By site editor Dan Chung:
Newsshooter first look at the Movcam FS7 shoulder rig and cage from Dan Chung on Vimeo.
Movcam have made a name for itself recently for making custom rigs for many of the latest cinema cameras. Their philosophy is to create body hugging cages and baseplates that are model specific. Perhaps their most popular rig to date was for the FS700 and they are clearly looking to repeat their success again with their latest for the FS7.
The FS7 rig features a new design that comprises of a camera plate that docks into the camera’s base where the Sony shoulder pad would otherwise live. This plate docks into Movcam’s VCT compatible baseplate but can also function as a stand alone Arca Swiss style quick release that can mount to a tripod release. The plate can slide forwards and backwards to achieve better balance of the rig although the range is a little limited and getting perfect balance with larger lenses without counterweight at the rear will be difficult.
There is also the option to use a lightweight shoulder pad instead of the VCT baseplate – this is designed for solo run-and-gun shooting where keeping things small is important.
A wrap around side cage serves to protect the camera and also provide lots of 1/4 20 holes for mounting of accessories. On top of the camera is a rod mount that allows accessories to be mounted at the front of the camera as well as providing a place to mount Sony’s viewfinder.
Another nice option is a V-lock or AB battery plate with power distribution. This fits at the rear of the camera in the same slot that is used by Sony’s own XDCA-FS7 pack. The Movcam one doesn’t have the additional features of the Sony, but does add several power outputs and also helps to add weight to a front heavy camera.
There is also an optional cinema style top handle that replaces the stock Sony one and a 19mm rod kit for full cinemising.
Check out the video to get the full details. Viewers might also like to know that the review video was shot with a Sony a7S in 4K using the new Convergent Design Odyssey 7Q+ recorder. The Picture Profile was set to Cine gamma and there was been no grading of the footage.
Pricing for the rig has not yet been set but I expect it to be in line with other Movcam cages and should be good value considering the amount of metalwork that goes into it. Keep and eye on the Movcam website for further details.
