Last week we checked out the Supraflux Video Camera Stabilizer, a small stabilizer that has been lighting up kick-starter, already making over double their goal with almost a month left. Today we’ve got the other side of the spectrum with the MoVi from my very good friends Tabb and Hugh at Firefly Systems. I’ve used these guy for several years now as go-to help for aerial RC choppers and other fun toys… but in the past week they’ve dropped a much more hi-tech entry that’s already built a lot of worthy buzz as the next big thing in camera stabilization. I got the early tip, but was swamped so Tabb & co went way down stream (j/k Vincent 😉 to work w my dear friend Vincent and take the MōVI for a test drive. Vince gave it his seal of approval, especially praising its short learning curve + ability to quickly make both simple and complex shots. My favorite part is the separation of the camera carrying from the camera pointing function. Don’t know what I mean? Check out their video… one guy handles the camera, the other guy steers the tilt / pan (ie what the camera sees). Genius! The video below will give you a solid idea of just how smooth the MōVI is, and might make you look at handhelds with a new respect.
Using a 3 axis gyroscope to stabilize the camera, the MōVI system is portable and lightweight (3.5 pounds), making Scorsese-like shots a breeze. You can also manipulate the camera motion remotely by a second operator via joystick. Unfortunately the only real negative so far might be a deal-breaker; it’s currently priced at $15,000. Rumors have a $7,500 option coming soon, which is a little more manageable. The good news is, with technology like this breaking, you can bet a more consumer friendly option is on its way. Even more below for more of the MōVI in action.
Holy crap on a cracker this is incredible. I mean, absolutely incredible. This is going to revolutionize the entire industry. Thank yuo to everyone. Holy cow.
I would get this ._.
While the Freefly system will likely be the best option with the nicest features for well budgeted productions there is already a bunch of much less expensive options in development and a few available now as camera gimbals for multirotor use. These gimbals can be used handheld with some simple modifications. The magic is in the direct drive brushless motors and the control board that makes them work to stabilize the camera.
To Scott: Would you share some links about those cheaper and lighter stabilized gimbles? Thanks a lot, Nicolas
Wow – maybe LensRental will have one soon
Awesome piece of engineering. Very handy