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Steadicam Merlin User Manual

Steadicam Merlin
48 pages
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Setup and Operation Manual
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Steadicam Merlin Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandSteadicam
ModelMerlin
CategoryCamera Accessories
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Part One - Setup

Overview

Introduces the manual and DVD usage, how to proceed with setup and operation for the Steadicam Merlin.

A Tour of the Merlin

Describes the purpose of the system and identifies major components, explaining how to unpack and unfold the unit.

Getting Started

Details the process of unfolding the Merlin into Flying Mode and folding it back into Travel Mode, with safety precautions.

Pre-Setting Balance

Explains the importance of balancing the unit and describes methods for achieving bottom-heaviness with weights and hinge adjustments.

Installing the Dovetail Plate

Guides on how to dock the Dovetail Plate onto the stage and prepare the camera for mounting, including finding the center of gravity.

Balancing and Mounting the Camera

Details how to inspect trim rollers, mount the camera onto the Dovetail Plate, and secure it correctly on the Merlin stage.

Horizontal and Vertical Trim

Explains how to perform horizontal and vertical trim adjustments to achieve perfect balance, including troubleshooting top and bottom heaviness.

Part Two - Operating

Hand Positions

Describes two-handed and one-handed operating positions, emphasizing grip, inertia, and proper hand placement for camera control.

Body Positions

Details the 'Forward Mode' (Missionary) and 'Reverse Mode' (Don Juan) body positions for operating the Steadicam Merlin.

Extreme Trimming

Guides on fine-tuning shots by adjusting fore-and-aft and side-to-side trim for specific angles and maintaining headroom.

Stairs

Provides techniques for shooting stairs, including reducing bottom-heaviness, booming, and trimming for smooth movement.

Shooting and Resting Positions

Offers tips on managing fatigue during operation, including sharing the load, resting positions, and changing hands.

Vehicle Shots

Explains how to use the Steadicam Merlin for shots in moving vehicles, emphasizing safety and proper technique.

Merlin Technique

Covers essential techniques for smooth shots, including planning, pacing, panning, whip pans, and dynamic balance.

Accessories

Details the use of accessories like the Tripod Adaptor Plate and Obie Light, and how they affect rebalancing and re-trimming.

Troubleshooting

Addresses common operating and mechanical troubles, such as yawing, off-level issues, and guide lock problems, with solutions.

Maintenance

Outlines minimal maintenance requirements for the Merlin, focusing on checking tightness of key components like spars and stage.

Glossary of Steadicam Terms

Provides definitions for Steadicam terminology used throughout the manual, aiding understanding of operations and concepts.

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