The Changing World of Tripods March 9^th 2017 - 04:00 PM

If you think of a tripod only as a three-legged camera support system, perhaps a refresher course is in order. In recent years, tripods have evolved and the types have expanded. Yes, all tripods still support cameras, but there is so much more to know about them today.

The Era of the Non-Tripod Tripod January 20^th 2017 - 10:00 AM

Over the past decade, video cameras have shrunk. As cameras have gotten smaller, so have the camera support systems used in professional production. Now, there are many substitutes for using a traditional tripod and head on location.

Camera Drones Targeted By New Laws In UK And Sweden December 30^th 2016 - 09:00 AM

Anyone who buys a drone the UK may have to register it and take a safety test. Drones mounted with cameras are considered particularly dangerous.

When the “Money Shot” Matters Most December 23^rd 2016 - 01:50 PM

Getting high-perspective shots isn’t a matter of art but often a necessity for news shots. Under intense deadlines and demand to capture the right shot, news photographers are always on-the-go, and that can sometimes mean last minute assignments or worse, arriving late to a press conference. Fortunately, Sachtler has…

As Cameras Get Smaller, So Does Specialized Production Gear December 21^st 2016 - 10:00 AM

Over the past five years, cameras have gotten more compact in size and lower in cost. Accessories that allow highly specialized production shots have followed suit. Today, jibs, dollies, stablizers and sliders that used to cost thousands of dollars are accessible to most videographers.

How to Choose a Video Head and Tripod December 5^th 2016 - 09:00 AM

Tripods and heads are essential gear for all videographers. However, which type to buy for a given application can be a challenge because there are so many brand and price points from which to choose. A quick overview on the latest in tripod and heads might be useful.

FAA Revises Its Rules On Drone Operation in U.S. Airspace June 29^th 2016 - 01:50 PM

The FAA just released its long-awaited rules for legally operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for both commercial and personal use. While there are restrictions, some are applauding that the FAA’s decision to drop a requirement for a pilot’s license, requiring instead a test-based special certificate.

Drones and the Law June 27^th 2016 - 01:50 PM

Laws are different in different countries and I can’t possibly know all the legislation, so what I have to say here should not be taken as a final word on anything. The purpose of this article is to alert the reader to what he or she will need to f…

Drones - The Science Part of Flying May 12^th 2016 - 03:00 PM

Anyone can buy and fly a UAV-drone. All the exhibits at this year’s NAB show made that obvious. What was typically glossed over were the finer points of the flight science that makes them work—and why drones can make a less-than-perfect camera platform. Helicopter and UAV pilot John Wat…

Filmmakers Complain of Tight Drone Restrictions May 9^th 2016 - 10:00 AM

While the Federal Aviation Administration has begun to allow the use of drones in film and TV production, there are still too many restrictions, according to filmmakers. Particularly around camera weight and night time shoots.