Los Angeles, Ca. July 7, 2022 - Today Rigpacks officially launches the back-saving Stillframe harness with elbow support system – ideal for shooting in every hand-held situation. It is now in stock and available to purchase following a successful debut at Cine Gear Expo last month in Los Angeles.
Designed to aid anyone who needs to shoot with a camera on the shoulder, it creates a comfortable shooting platform for extended periods and is compact enough to be wearable at all times. It comes in two versions: one with a single elbow support for standard on-the-shoulder camera operation, the other with dual elbow supports for use for two-handed gimbal operation or with larger double-handed cinema camera rigs.
Both versions of the Stillframe are lightweight and can be easily packed into a carry case, or broken down into carry-on luggage for travel.
Brilliantly designed for ergonomic support
The concept is deceptively simple - providing a solid support for one or both elbows with a brace that connects to a close-fitting ergonomic chest harness. By leveraging the weight of the camera using a pat. pending elbow support unit, the Rigpacks Stillframe more evenly distributes the balance of the entire rig throughout the body, relieving the common pressure points and muscles that regularly wrench during typical operation. Rigpacks understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The Stillframe harness comes in varying sizes and is highly configurable. No matter the length of the operator’s arms, each elbow support is easily adjusted to relieve the muscle pressure that can build during normal operation.
The Rigpacks Stillframe has a unique elbow support unit that is pat. pending
Equally at home at ENG or Cinema
The Rigpacks Stillframe is highly versatile and can be used with many different camera configurations. A removable oversized ergonomic shoulder pad is attached to the Stillframe harness via hook-and-loop tape and works with a wide variety of cameras. The pad is made of automotive-grade vinyl and forms an incredibly comfortable support that can combine with the camera’s existing shoulder pad for extra cushioning. Alternatively, heavier cinema cameras and rigs without their own shoulder pad can be used directly on the Stillframe pad. The quality of the cushioning ensures the operator can stay strapped in for ages without worrying about pad compression.
The dual elbow support version of the Rigpacks Stillframe is designed for gimbal operators
Highly mobile and ready for action
The wearable nature of the Rigpacks Stillframe keeps the operator ready to shoot at all times. Going from carrying the camera to shooting on the shoulder takes just moments and there is even a clever hook on the outside of the elbow support allowing a camera to be hung from its top handle for low angle shots. Unlike other more complicated systems it is easy to use in tight spaces, getting in and out of vehicles, or going through doorways.
Built to withstand daily use
The Rigpacks Stillframe harness is constructed of breathable, lightweight ballistic nylon fabric making it a dream to slip on and carry for long periods, without sacrificing the sturdiness you need to safely haul all your gear. The adjustable elbow rest is manufactured from custom-moulded nylon and steel parts machined in the USA.
Chill Out … Or Warm Up
Camera operators often find themselves shooting in extreme environments. The Rigpacks Stillframe features a modular rear pouch that accepts handy hot/cold packs to give the operator that extra level of comfort on a long shoot. Each pack can be warmed in a microwave or frozen on-set, or simply put in a hot thermos or cold water in on-the-go shoots.
The Stillframe rear pouch can accommodate a hot/cold pack or the upcoming hydration pack
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is important and Rigpacks is working on an optional 2L neoprene bladder with an antimicrobial insulated hose that will fit into the rear pouch of the harness and allow users to drink when needed while keeping both hands free to operate the camera.
Stow your stuff
Stretch front pockets on each shoulder strap allow the user to keep all the small things in check. They can easily access batteries, headphones and cellphones, as well as everyday items like tissues and gum.
Buckle Up
A quick-release Cobra buckle offers the strongest, most reliable and durable belt closure on the market. Known for its high load-bearing ability, it has rock-solid strength to support the operator and camera.
Designed by shooters for shooters
The brainchild of documentary and reality TV shooter Mike Ruggirello, the Rigpacks Stillframe is the result of innovative design coupled with years of experience. Like many other shooters he spent years working with ENG cameras on the shoulder and experienced the injury, pain and numbness that repetitive use can bring. Unprepared to suffer forever he set to work designing a better solution that would keep him healthy and in good shape for shooting. Several iterations later and the result is the Stillframe harness and elbow support system available today.
Mike Ruggirello, creator of the Rigpacks Stillframe
Mike and his team have worked to make the Stillframe as comfortable and supportive as possible, with superior construction that is built to last. Each component of the Stillframe is manufactured in Southern California and hand-assembled at the Rigpacks HQ in the San Fernando Valley. Being able to visit and coordinate with local suppliers and supervise in-person ensures that all parts in the Stillframe are held to the highest quality standards. The hand assembly process allows Rigpacks to further guarantee the quality of the Stillframe.
Key features:
Lightweight ballistic nylon construction for breathability, durability, and security.
Patented and fully adjustable single elbow support unit manufactured from custom moulded nylon and locally machined steel.
Extendable steel hook on the outside of the elbow rest to hang the camera by its top handle. This is levelled with a screw adjustment and strap to fine-tune low shots.
Sturdy automotive-grade vinyl padding at the elbow and shoulder.
Quick-release, high load-bearing Cobra belt buckle.
Modular rear pouch to accommodate a hot/cold pack or upcoming 2L hydration bladder.
Stretchy front pockets on shoulder straps to stow smaller, must-have items.
Spacious water-resistant nylon tote bag for extra essentials.
A hook on the outside of the elbow support allows a camera to be hung from its top handle for low angle shots
Simply put, the Stillframe enables shooting for hours with excellent mobility, without the fatigue and sore spots that camera operators are all too familiar with the next day.
The Rigpacks Stillframe is available in medium, large and XL, and in Single or Double elbow support models. Sizing is based off of the users t-shirt size.
For more details visit the Rigpacks website.
Please contact dan@crashzoom.com for press enquiries
Press images can be downloaded here.
