Grammar of the Shot, 2nd Edition

Equipment Used to Move the Camera

Pan and tilt shots require no equipment to be accomplished with some degree of success. They can be done with a handheld camera. One of the problems inherent to using a handheld camera is the lack of consistently steady control over the movements. No matter how steady you try to make your hands and arms, the camera, especially the smaller, lightweight video cameras, pick up on each step, bump, and even breath. And no matter what you think may be a cool or popular style of crazy camera movement, nothing can take the place of smooth, steady shots that engage the audience rather than alienating them. It is almost always advisable to use some sort of camera support that will not only steady the camera, but allow ...