What is a Jib?
In cinematography, a jib is a boom device with a camera on one end and a counterweight and camera controls at the other. It operates like a see-saw with a fulcrum in the center. A jib is useful for getting high shots, or shots that need to move a great distance; horizontally or vertically, without the expense and safety issues of putting a camera operator on a crane. The camera is controlled by a cabled remote control at one end, and at the other a super-responsive electro mechanic pan/tilt head (hot head) - allowing for smooth pans and tilts.
How High/Low can it go?
With the Cinematic Movements Jib set up in an "under-slung" configuration, the camera can be made to rest almost directly off the floor - making the minimum lens height about 20 centimeters (8 inches). Of course, if you're willing to dig a hole, cut away a section of the set or shoot on a platform this minimal lens height can be reduced. Height will depend on the lenght of the jib being built. We currently offer upto a 30' reach which is capable of a camera lens height of 35'. Soon we will offer jib lenghts of 46' reach which will offer a lens height of 54'
What cameras can you place on the jib?
Pretty much anything – up to the maximum head limit weight of the jib. (50 lbs). Its always great to know in advance which camera you are planning to mount on the jib. Some small cameras are actually a bit light – in that case we will have to add some extra weight to the hothead for best results. With full size cameras, its best to keep the kit slim. Over the years, we’ve used everything from Panasonic HPX170, Sony EX3 to full size camera like Panasonic Varicams, RED, Sony HPX3700, etc.
As for camera control, lens is the main concern. Usually with a broadcast ENG lens, we can control Zoom/Focus/Iris without a problem – with other lenses, we may have less control without additional gear.
How portable is a the Jib?
Cinematic Movements Jibs can be easily transported and assembled in almost any location. Depending on the size of the jib arm, 2 to 3 people can carry a fully rigged jib arm from one location to another (without hothead and camera).
How long does it take to set up a jib?
Usually a typical easy access location shoot would take about 1.5hrs to setup. A jib on special location or on platform might take a bit longer. Another points to vary the setup time is the size of jib to be built, location access from the vehicle to the jib position and so on.
How do you transport the jibs?
Jibs are usually transported in a cargo van or Truck. It is highly recommended to keep vehicle as close to the area where jib will be setup. Upon special request, we can provide different types of transportation for more difficult to access areas. We can also pack a jib on a standard shipping pallet and freight it pretty much anywhere in the United State or Overseas if needed.
Does Cinematic Movements rent out just jibs without an operator?
NO. We only provide Jib Packages which include an operator and a Jib Tech who have experience at setting up and safely operating the equipment.
Your Jib is unique, what kind of jib is it?
Cinematic Movements utilizes the newest crane available making its debut at the 2015 NAB and Cinegear shows. This is a back to basics re-engineering of what at first glance looks like a triangular sectioned arm, but on closer inspection is revealed as a hexagon. The hexagon profile dramatically improves stiffness and has enabled a higher than usual nose loading capacity of 30kg or 66 lbs. The head and control package is fully interchangeable with the Stanton Jimmy JIb as well as the tripod dolly's and tracks. Both are manufactured in the same factory so the same precision and quality that has proven itself in the industry for years is what we use. If it works, why change it? The iris controls have been moved to the zoom and focus controller giving the operator control at his finger tips without having to reach for the control box. In addition, removal of the old bulky battery box and replacement of a standard V-mount plate has been added to the side of the control box giving the jib operator easy access to industry standard power for those remote location shoots where 120volt power is not an option. All of these small but very detailed improvements are what Jimmy Jib operators have dreamed about for years. The next generation of workhorse jibs in the industry is here for the long run!
