DIY Camera Dolly Track
A dolly is used in film and video production to track a camera towards or away from a subject seamlessly, without the bouncing movement that might happen if the shot was recorded by a camera person while walking. Dollys can be moved quickly, and can hold a video camera on a tripod, as well as a camera person operating that camera. In order to move a dolly in a straight line, or in a curved arc, you need to have a track to put it on.
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Things You'll Need
- PVC pipe the length of your potential track
- Wood planks the length of your potential track
- Electric screwdriver
- Screws
- Measuring tape
Instructions
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1
Measure the width between your dolly wheels.
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2
Take a piece of PVC pipe approximately a half inch larger than your wheel, and slice it length ways to create a long, open, pipe. The length can be as long as your desired shot.
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3
Drill the PVC pip into a thick piece of wood (for instance a 2 x 4) in order to ground your track. While a 2 x 4 may be the easiest to find, you can use any type or piece of wood that provides sufficient ground clearance.
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4
Lay your PVC pipe dolly track down where you would like to use your dolly. Slide the wheel of your dolly into the open pipes, and start shooting.
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References
- Photo Credit camcorder lens image by javarman from Fotolia.com
