Any opinions on camera cranes?

Question

I am looking at:

Kessler

http://www.kesslercrane.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=26&Itemid=51

ProAm

http://www.bargain-camera.com/store/product.php?productid=16277&cat=0&page=1&featured

Glidecam

http://www.glidecam.com/product-camcrane-200.php

I don't like the cranes that use a wired pulley systems for controlling the camera.

The crane will need to carry a 7 pound camcorder.

Answer 1

Nu'uana,

Not sure how much help I can be-- especially to a camcorder guru such as yourself :) but I'll give my opinion. I'm not too sure what you mean by, "wired pulley system". Are you talking about the cranes that operate the tilt through the weight unit on the handle? Well, in that case, I believe they all operate that way. The Glidecam one, at least gives you the option of mounting an additional tripod head for controlling the camera that way. I particularly do not like this approach--especially 'cuz I'm not too tall.

Getting down to it, I am leaning towards either the Kessler or the Glidecam one. The Kessler one is built very similar to one I have used at my school--I believe it's a Kessler. It's very reliable, very sturdy, and has nice controls. However, it is a bit annoying to assemble, then de-assemble it for shooting on various locations. The Glidecam one seems nice too though, I have had a decent experience with Glidecam products. One thing I like about the Glidecam one is that you can re-arrange it into different boom lengths. This gives you the option to get cool crane shots in tight spaces without the overbearing 10ft crane. It's also better for more subtle movements.

Now, the Turn-key one I'm a bit iffy about. For one thing, has the load capacity of 8lbs. If you are loading it up with a 7lb camcorder, that's cutting it a bit close. If 7lbs is taking into consideration your accessories, batteries, mattebox, what have you, then you should be fine--I always go over the recommended limit on tripods anyways, but that's different, 'cuz on a crane, you are sending a several-thousand dollar camera 10ft into the air-- a bit scary. The Turn-key crane DOES have the most versatile head out of the bunch, as far as tilting capabilities, so that's something to consider... It also comes with a LCD screen with is real handy on cranes, along with a remote control for camera controls, and several other nifty little gadgets. But I do not see anything about the Turn Key one that says how compactable it is.

Well, that's about all I know about cranes. Hope that helps a bit. Anyways, best of luck. It's been a pleasure.