Konecranes
November 19
As funny as it may sound, I happened to be operating a camera crane during a video shoot for Konecranes. I forgot to check the name or model of the equipment, but after some research, I believe it was a Proaim Powermatic Scissor Telescopic Video Camera Jib Crane. I had never operated a crane of this scale before, but here are some of my observations:
The crane comes in a compact package, making it ideal for quick and easy logistics. It’s relatively straightforward to set up and can carry up to 30kg on the camera end, balanced by a 30kg counterweight. We used a DJI Ronin 2 with a RED Epic, and balancing it was no problem. However, even with the tripod set to its lowest level and equipped with wheels, the crane felt unstable and somewhat prone to tipping. I moved the crane very slowly and cautiously.
During the shoot, we decided to put the crane through its paces, testing a variety of movements. I used a special controller to extend and retract the crane, while lift, lower, left, and right movements were muscle-powered. Quick movements required significant effort to match the rhythm and motion of the subject, and I had to be extra careful to prevent the crane from tumble over.
The scissor design of the crane arm caused it to wobble noticeably when fully extended, and it sometimes took a few seconds for the shakiness to stabilize. This makes it less suitable for shots requiring quick maneuvers, but it’s definitely practical and far more affordable than a Technocrane.
Yes, the LED lamp in the pictures is a Space-X, and it indeed looks like a rocket booster.