Everyone has been intrigued by the famous EFP training tape, that was done over 15 years ago by Ted Churchill & Jerry Holway. Its popularity grew because of its well documented training course that made learning the Steadicam easy to do at home on a daily bases. It covered almost every aspect of what to do & what not to do when operating the EFP or any Steadicam system for that matter. During the many years the availability of the tape became scares due to the Master tape gone missing. This was during the period when the former manufacturer, Cinema Products, went out of business during the 90's. Since then, Tiffen has taken over the manufacturing role of the sole producer of Garrett Brown's famous device.
Ever since the EFP Training tape has been on high demand from newcomers and aspiring operators around the world. Many have been interested in obtaining a copy of the tape, but since the master tape was lost during the change over of companies, it had been difficult to do copies. Well, all that's about to change with plans to revitalize the original EFP training tape from a descent enough copy that was found. This great comes to us from one of the original presenter, Jerry Holway. But! there is another alternative until the EFP comes out. That's right, another training DVD done by Brett Allen & our very own Cody Deegan. That's right guys. Cody has played a role in making this instructional DVD produced by Indicam owner Terry Thompson. This is where my review begins:
Boy! am I excited about this review. Not since the original EFP training tape has there been one like it. For all those who have seen the EFP tape will not be disappointed by this new training DVD, from the makers of Indicam. I can definitely say this DVD has blown me away completely. If you are an EFP training tape admirer, then you will immediately notice the similarities between both training videos. The reason is simple. I am certain the EFP video was a huge inspiration in making this video. None the less, there are certain aspects that are not covered in the EFP video. One thing I liked very much is the humorous side of both Allen & Cody. Both made viewing and learning fun and interesting. Brett, who is a 20 year Steadicam veteran operator, is just as articulate as the great Ted Churchill was in the EFP video. Cody, who doesn't need any introductions, is as humorous as he has always been. The topics covered in this almost 30 min compact DVD are as follows:
. Preparation
. Terminology
. Operation
. Practice Techniques & Exercises
. Shot Section & Exercises
. Tricks & Tips
Don't let the short titles deter you. There is a lot covered in this DVD than you might think. I'm surprised how they managed to cover almost every aspect in just under 30 Min's.
The systems used in this DVD production are the Indicam(quite obvious), Brett's Steadicam system and Cody Deegan's famous system, including the phase II arm in action. Yes, the very same one that was published a long time ago. I did appreciate that they did it this way. It gives the training a less intimidating feel for beginners. Another reason for liking this DVD is the short conciseness of each chapter. Neither were too long or too short. This I thought would give the viewer exactly what needed to be learned.
One thing that wasn't covered, and I wish they had done so, was dynamic balance. Even though this portion might not have really matter for those buyers of low-end systems; due to the lack of not having this option, it would have been a nice addition to say the least.
Terry has done a wonderful job putting together this DVD training video. He should be very proud. Hats off to you Terry.
Conclusion:Should you get this DVD? My response to you is; why should you even ask
I have heard many people ask if there are training tapes or DVDs out there so they can learn at home. I do mean many. So the answer is YESSSSSS!!! I guarantee you, you will not be disappointed by this DVD. Now to answer your other question. NO! I'm not in no way affiliated with Indicam or received any gifts of the kind from Terry. He sent me a copy of the DVD to be reviewed and that's exactly what I just did.
The intial price of this DVD is $35. This is very cheap to say the least. The amount of info is more then the price you have to pay. For those HBS members who are interested in this DVD, please click on link below or go to the
Venture Forum where there is a deal on getting this DVD cheap. I was able to get a good deal from Terry for those interested in getting a copy.
http://hbsboard.com/index.php/topic,2816.0.htmlN.B. Please note that this video like any other instructional video (including the EFP triaining video) is not a replacement, for a good quality hand-on experience with the masters in a workshop environment. These are just to help aid you in what you have learned or give you an idea of what some of the workshops are all about.
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