Photography and filmmaking just got a whole lot easier, thanks to Nikon’s robotics division, Mark Roberts Motion Control (MRMC). The company has recently announced the SR-1 pan-tilt head, a remote system designed to capture angles that were previously “impossible” to achieve by hand.
MRMC has been focused on making its robotics smaller and more user-friendly, and the SR-1 is the latest product in that effort. In July, the company released the Cinebot Mini, a compact and lightweight live-action camera robot that simplifies complex motion control moves by mimicking hand-held actions.
The SR-1 is described as a compact and lightweight head, standing at 28 centimeters tall, 22 centimeters wide, and 14 centimeters deep, weighing just 10 pounds. It is designed with easy transport, setup, camera mounting, and control in mind. While the system is optimized for Nikon cameras, it is “camera and lens agnostic,” allowing photographers and filmmakers to use it with a variety of equipment.
One of the key features of the SR-1 is its ability to be used in locations that are difficult for camera operators to access. MRMC emphasizes that this remote production tool enhances creativity by capturing new angles and achieving shots that would be challenging or even impossible to achieve by hand.
The SR-1 boasts a payload capacity of up to four kilograms (about 8.8 pounds) and offers a pan range of plus or minus 120 degrees and a roll range of plus or minus 165 degrees. In addition to controlling camera position, the system also enables motorized zoom or focus control.
With full IP control, compatibility with third-party systems, and support for Polymotion Chat automated tracking software, the SR-1 offers extensive functionality and versatility. According to Paddy Taylor, Head of Broadcast Solutions for MRMC, the SR-1 is a powerful new tool for professionals in the photography and videography industry, perfect for situations where it may be difficult or unsafe for a human operator to be present.
While MRMC has not released pricing or availability details at this time, the SR-1 is set to be showcased at IBC 2023 in Amsterdam, NL.
Sources:
– [Nikon Blog](https://blog.nikonrobotics.com/sr1-pan-tilt-head)
– [Mark Roberts Motion Control](https://www.mrmoco.com)