In the world of filmmaking and content creation, being a run-and-gun single shooter is becoming more and more common, and the only way we can do that efficiently is to either make yourself look like a one-man-marching-band, or get the right camera accessories to make everything lighter and easier.
Enter SmallRig, a camera accessory brand that have been around for almost 15 years now. They are one of the largest brands who make accessories mount a camera thing to another camera thing. (This is grossly oversimplifying the sheer amount of products they do)
Understanding Your Needs
Before diving into the world of SmallRig accessories, it's crucial to assess your specific requirements. There is no point investing in every rig accessory if you never use them.
Are you looking to stabilise your handheld shots with a side and top handle? Or maybe you need a mounting solution for external monitors, lights, or microphones? Are you trying to get better battery life out of your camera by changing to a different battery? Maybe you just need some accessories to make using a gimbal easier.
Understanding what you need will help narrow down the massive range of products offered by SmallRig.
This is also where we come in. We want to find you the right product, not just any product.
Exploring the SmallRig Catalogue
Once you've identified your requirements, it's time to explore the SmallRig catalogue. From camera cages and mounting plates to handles, rails, and beyond, SmallRig basically offer any accessory you can think of. Their Co-Design forum is always open for the things they can't think of too!
The main standards to looks out for are ARRI Anti-Twist, Arca, NATO, and SmallRig's newest standard: Hawklock.
These are made to make it so if you have to rerig your camera for each job (it happens a lot) you can do it quickly and efficiently.
Selecting the Right Parts
The first place to start will always be with a camera cage. The camera cage is the basis for every camera rig. It gives your camera a bit of extra security, while adding a ton of mounting points for accessories.
For some people, this is all they need from a camera rig. Sure, it might not be as extensive as other rigs on YouTube or Instagram, but it achieves what that person needs from a cage.
From there, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed by choice. But, start by prioritising essentials based on your how you already shoot or how you want to shoot.
For instance; if you shoot docos handheld, but want to be a bit steadier whilst getting a ton more battery life, you could go for the a SmallRig Shoulder Kit + a V-Mount Plate, V-Mount Battery and Dummy Battery.
Or you could just go for a side and top handle and rear mount a V-Mount to stay compact and mobile to properly run-and-gun.
Utilising SmallRig Accessories
Once you receive your SmallRig parts (hopefully from us) you can get building. This can be difficult if you haven't done it before as the majority of SmallRig items don't come with any instructions. Thankfully these are very straightforward to put together. They also come with the tools you need to install everything.
There are rig assembly guides on YouTube too that can help if you get really stuck too.
Support
Here at Videoguys we're happy to support you in your rigging process. Let us know what you need or what you want to do, and we're more than happy to help you find the right solution.
Check out SmallRig on our website, give us a call, or come in store and have a chat about how you can use SmallRig to make your filmmaking life easier.
Last Edit: 29/10/2024