01Dec Flycam Nano DSLR Video Camera Stabilizer
I’ve talked about this particular video camera stabilizer before, and have been suggesting it to many people. In my older posts i’ve always shown demo videos of other people using this Flycam Nano stabilizer. This time around, i’m actually doing the demo. It’s an affordable stabilizer with a Gimbal bearing handle that has more range of motion than the Hague MMC or IndieHardware. It’s more expensive than the IndieHardware and about the same price of the Hague (if not cheaper) depending on where you live and shipping costs. It can also carry much more weight than both the Hague MMC and IndieHardware stabilizer. The design is similar to the Glidecam series of stabilizers, and it’s possible it can carry the same weight as the Glidecam HD1000 which is 3 times the price.

Flycam Nano next to Glidecam HD4000
The Flycam Nano is a cheaper stabilizer not only because it’s coming from overseas manufacturing, but also because it doesn’t spend on fancy aesthetics. The weights used on the sled (lower tray) of the stabilizer are just large washers with a wing-nut and bolt combo. The finish of the whole unit looks like it’s some type of hard flat black paint as opposed to higher end units that use a flat black anodizing process. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing that feels like plastic. It appears to be an all metal rig. Unlike the the Glidecam HD1000 there are also no simple fine tuning knobs. To balance this stabilizer, you’ll need to loosen all the thumb screws, shift the plates, recheck and try again if it’s still off. With any stabilizer, this could be a time consuming and frustrating process especially for those who aren’t familiar with balancing a stabilizer. For myself who has balanced many other stabilizers, it took me less than a minute. Of course, the first time I balanced a Glidecam it literally took me several hours. I’ve learned to understand what to look for when balancing my cameras, and practice makes perfect.
I’m very impressed with this stabilizer and the amount of weight it can carry. I’m only using 5 of the weights on each side and the unit shipped with 10 on each side. With the amount of weight I have on there now, it doesn’t feel like the unit is struggling. I’m flying the Canon 60D with a Sigma 20mm Prime lens. The Flycam Nano I ordered also came with several extra parts including extra rubber feet and wing nuts. It was packaged nicely in a box of solid foam with cut outs. There are a few parts on the unit i’m planning to upgrade like the screws that hold the weights, and changing out the wing nuts to fancier clamp knobs. There’s also a small hex screw that holds the top stage to the post that seems to work it’s way loose after a while. A simple lock washer will prevent this from coming loose. It also lacks any type of quick release system to remove your camera when traveling. I’ll be placing a Quick release adapter to the top of this unit.

Minimal Parts for easy Travel
It’s super compact and if you decide to take it apart will fit into a small bag. It’s a really fun stabilizer, and i’m hoping to shoot something worth watching. If you have any questions for me at this point, leave them in the comments section. You can also check out the earlier related posts showing more examples of the Flycam Nano in use.

Flycam Nano DSLR Video Camera Stabilizer
Related Articles:
http://cheesycam.com/flycam-nano-now-available/
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December 1st, 2010 at 1:17 am
Very cool! Which exact model is that? I noticed that there are a few different flycam nanos out there.
Also, what’s a good aperture to use this thing with? You’re always in focus, so did you have it set at f/16 or something?
I’d b rocking a 60D with a Sigma 30mm prime so this thing should be just fine
Thanks heaps fir posting this
December 1st, 2010 at 1:21 am
Great stabilizer, great review !
Can the Flycam Nano carry a 5d & a 17-40 L ?
Thks
December 1st, 2010 at 1:28 am
@Nico – yes it can fly it. Especially without a battery grip.
December 1st, 2010 at 1:29 am
As far as I know there is only one Nano. There are other Flycam’s but only one Nano, which is the smallest of them all.
December 1st, 2010 at 1:34 am
Nice review! Quick question Emm. What are the triangular shaped plastic peices that came with it in the little bag?
December 1st, 2010 at 1:35 am
@Kelly – LOL, yeah I have no clue either. Didn’t need it.
December 1st, 2010 at 1:57 am
emm im asking the same question as guido what was your aperture? thank you
December 1st, 2010 at 2:03 am
so, you think this would work with the $24 plastic shoulder mount. I remember the video you posted of that other guy that used his balancing thing with it, I think from Austria. I forget what his was. But this looks pretty steady. nice flow at the end, in your video.
thanx
peter
December 1st, 2010 at 2:03 am
Hey, I just wanted to say I love your blog! Checking it almost every day! Bought alot of recommended stuff. So thank you for this great blog!
Funny thing: My smoke detection thing was driving me crazy cuz of nearly empty batteries. So I took the battery out this morning. Now I’m on your blog, the exact same sound appears… it took me a while to realize its from your video…. lol Also in need of a new battery? haha
December 1st, 2010 at 2:03 am
possibly at F/8, it has a lot to do with this wide lens too and its focal distance.
December 1st, 2010 at 2:05 am
Please replace the battery in your smoke detector.
December 1st, 2010 at 4:05 am
In the item description on ebay it says: For Mini DV/HDV camcorders weighing upto 700 grms
why?
December 1st, 2010 at 4:56 am
@Guido – I would go with something wider for the glidecam. I have the same 30MM Sigma and with the crop factor its almost 50MM and has no stabilizer so its not nearly as effective as something wider.
December 1st, 2010 at 6:16 am
@Emm – Funny thing about this video. Your smoke detector needs a battery and is making that horrible sound. As a coincidence, when I came home yesterday one of mine was doing the same thing. What a mission to find out which one, eh? Anyway, when I was watching the video I thought it was mine again. Had to keep stopping it and waiting. LOL. Change that battery Emm!
December 1st, 2010 at 6:17 am
Hello,
so what do you suggest to choose, HD1000 or Nano?
It is possible to purchase the HD1000, however save some money is always good
Are there any other advantages of HD1000 beside the production quality and the precision control?
I mean: weight, handle, gimbal, comfort of usage etc.
Thank you
December 1st, 2010 at 6:58 am
Good choice for my sony nex nex5? Does it work with a really unbalanced cam? I’m using my nex with an arm bracket and a Led light, can i use the nano with them or should i mount only the camera?
Thanks, great review!
December 1st, 2010 at 7:06 am
i got a steadycam jr on ebay for about 200, its a challange to get it steady using the d7000 and i’m thinking of selling it to get something like the glidecam nano…but i’m wondering how much is user error on my part.
question, how do you do the turns and pans using the glidcam nano? i know with the JR you have to have two fingers on the gimble top…but i keep hitting the pause switch.
December 1st, 2010 at 7:11 am
Got this product a couple weeks back and really couldn’t balance it with my t2i. So after the 3rd day I gave up. Really lost faith in the nano untill i seen your vid. Thnks emm for posting. Very much appreciated.
December 1st, 2010 at 7:27 am
Emm,could you make a video tutorial or tips&tricks episode how to ballance this little monster ?
December 1st, 2010 at 7:49 am
I’ve gone through the Hague and the indihardware — looks like it’s time to check out another Cheesycam product and add it to the list!
December 1st, 2010 at 9:01 am
You have to change your smoke detector batteries bro.
December 1st, 2010 at 9:31 am
Hey! Nice review! Do you think it would handle a small cheap field monitor mounted on the cam? (t2i)
Cheers!
December 1st, 2010 at 9:31 am
Would this work with a 60D + Tamron 17-50 and a follow focus? Will this work in conjunction with their forearm brace?
December 1st, 2010 at 9:42 am
Ditto what Peter said. Is the handle solid or does it have a pre-screwed hole?
December 1st, 2010 at 10:28 am
Do you think a 5d mkII with 24-70mm 2.8 be to heavy for the nano?
December 1st, 2010 at 11:33 am
Hmm..I have that setup here. Might give it a go, but for stabilizers and for the sake of your arms, you don’t need a telephoto. You won’t be doing any zooming while flying. It’s best to get a lightweight wide lens. For a cropped camera, I suggest the EF-S 10-22mm. It’s super wide when you want, or you can zoom it to 22mm. My lens is an EF mount Sigma 20mm that looks more like 35-36mm on the 60D.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:35 am
@terry – i’ll more photos up soon. It’s hollow but has a plug underneath to cover it up.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:36 am
@rbg – Using a follow focus on this type of stabilizer would be difficult if not impossible. It’s a lightweight stabilizer. The handle is hollow, it’s possible it might work with a forearm brace.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:37 am
Interesting, the weights are fairly heavy and it might. But it’s a really good solution for a travel sized stabilizer, and I wouldn’t want to load it up to be too much of a beast.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:38 am
@Matthew – LOL – yes I know. One thing that sucks is that my Parrots have learned to mimic that low battery sound. Changing the batteries won’t help in my house..
December 1st, 2010 at 11:39 am
@Hristijan – there’s plenty of stabilizer videos for balancing a Glidecam which is the same. But I get so many comments, it might be time to show how I do it.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:40 am
@Hal – don’t get frustrated. I almost threw a Glidecam out the door because I was so pissed. LOL. Once you understand how it’s done, it’s easy every single time.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:41 am
@jeremy – Yes pretty much any stabilizer i’ve worked with is a two hand operation. It’s all practice practice practice….I’ve been doing it for a couple of years now. There’s actually a whole video on just how to walk with one.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:42 am
@AlexPN – yes it would work with an unbalanced camera. You can try with the bracket, it might hold the weight.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:43 am
@HajLender – The Glidecam HD1000 has some fine tuning knobs that makes balancing so much easier and faster. I really hate the ‘Pro’ series of Glidecam because it lacks the knobs. The Nano can be just as painful, but for me i’m very familiar with balancing these things, so it’s quite fast for me.
December 1st, 2010 at 11:44 am
@Harlan – Yeah I know!!! I got so many comments on that, but glad to know you guys were paying attention to the whole video. Hahah. The sad thing is that my parrots have all learned to mimic that sound. How do you change that sound from a bunch of Parrots?
December 1st, 2010 at 11:46 am
@Guido – Yes check out what a 10-22mm on a 60D looks like on this video http://cheesycam.com/canon-60d-video-stabilizer-first-flight-glidecam-hd4000/
December 1st, 2010 at 2:28 pm
Which seller did you get it from? proaim23?
December 1st, 2010 at 2:32 pm
@jay – From proaim, but I have purchased other things from the other seller. Both are reputable.
December 1st, 2010 at 2:47 pm
Hi Emm,
do you think a canon7d with the tokina 11-16 can be used with it?
December 1st, 2010 at 2:56 pm
@Emm – Do you know what the difference is between the Flycam Nano and the 3000? Is it a max. load difference? The price is about $100+ for the 3000.
December 1st, 2010 at 2:56 pm
@Christophe – yes i dont see why not.
December 1st, 2010 at 3:05 pm
@spaceflows – the 3000 is huge. It would be compared to a Glidecam HD4000. The Nano is compared to the HD1000. You can see the difference between a HD1000 and HD4000 here: http://cheesycam.com/glidecam-hd1000-dslr-video-stabilizer-demonstration/
December 1st, 2010 at 3:08 pm
Thanks, but I said that because the 7D weighs 860 grams, it is heavier than 60D, and the tokina weighs 560gr. => total: 1420 grams near 1,5kg
December 1st, 2010 at 3:13 pm
@Christophe – I’ll have to take you up on that challenge. Haha. I have all the cameras, and have worked with many stabilizers. I really don’t see why this little guy can’t do it. I’ll post a test when I get the chance.
December 1st, 2010 at 3:18 pm
I have the Fly Cam Nano and I can attest it can hold a lot of weight. Using the same setup as EMM, 5 weights on front and back, I was able to balance:
T2i with Battery grip
and Tokina 11-16 mm lens!
Check out my video here:
http://vimeo.com/16754728
December 1st, 2010 at 3:25 pm
OK ! The bets are made!
)
December 1st, 2010 at 3:43 pm
mine comes friday, can’t wait!! thanks for another review.
December 1st, 2010 at 6:03 pm
Having trouble locating on eBay. Perhaps this post has lead to a supply issue?
Is the Flycam Nano Steadicam fr SC-D353 Mini DV VDR-M50 HG10 the same as the review unit?
Anyone tested this with a D7000 yet?
December 1st, 2010 at 7:18 pm
cl smooth indeed! did you use your own quick release plate in this test?
December 1st, 2010 at 7:22 pm
@Mr. Y – no quick release plate on the stabilizer in this video.
December 1st, 2010 at 7:24 pm
nevermind guess it helps to READ the blog too haha
December 1st, 2010 at 7:59 pm
@Christophe Yes the Nano works just fine with a Tokina 11-16mm and t2i, and bogen quick release plate. It might be pushing it with the 7d though
December 2nd, 2010 at 6:29 am
@kelly, I hope you are right but the 7D weighs 300 grams more ! it’s a big difference to balance it.
December 2nd, 2010 at 6:41 am
@Emm If you swivel the screen on the 60D up or down does it throw the balance off?
December 2nd, 2010 at 8:44 am
@Mr.Brown – not tilting up or down, but swinging it back in will.
December 2nd, 2010 at 9:30 am
@Emm- Thanks for the clarification on Nano Vs. 3000.
December 2nd, 2010 at 10:27 pm
I recently got a Glidecam 2000HD. It was INCREDIBLY easy to stabilize. Those thumbscrews are a godsend. I have my 60D and a Canon Wide Angle L Lens on it and use only 2 weights. I LOVE it!
December 3rd, 2010 at 10:53 am
Hey Emm,
I’m asking the same question as Christophe on Canon 7D with Tokina 11-16 to be used with this Flycam Nano. If it can, it’s almost a positive investment for me in the future. All other options are at least $350 incl. shipping :/
Thanks for the review though. It’s a joy seeing you handling it so well, but since loads of people have complained about trying to balance a steadicam, won’t be as easy as it looks when I do get a chance to try it out.
Looking forward to hearing from you on the above combo.
December 3rd, 2010 at 10:55 am
@J Toha- I can probably test that out today, I don’t see why not.
December 3rd, 2010 at 5:55 pm
Man,
after watching, I’m getting one of these.
Thanks a lot for all the info and reviews, I’m loving this website.
December 4th, 2010 at 11:52 pm
Hey Emm, thanks for another great review. However, I’m wondring about the same thing as @JToha asked, I have the 7d + Tokina 11-16, Sigma 30mm and Sigma 50mm. With any of these combined it would still exceed the maximum weight recommended for the flycam. The sellers on ebay state, “The FLYCAM nano is newly designed Flycam Stabilizer for the mini dv/hdv camcorders weighing upto 700grms.” – And the 7d alone weighs more than that, and mounting a lense on it, makes it about 1kg or more in some cases. Anyway, I’d appreciate it too if you could do a test and let us know. Keep up the good work bro.
December 7th, 2010 at 2:52 am
Hi, nice review.
I too am interested to see if the 7D and lens will work on this or not.
December 7th, 2010 at 2:55 am
brilliant! special reviews up for us 7D users! Great work.
December 7th, 2010 at 10:27 am
Where can I get a quick release plate? Do I have to buy a whole tripod and take it off the tripod or are they sold separately?
December 7th, 2010 at 11:36 am
@Anthony – yes you can buy it seperate. A cheap common one is the Manfrotto RC2.
December 8th, 2010 at 11:34 pm
hey emm – does the nano allow you to tilt up and down – not just glide left and right – like the HD1000?
December 20th, 2010 at 8:54 am
Hey Emm, last question. I got the quick release, now how do I attached it to the “slow release” plate of the nano? I was just going to run out to home depot and buy a short screw and nut…is that right?
December 20th, 2010 at 9:27 am
@Anthony – I’ll show my setup later today. I think I used a 3/4″ flat head screw with 1/4×20 threads, one washer, one lock washer, then the bolt.
December 20th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
thank you so much, Emm
December 22nd, 2010 at 5:28 pm
just received it, only 8 days to italy, great product! i also bought quick release adapter and plate to complete it
December 23rd, 2010 at 10:50 am
In the end, which one would you suggest overall, the Flycam Nano or the Steadicam Jr?
December 23rd, 2010 at 11:03 am
The nano is easier to handle, and its hard to find a good JR for 100 bucks.
December 25th, 2010 at 6:42 pm
I am in between the Flycam nano and the Hague mini. Which one would you choose?
December 26th, 2010 at 9:49 am
@Paola – Flycam Nano can carry more weight.
December 27th, 2010 at 7:47 am
hey emm. can the flycam carry a 60d with rode videomic?
December 27th, 2010 at 10:57 am
@Naoki – Yes it should, but not with a grip.
December 30th, 2010 at 10:33 pm
I already spend close to 2 hours playing with this toy. I couldn’t figure it out how to balance it. I think my 5d mark ii with 24-105 lens is just to heavy for the Stabilizer.
December 30th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
@VajGer90 – I’ll be out of the studio for a while, but I can test the 5D Mark II with 24-105mm when I get back in. That wouldn’t be something I would normally fly though.
December 31st, 2010 at 11:42 am
what do u mean grip? sorry for being such a noob.
December 31st, 2010 at 12:56 pm
@Naoki – LOL, sorry I meant not if your camera has a battery grip. That would probably be too much weight.
January 3rd, 2011 at 2:35 am
I’m wondering if anyone knows whether its worth the money for my 7D to get a Flycam Nano or if its much better to get a Flycam 5000 with a vest and magic arm?
January 3rd, 2011 at 2:36 am
Oh and thoughts on Nano vs. 3000 vs. 5000 vs 6000?
January 8th, 2011 at 5:59 pm
hi Emm my top hex nut has come loose completely and wont even tighten. my unit is totally useless right now. do you know where i can find a new one with that fine of a thread, all home depot has are the ones with the wide thread. thanks!
January 8th, 2011 at 6:28 pm
@Ibro – try an auto parts store or orchard supply.
January 8th, 2011 at 10:58 pm
thanks will do!
January 12th, 2011 at 7:21 pm
this is for anyone else having the same problem with the hex nut. i got teflon from Pep Boys & it solved the problems.
January 20th, 2011 at 8:56 am
Cheesy.
I really appreciate the information you publish here. I’m a fan of your blog. Thanks for posting useful reviews daily. Today I bought a couple of Flycams Nano. I told the ebay seller I made my decision based on the review you made. I hope you may succeed in all what you do.
Blessings.
Santiago, Chile. South America.
January 23rd, 2011 at 3:43 am
Hi Emm,
Recently bought a 60d and got my Nano in yesterday, but I’m really having a hard time balancing it. Is there any kind of math-trick to it that you can teach (or show) us? Like some easy rules to follow, from where we can dig into the fine tuning? I mean, the basics of balancing a 7d of 60d should be the same, right? I’d hate to spend a full day of balancing again after I change lenses…
(in my case 17-40 and 50 1.8 for now). Please help:)
Thnx in advance… Greetings from Holland
btw: the black triangular things go between your bottom weight and the base plate (Some asian youtube video on balancing a Nano showed me)
January 23rd, 2011 at 8:42 am
@TomR – I did a balancing video, and the obey thing I can stress is moving the lower sled up or down a little bit at a time.
February 20th, 2011 at 1:07 am
Will this work with the canon Vixia HG20 with the DM100?
February 20th, 2011 at 1:43 am
@Victor – I don’t see why not. The Vixia is pretty light.
February 20th, 2011 at 2:40 am
Thanks Emm. Im just hesitant on buying a stabilizer and it not being compatible. I have looked at this, the lensse and hague and I still cant decide! the canon vixiaHG20 w/ the DM 100 is a bit heavier then the wight limit on all 3,I think.but I dont know if the additional wight would make such a difference
February 20th, 2011 at 7:10 am
@Victor – Of all, the Flycam can fly more than the hague and Lensse. If you really want to be safe, get the Glidecam HD2000.
March 8th, 2011 at 11:46 am
I don’t know man….started watching this and I became skeptical withing 15 seconds.Why? You are standing still. The camera appears in the mirror to be pretty still, yet what I see from out here is the thing is moving around.A lot to be so near-motionless.
March 8th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
@Mikel Estes – You might want to look at this video too: http://cheesycam.com/flycam-nano-stabilizer-abused-with-7d-tokina/
Skeptical about a Flycam Nano is a bit late. There’s already hundreds of users uploading videos much better than the one posted in this article. Seems to work great.
March 21st, 2011 at 12:03 pm
Hi there,
Emm wrote, the Nano can take a lot of weight. But I couldn´t find exact number. So: Will it be able to carry the 860 grams of my Pana GH-2 plus 140mm Objective?
Without serious impact on handling.
Also, is there something here about the Flycam ultralite ( or so) ?
Thanks for answering, also for the great blog and your work here.
all the best from
total newbie Christian from Berlin
March 21st, 2011 at 1:20 pm
@Christian – I think it would fly that GH2 and 140mm lens.
March 24th, 2011 at 3:37 pm
Hey i was wondering if you needed to have a
quick release plate adapter for this?
March 24th, 2011 at 3:40 pm
@MclVelocity – It’s doesn’t require one, but it makes it easier to remove the camera and pack it up. Otherwise you’d need to take the top off and unscrew the camera and then have a loose 1/4 x 20 screw that can easily be lost.
April 11th, 2011 at 9:03 pm
Hi guys,
I just got the DSLR flycam Nano today and I’ve been trying to get it steady with my Canon 60D with the 18-200 lens kit. I’m not having any luck. The camera seems to move side to side when walking and its not smooth. Any advice?
Thanks,
Chris
April 11th, 2011 at 11:33 pm
@Chris – Use two hands, and if it rocks side to side, you might have too much weight on the bottom. It needs to be more balanced, just ’slightly’ bottom heavy.
April 13th, 2011 at 7:57 pm
Thanks Emm. Is there a place I can post a video to show you what is happening?
April 14th, 2011 at 1:03 am
@Chris – Upload it to your Vimeo or YouTube, and send me the link.
April 21st, 2011 at 12:54 am
Hi Emm and guys!
How do you think what will be better for light setup? I am using cameras from GoPro HeroHD+LCDBackPac up to 0.7kg Sony NEX-5+17-35. Now i am looking at Flycam Nano and Lensse MidX (U-Flycam just looks like broken office chair
and cant make a decision. The target is some flying with turning and up-down moves with budget about 150$.
Thanks!
April 21st, 2011 at 9:48 am
@imles – It might be very hard to balance a GoPro on a Flycam (unless you add weights to the top). If you plan on balancing heavier cameras in the future, go Flycam. If you are just planning on GoPro then the mid range Lensse should work out.
April 29th, 2011 at 11:12 pm
Hi guys I am really confused here. Is it the flycam nano, the flycam nano dslr or the flycam 3000… sorry but I am just confused, thanks for any help
e
May 11th, 2011 at 10:06 am
What is the difference between flycam nano and flycam nana dslr. The regular flycam nano is like $50 cheaper than dslr version…
May 11th, 2011 at 10:17 am
@Yaro – I get that question a lot, and personally I think someone just slapped the ‘Nano’ name on the old Flycam 3000 because more people are searching for ‘Nano’. Marketing bait?
May 17th, 2011 at 2:11 am
But wouldn’t make more sense to get the DSLR Nano as it holds 1.5Kilo (if using with DSLR) where as the normal nano is only made for 700g? Can the 700g version really be expected to perform with 7D etc.?
May 17th, 2011 at 6:39 am
@Liam – Here’s two examples. You’re welcome to go with what you feel would work best.
http://cheesycam.com/flycam-nano-stabilizer-abused-with-7d-tokina/
http://cheesycam.com/flycam-nano-stabilizer-test/
July 30th, 2011 at 9:00 pm
Hi Emm,
Great work with “Cheesycam”, I’ve been a regular since I discovered it…
I was almost about to go for the Flycam Nano DSLR, when I discovered the same guys that make them in India have a cheaper (and apparently a lot easier to balance) U-Flycam stabilizer. Do you have any experience with this one? Could it be a better option for a “virgin” flyer like me?
Thanks a lot for the input!
July 30th, 2011 at 10:57 pm
@Rodrigo – I’ve only heard not so good things about that one. The Nano would be the better choice.
August 1st, 2011 at 1:32 pm
@Emm – Thanks for the quick answer! I’m gonna trust your experienced advise and go with the Nano! Cheers
August 12th, 2011 at 3:29 am
Hey.. I saw the recent comments where you recommend the Flycam Nano over U-Flycam. I’m still confused, should I go for Flycam Nano which suports 0,7 kg or for the U-Flycam with 1,5 kg? I will use a Canon 550D/T2i (most probably without battery grip to cut weight) and the kit or 50 mm lens. It is the Flycam Nano structure better than the U-Flycam? After I saw the recent comments on this I think my option will be Flycam Nano too. Thank you..
August 12th, 2011 at 3:36 am
Which one would you buy? The Indiehardware Stabilizer or this Flycam Nano, bearing in mind that where I live the Indiehardware costs around $130 and the Flycam nano $240. Is the Flycam Nano worth the extra +$100?
August 12th, 2011 at 3:38 am
P.S. I plan to use it with a Sony A33 with Tamron 17-50 2.8 and Rode Videomic (total weight around 2.2lbs).
August 12th, 2011 at 7:13 am
@Jeff – The Flycam.
August 12th, 2011 at 7:14 am
@whoisrikk – Design is better on the Flycam.
August 20th, 2011 at 5:45 pm
Hi, I saw it in the video that wile you are shooting the image is always in focus…..how do you do that ? Because Canon doesn’t have autofocus so you have to do it manualy all the time….I am realy wondering how did you manage to keep it all the time in focus ?
Thanks,
August 20th, 2011 at 5:59 pm
@Luca – Close down aperture to like F/8 so everything remains in focus.
August 21st, 2011 at 4:31 am
Thanks buddy…I will try to do the same…..
August 30th, 2011 at 5:58 pm
DO NOT buy this product if you use any heavy lenses with your 5D (ie 50mm 1.2, 35mm 1.4, 85mm etc.). The flycam will not handle the weight of your camera plus lens and forget adding anything else such as a mic. Just warning you as I purchased this earlier in the year and gave it my best getting it balanced but in the end had to sell it and cut my losses.
August 31st, 2011 at 8:11 am
@Al – I think you should have gone with a slightly larger stabilizer. This is meant only for lightweight set ups and works fine. I’ve been flying all of my Canon 5D Mark II’s and 7D’s with no issues. I mainly fly with a Sigma 20mm or Tokina 11-16mm. When i’m adding anything additional, I move up to my larger stabilizers.
September 5th, 2011 at 3:46 pm
Hi Emm! What do you recommend? Flycam Nano or U-Flycam?
I’m confused, should I go for Flycam Nano which suports 0,7 kg or for the U-Flycam with 1,5 kg?
I use both a Canon Vixia HF10 and Canon 5D Mark II (without battery grip)with Canon 24-105mm. Thanks,
September 5th, 2011 at 6:47 pm
@igor – Flycam Nano. If you get a stabilizer too big, then it won’t balance a light camera.
September 17th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
@Al did you purchase the regular Flycam Nano or the recently released Flycam Nano DSLR version? The DSLR version looks like it holds heavier cameras and has a slightly different design and weight system. It also comes with a arm brace which extends the handle length as well. I am debating whether to buy one or not for my Canon 60D. The 60D is a bit lighter than the 5D and I have seen videos testing the 7D (which is heavier) with a Tokina 11-16 mm lens with no problems. The thing that sucks the most is the $45-50 dollars for shipping on ebay for that item.
September 20th, 2011 at 7:33 am
Hi, I have Nikon D7000 with the lens Nikon 16-85, what do you think which stabilizer will work better for my camera, the Hague MMC or the Flycam nano ? Thanks….
September 20th, 2011 at 9:41 am
@Luca – Go with the Flycam Nano.
September 21st, 2011 at 3:53 am
Help!! Ive just got the new flycam nano dslr, using 5dmk 2 with 24-105
Stays in the middle but as i fly move left to right forward back it swings alot any ideas??? Many thanks
September 21st, 2011 at 7:02 am
@kg – Sounds like you have too much weight at the bottom. Check this out http://cheesycam.com/the-most-boring-video-in-the-world/
September 22nd, 2011 at 2:56 am
Thanks emm i watched this video before i posted for help!! Lol im using the new version nano each weight is 95grams ive tried with 4 on each side upto 6 still cant nail it do u have ruff idea how much weight i should be using 5d mk2 with 24-105 5d = 810g 24-105 = 670grams
September 22nd, 2011 at 6:43 am
@Kg – It not always the amount of weight, but distance of weight. Sliding the post up ad down will help change the weight ration without adding or removing weights. Are you on the Flycam DSLR or the Flycam Nano?
September 22nd, 2011 at 8:07 am
Hi emm im using the flycam nano dslr each weight is 96gram each. at the min im using 4 weights on each side the qr plate is screwed on the left hand side last hole, ive been moving the middle pole up and down ruffly be mm its getting there but i still find sliding left to right sometimes tilting forward, 2days have gone trying to nail it
http://cheesycam.com/new-flycam-nano-dslr-video/
This is what i have
September 22nd, 2011 at 8:42 am
@Kg – The first time I balanced a Glidecam Pro (similar setup) I wanted to throw it out the wiindow. Took me a few days to figure it out. Patience and practice. Sometimes adding additional weight to the top of the Stabilizer helps to make it more stable. I fly a 5D Mark II or 7D with some decent weight lenses. Try adding some very small weights above the camera. Here’s one where I needed to add additional weights because the stabilizer was too big http://cheesycam.com/canon-60d-video-stabilizer-first-flight-glidecam-hd4000/
September 22nd, 2011 at 10:15 am
Lool thanks was so close throwing it as far as posibble!! emm gona give it a try, thank you ever so much for your help
September 22nd, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Hi Emm, last time you told me to close down aperture to like F/8 so that everything remains in focus…..I wanted to ask you, what about if I’m make it like F/9 or F/10 is it going to get any better, or F/8 is the best choice ? thanks…..
September 22nd, 2011 at 1:09 pm
@Luca – Depending on the lens you can get sharp focus at different apertures. Ideally things will get more in focus with a narrower aperture when going from F/8 – F/16.
September 30th, 2011 at 10:59 am
hey,
i am interessed in that one.. but will it hold a canon 60d plus battery grip and smaller lenses like fisheye or 50mm or something? nothing over 100mm…
nice reviews you got !
September 30th, 2011 at 11:04 am
@Kane – I think the battery grip might be pushing it. You’ll need to look at a slightly larger Stabilizer like a Glidecam HD2000 or maybe that slightly larger Flycam DSLR nano (which I haven’t tried yet).
October 17th, 2011 at 4:23 am
Hey all,
So I will be trying to fly a 7D with the 18-135 kit lens and potentially a H2N on top for sound. No extended batter but someday maybe a smallhd 6 monitor.
Do you think a Flycam DSLR nano? Glidecam? If Glidecam, what size do you think?
This space is pretty confusing
Ken
October 17th, 2011 at 7:58 am
@Soulhuntre – A simple lens cap can throw your entire balance off. It only takes a very little amount of weight to change dramatically, so with all that stuff, you’re looking for at least the Glidecam HD2000.
October 27th, 2011 at 1:48 am
Will it work with a T3i with Canon EF-S 17-85mm, a small cip on mic, and a ND filter?
Thanks emm thanks for making this website.
November 20th, 2011 at 5:05 pm
I noticed the specs on the Flycam Nano say it can hold up to 700 grams. My GH2 and 14-140 lens already weigh 942 grams and that doesn’t include the VideoMicPro I’ll be adding (and possibly an H4N recorder). Is it safe to assume it won’t accommodate my camera? If so, is the Mini Sturdycam a good alternative? Thanks!
November 20th, 2011 at 5:16 pm
@Mac – You’ll need to step up to a Glidecam HD2000 for that gear.
November 24th, 2011 at 2:02 am
hey all, do you think the flycam nano, will be able to be stabilised with a fisheye lens 15 mm?
December 4th, 2011 at 9:04 pm
ok i just bought a flycam nano..and im new on video graphy..i just want to ask,wither the fly cam nano can handle canon 7D with its kit 18-135..or i have to change to a lighter lens?? i have 85MM 1/8 tho..is it can be balance?( sorry for my English )
December 5th, 2011 at 7:23 am
@sai – It should work on that Flycam. Just takes practice practice practice.
December 5th, 2011 at 7:15 pm
it take me 5days yet i cant balance the 7D and 18-135..i did try everything..somehow it cant get to balance…can you do me a favor, post a video tutorial how to balance the 7D and the 18-135mm??? i know you did already with the tokina..but again i just need a favor,this weekend my sister is getting married, so i want to use the flycam and 7D and 18-135mm,to make a video on her day, as a surprise gift from me to her,so as a family member i want to make a video that she can remember for her whole life..( sorry for my english)
December 17th, 2011 at 5:47 am
Hi,
Can this flycam nano be used to stabilize cameras weighing only 100-200g?
Thx
December 17th, 2011 at 6:16 pm
@atcc – You would need to add more weight to the top. I’m not sure what the minimum is, but you can always add something to the top with the camera.
December 30th, 2011 at 12:19 am
Hey Emm I have a canon 7d with a canon 28-135 mm lens, And the question is will the flycam nano carry it
December 30th, 2011 at 3:43 am
@Jr – Hmm..might be a tad heavy with the longer lens. I think it’s possible though.
January 26th, 2012 at 9:55 pm
Is it hard to balance after you take the system apart and then put it back together?
January 27th, 2012 at 2:46 pm
Just got mine and its working good… But how do i keep it from turning left and right? It just wants to spin in circles when I move it a lot.
January 27th, 2012 at 2:51 pm
@Adam – Use your other hand to control the steering. It’s always a two handed operation when flying.
January 30th, 2012 at 10:11 pm
Pete Rock and CL smooth! great song choice haha
February 17th, 2012 at 2:25 am
Hi,
Thanks for this video.
Do you think the flycam nano can support 60 + tokina 11-16 or samyang 35mm ?
Thanks for your answer
February 17th, 2012 at 7:48 am
@benouceh – Yes I think so.
March 13th, 2012 at 4:04 am
I have been messing with this for 5+ hours now and I haven’t gotten anywhere. All someone has to do is a step-by-step on the weight settings for the 550D T2i and 11-16mm but I CANNOT find it. PLEASE someone make a tutorial.
March 26th, 2012 at 3:12 pm
Hi, great video!
Is it possible to switch the quick release with the bottom weight, so the camera would be hanging upside down? And how about for the Glidecam HD-1000?
Thanks!
March 26th, 2012 at 3:20 pm
@Mark – Hmm. Possibly. I’d have to double check, but somehow I think the top part can’t be disassembled.
March 27th, 2012 at 11:20 am
Thanks. Do you think it’ll work on the HD-1000?
March 30th, 2012 at 6:04 am
Hi
Thanks for such a good review. I’m thinking of getting the Flycam Nano after reading your review and the helpful comments. I use a H4n Zoom together with a Rode Videomic – do you think the Flycam Nano could take the weight of my Canon 600D as well as the Rode and Zoom?
Thanks again – great stuff, really appreciate it.
Craig
March 30th, 2012 at 6:10 am
@Craig Mill – No it wouldn’t carry that much weight.
August 15th, 2012 at 6:50 pm
Hey Cheesycam experts!! I’m having alot of truble balancing my flycam nano with my 18-55 or my 30mm 1.4f sigma….. It is a little better with my 15-55, but my t2i and sigma 30mm 1.4f should be fine too
Anyway my problem is swaying and “bumping” up and down:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151143924031163
It is really really apprent that Im walking and it is not ” flying”
I really need to correct this problem. Could somebody tell me the exact waight ditribution for my canon t2i and my canon t2i with 30mm 1.4f sigma? I have watched ALL videos regarding balancing… I know the bottom should be little heavier, and 3-4 second rule and so on… BUT, it is mainly the bumping I want to correct
TY so much
August 15th, 2012 at 11:02 pm
@Henric – You need to hold the handle off to the side so that it has room to float up and down. I think you might be holding it in a position that doesn’t allow the gimbal to have good movement.
November 19th, 2012 at 5:14 am
Hey guys,
does this product run under the name “Flycam Nano Mini”? I’m confused about the “Mini”. You are not using “Mini” but all ebay auctions have the name “Mini”…e.g.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/221150014886#ht_4920wt_1297
Is this the correct one?
Thanks
November 19th, 2012 at 11:02 am
@Konrad – Yes there are two versions a ‘Flycam Nano Mini’ and a ‘Flycam Nano DSLR‘. I am using just the ‘Flycam Nano Mini‘.