Ranking of the best shoulder rests and video rigs for 2022

As a rule, photographers spend quite a lot of time shooting, which requires the use of additional devices to fix and stabilize the camera. Among the most common are shoulder rests, rigs, tripods and steadicams. In this article, the story will be about what a shoulder rest and rig are, and what models of devices are popular among photographers.

Rig or shoulder rest

Considering the rigs and shoulder rests, we can say that these are devices that have the same design principle, differing only in the suitability of devices for specific devices, taking into account their weight, volume, ergonomics and other features. Both are a type of tripod designed for photography and video filming of moving scenes. Devices allow you to avoid camera shake, provide a stable picture, allow you to move freely and shoot from both the top and bottom points, increase the mobility of shooting, and also relieve the burden on the hands and arms of the operator.

rig

The use of modular cameras is accompanied by the need to attach optics, digital media, a battery pack and a monitor to the main recording module for viewing. This whole design is extremely inconvenient for operation, if in the case of the main elements a regular mount is provided, then for additional ones it is not. In such cases, rigs perfectly save, due to their structure, they allow you to attach not only the camera, but also additional details.

So, considering in more detail what a rig is, we can say that this is a set of components suitable for any kind of digital camera. The simplest design consists of aluminum pipes with mounts, as well as a holder designed to mount the camera. This design does not require any skills during assembly, it is easy to operate and does not take up extra space when disassembled.

Regardless of what the device will be intended for, its main part will be a platform, which has two main functions:

• holding the camera by mounting it in the same way as on a tripod or monopod;
• fixing the rest of the accessories on special tubes, there can be 2 or 4 of them, using fasteners and adapters.

The platform itself has holes in the base and can be attached to both a tripod and a slider.

As for the structure of the rig, the following main elements can be distinguished:

• area;
• viewing monitor;
• lower handles;
• upper river-capture;
• shoulder pad;
• compendium;
• follow focus.

shoulder rest

The stops are also devices for shooting from a place or while moving, they are a frame with a platform for placing the camera and a handle. By their design, they are identical to rigs and therefore they often write a rig, and in parentheses they indicate a shoulder rest. The device is equipped with a special shock-absorbing element, due to which the design does not allow unnecessary camera shake and, accordingly, the frame when shooting on the move. Due to the structure of the device, the main load falls on the shoulder, which makes it possible to shoot for a longer time. Devices differ in:

• support points, or rather by their number, so, for example, for light cameras they are suitable with two points, and for heavier ones, models with additional emphasis on the stomach are already used.

Devices of this kind are suitable for those who are engaged in video filming of various events. The design is selected taking into account the requirements of the user for its compactness and, of course, his physique.

Advantages

Rigs and shoulder rests, unlike monopods and stabilizers, have a number of advantages, among which are:

• compactness of devices;
• the absence of jumps that sometimes occur when working with a camera mounted on a monopod;
• preservation of picture quality due to the presence of a shock absorber that softens the vibrations that occur when walking;
• reducing hand fatigue by transferring the load to the body, which allows you to shoot for a longer period of time while maintaining video quality.

Designs of this kind allow you to work only with small or medium-sized cameras.

What to look for when choosing

If you are going to purchase a structure called a rig or shoulder rest, you should pay attention to the fact that:

• such devices are more suitable for amateur photography than for professional
• Is there a shoulder strap?
• whether there are mounts to accommodate additional accessories.

It is also worth knowing that such designs stabilize the image quite poorly when walking or running at high speed and have weight restrictions for the cameras that are attached to them.

Ranking of the best shoulder rests and video rigs for 2022

On the shelves of shops and Internet sites you can find a huge number of rigs and shoulder rests, all of them will have different prices and qualities. Among the products presented, there are design models that, according to users, can be attributed to quality.

Inexpensive

Inexpensive models of stops and rigs include those whose cost does not exceed 10 thousand rubles, but, despite this, the quality and ease of use remain at a high level. Devices of this category are perfect for novice operators, as their cost will allow you to choose exactly the design with which work will become not only favorite, but also comfortable.

Shoulder support Sunrise HSR-601

The Sunrise HSR-601 is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, is light in weight, has good strength, and is easy to fold, making it easy to move around. Suitable for shooting on DSLR-cameras, providing the photographer with video quality during prolonged work, as well as excluding his rapid fatigue. Suitable for most photo and video cameras. The model has a height-adjustable base plate, which allows shooting at eye level. It comes with a viewfinder with 3x magnification, a mini shoulder pad that is adjustable and a handle. Using the Sunrise HSR-601 stop allows you to conduct a long shooting process without much stress and fatigue, since the main load is transferred from the hands to the shoulder and body of the operator.

• structural strength;
• reliability;
• comfortable;
• light;
• withstands loads up to 3.5 kg;
• price;
• compatible with many shooting devices;
• easily adjustable;
• inexpensive.

• no.

PWR DSLR Rig

When creating the PWR DSLR model, high-quality plastic and metal are used, which makes the construction lightweight, but at the same time quite durable. Despite its compact size, the device allows you to firmly fix the camera for work, as well as relieve the burden on your hands when shooting. The rig reduces camera shake and shakes the image when using the camera on the move. The model allows you to shoot from both the shoulder and from the lower angle, as well as at chest or floor level. The PWR DSLR Rig has specially coated handles that allow you to securely hold them during operation and a fixing screw that allows you to rotate the handle around the axis.The design is equipped with additional mounts for the use of additional equipment and is compatible with most cameras and camcorders.

• light;
• durable;
• comfortable;
• light and small;
• mounts for additional accessories are provided;
• compatible with many photo and video devices;
• price.

• not identified.

QZSD Q440A

The versatile QZSD Q440A is designed to ease the work of operators and maintain video quality while moving, allowing you to use any camera weighing up to 8 kg. The construction details are made of aluminum and ABS plastic, which makes it quite light and easy to use. Due to the secure fixation of the camera on the platform of the system, the picture does not jump when shooting and it turns out to be of high quality. Fastening straps allow you to conveniently place the system on your shoulder and relieve the load from your hands by evenly moving it along the body. Thus, there is no physical stress during work, which makes it possible to do what you love for a longer time. Suitable for use by both beginners and professionals.

• reliability;
• compatibility with various video devices;
• light weight;
• suitable for heavy cameras;
• price.

• missing.

Falcon Eyes SVS-021

Falcon Eyes SVS-021 is a multifunctional device that is suitable for shooting from various angles. In its manufacture, perforated steel coated with powder enamel is used. Lightweight design allows you to assemble it in several variations, that is, in the form of a cage, shoulder rest and tripod. The main parts of the design are equipped with special holes for attaching additional accessories.The camera itself is mounted with a special wheel from below and it can be moved around the site within 7 cm, which is very convenient when working. All components of the model are carefully lubricated, a hexagon is included with the main parts for assembly and further tightening of loose fasteners.

• multifunctionality;
• the ability to shoot from different points;
• strength;
• the presence of a hexagon in the set;
• lightness and compactness;
• price.

• no cover for transportation;
• it is not always possible to tighten the fasteners well.

Falcon Eyes SH-P PRO

Falcon Eyes SH-P PRO is another model of a compact device for stabilizing cameras when shooting on the move. This design is made of special lightweight ABS plastic and metal and is suitable for mounting devices weighing up to 5 kg, but when working on the move, manufacturers recommend using equipment up to 1.5 kg. The back of the system is equipped with a rubber insert, and on the front there is an installation platform with a movable unit that rotates 180 degrees and makes it possible to move the removing element along it by 2.5 mm. With the clamping screw, you can easily fix the selected position.

• dimensions;
• reliability;
• the weight;
• simplicity and ease of use.

• when working in motion, cameras weighing no more than 1.5 kg are suitable.

Expensive

This section includes devices worth more than 10 thousand rubles. these models are considered to be of higher quality and reliable, therefore they are quite popular with both beginners and professional photographers.

Gini Monster PRO DSLR rig

Gini Monster PRO DSLR is made in South Korea with all modern technologies.In the manufacture of high quality materials are used, which guarantees durability and long service life. The model not only protects the body of the shooting device installed on it, but also makes it more functional, allowing you to adjust it to the desired angle and parameters. The handles are adjustable up to 180 degrees, the frame is made of 15 mm rods and is suitable for use with most follow focus systems. The multifunctional device allows you to use it as a shoulder rest, cage, mount it on a tripod or slider and much more. The shoulder pad is hand-sewn from leather and is adjustable to the desired length. The high-tech device has endless possibilities, allowing you to choose the right option for the job. It is suitable for use when brisk walking, running or even shooting with a pistol, and also allows you to install additional accessories.

• quality;
• strength;
• functionality;
• suitable for various shooting processes;
• handles are adjustable.

• price.

DSLR Rig RL-00 II+ Set

Ringlight DSLR Rig RL-00 I plus SET is a professional kit designed for video shooting on the move. The design of this model is quite durable and at the same time lightweight. It is ideal for both amateurs and professionals, it does its job perfectly, that is, it facilitates work during long shootings, shifting the load from the hands to the body. They are used when working with video cameras and DSLR SLR cameras, in addition, the support system is equipped with F0 follow focus and M1 matt box, which are used to work with various photo and video devices.

• quality;
• reliability;
• light weight;
• the presence of a follow focus F0 and a matt box M1.

• not identified.

GreenBean DSLR rig 03

Compact and light in weight, the entire structure, with the exception of parts such as the shoulder padding, handle coating and plugs, is made of aluminum coated with high quality oxide. Professionally made model suitable for DSLR and HDV cameras. The angle of inclination and the position of the existing handles can be changed. The design provides for many small things, thanks to which the RIG03 will become an excellent and reliable assistant for the operator. The rubberized surface, high-quality materials used in the shoulder pad guarantee the reliability and long service life of the device.

• device reliability;
• quality;
• long service life;
• functionality.

• the price, for novice operators, may seem high.

Dreamgrip Evolution Mojo

The Dreamgrip Evolution Mojo Rig is perfect for those who use smartphones for filming, this system includes all possible additional mounts for accessories. The construction itself is solid and high quality. The all-in-one comes with a shotgun microphone, two LED lights, dual handles, clip holders and a lens mount. Additional pens, monitors, and a variety of light sources are available to further expand your phone's capabilities.

• comfortable;
• quality;
• universal;
• it is possible to add additional accessories.

• no.

Having studied what shoulder stops and rigs are, we can conclude that these designs are the same, and the names are not very separated on the Web.But one thing is for sure, long-term video shooting without these devices will not be convenient, the frames themselves will most likely not be of the best quality due to the trembling that appears in the hands.