With the popularity of photography increasing as more people travel regularly, the desire for all sorts of photography accessories is increasing. To meet this interest, many manufacturers are making products that offer some professional capabilities for amateur photographers. Steadicams in all price ranges and styles are offered to help novices make videos that are steady, without the shaking problems caused by trying to keep a camera level with hands alone. There are many very good products available which are simple to use, don’t weigh much and will do a good job. Some are closer to pro level and offer the chance for anyone to take an adventure into making higher quality videos. Many pros also buy extra equipment to add to their collection, providing back up support and other options. This review focuses on some of the models that are currently popular, with the designs that meet customer needs.
10. IMORDEN Handheld Steadicam in Carbon Fiber
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00QIE7FI2″]
This micro carbon fiber stabilizer comes with a black body and a green handle. It is designed to be ergonomically correct for photography, with quick release function for DSLR and video cameras. The height of the body can be adjusted for high or low camera angles. It comes with 4 counterbalances and will stand on its own for specialty shots. It currently has 100% 5 star reviews from those who purchased it.
9. Polaroid Rolling Mini Dolly Stabilization System, Model: PL-STATT
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00BWW9YOI”]
This mini dolly Steadicam allows owner to move it at will, locate it perfectly for different shots very quickly and is easy to move. It comes with a pole handle and will accommodate DSLRs and camcorders. Its wheels adjust and lock for a variety of placements. Many customers who purchased this product were pleased with how functional it is. They liked the metal construction and for the most part indicated that this item does the job it says it will do for a very reasonable price.
8. SUTEFOTO S40 Stabilizer Pro Version
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00P92DLQO”]
Many of those who purchased this Steadicam felt that it functioned well for the price they paid. Most experienced photographers who purchased this for work stated that it must be calibrated to work properly and this is time that must be taken before using it to get the best results. This product comes with counterbalances, its own carrying case, and high precision bearings. It is made of aluminum with a black powder coat. It can be handheld or positioned in place. It works with a variety of DSLR devices and famous brands.
7. FLYCAM 5000 Camera System with Articulated Arm
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00LC5NSG0″]
This is a professional level Steadicam with the capacity to stabilize DSLR devices and cameras of most makes and models up to 7 pounds. It comes with 16 counterweights, its own carrying case and a vest that is padded with foam for extra comfort. As is the case with all Steadicam devices, this product should be balanced before each filming session to be certain it is properly adjusted for any additional items that will be used during the session. Owners gave this product 5 stars at the 88% level. It also comes with an arm brace and table clamp.
6. GOWE Dual Arm DSLR Camera Steadicams
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00VAC21OA”]
Featuring a reasonable price for a product that functions like professional equipment, this Steadicam is similar to the kind worn by many pros during film shoots. The product fits around the chest and shoulders, using 4 springs with dual arms to secure and stabilize DSLR cameras during photography sessions. The product is said to be multi-function, with capacity to provide more adjustments than other models.
5. Opteka Video Stabilizer System, Model: SteadyVid PRO
[Azonasinid asinid=”B007FDE4Y8″]
This DSLR stabilizer will hold up to 5 pounds and is compatible with camcorders and digital cameras. Part of the Opteka line of products, it holds 1 pound less than the SV-HD model. Reviews from the 156 customers who posted them are varied. Many felt that the product did its job, while others made the decision to keep it, and purchase the other model next. The reviews focused on function, which most felt was very good, and construction, which many felt was not well done and used cheap plastic parts. Breaking parts was the complaint expressed the most often.
4. Neewer DSLR Movie Making Foldable Shoulder Rig Mount
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00AMXQCZM”]
Many professional photographers depend on rig mounts to stabilize their DSLR recording devices. Often, the pro products are hundreds to thousands of dollars, making them out of the reach of advanced hobbyist photographers. This product offers support for a wide variety of devices at a reasonable price. It comes with shoulder pads which puts the balance and weight on the shoulders making it easier to get better results. The product will also interface with devices such as supporting frames, video lights, an LCD monitor and other equipment. Many owners reviewed this as meeting their needs, but cautioned that its plastic construction makes it liable for cracking and breaking parts.
3. The OFFICIAL ROXANT PRO Steadicam
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00S10KFTC”]
Handheld, this camera stabilizer works for any DSLR camera with does not exceed 2.1 pounds. It works well with creating videos because its action is very smooth and professional. It is designed with a handle that has a low profile so working with it is easier than with other similar models. The manufacturers advertise less shaking and motion issues due to superior construction and a design that is unique and new. This particular edition is limited, and comes in the color Midnight Black. Of the 178 who left customer reviews, 89% gave this product a 5 star rating.
2. SV-HD SteadyVid Camera Stabilizer for DSLR and Video Cameras by Opteka
[Azonasinid asinid=”B00DRGQETA”]
This camera stabilizer will hold devices up to 6 pounds in weight. It has a quick release feature that facilitates changing cameras. It will adjust angles to provide for varied shooting heights. The joints are made for low friction and its bearings are manufactured with high precision. The 225 customer reviews are mixed. Many found that this product works as it was designed to do. Some mentioned the importance of balancing the product properly for best results, and those who had the skill had excellent results. Common comments included the need to practice for stability.
1. Opteka X-GRIP Stabilizing Handle for DSLR Cameras and Camcorders
[Azonasinid asinid=”B003PBB4ME”]
This black steadicam is compatible with most DSLR camcorders and compact cameras that have the standard ¼ – 20 thread. It is also available with a blue, green, orange or red handle. The handle is padded and cushioned to relieve stress over long recording times. It is advertised as providing professional action with flexibility due to its weight and size. The plastic components are ABS plastic which absorbs impacts. There is a removable shoe mount for microphones, video lights and flashes. The company offers a one year warranty on this product. Over 600 customers reviewed this product, with 55% giving it a 5 star review. Many owners like its light weight and feel that it is the best steadicam for dslr that they have purchased. However, some do not like the plastic, feeling that it is not sturdy enough to hold up with use over the long term.
Ranging from hand held models, standing models with tripods or carts, clamp on styles or complete gear that is worn like a suit, there is a DSLR Steadicam to suit most any taste or budget. Professionals depend on sturdy and durable control and these features have been incorporated to some degree in those used by the general hobbyist photographer. What features are preferred will dictate the price, so most consumers will want to list those and decide which they want to have which will meet their budget.
TODAY’S Top 10 Amazon Best Sellers in Professional Video Stabilizers
Here is the top 10 list of best selling Professional Video Stabilizers as of TODAY on Amazon. This list is updated daily based on best seller rank and actual sales data. For your convenience, you can pick one of these Professional Video Stabilizers that the community considers best.
[amazon bestseller=”196573011″]