Simple Camera Stabilizer Under $10.00

I am constantly taking photos and video on boats and cars. The problem off shaky video and unstable pictures led me to create a stabilizer for better quality photography. This simple but effective tool has helped me capture movie-like action scenes for my home albums.

Step 1 Tools and Supplies

For this project you will need:
Thread-locker (blue)
Electrical Tape
30 Half-inch cut washers
2 Fender washers (1/4 inch)
4 1/2' Long Quarter-inch Bolt and Nut (metric)
Wrench and Ratchet -11 mm

Comments

[Scott_Tx]

I was thinking about making something like this for my vado hd, just a simple hand hold with more weight.

[LoganSix]

Ditto here.  Just got back from a cruise and could have used some better image stabilizing with my Vado.  Maybe I'll try this out as well.

[sgsidekick]

I made one, and it sure made a difference in my shots!  Funny thing tho; you may need to pack it in your checked luggage if you're traveling!  I forgot to do that on my return flight, and my carryon went thru the xray machine multiple times before someone decided I did NOT have a weapon! hahaha.

This is great!  I ended up having to use different washers, which meant more washers and a tad more in cost, but overall very easy to make and use.  Love it!

[nightninja87]

um question i see it says 4 1/2' bolt and nut i was wondering if you really meant inches instead of a foot? cause i am thinking it is in inches and i dont wanna mess this up cause this could help me with my photography thanks for a great instructable

[ERCBIENG]

Yeah inches. Wow I cant believe i made that mistake

[nightninja87]

its alright i do that once in a while i forget to press the shift key it happens

[Amalie08]

I love the photography and the idea is simple and great! Thanks :)

[CurvedYellowFruit]

I actually have to try this out! I can imagine the extra weight might mitigate smaller unwanted motions.

[BoskyO]

If you have access to a heat gun and some large shrink tubing that would make a nice cover as well.

[ERCBIENG]

That would be cool! I don't know where I would get heat shrink in that big of a size

[BoskyO]

Lots of places on-line and many electronics stores. I've seen heatshrink up to 7".

[BoskyO]

In the supply list item 5 is: 4 1/2' Long Quarter-inch Bolt and Nut (metric) Is this a 1/4 inch bolt & nut or a metric size? What thread pitch is required?

[ERCBIENG]

Yes it is a 1/4 inch bolt, it is metric sized, and its just a regular thread

[Cartermarquis]

Skeptical until I see a video, but looks like a solid idea. Do you find that the added weight is too much or does the weight help stabilize?

[ERCBIENG]

I will get a video up soon once I get a youtube account and etc. The weight is actually what helps stabilize it. The added weight acts as a balance point, It similar to a string-washer stabilizer that you step on to stabilize but more compact and easy to travel with.