Camera Gear: Every Type of Camera Rig Explained [The Shot List, Ep 5]

Summary by Krater

This video examines twelve types of camera rigs and gear—from handheld shots and tripods to cranes, gimbals, and underwater housings—and demonstrates how each affects the feel and intensity of a scene using famous film examples.

From the video

Answers: What are the different types of camera gear and rigs used in filmmaking?

• camera rigs and movement
• handheld shots
• tripods
• pedestal shots
• cranes and jibs
• overhead shots
• dollies
• sliders and cable cams
• stabilizers and gimbals
• snorricams
• vehicle mounts
• drones

What it concludes

• Handheld camera shots introduce shake that can heighten scene intensity or establish intimacy, though they may not be appropriate for every scene.
• Tripods provide stable three-legged support ideal for static shots or smooth pans and tilts when using a fluid head.
• Pedestal shots move vertically up and down to match actor movement, establish worlds, or build suspense.
• Cranes and jibs enable big vertical movements and smooth sweeping aerial views to highlight emotional moments.
• Overhead rigs capture perfect top-down shots and god's-eye views for detailed framing and spatial awareness.
• Dollies provide smooth tracking and movement alongside characters, keeping shots free from handheld distractions or rapid cuts.