Greedy Media creates moving shots using a jib or crane providing an added dimension to any video, allowing the camera to sweep from a high establishing shot as it follows the action to a low perspective.The price of a good jib or crane can tax even the most established and well-paid video producer.
Search the internet, and you'll find dozens of designs for video equipment, from simple one-legged monopod supports to elaborate cranes and dollys. This issue's Tutorial focuses on two do-it-yourself crane and jib designs. The crane is one you might use in your big-budget productions. It costs about £300, which is thousands of pounds less than a similar  device. The jib is an easy-to-assemble design to get those quick-and-easy moving video shots that anyone can operate for about £50. The differences between the two all come down to what you want to shoot, ruggedness, smoothness and flexibility.
Think first about your needs. Will you be shooting mostly outdoors? If you're doing interiors, you need to plan for ceilings with low height. What size video camera are you using, and do you plan to upgrade? Think about transport: once you've built it, can you get it into that hatchback? The choices are yours... your circumstances will determine your equipment needs. The good news: you don't have to be a major builder or tech guru to build these.
Cranes are usually bigger than jibs, and they can carry not just the camera, but often the crewmembers operating it. Greedy Media has used both jibs and cranes to get fluid shots for their hotel shoots they have been filming recently.