Steadicam operators in New Zealand adopt Segway Personal Transporters
Steadicam operators have rapidly adopted Segway Personal Transporters (PTs) to offer improved tracking shots and other capabilities. When fitted with custom hands-free operation modifications, the Segway PT offers a very capable platform for achieving smooth camera work at high linear speeds. This combination also offers a lower-cost option for shots that would otherwise require tracked dolly set ups.
Here in New Zealand, two Steadicam operators working in the television sector purchased Segway x2 models fitted with Turf tyres last year, and two more have purchased similar machines this year. There is also one first-generation Segway i180 model that was modified with pedal-operated steering in Germany that is now based in Auckland (Adrenochrome).
Back in 2004 Hamish McIntyre was a pioneer in this field when he purchased a Segway e167. Friends at Peter Jackson's Weta Workshop constructed a seat-steer adaption for both film and television work. This machine has worked on Lord of the Rings, King Kong, Chronicles of Narnia, Eagle vs Shark, Out of the Blue, River Queen and more.
Since January 2013, Broadcast Arts Video Unit Steadicam operator Rhys Duncan has often been seen in television sports coverage of major rugby games and cricket matches gliding up and down the sideline on a hands-free Segway x2 Turf.
Moving Media works in the corporate video sector, and use their Segway x2 Turf not only for Steadicam but also to move equipment around large sites.