DELHI FILM ARCHIVE - TECH LAB



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		EM Brace - the Documentary /News /Fiction Camera Device
		Nakul Sood
		SUBSTITUTE FOR SHAKY HAND HELD IMAGES Hi, I'm a professional video photographer/filmmaker, tired of inadvertent shakes, in my zest/angst I've made a device for the new HDV-DV cameras (Sony HDV Z1U/FX1, Sony PD 150/170, Sony VX2000/2100, Panasonic DVX100), that is a substitute for normal hand held work. Description The EM-BRACE is a double shoulder mounting brace that attaches to a plate on which the camera rests. The shoulder brace is attached to the plate on a hinge/lock that permits tilts of about 180 degrees (straight down to approx 180 degrees up) and locks at the desired angle of operation. The camera plate is further attached to a free rotating gimbal and grip. The grip attaches on to the waist for steadiness and hands free work if one wishes. (The device permits us to rest the entire weight of the camera on the body leaving the both hands free for the focus ring and zoom rock/on-off button). Also included with the device is a body harness that attaches to the back of the device and goes around the waist, it acts as a counterbalance to the weight going forward and takes the strain off the back muscles. When standing still and using the body properly images could compare with a tripod, also while zooming in, the bane of hand held work, the device provides a great deal of steadiness even on full zoom. While walking with the camera one can expect images resembling ones from bigger shoulder mounting film cameras, much steadier than simple hand held but not steadicam quality. Camera distance from eye/body is completely adjustable (I have it set to permit me to use the eye viewfinder). Camera direction is also completely adjustable (e.g. one can choose to shoot sideways inside a car, operator facing forward – camera right or left). It is possible to completely dismantle the EM-BRACE for packing and travel. I have mounted the camera to the plate with a manfrotto quick release adapter and plate (supplied with device) that permits me to attach the camera to the device in seconds. Camera-work is about the way images are taken, the act of turning the camera on, the grace of pressing the record button, the aesthetic of watching something, of seeing. This device is made with the intention to aid that practice. Advantages the EM-BRACE sports over other camera support devices This device has some huge advantages over what’s currently available both in the market and Ebay.















		It mounts on both shoulders – devices that rest on one shoulder take care of the pitch action but not the roll, because this has 3 points of support as opposed to 2, it is that much steadier .
		It allows the operator to work completely hands free by attaching to the waist.
		It permits 180 degree tilt up/down on its locking hinge. While some devices offer this feature, I guarantee the motion will be smoother here because of the distance between the point of turning (fulcrum) and the point of force.
		Solid construction, durability and beautiful finish, most of the devices I see on Ebay are really thin metal and flimsy, this is a combination of using quality lightweight materials without compromising on strength, while looking like a million bucks!
		The device is supplied with the Manfrotto 322RA quick release adapter and 200PL quick release plate included in the cost of the device. These alone cost $42 at B+H Photo. No other device comes with a quick release system. Think of the ease of not having to screw/unscrew your camera every time!
		The Price - Comparable devices in the west cost around $500. I’ve only seen one which came close to these features, of course no quick release system on that.
		Body Harness for counter balance and lumbar support. High quality micro-cellular material used in shoulder padding for great comfort. Manufactured by Orthopedic specialist.
		Great for shooting from/in a moving vehicle. Camera turns in all directions.
		Telescopic handle/waist attachment, adjustable to operator’s height.
		All Aluminum construction for a very light weight. The hinge is made of the highest quality stainless steel. This is completely my original design. I’m working on minimal profit, less that 50% of the price I am offering it at. Entire brace was manufactured in a metalworks community in Noida, India, the padding in an east Delhi orthopedic manufacturer’s workshop. Features - Hands free support – Frees hands for other operations (Focus/aperture ring, zoom rocker, On/Off Operation) - Double locking hinge for maximum steadiness - 180 degree tilt up/down motion - Smooth body pans - Body harness for weight distribution and support - Camera height, direction and distance adjustable - Greater stability for walking shots - Durable and light weight construction, finest materials used - Special padding built for operator comfort - Fully dismantlable for travel - Supplied with Manfrotto quick release adapter and plate included in cost. Items supplied 1 Shoulder brace, 1 camera plate with gimbal, 1 two lock hinge, 1 Manfrotto quick release system (adapter and plate), 1 telescopic rod range 14” to 24”, 1 harness, 1 waist clip. Also supplied 2 L-keys for dismantling. Item comes assembled. No assembly required
		Price Rs10,000. Mobile: +91 986 828 5855

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