Getting the right shot on your next film is essential, but that doesn’t always mean it is easy. Some shots might look great from certain angles that would be impossible with most camera setups. However, when you make use of handheld camera stabilizers, you will find that you have a lot more options open up to you. Not only can they make “run and gun” filming possible, but they can also reduce the amount of vibration and shake in the footage.
 

Quite a few different styles of these stabilizers are on the market today. They work in much the same way between the different brands and models. The features are similar, but the size can differ. Some of them are larger and heavier than others, and this actually provides them with more stability. However, they are sacrificing maneuverability. The smaller ones are more maneuverable, but you may see more shakiness in the footage that you take.
 

These devices are typically used with DSLR cameras and smaller movie cameras. The reason they only accommodate the smaller cameras is due to the weight. The stabilizer is held in one hand most of the time, so it needs to be lightweight and easy to move around. They have a handle, as well as a mount where you will attach the camera. They are weighted so there is less movement in the camera while you are holding it and filming. This results in far less camera shake in the final footage.

When you use these handheld camera stabilizers, you can take footage that appears as though they were shot with a dolly. You can move quickly, even running, and the footage will still look good. When you move slowly, there is generally not any noticeable camera shake. As mentioned, this opens up many interesting possibilities to shoot scenes in ways that you might not have thought of before.
 

There are many different options available when it comes to handheld camera stabilizers. Some of the most popular brands in the field today include Glidecam Industries, Inc., and Steadicam.