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Manfrotto FigRig vs DIY version


vi stoakley

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Is the DIY version of the Fig Rig really comparable? The rig itself seems to be a basic principle (spreading out the center of gravity to provide the camera stability) reproducible in a DIY version but is the camera mount really as secure as the one provided in the consumer version? Isn't that a large part of what makes this equipment successful?

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I don't know the details of the DIY version, but the real one is fairly solid with a good strong mount plus some good mounting points for certain accessories. Then again it is little more than a glorified sterring wheel. But at only around $300 I would say it is cheap enough to buy the real deal rather than waste the time to make a lesser version of your own design. It even comes with a stand so you can put the thing down now & then.

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Being a glorified steering wheel would lead me to think its a bit pricey/gimmicky at $300 although it's clearly quite a bargain compared to other camera support equipment. At the right budget point I'd just rent it but I'm considering building one for more everyday use. It wouldn't take that long to construct and I'm not so sure it would be of any lesser build then what Bogen offers. Here's the link to the DIY version in case you're interested.

 

http://www.studentfilmnz.com/modules.php?n...ticle&sid=6

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The original Fig Rig was DIY, AFAIK. There was an American Cinematographer article that described it's invention (by the key grip?)

 

Manfrotto building a $300 "official version" was handy. But if that's too much money for you, check out how the original was done...

Edited by David W Scott
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  • 2 weeks later...
Being a glorified steering wheel would lead me to think its a bit pricey/gimmicky at $300

although it's clearly quite a bargain compared to other camera support equipment.

 

At the right budget point I'd just rent it but I'm considering building one for more everyday use.

It wouldn't take that long to construct I'm not so sure it would be of any lesser build then what Bogen offers.

 

Well if you want to build one go right ahead...

Don't ask us for our advice if you've already made-up your mind.

God and make one and good luck.

 

Personally I find it mostly useless...

It's not sturdy enough for a real film or video camera

It's just good for prosumer cams which you can usually handhold in any manner.

So you'll rarely find the need for such a gadget...

Except for special shots that come every now&then.

 

 

Good Luck

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