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BUILDING A CAMERA DOLLY
Flatter your films with the magic of a moving camera. The dolly does it
VERNON W. DEAN, ACL
IF YOU are an amateur movie maker who likes to try something different, now may be the time to take
up with a camera dolly. It is probably among the simplest and most inexpensive gadgets you can build.
The camera dolly, as you should know, is a mobile truck to transport the camera and permit moving closeups. It provides a zoom for titling, gives the feeling of movement in an otherwise static shot and produces a professional effect which will delight your friends. You can approach, withdraw or follow the action you are filming. Instead of the dizzying blur which you get in panning, the dolly gives you a smoothly changing viewpoint.
The construction of the dolly is simple, the materials are easily obtained and the cost is almost nil. Two pieces of hardwood are securely joined in a "T" shape by a support plate and two angle irons. To make a smoother job it is wise to countersink the holes in these supports and use one inch wood screws. With the two pieces rigidly fastened together, the next step is to attach the three casters. These should be of the rubber-cushioned variety, with flanged mounts, ball bearings and wheels as large as possible.
At the extreme end of each arm, attach a wooden block into which a hole is drilled to make a socket for the tripod leg. On the 24 inch upright leg, at a point directly under the center of the tripod, attach a hook or screw eye to which a chain can be fastened. The other end of the chain is fastened to the tripod head, with a turnbuckle inserted conveniently in the chain's length. This arrangement permits you to tauten the chain, thereby holding the tripod securely in position on the dolly.
The dolly will give best results if drawn over a smooth wooden track which has been made especially for this purpose. A "U" shaped track is best, as it eliminates any danger of the wheels jumping out. These tracks need not be too long for home use; a smooth pavement will suffice for outdoor shots if you find the tracks too clumsy or difficult to assemble.
Velvety smooth scenes can be made with very little practice, and shots that are different from the run-ofthe-mill variety can easily be obtained. Because they're different, they're more interesting. Easy to build and easy to use, the camera dolly returns rich rewards for the very little expense and time involved in making it. Why not try one, this fall or winter?
RIGHT: Simple to build yet stimulating in cine effect, the complete camera dolly is seen in isometric design at right. Surrounding detail patterns show dimensions and construction of marked parts.
2"x2"x|" BLOCK WITH HOLE TO SUIT DIA. OF TRIPOD LEG
■ I" HARD WOOD
SUPPORT ANGLES
TURNBUCKLE
IPOD LEG SOCKET
SUPPORT ANGLE
SWIVEL CASTERS
LEFT: Side and plan views show placement of tripod on the dolly and functioning of the important tie-down chain to steady camera. If of heavier, more elaborate construction, your dolly may also carry two or three portable lighting units for added filming convenience.