Overview
The Easyrig Minimax is a great support option for productions with extensive handheld camerawork with cameras weighing 4.4 to 15.4 lb.
The Minimax allows you to take breaks from holding the entire weight of the camera build. You can keep a light hand on it and let the body harness take most of the weight.
Taking the weight off your arms enables you to hold the camera steady for longer periods of time while reducing fatigue.
The Easyrig Minimax is not a stabilizer or gimbal. It does not produce smooth tracking shots - on its own.
Table of Contents
- EDC Easyrig MiniMax Component Guide
- Quick Start Guide
- Troubleshooting
- Compatible EDC Accessories
- Tips & Tricks
EDC Easyrig MiniMax Component Guide
Vest
(BELT: 32" to 55")
The Flex Vest is also available.
Flex Vest
(BELT: 29" TO 50")
Carrying Case
Quick Start Guide
Overview
First Steps
Needs photos from EDC
- Putting the Minimax On
- You wear the Minimax like a back-pack.
- Slip your arms through the large straps while keeping a hand on the Arm so it does not swing.
- The belt area should sit on your hips.
- Buckle and tighten the straps for a secure fit.
- Attaching a Camera
- Your camera will need a Top Handle to attach to the Minimax.
- Pull the clamp (located on the end of the arm) down to get it next to your top handle.
- Lift up on the knob and clip the hook around the top handle.
Adjusting Camera Placement
If the camera hangs down too close or far from you, you can slide the tension string forward or back to move it further or closer to you.
- Pull down the clamp to reveal the tension wire.
- While holding tension and keeping a hand on the camera, loosen the wire tension knob located in the underside of the arm. The tension wire will want to travel backwards - hold on to it tightly to keep the tension.
- Adjust where you want the camera by pushing it forward or backwards
- Make sure the tension wire is straight above the camera
- Tighten the wire tension knob securely.
The camera should sit at a comfortable height for the user to operate it. A standard height for it to sit is at chest level.
Adjusting Tension
The camera should also not freely move up or down while hanging. By adjusting the tension, you can prevent the camera from swinging up and down freely.
- On the back of the vest, there is a large knob.
- If the camera is moving up, there is too much tension. Release tension by turning the knob to the - direction.
- If the camera is moving down, there is too little tension. Increase tension by turning the knob to the + direction.
Troubleshooting
Q: I am not strong enough to hold the tension when adjusting the tension wire.
A: Ask a for an extra hand. The tension is hard to work against - for anyone!
Q: The vest is too big and doesn't securely sit on my hips.
A: If using the vest with the 32" to 55" belt size, try the Flex Vest instead. It has the option for a smaller belt size (29" TO 50") and many people find the extra padding more comfortable.
Q: I used the MiniMax and I can still feel/see my footsteps in the tracking movement.
A: The MiniMax is not a true stabilizer or gimbal and will not give you smooth tracking. If you are looking for a smoother look - try using the Vario 5 Easy Rig with the DJI RS3 Pro Gimbal & Tilta Gimbal Ring. (Access is dependent on course equipment allocation and approved operator status)
Compatible EDC Accessories
Access is dependent on class equipment allocations & availability
- Canon C70 Camera
- Canon R5c Camera
-
Panasonic AG-CX350 Camera
Tips & Tricks
- The Minimax is a great way to get handheld shots with extra support. Use it for static shots for less shake.
- The Minimax allows you to take breaks from holding the entire weight of the camera build. You can keep a light hand on it and let the wire take most of the weight.
- If you are walking and filming with the Minimax, always have a clear path, look where you are going, and have another person spot you so you don't trip, fall, or run into something.