What's so good about a steadycam?

Question

Why wouldn't the camera shake on a steadycam? Can't someone just carry their tripod while recording? Does a steadycam have a spring on it or something?

Answer 1

the steady cam coverts the movement of the videographer into fluid motion rather than a series of jerks. it uses a combination of balanced inertial counterweights and a rubber plug or trimble that isolates direct connection with the camera.  motion shots are close up and done with wide angle so that minor shakes are less noticable. the tripod is for when you use the 22x zoom.