Hi, my name is Jonathan from Bargain-Camera. Thanks for clicking in to view my buying guide. This is a guide to help first time buyers choose a good camera crane to suit his or her needs.

The first thing you'll need to do is find a reputable manufacturer that offers a few models of cranes so you're sure to find one that fits your requirements. We offer two brands: Glidecam and ProAm Cranes. Both feature price and quality combinations that are hard to beat.

I started out in Film School doing short films with super8 and 16mm cameras, then when I got older I started getting into video. I found out about all the cool accessories and technology that was driving the video industry and I came across camera cranes for use with camcorders. The only cranes I knew of before then were the huge rigs that held up whole cameramen. So when I realized I could get the same shots they do in Hollywood studio productions, I was so excited. Everyone knows that in the video business, you have to constantly upgrade and buy new equipment because it evolves so fast. Not with a camera crane. Camera cranes have made few changes over the years except that they have been developed to work with todays DV cameras. I try to use crane shots in most of my work, just because so few do it. It really captures the attention of your audience because it's not something they are used to seeing outside of a movie theater. The understanding that they are watching a professional's work is instant.

When I started my video equipment business many years ago, I wanted to carry a line of cranes that appeal to everyone who needs a crane. Whether it be for filming weddings, full length films, commercials, concerts, sporting events or TV shows, I wanted to sell something that will get the job done, and done well.

For most, I would recommend the ProAm DVC200 model for $299. It holds just about all MiniDV camcorders. Out of the box, it's very easy to setup and the movements are surprisingly smooth. It performed great when testing it with an XL1s. It can automatically tilt the camera which is a great feature and the one I found myself using the most. However, you still have the ability to manual tilt the camera, which is very useful when you need to get a more complex shot. To make it easier to see what I was filming, I attached an LCD monitor with the optional bracket.

Now, if you want to get way up in the air, there is the ProAm DVC250 3-Section model which converts from a 12' to an 8' crane. If you get the stand also, it can reach a total of 14' high. Other than the extra reach, it has the all same functions as the DVC200 model. The DVC250 costs only $429.

If you're using a heavy DV camera like an XL2, XLH1 or something like the JVC DV500, you would do best to get a Glidecam Camcrane 200. For a crane that can hold cameras up to 30lbs, it is the best choice under $500. Setup requires more time than the ProAm cranes because it doesn't come assembled, and it can take about 10-30 minutes with the right tools. Once completed, it mounts to a 3/8 tripod mount and you can attach a fluid head to the camera platform for more complex shots. It is an auto tilting crane that doesn't offer manual tilt, but the great thing is the option of adding the Glidecam Vista Head. If your budget allows it, I strongly recommend it. It's pricey at around $1850, but it is a highly advanced remote control pan/tilt head and can be used with MiniDV cameras as well as larger DVCAM units. If you ever see big cranes being used at large sporting events or rock concerts, this is the type of head they are operating.

I hope this guide helps you make a decision on which crane to get. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We'll be glad to hear from you.