Hand holding the EX1 is also difficult. 

I solved the problem with a basic Redrock Micro rig.  Now shooting from the shoulder is a pleasure!

(Suggested by Fred Konkin from Vistek) 

I’m using a Sachtler Sandwich  Touch and Go Adapter... it takes seconds to switch from the brace to tripod. (not shown in photo)

I’ve also mounted a Bogen / Manfrotto Remote Control on the right handle.

Overall the camera feels very stable, zooming is much easier and there’s very little strain on the arms.

When shooting with the EX1... I use my LCD Viewfinder... so I‘m able to move the camera closer to the body. 

Redrock Micro

http://www.redrockmicro.com

Zacuto

http://www.zacuto.com

At NAB 2008, I had planned to buy a brace from Zacuto, but when I tried them... they felt too long and heavy for the style of documentary shooting I was about to do.

Back in Montreal I tried a simpler Zacuto setup with some rental gear...

With my LCD Viewfinder I’m able to move the camera much closer to my body... now there is very little weight on my arms.

It was wonderful.... very simple, just was what I wanted!

I had plan to get a rig at NAB 09, but unfortunately I was working... so this system is still on hold.

What I love about Zacuto systems... is you can use the parts to rig many configurations.  Working as a freelance cameraman... each month I’m using a different model of camera.

Yes, their parts are more money than other systems... but in 5 years, with inflation... you’ll be able to sell them for more than you paid.

http://www.zacuto.com

Sony EX3

Handholding the Sony Ex3 for long periods of time is extremely tiring!

Problem #1:

The camera was designed to be pressed against the shoulder for stability... not to sit on top of the shoulder.

Solution:

I solved this problem by using a Heavy Duty Base Plate System from VF Gadgets.

The camera now rests on my shoulder... and unlike other EX3 braces, the eye is level with the camera eyepiece.

Problem #2:

The camera is very front heavy.

Solution:

I’ve added 15mm rods and adapter plate from VF Gadgets. 

Then, I attached a telescopic support arm to the 15mm rods.

I've been using 2 different brands of support arms... at this stage I'm not sure which I like the best.

a) Shape WLB's  TELESCOPIC SUPPORT ARM - heavy duty 2 stage spring-loaded rod.

b) DvRig’s - lighter 3 stage spring-loaded rod.

Both of these center columns carry the total weight of the camera and sit in a pocket, on a belt. 

I’ve added 2 handgrips to the camera rods and a Bogen / Manfrotto Remote Control on the right handle.

Here’s a photo of my shoulder rig... using a VF Gadgets Base Plate and handles rented from MTL Video.

I’ve since added 15mm rods and a telescopic support arm.