers) to each end until there is almost enough weight to properly balance your camera.
Extend the shaft a little, being particular to keep it in alignment, until the bottom takes between two and three seconds to swing from horizontal to the six o-clock position.
Slacken balancing screws (both directions) and get camera in approximate balance.
Balance camera front to rear until it is almost parallel to the flat surface. You may possibly want a slight downward angle, especially if you are tall. Note, use a finger or two on one side to push the plate while a finger or two on the opposite side provides counter force to prevent over-correction. These opposite fingers will additionally help you to feel the amount you are moving the plate. You will soon grasp a feel for this movement and will discover just how much to move the plate for the correct alteration in position to achieve balance.
Balance the camera side-to-side, using the techniques described above.
