For so-called “crane shots,” film and video crews often actually use what’s known as a jib arm – a manually-operated device that can set you back more than a few bucks, and is a hassle to set up and tear down. Videographer Gert Wagner’s hipjib is designed to make things easier, by letting your tripod double as a jib arm.
The hipjib is essentially just a polymer tube that’s worn at the front of the cameraperson’s waist, via a length of webbing and a buckle – it can also be worn higher, using shoulder straps. Two holes in the tube accommodate two of the tripod’s three feet.
Once the tripod is in place, the user just eases it up and down, tilting the tripod head as they do so to keep the subject centered. A wireless monitor can be attached to the hipjib via an included clip, so users can monitor the shot without having to strain to see the camera’s viewfinder.
The rig itself weighs just 300 g (10.6 oz), and can accommodate cameras weighing up to about 2.5 kg (5.5 lb).
Wagner is currently raising production funds for his invention on Kickstarter. A pledge of US$110 will get you a hipjib of your own, when and if they’re ready to go. The estimated retail price is $225.
Footage shot using the device can be seen in the pitch video below.
Sources: hipjib, Kickstarter
(as the monitor is so close to the camera, there is no need for a wireless monitor, any 4-6 inch screen compatible with your camera system will work.. A can of black paint will make your creation look as chic as this one.
2 hands on the camera, would hate to see you kill your expensive video camera.
…and while you're at it, you might as well punch a hole into a cardboard box and tadaaa, you just made your own camera!
DIY all the way!