Put your DSLR on the GlideTrack to Success

When it comes to moving a camera while shooting video, sometimes less is more.

That’s certainly the case when you want to smoothly move the camera down a track for a dolly shot.

I own one of the early GlideTrack systems with both a short and a long track. It works great and I love it.

The new models – like the Shooter – have evolved with practical experience and are even more useful. You mount the GlideTrack on your tripod, replacing the fluid head. You mount your fluid head on the carrier, slide it on the track, replace the stop at the end of the track and produce the smoothest short dolly moves imaginable.

Turn the camera 90 degrees and pull your shot back through a doorway or push the camera through into focus. Any of these moves bring a unique pacing and perspective to your shots that are difficult to get any other way.

Like any equipment you need to work with it to learn how to use it best. For instance, you can get great shots with a GlideTrack by just setting it on the floor or table rather than on a tripod.

Glidetrack Compact from Alastair Brown on Vimeo.

Here are some things to know about using a GlideTrack:

• Slow steady movement produces the best results
• Add energy to almost any shot by almost invisible movement across the scene
• You can make the movement more obvious by shooting through or over objects near the camera
• If you have a heavy rig and use one of the long tracks you’ll need to support the ends of the track

Like any effect, it’s easy to over use a GlideTrack. Some would say the camera movement needs to be motivated by the script. Otherwise you’re not increasing the production value, you’re just using a neat trick to improve a dull shot.

That being said, the GlideTrack is one neat trick.

Another new product that costs a bit more than a GlideTrack but offers some very interesting possibilities is the Omni-Tracker.

You need to provide a flat smooth surface, such as a table top or piece of MDF. The Omni-Tracker wheels can be set so it moves in a straight line or in an arc. It even includes a small laser pointer so you can precisely align the center of the arc.

At $895 including a great case and a good selection of accessories, the Omni-Tracker  isn’t for everyone. And you’ll need a bit more time to get everything set up. But the possibilities are amazing and the cost is much less than a regular Hollywood style dolly system.