What Are Camera Jibs?

Sometimes referred to as cranes or jib cranes, camera jibs are devices that are used to create dramatic and smooth sweeping shots through vertical and horizontal movements over a large distance. Camera jibs operate similar to a see-saw with a camera on one end and a counterweight on the other end. The balance point is located closer to the counterweight so that the camera has a bigger range of motion.

“Getting the jib ready for a walking/talking sequence down the stairs” by Portable Antiquities Scheme is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The fluid motion effect that is achieved from using jibs helps to create a variety of dramatic shots. With jibs, the camera can tilt up and down, pan left and right, or do a combination of both, allowing for various types of dynamic movements to be captured. Jibs are commonly used to track moving objects as well as create sweeping shots around stationary objects.

Jibs come in a variety of sizes, and the largest jibs are useful for creating feelings of vastness and immensity through elevated shots.

“Jib arm over Kaneohe Bay” by jai Mansson is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Below are some examples of the creative shots you can get with a jib:

“5 Creative camera jib (mini crane) tricks | Cinecom.net” by Cinecom.net

Other tools that are used to create fluid movement include sliders and steadicams. Learn more about how they work in comparison to jibs and also how choosing the right lens can improve your footage:

“Slider vs. Jib vs. Steadicam: Which is best for your story?” by davewallace4

If you are looking for jibs for your next project, check out our online Nevada Production Directory for a list of equipment rental companies offering jib rentals in Nevada or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you are a jib operator in Nevada and are not yet listed in our Nevada Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

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