Want the steadicam look but don't have the steadicam buck?
Check out the DV Caddie!

The DV Caddie is designed to support the weight of the camera while still allowing full mobility. Unlike the shoulder mounts that typically add weight to balance out the front heavy XL1, the Caddie uses a guitar style strap slung over your left shoulder to take up most of the weight of the camera and give you a rather neutrally balanced platform to work off of. This also means that you don't have to rest the camera on your shoulder, so it also works well for smaller cameras with a flip-out screen. The strap is adjustable so it's easy to find that comfortable fit.

I wont trick you, It's no Steadicam, but it did seems to smooth out shots when performing hand held traveling shots.

Check out the multiple configurations: Off your shoulder, lock it off as a handle for steadier low-angled shots. Lock it off and flip it upside down for low to ground tracking shots - simply flip the image in post.Rest the base on your shoulder to get above crowds without arm fatigue.

The DV CADDIE and CADDIE JR also work well with various accessories such as this Bogen quick release (sold separately).The Caddie has an additional "float" function to allow the camera to move while staying parallel to the ground.

Should I use the DV Caddie or the DV Caddie Junior? That depends on your camera and the level of professionalism. Most professionals opt for the DV Caddie. It supports more weight and is more versatile than the junior.

Most people find it most comfortable to wear the strap over their left shoulder and across their chest as you would a guitar. Others with smaller cameras find it easier to place the strap around their neck like you would a still camera. Still others simply slide it on to their right shoulder for easier on and off.

Regardless of how you make use of the strap the DV CADDIE logo should be pointing out or to your left. The tilt lock handle should always be on your left. The pan lock handle should always be toward the front.

How long does it take to learn how to use the DV Caddie? Like any other tool, the DV caddie will take some time to get up to speed. Just practice until you feel comfortable with it. For most this takes mere minutes. We have discovered various ways of using the DV caddie, and the're probably still many ways waiting to be discovered.

For more info on the DV Caddie check out http://www.dvcaddie.com/dvcaddie.htm.