The ’AR-Revolution’ system...
The 'AR' rig can perform smooth tracking shots just like a regular Steadicam. However, unlike a Steadicam, the AR's auto-leveling system allows the camera to move from high mode to low mode (and vice versa) while automatically keeping the camera level during the shot.
An added advantage is that because the rig no longer needs to be kept vertical, the camera can now travel sideways, over and under objects. This opens up a new world of exciting shot possibilities.
For example, the camera could start inside a car, track out sideways through the open window, across the bonnet of the car, do a 360º rotation around the actor stepping out and finishing at ground level as the actor walks away. The possibilities are endless.
So which cameras can be used with the 'AR'?
Pretty much any camera you would use with a normal Steadicam setup, will work with the 'AR' rig.
ARRI 235 - best 35mm non-sync camera.
ARRICAM LT - best 35mm sync camera.
ARRI 435, Panavision Millennium XL - Moviecam SL - Aaton 35 - All modern 16mm cameras - RED-ONE and many more.
Basically, the lighter the camera, the more reach you can achieve with the post extended, allowing for greater range in camera movement.
The 'NEXUS' system...
At the heart of this rig is the MK-V ‘NEXUS' 4 stage, no-tools post which makes on-set tweaks very quick and easy. The ‘Nexus' system is considered by many top operators as the most solid and reliable rig available due to its simple and tough design. It was developed to handle the extra weight and rigidity needed when used with the ‘AR' system.
In ‘AR' mode, the post is normally setup longer if the shot requires the camera to travel from very low to very high. If the camera is required to travel in a confined space like a corridor or through doorways, the rig can easily be shortened to a very compact mode which makes it easier to move around objects.
And of course, the system can be setup just like a normal Steadicam, if the ‘AR' isn't required.
So what advantages does the 'AR' bring to real world situations?
Cinematographers
- More creativity and the freedom to move the camera where it has never been able to go before.
- Faster shooting - no more low mode changes!
Directors
- The freedom to move the camera around easier and more creatively.
- Keep the momentum of scenes and performances going with the actors, instead of waiting for the camera to be setup.
- Great when working with children of different heights.
Producers
- Massive savings can be made by producers by using the 'AR' system, saving time on set without the need for re-rigging to / from low mode for different shots.
MK-V AR demo movies page - Demo shots filmed by the UK manufacturer - MK-V
('Steadicam' is a Registered Trademark of the Tiffen Company LLC)