Steadicam Vest/Arm/Sled
Smooth Cinematic Movement: Eliminates operator shake, creating fluid, professional shots similar to a Dolly or Track system.
3-Axis Mechanical Stabilization: The Sled is balanced at the center of gravity, automatically stabilizing the camera on all three axes (pan, tilt, roll).
Load Distribution: The Vest and Arm work together to transfer the camera’s weight from the operator’s arms to the hips and shoulders, allowing for longer shooting times.
Maximum Flexibility: Allows the operator to walk, run, climb stairs, and move through narrow spaces while maintaining a stable frame.
Applications: Standard for feature films, TV Series, Music Video shooting, and Live Broadcast programs.
Description
1. Vest: Comfort and Force Distribution
- Function: Serving as the interface between the operator and the Arm system, the Vest’s primary task is to transfer the heavy weight of the camera system (Sled and Arm) from the arms and back down to the hips and legs.
- Ergonomic Design: Vests typically feature adjustable padding and quick-release buckles/straps that conform to the body to ensure maximum comfort when carrying heavy loads for extended periods.
- Arm Mounting Point: Provides a secure connection point for the Arm, ensuring smooth force transmission.
2. Mechanical Arm: Isolation and Balance
- Function: As the most critical component, the Arm uses a series of articulated spars and a spring (or cable) system to act as a mechanical shock absorber. It completely isolates the Sled (and the camera) from the operator’s coarse body movements.
- Mechanism: Operates based on the principle of flotation, keeping the Sled in a floating position, allowing the operator to change the camera’s height (Boom) easily and smoothly.
- Load Range: Different types of Arms are designed for various load ranges (from light to super heavy).
3. Sled/Post: Center of Gravity and Dynamic Balance
- Function: As the backbone of the system, the Sled is where the camera is mounted at the top and the batteries/monitor are mounted at the bottom (counterweight). The Sled is designed to achieve perfect Dynamic Balance.
- Top Stage: Includes a micro-adjustable camera plate to fine-tune the horizontal center of gravity.
- Monitor & Batteries: The monitoring screen and counterweight batteries are mounted at the bottom of the Sled. Adjusting the position of these components helps change the vertical center of gravity, directly affecting the system’s responsiveness and stability.
- Gimbal: Located centrally on the Sled, it allows the operator to hold the Sled freely, keeping the camera constantly centered and stable in 360 degrees.





