There’s no question that I use my GoPro on every trip. Photos, videos, underwater shots, and extreme adventures are all captured with my GoPro. I do struggle with a smooth shot when taking video though. Most times the first 20 seconds of a video aren’t usable because they are too shaky. I tested out the new Steadicam Curve that gives users of GoPro cameras the opportunity to create very smooth clips and it’s the solution to a shaky hand. The best part is that the Curve is small and light weight so even backpackers or carry-on only travelers like myself are willing to bring it along.
A Steadicam essentially combines the stabilized steady footage of a conventional tripod mount with the fluid motion of a dolly shot and the flexibility of hand-held camera work. While smoothly following the operator’s broad movements, the Steadicam’s armature absorbs jerks, bumps, and shakes.
Setting up the device is quite simple. You just remove your GoPro from the mount you have it connected to and click it straight into place on the Steadicam Curve. Setting the side-to-side balance is also necessary. Doing so is easily achieved by twisting the threaded cylindrical counterweight one way or the other, thus gradually moving that weight to the left or right. Once you’ re happy that the balance is right, you’re set to go! You can also choose to turn the Steadicam Curve around and hold it by the arc to get a selfie.
Using the Curve isn’t as simple as setting it up. While the video is undeniably better, it takes a while to get use to balancing the camera. Darren had no problem creating video that was smooth and fluid. I haven’t found the right balance yet. I noticed that most of my recent videos from Mauritius needed a device like the Curve. My next trip is to Israel. I’m going to practice between now and then and bring it along with me. It has the potential to solve my video footage problems but it comes with a learning Curve.
I was thinking about picking one of these up. I look forward to your opinion on it once you use it more. I’ll wait for your review.
Alex
Hi Alex,
I’m going to take it with me on the next round of travels. Stay tuned 😉
I was thinking about picking one of these up. I look forward to your opinion on it once you use it more. I’ll wait for your review.
Alex
Hi Alex,
I’m going to take it with me on the next round of travels. Stay tuned 😉
I have the Smoothee and never brought it with me because it’s too big. I struggled with the balance at first too but it comes natural now. I just ordered the Curve after reading about it here. I didn’t even realize it was out. I can’t wait to see your videos with it. Where are you going next? Bet it’s some crazy adventure.
I had a difficult time fitting the Smoothee in my backpack so I usually used it at home. The Curve is a much better fit for me. I’m going to Israel at the end of the month and Uganda for gorilla trekking from there. Lots of trips in the works. It’s a fantastic travel year 🙂
I have the Smoothee and never brought it with me because it’s too big. I struggled with the balance at first too but it comes natural now. I just ordered the Curve after reading about it here. I didn’t even realize it was out. I can’t wait to see your videos with it. Where are you going next? Bet it’s some crazy adventure.
I had a difficult time fitting the Smoothee in my backpack so I usually used it at home. The Curve is a much better fit for me. I’m going to Israel at the end of the month and Uganda for gorilla trekking from there. Lots of trips in the works. It’s a fantastic travel year 🙂
I can see why you’d need something like this but I think there are better brands on the market. Have you looked for others? Maybe you could find something easier to use.
I think I just need more practice with the Curve. I love the size and the quality is amazing when my husband uses it so I think it will come during my next round of travels.
Do you use something else, Laura?
🙂
I can see why you’d need something like this but I think there are better brands on the market. Have you looked for others? Maybe you could find something easier to use.
I think I just need more practice with the Curve. I love the size and the quality is amazing when my husband uses it so I think it will come during my next round of travels.
Do you use something else, Laura?
🙂
I was searching for GoPro attachments for my husband’s birthday. I love this and so will he. It’s on sale on Amazon just so you know. $59.99 rather than $99!
Christine
I was searching for GoPro attachments for my husband’s birthday. I love this and so will he. It’s on sale on Amazon just so you know. $59.99 rather than $99!
Christine