a result , all our support systems and tools now come with instruction manuals and part of our job is to educate some users on the benefits and proper application of our products .
New digital cameras are appearing every six months and a lot of these new cameras are complex pieces of different technology . Operators often devote a lot of time and effort into mastering the intricacies of these new devices , so it always surprises me when they don ’ t spend as much time learning about what goes beneath their cameras .
A quality support system is essential for capturing clean , sharp , smooth shots . It needs sturdy legs with ample torsion rigidity to eliminate unwanted motion . It also must provide perfect counterbalance and just the right amount of drag to ensure smooth , unfettered and precisely controllable movement . In an ideal support system , there is perfect synergy between pan and tilt . One of the tests we perform on new fluid heads is the diagonal shot . If the fluid head can move a camera along a diagonal line without jerking , it means the two fluid units are working in sync .
The challenge for top-end manufacturers is to design support systems that deliver professional
caliber stability , counterbalance and drag at an affordable price . It isn ’ t easy . If you are producing smartphones , you can provide your customers with complex technology at a low price because it can be mass produced . But professional camera support systems are highly engineered devices and they do not lend themselves to mass production . A modern fluid head is a precision instrument that requires a high degree of quality control , testing and finishing . Mass production would undermine its craftsmanship and durability . Camera operators all strive to capture the “ perfect shot .” Their ability to do so depends , firstly , on talent . But gear also matters . If you want to get the best possible shot , you need a good camera and a great lens . They will help you capture a pristine image . But then there is movement and that comes from the support system . You can design a beautiful shot and have a super digital camera , but if your support system fails , you won ’ t get the result you ’ re after . So , if you really want that perfect shot , you need to choose your tools — all your tools — wisely .
Elisabetta Cartoni is president and CEO of CARTONI ( S . p . A .), a Rome-based leader in professional camera support systems . The company was founded in 1935 and since 1990 , under Elisabetta ’ s guidance , the company continues to grow through a tradition of innovative design . It currently holds more than 35 patents for camera support technology and enjoys an international reputation for reliability , performance and engineering excellence .
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