In my career as a Director of Photography, I have found at times that the equipment available is lacking. So I make my own.
Below is a sampling of some of the items that other DPs and film industry folks have found useful or have requested that I make for them.
Below is a sampling of some of the items that other DPs and film industry folks have found useful or have requested that I make for them.
A custom fit camera hand grip fashioned out of a block of walnut. I started with a block of clay the client squeezed into a rough size and shape. I then took caliper measurements at specific points to rough in the shape. There was a lot of filing, sanding and test fittings to really dial in the exact feel the client wanted. You can read about it at Insung Films blog.
DSLR Camera Riser. I shot for a client who often used Canon 5D's for big infomercials. We would often rig the cameras with big zoom lenses, teleprompters, external monitors etc. The battery door was blocked by the camera mounts so when it came time to change batteries, it was a two person job: one to take the camera off the mount and hold the camera while another person switched the battery. I made this riser so one person can change the battery without removing the camera. It raises the camera high enough so the battery door can open and the batteries drop free. I was able to make it out of 6061 aluminum using most of my wood working tools. I drilled and tapped a 1/4-20 and 3/8" mounting holes. I also added some extra mounting holes on the sides for accessories. It worked great so I had it anodized in black. It's a great addition to my DSLR and mirrorless camera kits.
I made this camera head Tie Down Knob for a production company I shoot for named FusionFlix. They needed a low profile knob to secure the tripod head when mounted to a Dana Dolly. It's made of 3/4" Baltic Birch plywood. I drilled and recessed the center for a metal threaded insert. The shape of the knob was made by drilling a series of different size holes around the center hole and then cutting the final diameter of the knob which bisected the different holes. Everything was hand sanded before I laser engraved the lettering. The final finish was Neutral Danish Oil.
STRADLING WHEELS- Created by Cinematographer Harry Stradling, these wooden gobos are used to break up the light and add interesting shadows on sets. I added an additional, removable, "spinner" attachment that rotates to give more control over the shadow pattern. They come in various sizes, around 17" to 24" and can be customized to clients needs. Made from 3/4" or 1/2" Plywood and finished in flat black paint or black wood stain.
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