User Manual
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move away from the cross on the wall at any speed and from any angle etc. and still keep the two crosses
aligned, then you will know you have mastered this shooting technique. Another great training technique
is to place a long tape line on the floor and then practice always being able to keep the Sled aligned over
the line. This type of shooting combined with the cross on the wall and monitor training will allow you to
shoot shots that as as smooth and linear as a dolly shot. Another training technique is to put up either a
straight, or diagonal
length of string so that you can follow the path of the string with your Sled.
You should also be aware that learning to achieve beautifully smooth, shake-free footage with you
Glidecam GOLD SLED takes practice and patience. Trying to rush things will most likely cause
unprofessional results. You can think of the GOLD SLED in a way much like your first time trying to
ride a bicycle. It seems difficult at first, but you soon master the balancing skills required to use it. (See
also the section called SHOOTING TIPS.) Remember, practice makes perfect.
VIDEO TAP
For those of you who plan on using the GOLD SLED with film cameras, you may wish to either rent, or
purchase a device known as a VIDEO TAP or VIDEO ASSIST. This type of device allows you to view
what you are shooting on an electronic MONITOR. These VIDEO TAPS can be connected to most
professional cinema cameras by attachment to the camera's viewfinder optics. The VIDEO TAP is in
essence a little video camera that converts the image in the camera's viewfinder into a video signal that
can then be connected to a MONITOR. It is best to use a wireless VIDEO TAP with the GOLD SLED.
REMOTE CONTROL FOLLOW FOCUS DEVICES etc.
The Glidecam GOLD SLED does not come with a REMOTE CONTROL FOLLOW FOCUS DEVICE,
but you can purchase or rent one from a professional camera equipment supplier. A typical REMOTE
CONTROL DEVICE will allow you to control
the CAMERA'S focus, iris, zoom, and camera on/off capabilities via a wireless transmitter and receiver.
It is also possible to use hard wired remote control devices with the GOLD SLED, though it is not
recommended.
6) SHOOTING TIPS
When shooting with the GOLD SLED it is best to wear sneakers on your feet, as opposed to boots or dress
shoes. Wearing sneakers, or similar footwear when shooting will help make your shots smoother and will
cause less noise during shooting. Also the way that you walk or slowly run with the GOLD SLED can
also have an effect on how smooth your footage
turns out. When walking or running, try to keep your feet low when you lift them, and avoid placing your
feet down hard. In other words you can create a much smoother running motion by simply walking very
quickly, and taking bigger strides.
Another method for achieving smooth PANS is to rotate (pan) your whole body instead of trying to PAN
the SLED using your GUIDING HAND. This type of body movement will give your PANS a fuller,