For most of my life, shooting handheld has meant just me and the camera. Built in top and side handles have given me all I need for a variety of moves. But recently a gig necessitated holding static positions handheld continuously for about 40 minutes. This, where a camera needs to be rolling for long periods of time with no option to cut away live or in post is a quintessential scenario for using a shoulder rig. That would be things like documentary work, live broadcast, sports, etc.
Several big names in cinema camera accessories have put out full build kits for the c500mkII but most of them seem (honestly) overpriced for their function and not truly suitable for my needs. I wanted something simple yet functional that could grow as my needs dictated. So instead of opting for an all-inclusive name brand package, I pieced together my own setup, saving money on some standard components and splurging on the ones that will truly make my experience as the operator easier. And at less than half the cost of an all-in-one package to boot.
The basic components of my shoulder rig are as follows:
Niceyrig, which may have originally been seen as a knock off company has quickly grown to be a proper name brand in it’s own right. This rail block provides more than enough security with 4 rail locks as the core of this kit.
This component isn’t totally necessary as you can attach the rail block directly to the camera but at $23, it will save you it’s price in time, time after time if you need to go from shoulder rig to tripod or any other support on a shoot more than once.
It’s a simple shoulder pad but the additional mounting points give you options should you ever need to expand the build or add counter weights.
A Niceyrig Rosette Bracket 15mm Rod Clamps
Inexpensive and does exactly what it’s supposed to.
15mm rods come in a variety of lengths but I chose some on the longer side to put the handles where I wanted them in relation to the camera and also to ensure I would have the space to add a follow focus and lens support in the future.
Shape Shadow Double Quick Handles
And the pièce de résistance, 2 Shape Shadow double quick handles. Several companies offer extended length shoulder rig handles but none besides Shape offer them with quick release rosette joints built in. These button release rosettes allow you to make adjustments securely on the fly, single handedly, in a sixth of the time that it would take you to loosen knobs, adjust your grip angle and retighten. These made up 2/3 of my shoulder rig budget and have proven to be worth every penny.
*Pro tip: sign up for their newsletter and receive a discount code or if you’re not in a hurry, keep an eye on their site for the occasional sale. I got mine 25% off over Memorial Day weekend.
Piecing together your own rig may take a bit more time and planning but the cost savings are evident. Not only that but you’re left with a kit that’s modular, customized to your very own needs and can grow as your business does.
Pixel Thick is a Phoenix, AZ based video production company.