DSLR video: Achieving Camera Movement with Sliders

Introducing camera movement can be an excellent way to improve the production values of your video with HDSLRs. Having the camera moving while shooting provides a visually dynamic alternative to a camera being rooted in place on a tripod.

Often referred to as a “dolly movement” in the motion picture industry, the motion of the camera has been traditionally achieved using a rail-based dolly system, which consists of a dual track on which a tripod or cart moves. It can be pushed to follow a moving subject or simply create a sense of motion and energy in an otherwise static scene such as a landscape.

However, such units are usually prohibitively large and expensive for filmmakers using HDSLRs. Hence manufacturers have designed and produced relatively compact slider systems ideally suited for use with these smaller cameras.

The design often revolves around a single or dual rail system on which a platform rides up and down its length. The rail system can be secured to a tripod or even a light stand via standard screw holes, a quick release plate or a custom machined piece. The sliding platform can often accommodate a fluid tripod head (an optional accessory), which provides the means to pan and tilt the camera itself, while the entire kit moves down the length of the rail during recording.

Though there are some simple and inexpensive units available that use skateboard-style wheels along a rail system, the smoothest and more precise movements are achieved with a design that incorporates bearings. The smoothness of the movement is important because even the slightest jarring of the camera can become significantly magnified on the recording. The bearing system also provides for a smooth and clean beginning and ending of the motion, as the initiation and the termination of the camera movement is most often the time when you are facing the greatest risk of camera shake.

The lengths of these sliders can be as short as 3 feet, but don’t let such short distances fool you. Though there are sliders available at lengths of 5 feet and longer, effective movements can be achieved even with short rail lengths.

One of the ways to do this is by having a fixed foreground element included in the frame along with your subject. Though your subject may remain relatively static within the composition, the position of the foreground element will change dramatically as the slider and its mounted camera moves right to left or left to right. So, even if your subject is sitting at a table or speaking on the phone, the motion of the camera create a fluid change of perspective. It can also be used in combination with wrack focusing to bring attention to an important element in the scene such as a bouquet of flowers.

Depending on the design of the slider, you may also be able to move the camera in a vertical direction or even as an inexpensive camera rig.

Each of the following models provide a good combination of value and quality as well as adaptability.

The Glidetrack SD Hybrid Slider ($404.53) is designed around industrial grade rail made of anodized aluminum. It achieves a smooth movement through the use of Igus® Hybrid bearings and self-lubricating liners, which is made up of both sliding and rolling bearings. The 3-meter slider weighs just 3.7 pounds. Shorter lengths of 0.75 and 0.50 meters are also available. (www.glidetrack.com)

The Cinevate Atlas 10 LTS DSLR Camera Slider ($629.98) uses a full ball-bearing linear tracking system. It is constructed using steel/aluminum construction with a black satin anodized finish. It supports up to a maximum of 40 pounds and can be easily center-mounted using a tripod plate. It features micro adjustable non-marking feet allowing for secure placement on uneven terrain or when positioned vertically against a wall. (www.cinevate.com)

The Kessler Pocket Dolly ($649.95) is a versatile system, which features a crank, and belt mechanism, which provides the ability to produce smooth camera movement without having to manual move the camera up and down the rail. A motorized accessory can be used in combination with the system to for even greater precision. The optional Hercules mounting head provides an alternative to the use of quick release plates, which may produce unsteadiness when moving the camera on the slider. (www.kesslercrane.com)
Keep in mind, although there are some DIY models that are available, investing in a professional grade slider will provide greater versatility and precision.

Ibarionex Perello is a photographer, writer, educator and the host of The Candid Frame, an interview show which features conversation with the world’s best established and emerging photographers. He is also the author of Chasing the Light: Improving Your Photography Using Available Light.