What equipment helped create smooth footage at the September 2nd parade?

To achieve shots with constantly changing camera angles while maintaining stable, shake-free, and blur-free images, cinematographers rely on a special device called a Steadicam.

Steadicam is considered one of the most important inventions in the history of filmmaking. It's an image stabilizer that allows the camera to move continuously while the footage remains stable and free from shaking, even when the cameraman is moving, running, jumping, or climbing stairs.

Thiết bị gì đã giúp tạo ra những cảnh quay mượt mà tại lễ diễu binh 2/9? - 1 — A cameraman uses a Steadicam system to film a sporting event (Photo: JCO).

The Steadicam was invented by Garrett Brown, an American cinematographer, and was first launched in 1975. Garrett Brown's goal in creating the Steadicam was to have a device that could better assist cinematographers.

Essentially, Steadicam operates on the principle of weight balancing and eliminating mechanical vibrations.

Steadicam's main components include body armor and a frame worn by the cameraman, distributing the camera's weight across the entire body instead of the hands; mechanical shock-absorbing arms to help dampen vibrations and stabilize the image during filming; and a support column and gimbal to keep the camera "suspended" and stabilize the image.

The entire weight of the camera, arm, and support column will be balanced by a counterweight at the bottom, which includes the battery and screen.

The steadicam's design allows the camera to be suspended, separate from the movement of the person filming, thereby stabilizing the image captured by the camera.

With professional Steadicam systems, the total weight can reach up to 30kg, requiring filmmakers to have a good level of physical fitness and skill to operate them.

Today, Steadicams are widely used in both television and film. Cinematographers use Steadicams to film live events such as parades, sporting events, and concerts with the highest level of stability, while still being able to create smooth footage even with constantly changing camera angles.

During the recent live broadcast of the parade celebrating the 80th anniversary of the successful August Revolution and National Day on September 2nd on Vietnam Television, the cameraman also used a Steadicam to create frames with constantly changing yet stable and smooth camera angles, providing a fresh experience for viewers.