DIY Overhead Camera Rig

Have you ever marveled at the quality that some YouTube producers and DIY’ers employ in their product photography? Are you interested in creating some overhead “writing title” shots? This build is of an overhead rig built to last. It is made of wood (you will find a lot built from PVC) and allows for many different lighting options, camera shots, etc. The stability from a quality rig will allow you to create quality images, videos, or stop motion animations.

Here is the link for the Sketchup Plan for this DIY Overhead Camera Rig. We will be following up with the video walk through and material list shortly.

Overhead Camera RIG DIY Sketchup File

Cut List

Our Inspiration and Basis for the Plans

The camera rig was inspired by Casey Neistat’s overhead Rig.

Our build/version was primarily based upon this in terms of function and scale:
http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Overhead-Camera-Rig/

We also liked the Youtube video found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Svgkir_FGK4

This version gave us some ideas for material, lighting, and video display options.

We altered the design to use simple 2″x4″ lumber along with a small amount of plywood. With only 2 2×4’s and a piece of 36″ long by 6″ wide plywood, this is in reach of anyone.
In fact, you could replace the plywood with some 1″ x 2″ boards and save some cutting since you can purchase stock 1″ x 2″ boards (true 3/4″ x 1 1/2″).

Who Needs an Overhead Camera Rig?

Anyone who demonstrates their work, or likes to document their work could stand to use a camera rig like this. We added a second (inexpensive) camera along with a mount for our iPhone. This will allow for multiple angles and seamless editing of our projects. In addition, when working on small electronics, a video of your work can really help if things fall apart shortly after opening, or if you can’t figure out the proper re-assembly.

Perfect for a Makerspace

If you are involved in a makerspace or a community workshop, this rig is perfect to document a project for others to view. In fact, this can be an ideal setup for small electronics demonstrations in a busy space. A seat that is 20′ away from a demo isn’t nearly as good as a 4k image broadcast on multiple large screens for an audience/class.

Perfect for a Youtuber

If you want the perfect title sequences for your project, with hand drawn titles, this rig will capture things perfectly every time.