Though the “in vogue” shooting rig has since moved on from Canon DSLRs, a great many independent filmmakers still use them. Many of the gimbals and rigs on the market still cater to the idea of using a Canon 5D Mark III, but I haven’t seen one with quite the level of integration that the SkyVideo.pro gimbal seems to offer.

The design of this particular gimbal isn’t anything new, taking much of their concept from both MoVI and DJI. However, what is pretty unique is a built in camera controller in the handle of the gimbal, which gives full camera control without needing to add another device or a second crew member to pull focus.

The system is also wholly integrated to be powered by one battery. You don’t need to worry about the focus puller, monitor and camera all needing to be charged separately with this rig, though the way they have the battery sort of just… strapped on there worries me. Part of the reason I like the Ronin over the MoVI is that the MoVI has a lot of “loose” wires jangling about, while the Ronin was able to keep everything tight and integrated. The SkyVideo.pro has gone the “jangling about” route, with a lot of cables and objects sort of slipshod on there. I think the design is cool, and for Canon DSLR shooters this rig would make their lives a lot easier, but I’m dubious on the lifespan of the product as it has to put up with the trials of use.

That said, the team does state that they intend to make cosmetic upgrades, hide the wires and add a joystick to the final build using the funds from the IndieGoGo campaign.

It’s cool that the product is fully integrated with Canon DSLRs, but it does limit the possible customers. Here is what is supported:

5D Mark II, 5D Mark III, 6D

7D, 7D Mark II,  60D, 70D

750D/T6i, 760D/T6s, 700D/T5i, 650D/T4i, 600D/T3i,  550D/T2i, 500D/T3i,  1100D/T3

Canon EOS 1D Mark IV

• All Canon, Sigma, Tokina and Tamron autofocus lenses are known to function. They recommend to use lightweight prime lenses.

The rig supports cameras up to 2 kilograms. If you’re interested in learning more or supporting their campaign, head over to their IndieGoGo page.