Mako, Norbert and GoPro at Indy

Mako Koiwai is one of the first cinematographers to use the new K-Tek Norbert Sport Jr. on a high-profile production. Mako recently chose the newest of the Norbert line for New Wave Entertainment’s production for 3net on the 100th Anniversary of the Indy 500 in 3D.

Dedicated readers of FDTimes news will remember Mako’s enlightening article on Mini Cams. This is the sequel.

Mako said. “By themselves, GoPros are too light for getting smooth handheld shots. The Norbert Sport Jr. adds a bit of heft. It has solid handgrips and a place to add a neck strap, if you are carrying more than one at a time. I was able to push the cameras to the limits because of the added stability and performance of the Norbert Sport Jr. I don’t know of any other support that could do this. One of the best things about the Norbert line is that it is extremely adaptable to many different situations. They have been designed with a variety of mounting points for accessories, yet this doesn’t make them too bulky or heavy.”

While much of Mako’s work is operating or assisting on high-end commercials shot with full-size cameras, he often adds GoPro shots. “And, the Norbert Sport Jr. is always part of the support package. Often the GoPro is used for car mount shots. However, just as often we’ll use a GoPro for handheld.”

Mako has also been testing the new Norbert Sport Jr. for 3D GoPro set-ups where he can adjust the inter-axial distance between two GoPros. “I know of no other rig that would allow me to easily mount one GoPro upside down, which is what the GoPro sync cable requires,” he says.

Based on the Norbert Sport, the smaller Jr. features a top plate made of anodized aluminum with numerous shoe mounts, as well as 1/4-20 and 3/8-16 threads. The side handles are foam-covered graphite. Another cushioned grip fits securely on the top or bottom of the frame for easy handling regardless of orientation.

For information on this and other cool products from K-Tek: 1384-F Poinsettia Ave., Vista, CA  92081; Ph. 760-727-0593; Fax 760-727-0693; www.ktekbooms.com

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