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Nov 12, 2007
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Get a grip on handheld shots
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by Chuck Gloman
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I'm always looking for new and innovative ways to hold and stabilize a camcorder, so I was curious to try the Demark-made Ugrip, which was introduced at NAB earlier this year and is distributed in North American through Synergy Communications.
In its Hardigg Storm Case, the Ugrip lives quietly in the deep recesses of the foam-lined enclosure, looking more like something that Q would demonstrate to 007 than a camera support system. The Ugrip and its attachments must be assembled -- and with no instruction book, I was immediately lost. Luckily, the supplied CD included a video that showed the myriad of configuration options for various cameras, ranging from my Sony HVR-Z1U camcorder to a full-size 35mm Arriflex.
I received the top of the line Diamond package that lists for $1,837, which includes the base plate, standard arm, reversed slot arm, 90-degree grip, heavy-duty clamp, fastening box for wireless microphones, multi-standard fastening box, Bebob zoom control, two standard foam grips, and a T-handle Allan wrench for tightening the various components.
You can get additional items, such as fastening box for a FOCUS Enhancements FireStore, at an additional cost. Buying everything piecemeal is an expensive way to go -- better to start with one of the three kits and add attachments as needed.
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| The Ugrip system incorporates a number of individual parts, so you can tailor it to your specific shooting needs. |
You can mount the camera with the handles up or down; there is no "right" way, just configure it how you like it. With a centered mounting screw, any camera is easily attached.
I set up my system with the foam arms below the camera. With my Z1, I had to slide the handles slightly forward from center for proper balance. Each handle is articulated so they can be tilted in any position independently, but straight up and down was comfortable for me.
If I had a heavier or larger camera, I'd probably mount the handles on top because the rig would be too nose heavy. With a twist of the Allen wrench, the handles come off and can be easily moved. The most critical detail to remember is to make sure everything is tight once you have it where it's comfortable.
The Bebob controller attaches to the bottom of either handle and plugs into the LANC control on your camera. There is a zoom toggle with slide wheels that control the wide angle and telephoto range of the control, as well as a record button in the center. Be sure you get the right control that will operate with your camera brand (Panasonic LANC controllers aren't compatible with Sony or Canon).
The clamp and the wireless microphone adapters fit snug under the camera and are masterfully crafted. However, it does add weight to the system and you'll need to balance the camera differently.
Once everything was assembled, I used the Ugrip on a shoot deep in the woods. It's very comfortable to use for extended periods -- I didn't find it fatiguing at all. I found it handled much like the PAG Orbitor (see Government Video, September 2006).
We had a Glidecam on location as well, but we used the Ugrip more because there was no vest to mount and the Z1 balanced more quickly on the Ugrip. Of course, both units create different kind of shots, but we preferred the handheld look of the Ugrip over the smoother Glidecam for this shoot.
On other location projects with my students, everyone wanted to use the Ugrip. One problem we did have with so many users is that we had to keep tightening the Allen screws because they would become loose. Keeping the wrench in your back pocket isn't a bad idea.
With very little practice, anyone can master the Ugrip. It's great because one size really does fit all -- it works with everything from heavy film cameras to lightweight HDV units. The novelty of the Ugrip doesn't wear off, plus it's very well made and will hold up to abuse any shooter may give it (as long as you keep tightening the screws).
Chuck Gloman is an awarding-winning producer/director of photography with more than 800 commercials to his credit, and is program director of the TV/Film Department of DeSales University. Contact him at chuck.gloman@desales.edu.
MORE INFO
Ugrip ugrip.dk
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