by Daniel Hurst
It's been a few months since we first got our hands on the MoVI and it has been a great tool on many of our recent stock shoots (check out the Shutterstock behind the scenes video where we took it out for the first time). We have had the opportunity to run it through its paces - shooting handheld from cars, atvs, bicycles, skateboards and even helicopters. While the MoVI is very easy to simply pick up and start shooting with, there is a learning curve with several aspects of the system. Here are a few tips for working with this great piece of equipment.
1. Follow the instructions! Unlike a lot of gear out there, the MoVI is so new and complex that is really pays to follow the instructions carefully. Freefly has put together some great video tutorials on their website.
BMX Rider Doing Tricks in a Dark Warehouse by VIA FILMS (MoVI shot)
2. Balance and setup is critical. Correct balance is probably the most important factor when using the MoVI. The better balance you have, the better the MoVI will function. It is worth taking the extra time to make sure the balance is perfect.
3. Keep it simple. There are so many ways to configure and use the MoVI that at first it can be a little confusing. To start, don’t worry about using the remote controller - learn how to use the MoVI in single operator (majestic mode). We use the MoVI in majestic mode about 95% of the time. Start with just a camera body and add accessories as needed - it's easy to overdo it when you start adding accessories to the MoVI. Adding cables can reduce the effectiveness of the unit and powering accessories can also be a pain - you can do a lot with just a simple camera and monitor setup.
Puppy Running in Front of a Suburban House by VIA FILMS (MoVI shot)
4. Bring laptop or tablet on location. Fine tuning the motors on the MoVI is done using software. Any time you make an adjustment or re-balance the MoVI you will want to tune, so always have your laptop or tablet handy to make any adjustments on set.
5. Initialize the camera first. When you power up the MoVI, you must have it mounted to the stand and on stable ground. If you are going to be shooting from a helicopter or boat, initialize before you go aboard, the camera will not be able to initialize with movement. Do not power the MoVI down because you will not be able to initialize again until you are on stable ground.
image courtesy of Shutterstock Blog
