Ronin 4D Workshop (am) 29 Apr 25

3-hour workshop to train camera crew or production members on how to use the Ronin 4D Gimbal systems. 

Up to 10 attendees per workshop will share 2 x Ronin 4D cameras, which are the first 6K FF cinema cameras with RAW capture and 14 stops of latitude to feature a built-in 4-axis gimbal into a single unit.

As a free event, this is more of a familiarisation programme, rather a hands-on workshop, so whilst we plan for multiple gimbals to be on hand, each will be shared between several people and hands-on availability will be limited.

Whilst 3 axis gimbals to stabilise the X,Y & Z axis are quite normal, DP Ian Watts (below) really puts the 4th axis through its paces with his workout, demonstrating that even extreme lateral movement can be overcome and relatively steady pictures captured with the Ronin 4D.

The new Gimbal systems offer superb functionality and access to a range of shots previously only available to other Gimbal systems and never before with a 4th axis…

In fact, some shots are capable with this system which are not even possible on existing gimbal systems or Steadicam.

On this 3-hour workshop, you can expect to learn how to successfully balance and set up the systems to then use them on location..

We feel that the workshops were really useful for demonstrating the ability of the system to track a face and at the same time to use the autofocus facial-tracking feature together, as the operation of these subtle settings can change how the cameras are used enormously.

I really appreciate the chance to see new kit and hands on makes a difference.

Gerry Vasbenter, Cinematographer

However, nothing beats practice and we recommend further practice ahead of your first shoot (practice time after the course not included).

Course Outline

The course will cover the following:

• Fundaments of Gimbal Systems
• Differences between the Gimbal systems
• Best Practice
• Compatible Equipment and accessories
• Building the Gimbal system
• Balancing the system
• Operation and Practice time.
• Working in a Remote Control (RC) environment.
• Fine tuning
• Derig

Trainer

The course will be given by our VMI in-house Gimbal technician.

Venue

VMI are working with the excellent facilities provided by West London College to host these events.

This is at their Ealing Green Campus, the home of the original BBC Ealing Studios. West London College’s studio is 13mx10m and is on the second floor of the main building and entrance for visitors is via the reception.

Location

West London College, Ealing Green Campus, TV Studio, 2nd Floor The Green, Ealing, London W5 5EW

Public Transport

Underground (Zone 3) Ealing Broadway for Central and District Lines (10 minute walk to College) or South Ealing Piccadilly Line.

Train Ealing Broadway (10 min walk) or West Ealing (15 min walk) for Great West Railway and Heathrow Connect

Bus Routes 65, 83, 112, 207, 297, 607, E1, E2, E7, E8, E9, E10, E11

Car Parking There is lots of local pay parking available, though the Ealing Broadway Car Park is just a couple of minutes walk away and has 800 spaces. (W5 5JY) View on Google Maps

Cost

No charge