Recently, I had the pleasure of catching up with Leighton Cox, an incredibly skilled Steadicam operator, to talk all things Steadicam and, more specifically, how he preps for a job using the MK-V AR rig. It was a great opportunity to dive into the rig’s capabilities, the challenges of operating it efficiently, and the extra layers of precision and balance it demands.

What Makes the MK-V AR Rig Special?

The MK-V AR (Auto-Leveling Revolution) is a game-changer in Steadicam operation. Designed by Howard J. Smith at MK-V, the AR rig incorporates a rotating ring mechanism that allows the camera to spin a full 360 degrees around its optical axis while maintaining a level horizon. This means you can seamlessly transition between standard Steadicam operation and low mode without physically inverting the sled—something that normally takes time and effort to reconfigure on a conventional rig.

It essentially combines the fluidity of a traditional Steadicam with the vertical range of a jib, allowing for dynamic camera movement that would otherwise require multiple tools to achieve.

Transitioning Between High and Low Mode

One of the standout features of the AR rig is its ability to move effortlessly between high and low shooting angles. Instead of manually adjusting the rig and flipping the camera over, the system allows the operator to roll through different orientations while maintaining precise control. This is a huge advantage when shooting fast-moving or complex sequences, as it keeps the shot smooth without interruption.

'Goofy' vs. Regular Steadicam Operation

Something that often comes up in conversations with Steadicam operators is whether they operate ‘regular’ or ‘goofy.’ In Steadicam terms, ‘regular’ means the sled is mounted on the operator’s left side, while ‘goofy’ means it’s mounted on the right. Leighton, like many operators, prefers to work ‘goofy.’ It’s a matter of personal preference and comfort, but it can also depend on the shot requirements and how an operator naturally balances their body under load.

Using the MK-V App for Precision Control

One of the coolest aspects of the MK-V AR rig is its integration with an app that allows for pre-programmed camera moves. You can use your phone to mimic the rotation of the camera and queue up moves independently, making it an incredibly useful tool for achieving precise, repeatable motion in complex shots.

The Importance of Being Nodal in 360-Degree Rotation

If you’re planning on using the AR rig for full 360-degree rotations, you need to consider whether the camera needs to be nodal. ‘Being nodal’ means that the camera’s center of rotation aligns perfectly with its optical center, eliminating parallax errors that could distort the shot. This is especially crucial for VFX-heavy work or scenes that require absolute precision in movement.

Adjusting the Monitor for Optimal Visibility

One of the additional complexities of operating with the AR rig is ensuring that the monitor is always in a usable position. Leighton uses a motorized mount to adjust his monitor as the camera changes position, ensuring he always has a clear line of sight to his framing. This adds another axis of balance to manage, as the monitor’s position affects the overall weight distribution of the rig. Finding a sweet spot where the sled, arm, camera, and monitor all work in harmony is key to smooth operation.

Balancing the Rig: More Than Just the Camera

Unlike traditional Steadicam setups that rely on a slight drop time to maintain control, the AR rig benefits from a neutral balance. This is because the rig needs to accommodate 360-degree movement without favoring any particular direction. This means balancing isn’t just about the camera but also the sled, arm, and monitor bracket to ensure everything moves freely without resistance.

Panning with the AR Rig

In standard Steadicam operation, panning the camera is typically done with a light touch on the post. However, when using the AR rig horizontally, you have to physically push and pull the post at waist height to execute a pan. This change in technique requires a different muscle memory and understanding of how the rig behaves in motion.

Cable Management: Avoiding Snags During Rotations

With all the added rotation capabilities of the AR rig, managing cables becomes even more critical. Any loose cables can get caught or restrict movement, so careful rigging is essential. Making sure nothing interferes with the rotation ensures smooth operation and prevents potential damage to both equipment and shots.

Wrapping Up

Catching up with Leighton was a fantastic opportunity to dive deeper into what makes the MK-V AR rig such a unique and powerful tool. His knowledge and experience were incredibly valuable, and all of this insight came into play on the recent Loco Ono music video, Perfecto! Check it out here: Loco Ono - Perfecto!.

A huge thanks to Leighton for taking the time to chat and share his expertise—it’s always great learning from the best!

Catching Up with Leighton Cox: Mastering the MK-V AR Rig