Official Automotive Rigs - DIY Thread

[CorzyPhoto]

Not necessarily true. A lot of cars (mostly Sport cars) have under-body plastic diffusers, which are nothing but big flat plastic surfaces designed to create less drag. Of course one could go through the hassle of removing them and mounting a rig but that would be one PITA.

Nah, shouldn't be that much of a pain... I remove my underbody splash gaurd in the front all the time and it only takes 10 minutes max (taking my time). They are only held on by a couple bolts.

[JustinL]

As much as these clamps look promising I'm afraid I'll have to pass. I've already spent more money than I would have liked. Between a failing magnet-based rig (not enough metallic surface under the car), and now going with a suction-based one (Avenger F1000 and Manfrotto Super Clamps on order), I feel like it’s a bit too much.

At this point, I will wait for the suction cups and clamps to show up to give those a shot. While I’m pretty convinced I’ll get it up and running as it’s pretty straightforward, I’m not too fond of the suction cups approach as the angle is a tad low for my taste and the range of play you get to adjust the camera is limiting as well. Of course I could add a Manfrotto Magic Arm to the setup, thereby gaining more room to play, but that’s just more $$$ to shell out…. :(

I'll tell you one thing, you won't be using any Magic Arms at the end of a suction cup mount. They are REAL heavy + weight of your camera + lens = a broken boom or bent body panel.

Let me know how that turns out. I just ordered 250 lb pull magnets. They aren't working as the source of holding up my rig, though. The magnets I ordered are more used as a stabilizer mechanism. I have a generic design that is compatible with pretty much any car (I hope). I just can't wait to start using it to see if it will work on my first shot on building a rig. :cool:

I've had the 300lb pull magnets for a little while (about a year) and they're not the greatest solution for connecting a rig to the underside of a vehicle. There's lots of coatings on vehicles that hinder you from making a good bond with the magnet -- therefore it's not the most "confident" way to rig a vehicle. I think if you'll rig an older car that has less unibody but more frame work built into it, the magnets may give you better luck.

[CorzyPhoto]

Like I said, the magnets aren't the only thing in my blueprints.. I was wondering if they still give a given amount of pull. I guess I'll just have to see when my magnets come in.

[aridan]

I'll tell you one thing, you won't be using any Magic Arms at the end of a suction cup mount. They are REAL heavy + weight of your camera + lens = a broken boom or bent body panel.


Agreed. Not to mentioned: The introduction of two more joints, which means more free play. :confused:

[CorzyPhoto]

Well, I just contacted a machine shop and they quoted me ~$120 for 20' of 2-7/8" Diameter tubing... So I think that's out of the question. I'll stick to my galvanized steel fence tubing I bought for $7. :rolleyes:

[JustinL]

Well, I just contacted a machine shop and they quoted me ~$120 for 20' of 2-7/8" Diameter tubing... So I think that's out of the question. I'll stick to my galvanized steel fence tubing I bought for $7. :rolleyes:

That aluminum tubing might not be the greatest... depends on the "schedule" and wall thickness. I paid $$$ for some aluminum tubing before and it was strong, just too damn heavy to use for what I needed:(

[SnowManZ]

Agreed. Not to mentioned: The introduction of two more joints, which means more free play. :confused:
those joints you question are incredibly strong. I was amazed to see how strong it was with just one twist of its lever.

[Zilly]

Agreed. Not to mentioned: The introduction of two more joints, which means more free play. :confused:

free play ha
a magic arm will hold the weight of my 1dmkiin a 580ex and my 70-200 f2.8 l is

with no problem at all and with no free play
and if your using the corrrect thickenss of tube the weight of a magic arm will make no diffrence at all

[Zilly]

That aluminum tubing might not be the greatest... depends on the "schedule" and wall thickness. I paid $$$ for some aluminum tubing before and it was strong, just too damn heavy to use for what I needed:(

drill it

[Samdiver74]

hey i had an idea i dunno if anyone has seen that handle they sell on infomercials where its like two suction cups and a handle i bet it would work awesome for rigs.... they were like 20 bux for 2 of them and it like snaps and holds suction.... im gonna try it if i see them for sale again.


edit: lol the video is funny as hell

http://www.justgetagrip.com/?tid=3324&gclid=CK_sm4j815MCFQJtFQodowbOZA




Chris
I would stay clear of tose handles with suction cups, I bought two from Northern Tool a while back and they don't stick for very long.
I tried them on the tub when I was installing it and I lost grip on the tub enamel.
I tried them on glass and left them over night, the next day both were on the floor, I cleaned the glass with windex, still no luck.
I would not trust them to hold your camera and possibly an arm cantilevered out.

[Christopher.Sullivan]

Chris
I would stay clear of tose handles with suction cups, I bought two from Northern Tool a while back and they don't stick for very long.
I tried them on the tub when I was installing it and I lost grip on the tub enamel.
I tried them on glass and left them over night, the next day both were on the floor, I cleaned the glass with windex, still no luck.
I would not trust them to hold your camera and possibly an arm cantilevered out.

hmmm i was just about to order them as well..... are they really that bad? will they hold for the few minutes im using them.... i really wanna stay really inexpensive on this or i wont be able to pull it off..

[Samdiver74]

hmmm i was just about to order them as well..... are they really that bad? will they hold for the few minutes im using them.... i really wanna stay really inexpensive on this or i wont be able to pull it off..


Chris
They will hold for a little while but I would seriously keep my eye on them.
you certainly don't want to damage camera or car.
Every time you adjust the boom or camera I would check the suction handles.
Probably remove camera first before making any adjustments or have a friend support cantilevered weight of camera and boom, while you make any changes.

[Christopher.Sullivan]

thanks so much for the feedback.... it was gonna be a use every once in a great while type of thing so i was trying to be very cheap lol

[Ed 718]

The suction cups I used are super strong and they don't fail.
http://www.powrgrip.com/cgi-bin/powrgrip/N4950.html?page_class=glass

[aridan]

Well, I just contacted a machine shop and they quoted me ~$120 for 20' of 2-7/8" Diameter tubing... So I think that's out of the question. I'll stick to my galvanized steel fence tubing I bought for $7. :rolleyes:

I just got back from the local hardware store where I picked up a painter's extension pole (8'-16'). Light, strong, extendable, and cheap ($40). :)

[aridan]

free play ha
a magic arm will hold the weight of my 1dmkiin a 580ex and my 70-200 f2.8 l is

with no problem at all and with no free play
and if your using the corrrect thickenss of tube the weight of a magic arm will make no diffrence at all

No comment: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=4967227&postcount=9

:)

[Ed 718]

What kind of suction cups? Do they have a brand name on them?

I'm thinking of the same type of setup, but I don't know diddly about suction cup companies. Reading this thread has been a lot of help, but I'm still feeling out the market, so to speak.

http://www.powrgrip.com/cgi-bin/powrgrip/N4950.html?page_class=glass

Although they are pricey they can be found on ebay cheap. The are the same ones used to move large sheets of glass so they have to be strong. I've yet to have one fail on me but I still keep an eye on them just in case.

[CorzyPhoto]

I got done doing some fabrication on my rig. So far so good :)

I'm hoping the 20' of galvanized steel tubing isn't too heavy :rolleyes:

We'll see when my magnets come in as it's pretty much done with fabrication, I just have to work on a joint, camera connection head, and some stabilization fab.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

I'm hoping the 20' of galvanized steel tubing isn't too heavy :rolleyes:
wow wtf? that's super heavy!!!!

[aridan]

wow wtf? that's super heavy!!!!

I agree. Magnets alone will never hold such weight.

[CorzyPhoto]

*Sigh* You guys haven't read the 6245 posts I made about the magnets being more of a stabilizer mechanism rather than holding the weight? :lol:

[JustinL]

*Sigh* You guys haven't read the 6245 posts I made about the magnets being more of a stabilizer mechanism rather than holding the weight? :lol:

Did you post yours yet? I remember seeing one with galvinized steel tubing (aka fence poles) and it seemed to work. I just think the set up time may have been a bit high -- but who cares if you're saving $$$!

[CorzyPhoto]

My setup time should be around... 5 minutes? :lol:

And yes... I'm saving a LOT of $$$... Spent about as much as one and a half pump cups ;)

[JustinL]

I can't wait to see pics of yours when it's done. 5 min set up makes me jealous!

[CorzyPhoto]

:lol: Hopefully they turn out well. $120 for piping is out of my budjet.

[Zilly]

No comment: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=4967227&postcount=9

:)

that looks more like poor rig design that magic arm wobble the spiggot is moving on the frame not the arm moving on the spiggot. Not matter how well manfrotto make the magic arm they carnt stop play in other peoples handy work !

[CorzyPhoto]

By the way, I noticed this and other rig threads exploding with information lately since I started posting on this forum. Just wanted to thank everyone for contributing and helping out with information!

[CorzyPhoto]

http://i30.tinypic.com/zlruoi.jpg

[n1nj4 m0d3]

you need a jack to set up your rig? that's not good...

[Thameth]

you need a jack to set up your rig? that's not good...

Any of the under car designs need a jack, how do you think the AutoMotiveRigs setup works? A jack is just simple part of your kit when you go on a shoot.....

[Thameth]

I'm curious to see what your final product will look like Corzy. If I wasn't so busy today (friday) I could pass by and help you out. But my whole weekend is a mess.

[aridan]

you need a jack to set up your rig? that's not good...

I need a jack for my car as well as it's simply too low to shove myself underneath there while I'm hunting for grabbing points.

With that said, for now at least, I have abandoned my magnet-based aspiration (not enough grabbing surface for the magnets) and will be going the same route you did Ninja... I bought an 8'-16' painter's extension pole and will be giving it a shot tonight or tomorrow. My Avenger F1000 cups and two additional clamps came in yesterday. Hopefully, I'll have some rig shots to offer. :D

[CorzyPhoto]

I'm curious to see what your final product will look like Corzy. If I wasn't so busy today (friday) I could pass by and help you out. But my whole weekend is a mess.

It's cool man. I think I have the design down pat. I might have a welding shop weld some things together for a more rigid design. If the galv. steel tubing ends up being too heavy, I might have to wait it out and save for aluminum tubing, or I can get a painters extension pole and rig it up with my design. I didn't even get my magnets in and it's looking pretty sturdy.

The only thing I would be worried about with the extension pole is the joint when it is fully extended. I'm not sure how thick the tubing is, but I'm assuming it's pretty similar to my pool brush extension pole, and it's not too stiff when fully extended, let alone trying to support a camera 15' out.

[aridan]

The only thing I would be worried about with the extension pole is the joint when it is fully extended. I'm not sure how thick the tubing is, but I'm assuming it's pretty similar to my pool brush extension pole, and it's not too stiff when fully extended, let alone trying to support a camera 15' out.

That's why you need to buy a pole that is already fairly long so as to avoid extending it too far. Even though a 6'-12' pole would have sufficed lengthwise (extended), I knew it would have way too much bounce on it. Instead, I opted on the longer pole and got the 8'-16' pole. That way, it's almost long enough without the need to extend it much (if at all), while at the same time, it has no bounce to it.



...and is MUCH lighter than the EMT tubing I have for the magnet setup.

[CorzyPhoto]

What lens are you using for these rig shots?

[aridan]

What lens are you using for these rig shots?

I'll probably use the 10-22 and/or 17-55 f2.8 IS but was wondering about the same question. I'd love to hear what some of the guys used here for glass.

[CorzyPhoto]

Well, it's obvious the closer the camera is to the car the less shake there will be. But it really depends on what you are going for with the picture... If you want a more wide angle (closer to the car with less shake), or more "regular zoom" (further away from the car with more possible shake). I don't have a choice with glass, so I'll be using my kit lens (18-55). I do plan on going with it's widest 18mm, so I can get closer to the car with less material.

[aridan]

Well, it's obvious the closer the camera is to the car the less shake there will be. But it really depends on what you are going for with the picture... If you want a more wide angle (closer to the car with less shake), or more "regular zoom" (further away from the car with more possible shake). I don't have a choice with glass, so I'll be using my kit lens (18-55). I do plan on going with it's widest 18mm, so I can get closer to the car with less material.

I think there is also the look you are going for. An UWA will distort the car - not everyone's cup of tea. :)

[CorzyPhoto]

Yeah. It really all depends what you want... I'll be fine with my kit lens for now.

[aridan]

Yeah. It really all depends what you want... I'll be fine with my kit lens for now.

I'll be fine with anything right now, so long my goddamn rig works on the 4th weekend attempt! :evil:

:D

[CorzyPhoto]

:lol: Well I see you got your pumps! Get that rig workin and show us some pics!

[aridan]

:lol: Well I see you got your pumps! Get that rig workin and show us some pics!

Tomorrow my friend, tomorrow! :D

[CorzyPhoto]

Same here. As for now, TATA!

[aridan]

OK, so here as promised, are my 'behind the scenes' pics.

Pretty basic and almost identical to Dean's rig with the exception of the type of pole used and minus the magic arm.

Components:

1 x 10' EMT pole - $8 *** see note bellow ***
2 x Avenger F1000 suction cups - $97
3 x Manfrotto super clamps - $75
1 x Manfrotto 484 Micro ball head - $45

Total Cost: $225 :)


*** the pics bellow show a painter's pole, which I have since returned and replaced with a 10' EMT pipe. The bounce on the painter's pole was too much to my liking. Otherwise, my setup is identical to what you see bellow with the exception of the pole ***

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/aridan/rig1.jpg

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/aridan/rig2.jpg

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/aridan/rig3.jpg

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/aridan/rig4.jpg

[aridan]

Initially I really liked the magnet-based rigs as they appeared to pose less of a problem in PP. However, after my first rig session last night, I've realized that PP skills can be acquired fairly quickly and photoshopping the rig out may not big such of a big deal after all. On the other hand, finding a location, quick assembly, easy adjustments, and more mounting options are all advantages of the suction cup-based rigs. Those are much more important imo than PP work.

With magnet-based rigs you are limited to the spots under the car where you can mount it, it takes longer to assemble, and a real PITA to mount (i.e. jacking up the car, etc.). Have said that, I will keep my magnet rig and give it a shot at some point as well - using clamps. ;)

[CorzyPhoto]

Even though it doesn't look like that much of a PITA in PP, I would still rather have less PP to do. This design is simple, and it works.. but im thinking my design is going to work rather well. I'm planning on taking my peices to a welding shop to weld my "stuff" together.

[aridan]

Even though it doesn't look like that much of a PITA in PP, I would still rather have less PP to do. This design is simple, and it works.. but im thinking my design is going to work rather well. I'm planning on taking my peices to a welding shop to weld my "stuff" together.

Good luck! :D

[CorzyPhoto]

Did a test fit a little while ago. The way my rig is connecting, it would hit the ground. I need more clearance for my peices. Though, I can adjust it with other things, so it's all good. I guess it's just really a matter of taking it to the welding/muffler shop.

[Thameth]

Initially I really liked the magnet-based rigs as they appeared to pose less of a problem in PP. However, after my first rig session last night, I've realized that PP skills can be acquired fairly quickly and photoshopping the rig out may not big such of a big deal after all.


Speaking of PP out the rigs, does anybody have any good links on tutorials or How to's on Photoshopping out rigs? I know its just alot of cloning but other than spot removal I haven't really done large objects like these rigs before.

Thanx!

BTW, Aridan the shots look great! Good job!

[n1nj4 m0d3]

Any of the under car designs need a jack, how do you think the AutoMotiveRigs setup works? A jack is just simple part of your kit when you go on a shoot.....
i thought you could just slide the rig under the car and mount it on bare metal? i'm glad i didn't go with under the car rig route than :cool:. jacking up a car in a public place seems kinda sketchy and time consuming...

[CorzyPhoto]

i thought you could just slide the rig under the car and mount it on bare metal? i'm glad i didn't go with under the car rig route than :cool:. jacking up a car in a public place seems kinda sketchy and time consuming...

It's only a matter of minutes. Yes, the pump cup way is faster, but you can get more out of an under-car setup.

[Thameth]

i thought you could just slide the rig under the car and mount it on bare metal? i'm glad i didn't go with under the car rig route than :cool:. jacking up a car in a public place seems kinda sketchy and time consuming...

Even though they would use magnets you don't just randomly slide it under the car and HOPE it grabs onto something. You have to place them exactly where you need them and to the correct place under any car. Also, AutomotiveRigs.com also has a new clamp system:

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/3213/pinchsoloch3.jpg

You have to lift the car to clamp onto the underbody.

Not sure what is so sketchy about jacking up a car?? I guess it doesn't bother me since I'm used to working on cars from doing my own racing and swapping tires all the time. ;)

[Sonic Infidel]

OK, so here as promised, are my 'behind the scenes' pics.

Pretty basic and almost identical to Dean's rig with the exception of the type of pole used and minus the magic arm.

Components:

1 x 8'-16' extensible painter's pole |lightweight| - $44
2 x Avenger F1000 suction cups - $97
3 x Manfrotto super clamps - $75
1 x Manfrotto 484 Micro ball head - $45

Total Cost: $261 :)


This looks like a very easy-to-assemble rig. I think I may copy your design, at least until I can design an under-body rig with the stability and versatility I need. (Of course, by "design", I mean "steal and modify the designs already posted".)

[Sonic Infidel]

Good stuff Skippy,

Quick question: How long are your poles?

Sounds like a personal question!

[aridan]

This looks like a very easy-to-assemble rig. I think I may copy your design, at least until I can design an under-body rig with the stability and versatility I need. (Of course, by "design", I mean "steal and modify the designs already posted".)

Yup, very easy to build, implement, and deploy. It's also easier and faster to adjust and change angles on, than with the under body one.

[JustinL]

Speaking of PP out the rigs, does anybody have any good links on tutorials or How to's on Photoshopping out rigs? I know its just alot of cloning but other than spot removal I haven't really done large objects like these rigs before.

Thanx!

BTW, Aridan the shots look great! Good job!

I saw a tutorial before where the photographer took a pic in the same spot without a rig and masked it into the image with the rig using another layer. I haven't tried this myself because I just clone the hell out of the image to make the rig disappear. I'll keep searching for it.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

Even though they would use magnets you don't just randomly slide it under the car and HOPE it grabs onto something. You have to place them exactly where you need them and to the correct place under any car.
i understand that. sorry if i accidentally imply that you would just stick the rig anywhere on the under body. i just don't understand why you guys can't just take a flashlight, look under the car, and place the magnets in the appropriate places (bare metal). you're under there looking for jacking points anyways, right?


Not sure what is so sketchy about jacking up a car?? I guess it doesn't bother me since I'm used to working on cars from doing my own racing and swapping tires all the time. ;)
jacking a car up anywhere in PUBLIC is sketchy and will draw attention.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

I saw a tutorial before where the photographer took a pic in the same spot without a rig and masked it into the image with the rig using another layer. I haven't tried this myself because I just clone the hell out of the image to make the rig disappear. I'll keep searching for it.
http://mattwatkinson.com/blog/?p=60

clone is still easier for me than trying to get the same angle with and without the rig, but than again i don't use the tripod rig set up...

[CorzyPhoto]

jacking a car up anywhere in PUBLIC is sketchy and will draw attention.


So? :lol: I draw attention period when taking pics of any cars...

[n1nj4 m0d3]

drawing attention and getting kicked out or getting a ticket are totally different ;)

[quickster]

i still need to stabilize mine. :oops::oops::oops:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/2551562664_f6cb3c8785_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3135/2551529660_c8386f40ed_o.jpg

[JustinL]

i understand that. sorry if i accidentally imply that you would just stick the rig anywhere on the under body. i just don't understand why you guys can't just take a flashlight, look under the car, and place the magnets in the appropriate places (bare metal). you're under there looking for jacking points anyways, right?


The magnets are the biggest PITA to work with when rigging. You need a flat surface that takes up the diameter of the magnet so the bond with the magnet and the car is strong. It's hard to find surfaces like this underneath every car.

http://mattwatkinson.com/blog/?p=60


That's it! Thank you!

[aridan]

Speaking of PS... The first series I took where fairly "easy" to clone the rig out of (given my limited knowledge of PS). This however is a real PITA. That pole is blended with half skies and half trees. I fiddled around with it last night for an hour to no avail.

Anyone mind giving this one a shot?

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/aridan/IMG_0131%20-%20copy.jpg

[Microsoft Paint]

^Gave it a go for you
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb308/wopadas/1cf3ea94.jpg

[aridan]

^Gave it a go for you
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb308/wopadas/1cf3ea94.jpg

Somehow I knew the salvation would come from someone with one post and a screen name of "Microsoft Paint"... :D :D

Good work!

Thnx.

[Thameth]

drawing attention and getting kicked out or getting a ticket are totally different ;)

And sitting in a spot basically building a rig ontop of a car and pushing it around won't get you attention? And unless your in a VERY busy area where you should really need a permit for a photoshoot I don't see why you would get a ticket for using a jack. What kind of ticket would that be anyways?? "Using a jack in public"?

[aridan]

And sitting in a spot basically building a rig ontop of a car and pushing it around won't get you attention? And unless your in a VERY busy area where you should really need a permit for a photoshoot I don't see why you would get a ticket for using a jack. What kind of ticket would that be anyways?? "Using a jack in public"?

I agree that jacking a car (which you can easily prove to the occasional officer who stops by as being your own car), should not be a problem. What IS a problem is the procedure itself. I think jacking up a car, hunting for grabbing points, clamping the damn thing, changing positions for different angles is nothing more than a big pain in the rear if you ask me.

I went out to a little rig session with a friend of mine. Within 10-15 minutes, I was able to get multiple shots in 3 different angles (meaning I repositioned the rig 3 times - trunk, roof, and hood). There is no way in hell I would have been able to remount an under-body rig 3 times (with jacking it in between time and again) within a period of 10-15 minutes.

[CorzyPhoto]

# 728.1.8.4257.1.04.5 : Disorderly Conduct of using hydrolic jack in public for use of automotive rigs.

or...

# 728.1.8.4257.1.04.6 : Disorderly Conduct of using manual OEM jack in public for use of automotive rigs.

[CorzyPhoto]

drawing attention and getting kicked out or getting a ticket are totally different ;)


I get kicked out of places like nothing taking pics like a public parking garage.

Moral of the AutoRig: Don't setup rig in public area unless security is okay with pictures.

[turbodude]

Speaking of PS... The first series I took where fairly "easy" to clone the rig out of (given my limited knowledge of PS). This however is a real PITA. That pole is blended with half skies and half trees. I fiddled around with it last night for an hour to no avail.

Anyone mind giving this one a shot?

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/aridan/IMG_0131%20-%20copy.jpg

my three minute attempt

[Caspita]

I get kicked out of places like nothing taking pics like a public parking garage.

You also live in South Florida, where in some areas police will pull you over because your shirt doesn't match the rest of your outfit!!! They look for people to pick on :evil:

[CorzyPhoto]

You also live in South Florida, where in some areas police will pull you over because your shirt doesn't match the rest of your outfit!!! They look for people to pick on :evil:


:lol: that's very true!!! I try not to look at them for too long, or I think if they catch me looking they will find me suspicious.

[aridan]

my three minute attempt

That is not too shabby at all!

Thanks, I'll try it again on the full res. tonight.

[aridan]

# 728.1.8.4257.1.04.5 : Disorderly Conduct of using hydrolic jack in public for use of automotive rigs.

or...

# 728.1.8.4257.1.04.6 : Disorderly Conduct of using manual OEM jack in public for use of automotive rigs.

Please tell me you made up these charges...

[Caspita]

This thread is so active, I figured I might as well post a picture here.

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh205/Caspita33/20080606_BrettDavid_0057web.jpg

[CorzyPhoto]

Please tell me you made up these charges...

:lol: In my book of statutes, they are real :rolleyes:

[Sonic Infidel]

This thread is so active, I figured I might as well post a picture here.

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh205/Caspita33/20080606_BrettDavid_0057web.jpg

What on earth is that!?

[Ed 718]

What on earth is that!?

That would be the lambo painted with a sharpie marker. I saw something on that car before. :D

[aridan]

This thread is so active, I figured I might as well post a picture here.

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh205/Caspita33/20080606_BrettDavid_0057web.jpg

Is that a real rig shot? :eek:

If it is, it begs two questions:

1. If it's an under-body magnet-type setup.... how in hell did you attach a rig on a car that's that low?!?!?

2. If it's suction cup based - how in hell did you convince the owner to put suction cups on that body work?!?!?

[Caspita]

Is that a real rig shot? :eek:

If it is, it begs two questions:

1. If it's an under-body magnet-type setup.... how in hell did you attach a rig on a car that's that low?!?!?

2. If it's suction cup based - how in hell did you convince the owner to put suction cups on that body work?!?!?

It is a real rig shot...and it is suction based.

Believe me when I say I was super cautious as far as mounting points were concerned. I explained to the owner what I was going to be doing and luckily he wasn't there to add to the nerves. I told him to trust me, and that I would have the car back to him in a couple of hours.

[Thameth]

It is a real rig shot...and it is suction based.

Believe me when I say I was super cautious as far as mounting points were concerned. I explained to the owner what I was going to be doing and luckily he wasn't there to add to the nerves. I told him to trust me, and that I would have the car back to him in a couple of hours.

Would you mind posted pre-photoshop pics?

[Caspita]

Would you mind posted pre-photoshop pics?

Enjoy.

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh205/Caspita33/20080606_BrettDavid_0057web2.jpg

[CorzyPhoto]

Nice!

[JustinL]

Enjoy.



You're nuts, and I love it! Great work man. How much did you sweat around that beast?!

[CorzyPhoto]

That looks like it was hard to clone out... Definately a nice pic, though.

[Caspita]

You're nuts, and I love it! Great work man. How much did you sweat around that beast?!

I had a little microfiber cloth with me to wipe the sweat away when nobody was watching :lol:

[Caspita]

That looks like it was hard to clone out... Definately a nice pic, though.

Huge PITA to clone the rig out thanks to the wonderful coloring piping :mad:

[Caspita]

Another edit...Enjoy.

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh205/Caspita33/20080606_BrettDavid_0014web2.jpg

[aridan]

It is a real rig shot...and it is suction based.

Believe me when I say I was super cautious as far as mounting points were concerned. I explained to the owner what I was going to be doing and luckily he wasn't there to add to the nerves. I told him to trust me, and that I would have the car back to him in a couple of hours.

You are one brave person. I would never even dare to do a rig shot on a car like that, let alone with all that Sharpie work! :eek:

[BIGTUFFGUY]

http://www.fullydetailed.com/intpics/tl/rollingtl1.gif
http://www.fullydetailed.com/intpics/tl/rollingtl2.jpg

the setup: Piece of wood bolted to tow hooks, with aluminum bar extended out. Inexpensive ballhead duct taped to end.
http://www.fullydetailed.com/intpics/tl/rollingtl3.jpg

[Sonic Infidel]

The Lambo shot is fantastic...and daring as hell!

I like BigTuffGuy's video as well. Anyone that shoots barefoot has my instant respect.

[BarrySchwartz]

I wish i could just go to home depot and have someone helpful that could help me make something. Basically going to make my own at some point looking for something very similar to automotive rigs setup.

[BarrySchwartz]

SOrry for the double post but my old question is where are people clamping to, the frame rails?

[CorzyPhoto]

The AM setup has a clamping system that clamps to the pinch welds.

[BarrySchwartz]

The AM setup has a clamping system that clamps to the pinch welds.
Ok i assumed that's where it connected but I wasn't sure.

[JustinL]

the setup: Piece of wood bolted to tow hooks, with aluminum bar extended out. Inexpensive ballhead duct taped to end.


Sounds inexpensive, but how universal is it?

[BIGTUFFGUY]

Sounds inexpensive, but how universal is it?


http://www.fullydetailed.com/intpics/tl/wholerollingtl1.jpg

It isn't really unversal because every car has the tow hooks in a different spots and at different distances. The build requires a little planning to find out where to drill the holes in the wood. An aluminum bar with holes every few centimeters *keeping in mind the width of the U bolt* would be more universal. I don't have a drill press though. So each rig would have to be built custom. I really just wanted to build it for my car.

[quickster]

testing

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3014/2572595124_41f01ac5a1_o.jpg

[turbodude]

here is to thinking outside the box....

For people wanting aluminum poles that come in sections...

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-16-Aluminum-Flag-Pole-Kit-Flagpole-American_W0QQitemZ270244031963QQihZ017QQcategoryZ4 3537QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD4VQQcmdZViewItem

The pipes look to be 2.25" with about a 18guage wall. Should be ok. for this usage. I guarantee its stronger than a painter extension pole. Considering it has to be put in the ground and practically has a sail pulling on it. (the american flag)

then i would build straps that hold each section together. IE: get 10" long aluminum bar stock drill two holes on each end, then drill holes thru each tube, stick bolts thru and screw on a nut to secure teh sections to each other....

Sorry the fabricator in myself came out. We used to use this method with welding aluminum nuts on all of our boost pipes and straoping each coupler with bar stock to assure that 30psi would never blow off any of our intercooler hoses.

[aridan]

here is to thinking outside the box....

For people wanting aluminum poles that come in sections...

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-16-Aluminum-Flag-Pole-Kit-Flagpole-American_W0QQitemZ270244031963QQihZ017QQcategoryZ4 3537QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD4VQQcmdZViewItem

The pipes look to be 2.25" with about a 18guage wall. Should be ok. for this usage. I guarantee its stronger than a painter extension pole. Considering it has to be put in the ground and practically has a sail pulling on it. (the american flag)

then i would build straps that hold each section together. IE: get 10" long aluminum bar stock drill two holes on each end, then drill holes thru each tube, stick bolts thru and screw on a nut to secure teh sections to each other....

Sorry the fabricator in myself came out. We used to use this method with welding aluminum nuts on all of our boost pipes and straoping each coupler with bar stock to assure that 30psi would never blow off any of our intercooler hoses.

I like it! Especially the fact that it can broken down into section and allow you the desired length! :D

[CorzyPhoto]

Not only a desired length, but lugging around a set of 4' poles is 6854026 times better than having a couple 10' poles sticking out your window.

The only thing is, I'm not sure how sturdy this would be...

[CorzyPhoto]

Did some simple CAD measurements for that pole and it's roughly 1 3/4" to 2" in diameter.

[Jadam]

Shooting a black car the other night. Light went down fast so I had the brilliant idea to use a flash. Ooops. Guess I wasn't really thinking. I should be able to make due in PS though, I'd rather get in right in the camera and not have to PS my mess up. But can't win them all.

[turbodude]

Did some simple CAD measurements for that pole and it's roughly 1 3/4" to 2" in diameter.

Honestly i think thats strong enough.

[Sonic Infidel]

The strength will have a lot to do with the thickness of the wall. If it's paper thin, obviously you're going to lose a lot of strength. Maybe I'll contact the seller.

[turbodude]

The strength will have a lot to do with the thickness of the wall. If it's paper thin, obviously you're going to lose a lot of strength. Maybe I'll contact the seller.

i already did, waiting on response. :) with the design of flag poles that i have red about, we are talking about roughly 100 lbs of wind resistance. It will be fine. but if you guys dont beleive me, ill test it myself :)

[CorzyPhoto]

I am buying a few poles in bulk if any of you want to chip in and you'll get a few poles, PM me.

[CorzyPhoto]

Shooting a black car the other night. Light went down fast so I had the brilliant idea to use a flash. Ooops. Guess I wasn't really thinking. I should be able to make due in PS though, I'd rather get in right in the camera and not have to PS my mess up. But can't win them all.

??? :lol:

[turbodude]

I am buying a few poles in bulk if any of you want to chip in and you'll get a few poles, PM me.

from that ebay guy?

[CorzyPhoto]

from that ebay guy?

...

[Mark1]

Another thought on poles..... We went to the beach this weekend. The poles they use to clean the pool is very light and seems to be very strong and pretty stiff. I played with it for a few minutes. It is about 10 feel long with an inner extension I guess to be another 8 feet. Im going to go to a pool store and check them out a bit more. I think they are like $35. This may be expensive for some. but if they are stiff enough I may get one to try.

[CorzyPhoto]

Another thought on poles..... We went to the beach this weekend. The poles they use to clean the pool is very light and seems to be very strong and pretty stiff. I played with it for a few minutes. It is about 10 feel long with an inner extension I guess to be another 8 feet. Im going to go to a pool store and check them out a bit more. I think they are like $35. This may be expensive for some. but if they are stiff enough I may get one to try.

I guess there are different types of pool brush poles, but the one I have isn't that sturdy.

[aridan]

If it's anything like the painter's extension poles, save your money and time. It will bounce all over the place.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

If it's anything like the painter's extension poles, save your money and time. It will bounce all over the place.
yeah it does! :p

for people who are using painters poles, you just have to find the right balance between shutter speed, iso, and lighting. if you get that down, it's a breeze :cool:

i would go with turbodude's idea if i had to redo my rig. just have to see how heavy the flag pole is first...

[CorzyPhoto]

yeah it does! :p

for people who are using painters poles, you just have to find the right balance between shutter speed, iso, and lighting. if you get that down, it's a breeze :cool:

i would go with turbodude's idea if i had to redo my rig. just have to see how heavy the flag pole is first...


You are going to have to adjust the shutter speed, iso, and aperture regardless. It just all depends how much motion blur you want.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

You are going to have to adjust the shutter speed, iso, and aperture regardless. It just all depends how much motion blur you want.
of course. i'm just saying if your rig is bouncy than you would need a faster shutter and a higher iso, but the results will be as good as a sturdier rig.

[CorzyPhoto]

With less motion blur... which then is also the point of a rig.

[Mark1]

The one I saw is abouy a 2 to 2.5 inch diamater. it is definatley not a painter pole. I don't know the difference, but it is not a brush pole. They hooked it up to the pool vacume to get out all the sand. I set it between 2 chairs and tried to flex it. Sure it flexed.... but not near as bad as I thought it would. If i can find something like it here Ill give a name and model number.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

With less motion blur... which then is also the point of a rig.
to make it look like your car's not going warp speed? too much blur defeats the purpose of rig shots. might as well just photoshop the pic :rolleyes:

you mean this pic isn't good cause it doesn't have massive blur?
http://clintdavis.net/photo/auto/web_austinz1.jpg

[CorzyPhoto]

:lol: and what about this one? http://clintdavis.net/photo/auto/web7086.jpg

I'm not saying you have to have a ton of blur to get a nice pic. Though, you need a decent amount of open shutter to get that blurred look. If there's no blur, what's the point of a rig?

[n1nj4 m0d3]

IMHO the 350z shot is no where near the caliber of the 240z shot. i wholeheartedly agree that a rig shot needs blur but too much can ruin an otherwise a good shot

[CorzyPhoto]

I agree, but sometimes a lot of blur gives a nice effect depending on how the composition is with the color.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

forgot to mention; bouncy rigs can have long exposer shots also, but you would need to push the car instead of driving it.

the car in these pics were pushed with a 15-20 (forgot the settings) second shutter:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2221/2336780850_835a4be02e.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2053/2336780626_6565314736.jpg

yeah, i could do a lot better, but these were one of my first tries with my rig.

[CorzyPhoto]

See.. I like those.

PS - I would'nt drive a car with my camera attached to it. I would rather sweat my ass off pushing it.

[CorzyPhoto]

Oh.. you should also try sharpen mask before you add your border :)

[Thameth]

forgot to mention; bouncy rigs can have long exposer shots also, but you would need to push the car instead of driving it.


You shouldn't be driving or have the engine on for the types of rigs in this thread to begin with. The trick from the start is that the car is always off and pushed at very slow speed with slow shutter speeds.

Turning on the engine just introduces vibration which will usually ruin the shot.

[n1nj4 m0d3]

thanks for the advice but i think i can handle rig shots :)

all with a painters pole and engine running:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2369/2500721451_b4962669aa_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2252/2501626416_4427c17631_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2413/2500749513_e450a8700d_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2244/2422776028_5cc8c1b361_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2410/2422872960_0c716f1988_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2422873228_a1059a4309_o.jpg

i think they're all pretty sharp...

[Jadam]

??? :lol:

Ended up just layering 4 shots together, masking and gradient tool.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2574356291_afe480bb58.jpg

I'll post up more in a couple days. This is just one that my friend wanted of him driving the car

[aridan]

to make it look like your car's not going warp speed? too much blur defeats the purpose of rig shots. might as well just photoshop the pic :rolleyes:

you mean this pic isn't good cause it doesn't have massive blur?
http://clintdavis.net/photo/auto/web_austinz1.jpg

I agree with n1nj4. Too long of an exposure and you're ruining the whole moving car concept. IMO anything 4 seconds and above (of course depending of the speed of the car), and the whole shot starts looking weird. I saw a couple of rig shots here that were done that way. There was simply no movement sensation. It looked as if the car was pasted onto a "warp" background. You definitely want to leave some details in the pictures to convey movement. Overdoing it, means the car becomes static.

[aridan]

You shouldn't be driving or have the engine on for the types of rigs in this thread to begin with. The trick from the start is that the car is always off and pushed at very slow speed with slow shutter speeds.

Turning on the engine just introduces vibration which will usually ruin the shot.

I guess I'm the only one who combines both techniques (when I'm shooting by myself): Engine is off, slight downhill and rolling in neutral. I'm not pushing the car, and no one is spotting the camera - I'm behind the wheel. :)

Example of the above scenario:

http://aridanphotography.com:1234/Portfolio/Automotive/IMG01.jpg

http://aridanphotography.com:1234/Portfolio/Automotive/IMG02.jpg


These two were shot with the engine running. My buddy was behind the wheel and I was spotting the camera:


http://aridanphotography.com:1234/Portfolio/Automotive/IMG03.jpg

http://aridanphotography.com:1234/Portfolio/Automotive/IMG04.jpg

[Ed 718]

forgot to mention; bouncy rigs can have long exposer shots also, but you would need to push the car instead of driving it.

the car in these pics were pushed with a 15-20 (forgot the settings) second shutter:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2221/2336780850_835a4be02e.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2053/2336780626_6565314736.jpg

yeah, i could do a lot better, but these were one of my first tries with my rig.

I'm lovin these shots and the Daytona Blue looks good in these shots also.

[CorzyPhoto]

Running the car while doing a rig shot with, say.. an old american muscle car... can introduce tons of vibrations with a pump cup setup vs one that runs a lot smoother (like aridan's car). What I'm saying is you have to be selective when it comes to what car you are shooting and whether to run the car with whatever rig setup you choose to use.

[Jadam]

Another one I finished from the ///M5

http://a371.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/41/l_634f149cc188e53a2f0ce6c3cca8ed3a.jpg

[aridan]

Another one I finished from the ///M5

http://a371.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/41/l_634f149cc188e53a2f0ce6c3cca8ed3a.jpg

VERY NICE!!!! :D

[JustinL]

http://libanophotos.com/OMGNOWAY/fence_700.jpg

from the camera:
http://libanophotos.com/OMGNOWAY/fencehow_700.jpg

setup:
http://libanophotos.com/OMGNOWAY/fencehow02_700.jpg

[Ed 718]

^^ The final shot looks good Justin......

[CorzyPhoto]

Justin - Good stuff man! The auction just ended this morning on the tubing, so I will have them by next week hopefully. I will probably end up investing in the pinch weld clamp setup from AMR. That is what you used for those shots, right?

I'm going to have to sell someone my magnets :lol:

[CorzyPhoto]

By the way, I don't think anyone from AMR wants anyone knowing ANY information on their kits... I emailed them about two weeks ago asking for the diameter of the tubing, along with a follow up email about a week ago. I haven't gotten a response yet. Oh well. I have my own tubing on it's way.

[Thameth]

By the way, I don't think anyone from AMR wants anyone knowing ANY information on their kits... I emailed them about two weeks ago asking for the diameter of the tubing, along with a follow up email about a week ago. I haven't gotten a response yet. Oh well. I have my own tubing on it's way.

Search some of the existing rig threads, I'm pretty sure they told someone they're tubing was 2". I'm guessing 1.5-2" would work fine.

Or you could just get smaller tubing from here:

http://www.carbonfibertubeshop.com/large%20tubing.html

That would be the baller setup, super lightweight and extremely stiff.

:D:D

[CorzyPhoto]

:lol: Yeah, that would be baller to have a CF rig...... Too bad I already purchased aluminum tubing :)

[99allturbo]

I found some 5ft antenna mast tubing at Lowes that can be mated together (I bought 2). At $6.XX each, it's worth a shot (compared to the $35 8ft painter's pole I saw).

The rest of the parts should be here by the end of the week and I'll begin some testing. Will post results if the antenna mast works well.

[CorzyPhoto]

Thanks for experimenting and sharing your results with us, 99allturbo.

What material are they? and how heavy?

[Eedubz]

mine is 3m (roughyl 9ft) antenna mast tubing, pretty light ;)

[99allturbo]

Thanks for experimenting and sharing your results with us, 99allturbo.

What material are they? and how heavy?

Sure no prob. Pretty cool to see so many share their rigs. Things were totally different last year where no one wanted to show their rigs.

I didn't check to see what material it's made of, but it is light. It's not very thick, but I'll find out how well it holds up. Seems like it will work well. The tubing is painted gold (weird).

[CorzyPhoto]

:lol: You might want to paint it a matt black or something of that nature to prevent abient light and reflections.

Yeah, I don't know why rigs are so top secret, when the secret is already out :lol:

[kona77]

Having been inspired by many on these boards with their great rig photos I built one myself. If it actually works I will post it but for now I have a couple of questions.

What is your average distance from the car? Does your pole sway at all or flex?

Thanks

[aridan]

Having been inspired by many on these boards with their great rig photos I built one myself. If it actually works I will post it but for now I have a couple of questions.

What is your average distance from the car? Does your pole sway at all or flex?

Thanks

I used a 10ft EMT pipe with an EF-S 10-22mm @ 10mm + CPL for the following picture. Seems to work nicely. I have more shots of a Benz ML350 that I need to finish processing using the same setup. I think it's optimal.

http://aridanphotography.com:1234/Portfolio/Automotive/IMG03.jpg

This one was shot with an 8ft painter's extension pole and the same lens (10-22 @ 10 w/o CPL), but I don't like it. The pole has a tendency to bounce too much and is too short. The EMT is much better controlled in terms of movement.

http://aridanphotography.com:1234/Portfolio/Automotive/IMG01.jpg

[CorzyPhoto]

So does anyone want to buy my magnets?

2x 250 lb pull.

[Jadam]

why are you selling them?

[CorzyPhoto]

Quitting the rig setup at the moment due to money issues. I can get them later.