Suspending a camera vertically
Moderator: Andreas Wideroe
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raja
Suspending a camera vertically
If I wanted to suspend a camera vertically (or almost so), say in order to shoot an overhead shot of someone's hands on a desk, what would be the best way to do it? Would a jib-arm be the most practical approach, as a tripod would most likely get in the way?
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MovieStuff
- Posts: 6135
- Joined: Wed May 01, 2002 1:07 am
- Real name: Roger Evans
- Location: Kerrville, Texas
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I've found that hanging a mirror is more practical. If you're going to be editing on a nonlinear system, the image can always be corrected for normal orientation. If not editing via NLE, then use two mirrors; one on the floor and one above the actor. Point the camera down at the one on the floor which, in turn, relays the overhead mirror. The advantage in either case is the ability to access and manipulate the camera easily.
Just remember that the distance between the camera, mirror(s) and actor is accumulative. You'll be surprised at how close the mirrors actually need to be to achieve a shot where the camera is supposed to be a long way overhead. For instance, if you put a mirror on the floor and one near the ceiling and use telephoto, it is the same as if the camera were about 12 feet in the air!
While we're on the subject, a mirror is also a handy way to increase the distance between camera and set if working in tight quarters. Putting a mirror at a 45 degree angle by the otherwise limiting wall will let you put your camera as far away as your need. Also works for getting terrific "up shots" from floor perspective without having to dig a hole in the floor or ground.
Roger
Just remember that the distance between the camera, mirror(s) and actor is accumulative. You'll be surprised at how close the mirrors actually need to be to achieve a shot where the camera is supposed to be a long way overhead. For instance, if you put a mirror on the floor and one near the ceiling and use telephoto, it is the same as if the camera were about 12 feet in the air!
While we're on the subject, a mirror is also a handy way to increase the distance between camera and set if working in tight quarters. Putting a mirror at a 45 degree angle by the otherwise limiting wall will let you put your camera as far away as your need. Also works for getting terrific "up shots" from floor perspective without having to dig a hole in the floor or ground.
Roger