By site editor Dan Chung:
US distributors Ikan have just posted a video detailing the new Tilta ES-T15 shoulder rig for the Sony FS7. Like competing systems from Movcam, Vocas and Zacuto it is based around the VCT quick release system and has an integrated shoulder pad. This makes the camera far more like a broadcast camera and changes the FS7 style of operation from a simple handheld setup to something more substantial.
Nice touches to the system include a top cheese plate that wraps around the existing Sony top handle and a nice metal front plate. There is also a V-lock battery plate option that allows the camera to power from broadcast batteries rather than the smaller Sony BP-U type.
One thing to note about the Tilta is that does not appear to slide backwards and forwards to allow for better balancing (similar to the Vocas design). With a heavy lens more counterweight will need adding to keep the camera balanced on the shoulder. My personal preference is still for a plate with fore and aft adjustment like the Zacuto VCT or Movcam FS7 rig – you may prefer something else.
On the plus side the basic version of the Tilta ES-T15 FS7 rig costs $699. For more info on the ES-T15 check out the Ikan website.
