Camera carts can be an expensive tool on set, and Inovativ are at the top of the bunch. Hopefully, these ideas can get more out of your cart for less.
If you haven’t heard of Inovativ or don’t get why camera carts can be an important tool, then this video will help you get a feel for it. The cart is just the base, and the accessories are where a user personalizes it to their exact need. A photographer may want a clamp for their camera’s tether, and a DIT may need somewhere to store hard drives. Users can swap out the wheels, monitor arms, you name it.
The issue is that these add-ons and accessories can get pretty pricey. Adding a baby pin stand to your cart will cost €250, about the price of two brand new C-Stands. That’s why it’s pretty cool to see Kevin Reyes use drum hardware and clamps to build out his Inovativ cart setup.
In fact he’s so efficient when upgrading his cart, that he takes a $1,944 cost down to $310. As an advocate of drum hardware and cheaper grip equipment, I’m certain that there’s not enough difference for the end-user to care.
Now, there are cheaper cart systems out there of course. Proaim make a decent option. However, be aware that not every brand will fold up, and make sure to take note of the weight. Inovativ makes carts that are strong but lightweight. If you just need to transport equipment to the studio, I can’t recommend this cart enough. It’s super lightweight, expands, and holds things tight with some strong bungee cord.
