Shoulder Mounts are a dynamic piece of equipment that allows the camera to move with the camera person. They provide a flexibility of movement that other camera supports such as a tripod for example don’t since they are static.
DSLR cameras for example are extremely sensitive to movement and whilst more modern cameras have become much lighter, they are still not ergonomically friendly. Shooting without any form of stabilization is both risky, and often time consuming as shots are shaky and usually not of a high standard.
Camera “shakes” or movements in a final cut deter the viewer from the illusion the film you are making might be trying to create. It’s not advised to attempt to edit out shaky filming and with a should mount you can get perfect steady shots.
This quick guide will show you a diverse range of shoulder mounts covering something for everyone regardless of your budget, experience or requirements!
Neewer Portable FilmMaker System With Camera/Camcorder Mount Slider
The Neewer Portable Filmaker System is the perfect all-round Shoulder Mounting camera system. Move smoothly with your camera whilst you film thanks to the light weight mobile design.
Neewer also make it easy for you to add your additions to the camera support offering the opportunity for you to make this Shoulder Mount even better for your specific requirements.
The rubber shoulder pad and handle grip make this shoulder mount a great choice for filmmakers who will be filming for extended periods of time.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- You can add parts and accessories to this camera mount if you require added components thanks to the rail system that the Neewer uses.
- Rubber should and hand support make this a comfortable option for long use whilst filming.
- Compatible with ¼ screw camera.
- Angled design allows for proportional change to fit your specific requirements.
- Modular set up means this Camera Mount can be used by people who are left or right handed.
- Camera rails allow you to zoom in and perform focus shots without touching the camera.
- You can also use this Camera Mount as a handheld device as well as attach it to a tripod if you desire.
Cons
- Some parts of the rig are made of low-quality materials that will age quickly.
- The Shoulder Mount has small rails in comparison with other models on the market.
- The slider can stick and become top heavy with heavier camera models.
- Budget Shoulder Mount which shows throughout the product.
Sunrise Aluminium Portable Shoulder Stabilizer Set
The Sunrise Aluminium Portable Shoulder Stabalizer is another great Shoulder Mount for the camera operator looking for a steady shot. This Mount is also great for long term use and it comes with supports that will make wearing the mount comofrtbale for long periods of time.
The Sunrise Shoulder Mount is also made of aircraft aluminum making it a sturdier product than some of the other models on the market. The higher quality use of materials is however reflected in the price.
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible design for comfort, long term use and portability.
- Strong build quality made of aircraft aluminum.
- Counterweights make the rails easier to use when focusing or zooming in on a shot.
- Rubber support grips make this easy on the body for long term use.
- Rail design enables you to add on further products if you require them.
Cons
- Heavy when paired with large cameras.
- Rubber grips wear out quickly.
- Counterweight is one heavy weight as a posed to multiple weights that you can move around.
Movo Photo SG300 Deluxe Video Shoulder Support Rig
The Movo Photo SG300 Deluxe support rig is a camera stabilization mechanism that helps reduce shaking in video footage as well as photography. This is a budget option which provides a great option for those that wish to shoot perfect wobble free images.
This product is fairly basic, but it does offer the opportunity to add extras if you were to decide to purchase and later wanted to add further gadgets to make this shoulder support more effective.
Pros
- Good value for money.
- Produces shake free footage.
- Height adjustable to suit a variety of people and different filming angles.
- The detachable handheld grip can be removed from the shoulder support to use independently.
- Ability to add on further products if you wish to improve the Movo’s capabilities.
- Can be used on the left or right shoulder.
- Sturdy build quality for the price.
Cons
- Will only support cameras 5.5lbs or less.
- Doesn’t include a counterweight wish can make optical hands-free zooming and focusing tough.
- No counterweight can also make this rig uncomfortable after sustained use.
- Won’t work with a quick plate system.
- Built for 35mm cameras and not camcorders.
- Counterweights are currently all out of stock in the USA.
Ultimaxx Shoulder Stabilizer with Compact Design
The Ultimaxx Shoulder Stabilizer is a compact designed universal fitting shoulder mounting rig that will work great with any camcorder, 35mm camera or other DSLR camera.
The Ultimaxx Shoulder Stabilizer is made out of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene plastic which makes for both light weight design and a hardy exterior that will last the test of time. It also comes with a stabilizing strap to add further support as well as chest and shoulder support for extended use.
This is a great all round shoulder support rig for anyone looking to make the most of film with a stabilizer to add better quality shots to their film.
Pros
- Great build quality.
- Acrylionitrile Butadiene Styrene Plastic makes this rig both extremely light weight as well as strong.
- Shoulder and chest support with rubber rests make this a great rig for long time shooting.
- The practical design makes this shoulder support great for storing away and easy to reassemble when you want to film again.
- Smart design and high-end finish make this shoulder mount support look professional.
- Suits any ¼ screw in camera, camcorder or DSLR.
- Carrying case is included for easy transportation.
Cons
- No built-in rails mean that you cannot zoom or focus without using the camera.
- Straight shoulder mount means that you’re LCD monitor can be extremely close to your face making it hard to see your filming live.
Ikan Flyweight DSLR Shoulder Rig
The Ikan Flyweight DSLR Shoulder Rig is the ultimate complete rig. Lightweight shoulder plates and included counterweights insure that your filming will always be perfectly steady.
Two handle grips make the Ikan Flyweight both comfortable on the shoulders and hands as well as sturdy for anyone wanting to film for long durations or for use every day.
The two textured non-slip grips are great for filming action shots, fast shots and filming on the move. The Ikan Flyweight also comes with the ability to be attached to a tripod if required.
Pros
- Light weight and great build quality.
- Two tone grips make this shoulder rig sturdy and easy to use.
- Great for any type of filming.
- Compatible with any camcorder, DLSR or 35mm camera.
- Quick release plates that make camera mobility both easy and achievable.
- Anti-rotation camera support for hands free stability.
- Integrated tripod mounting abilities.
- Rail system means you can accessories as you require.
- Use effectively regardless of which hand you’re more comfortable with.
- Rail system means you can zoom and focus without touching the camera.
Cons
- Expensive gear.
- Doesn’t come with any carry case.
- Large piece of equipment.
Types of Shoulder Mounts
Shoulder Mounts come in two types traditionally, straight and offset. Depending on where your LCD monitor opens up, ultimately determines which shoulder mount will be better for you. If for example your LCD monitor opened to the side, you’d want an offset shoulder mount, so your viewing angle isn’t obscured.
There are also both flat metal and rail system shoulder mounts. Rail systems are more popular and normally better for most projects as they are adaptable allowing you to build onto them with add-ons such as lens support which will ultimately give you a better shot.
Other things to consider when buying a Shoulder Mount for your camera are support options. If you’re filming for long periods of time it is important to look into either arm or chest support to make the shooting experience more comfortable and practical.
Conclusion
We have covered a variety of shoulder mounts ranging from budget options to some of the best options on the market right now.
Any of these shoulder mounts will stabilize your camera allowing you to shoot wobble free video footage that will look seamless and edit perfectly giving you the highest level of production quality.
