Tools of the Trade | Camera Stabilizer Mounts: An Essential Tool for Smooth, Cinematic Shots
/As one of the premier production studio companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry, providing top-tier soundstages and distinctive locations where productions shoot their scenes. In this series, we take a closer look at some of the unique tools and settings used to make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight into what it takes to make film and TV magic. This week, we look at camera stabilizer mounts.
Broadway Stages is home to numerous dynamic sequences that come to the screen. Whether agents pursuing a perp on "FBI," bringing music to life in a Sabrina Carpenter video, or following "Elsbeth” as she traverses the streets of New York, fluidly capturing movement is challenging but essential. Thankfully, there are tools to make it all possible.
Camera stabilizer mounts help filmmakers achieve smooth footage, dynamic movement, and fewer retakes. They can be handheld and drone- or vehicle-mounted and range from handheld gimbals to advanced rigs like Steadicams and body-mounted systems.
What is a Camera Stabilizer Mount?
A camera stabilizer mount is a tool that keeps a camera steady while filming, reducing shakes and sudden movements. This is crucial for dynamic shots like walking scenes, action sequences, and smooth tracking shots, making the footage look fluid and natural rather than shaky. They isolate camera motion, keeping it steady despite operator movement.
The Steadicam, invented by Garrett Brown and introduced in 1975, is a key stabilizer. In "Rocky," the filmmakers made early use of the Steadicam to follow Rocky as he ran up the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps, creating one of the most iconic scenes in film history. Similarly, Stanley Kubrick used the Steadicam extensively in "The Shining." We can all remember the shot where Danny rides his tricycle through the Overlook Hotel's eerie halls.
How It Works
A camera stabilizer mount works by counteracting unwanted movements, such as shakes, vibrations, and sudden jerks, allowing for smooth, fluid motion while filming. It can do this using several basic working principles:
● Weight Distribution & Balance – A stabilizer mount balances the camera on a system of arms, weights, or motors to keep it steady, even when the operator moves.
● Shock Absorption – Springs, gimbals, or electronic stabilization help absorb vibrations and minimize sudden movements.
● Gimbal or Pivot System – Allows the camera to move independently from the operator, maintaining stability.
● Counterweights or Motors – Mechanical counterweights or electronic motors compensate for unwanted movement depending on the type.
Camera stabilizer mounts rely on:
Gimbal System – A pivoting mechanism that keeps the camera stable while allowing for smooth movement in multiple directions.
Counterweights or Motors – Mechanical stabilizers use counterweights, while electronic stabilizers (gimbals) use brushless motors to maintain stability.
Handle or Support Rig – A grip or vest system that helps the operator efficiently carry and control the stabilizer.
Shock Absorbers – Some advanced mounts include springs or damping systems to reduce vertical bouncing.
Battery & Electronics (for Motorized Stabilizers) – Gimbal stabilizers use built-in sensors and motors to adjust balance electronically in real-time.
Mounting Plate – Securely holds the camera in place and allows for fine adjustments in balance.
Skills & Knowledge Needed to Use a Camera Stabilizer Mount
Camera stabilizer mounts are very user-friendly. But if you are going to be a camera operator for almost any genre of film or TV, you will need to be comfortable working with them. Most people learn through hands-on experience, internships, and mentorships. Others supplement this experience with time in film school, workshops, and manufacturer training. Finally, there are several industry certifications, such as:
● Tiffen Steadicam Workshops – Official training for professional Steadicam operators
● SOA (Steadicam Operators Association) Certification – Recognized in the film industry
● DJI Ronin Certification – For DJI stabilizer users
● ARRI Trinity Certification – High-end stabilizer system training
Key Benefits of a Camera Stabilizer Mount
A camera stabilizer mount enhances production by ensuring smooth, professional footage, minimizing unwanted shakes, and enabling dynamic camera movements like tracking, panning, and tilting. Its versatility allows it to be used in various settings, from handheld shooting to drone- and vehicle- mounting. Reducing the need for digital stabilization preserves image quality and speeds up post-production. Stabilizers streamline production and enhance cinematic visuals. Three key ways they empower productions are by:
● Improving Efficiency – Reduces reshoots, speeds up setup, and simplifies complex shots without heavy equipment.
● Reducing Costs – Eliminates the need for bulky gear, cuts post-production work, and allows for smaller crews.
● Enhancing Creativity – Enables unique shot designs and smooth movement in tight spaces and supports diverse filmmaking styles.
More Resources
To learn more about these versatile and empowering tools, check out these useful resources:
Articles:
"Camera Stabilizer - Everything You Need To Know” (Nashville Film Institute) - This comprehensive guide covers the evolution of camera stabilizers with insights into different types of stabilizers and their applications.
"5 DIY Camera Stabilizers: Step-by-Step Guide” (TapeReal) - This article explores five different DIY camera stabilizers, offering detailed instructions and tips for building each.
Videos:
"How To Mount & Balance Your Camera…” (EVO Gimbals) - This video demonstrates mounting and balancing your camera on the EVO Rage gimbal, ensuring optimal performance and stability.
"How To Stabilize Car Camera Rigs…” (Mr Dog Poop Studios) - Learn techniques for stabilizing DIY car camera mounts to achieve smooth footage while filming from a moving vehicle.
"Camera Stabilizers Epic, All Kinds of Ways to Steady Your Camera” (MarkusPix) - A tutorial on setting up and balancing cameras using IBIS camera stabilization and tips for optimal stabilization.
The Role of Camera Stabilizers in Modern Filmmaking
Camera stabilizers are essential for achieving smooth, cinematic shots by eliminating unwanted shakes. They enhance storytelling through dynamic movements, making scenes more immersive. By streamlining production and reducing the need for bulky equipment, stabilizers improve efficiency on set. Advances in technology have also made them more affordable, expanding access for independent filmmakers and content creators. Stabilizers ensure steady, real-time footage in live sports, news, and reality TV, even in unpredictable conditions. Broadway Stages knows these tools put you into the action filmed at our locations. And if you use them, they will make your creation more dynamic, too!
One of New York’s largest and most trusted full-service production studio companies, offering comprehensive services for film, television, live streaming, commercials, live performances, music videos, and more. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve become a cornerstone of New York’s thriving creative industry.
With more than 60 soundstages spanning across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, Broadway Stages offers over 4 million square feet of state-of-the-art production space, including soundstages, support space, distinctive filming locations, parking, and in-house services for lighting, power, and grip rentals. We provide tailored solutions for productions of all sizes, delivering the resources and expertise needed to meet your creative and technical needs.
Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information and links to put you in touch with industry-focused job posting sites; general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.
