Abstract: A mounting apparatus for a portable video capture device for recording from a substantially first person point of view including an arm assembly configured to be positioned and temporarily fixed in a plurality of angular orientations, and an adjustable clamp coupled to the arm assembly. The mounting apparatus may also include a harness to attach the mounting apparatus to a user's head, a harness mounting plate. The clamp comprises an upper and lower mounting block adjustably positioned on a shaft to secure portable video capture devices of different widths. The upper and lower mounting blocks may also be configured to secure portable video capture devices of different thicknesses. The mounting apparatus may also be configured such that the vertical position is adjustable to allow a user to view a screen on the portable video capture device in real time during video capture.

Abstract: The invention concerns a camera head mount comprising: a strap for encircling the head and means for securing the strap around the head to prevent or hinder slippage of the camera head mount once secured in its mounted position; a camera holding pocket provided on the strap and situated such that when the camera head mount is secured in its mounted position the camera holding pocket is adapted to hold a camera in a forward-facing position against the forehead of the user, the lens of a mounted camera pointing forwards and through a lens aperture provided in the camera holding pocket at the front thereof, the camera holding pocket otherwise being adapted substantially to enclose a camera therein in a mounted and supported position on the forehead of the user.

Abstract: The All-in-one Tripod/Monopod is single-shaft assembly with a base section located at the bottom and telescoping sections that form both a tripod and a monopod of unlimited height. The base is a section with three legs individually hinged at the bottom of the section. The legs can be pivoted independently. All legs pivoted downward form a tripod. All legs pivoted upward form a monopod. Minimum length and portability are provided when all sections are retracted and all legs are pivoted upward. Modularity allows sections to be individually added and removed so that they can be used in whole or in part. Modularity is provided for through a three position latch assembly. Both the top section of the shaft, and the tripod/monopod handle have a threaded screw for mounting a camera or other device. Individual sections, when detached, make special purpose monopods, chest pods, belt pods and extendable poles.

Abstract: The present invention provides head-mounted systems and devices for capturing an image of a user's face. In particular, the present invention provides systems and devices comprising: a) a head-mounted frame component configured to be mounted on the head of a user (e.g., hat, head band, glasses, goggles, etc.) and b) an extending component that is moveable between a first position in or adjacent to the head-mounted frame component and a second position non-adjacent to the head-mounted frame component that allows a camera (or mirror) on the extending component to capture an image (e.g., picture or video) of the user's face.

Abstract: To compensate for changes in weight distribution of transportable, hand-held camera supports when one or both camera translate or pivot in a two-camera stereographic imaging system, the bottom of the elongated camera support attaches to a compensation mechanism. The mechanism has a balance plate movable laterally on a bottom housing. Ballast mounts below the bottom housing. A motor in the bottom housing moves the balance plate and the pole laterally in response to camera pivoting or lateral movement to maintain the center of gravity of the system centered along the longitudinal axis of the elongated support.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a camera screw and to a system consisting of a camera screw and a carrying strap. Carrying straps with appropriate fastenings on the sides of the camera are known. They have numerous disadvantages that should be avoided by the present invention. The camera screw in accordance with the invention for connecting a carrying strap to a tripod thread of a camera includes a first part and a second part. The first part includes a tripod screw on a first end and a circumferential collar on the second end. The second part surrounds the first part between the collar and the tripod screw in a rotatable manner relative to the first part about an axis of rotation. A friction reducing means is provided between the second part and the collar. The second part includes a fastening for the carrying strap.

Abstract: Embodiments of hands-free camera holders according to the present disclosure can enable a user to obtain the exact picture they want by giving them complete control of the camera position. A hands-free camera holder can include a camera support member, e.g., a platform, that is connected by way of an adjustable frame. In optional embodiments, the user can connect to the frame by way or a collar/harness. By using a switch, or trigger means, that is connected to the camera, to take the picture, the framing of the picture is not disturbed, whether activated by the user or an assistant. The separate switch concept/means can also enable individuals with disabilities to use other parts of their body to operate the camera. Using adaptive technology, any reliable movement can be used as a trigger for the camera.

Abstract: There is provided an imaging device including a main body having a front part and a rear part; and a lens mounted to the front part of the main body. The main body includes a slope formed in the rear part, the slope being inclined upward with respect to a bottom surface of the rear part and continuous with the bottom surface of the rear part.

Abstract: A hand held camera unit comprises a shoulder assembly and a platform assembly for releasably holding a camera. A connector is provided between the shoulder assembly and the platform assembly, and is movable between a locked position wherein the platform assembly is fixed relative to the shoulder assembly and an unlocked position wherein the platform assembly can be selectively moved relative to the shoulder assembly in the roll axis, the yaw axis and in a fore and aft direction.

Abstract: The present invention is a portable camera support apparatus designed to enable a user to record videos or capture still images while simultaneously performing action sports, aquatic activities, or various other extreme activities. More particularly, such portable camera support apparatus comprises a tubular member to hold a portable camera, grips on the tubular member for the user to comfortably hold and control the portable camera support apparatus with one or both hands at either end, a pivot coupler for attaching the portable camera to the tubular member, and an optional opening to enhance movement under water for aquatic activities. A portable camera support apparatus may also comprise a control switch, a pivot control, and a pivoting axis enabling a user to serve as the director of the videos or images captured by turning the camera on or off, adjusting the angle the camera is facing, taking snap shot images or controlling various other features of the camera.

Abstract: A configurable wrist or arm worn camera harness (1a) that facilitates convenient carry, access, and secure use of a camera during participation in a physical activity. Camera harness (1a) is comprised of an adjustable strap system for attaching harness (1a) to operator wrist or arm and a coupling system for attaching, one at a time, cameras of various shapes and sizes to aforementioned harness (1a) in a either a manner that allows camera to be moved pivotably while attached to harness (1a) and operator or in a manner that secures camera in a fixed, non-pivoting position. A clasping system is incorporated to harness (1a) to secure camera in a first secure flat carry position on operator wrist or arm. Clasping system can be released by operator to allow camera to be pivotably moved upright into a second secure position for the purpose of taking a photograph.

Abstract: A device for rotatably mounting a camera on a person comprises a female connector and a male connector. The female connector has a U-shaped slot defined by a pocket and a pair of opposed channels which extend from the pocket. The male connector has a wedge shaped base, a plate spaced-apart form the base, and an opening extending through the wedge shaped base and the plate. The plate is slidably received by the U-shaped slot of the female connector and rotatable through 360 degrees within the pocket of the female connector. A threaded member extends through the opening in the male connector. The threaded member is for engaging a threaded tripod receiver of the camera. A strap assembly is connected to the female connector. The strap assembly is for mounting the device to the person.

Abstract: A camera manipulation device comprising a plate having a top surface, a mounting element for securing a camera to the top surface of the plate, a handle for a user to hold the camera manipulation device and two or more connector elements for connecting the handle to the mounting plate, wherein each of said connector elements comprises at least one of a first and second pivot element.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a holster for coupling a camera to an article of clothing, for example, a belt, of a wearer. The holster comprises a camera engaging base plate coupled to a retaining subassembly via a coupling pin. The holster is configured to permit rotation of the camera with respect to the retaining subassembly.

Abstract: The invention concerns a camera head mount comprising: a strap for encircling the head and means for securing the strap around the head to prevent or hinder slippage of the camera head mount once secured in its mounted position; a camera holding pocket provided on the strap and situated such that when the camera head mount is secured in its mounted position the camera holding pocket is adapted to hold a camera in a forward-facing position against the forehead of the user, the lens of a mounted camera pointing forwards and through a lens aperture provided in the camera holding pocket at the front thereof, the camera holding pocket otherwise being adapted substantially to enclose a camera therein in a mounted and supported position on the forehead of the user.

Abstract: A camera rig with a center-of-gravity correction system, which includes an adjustable shoulder platform, a camera platform connected to the shoulder platform, and an abdominal support system connected to the camera platform. The camera platform is vertically, horizontally, and pivotably movable relative to the shoulder platform, and includes a mechanism for providing center-of-gravity correction for a camera mounted thereon. The abdominal support system is horizontally and vertically adjustable relative to the camera platform.

Abstract: A viewing device comprising: a handheld telescopic rod; a camera attached at a first end of the rod; and an output device mounted on a bottom half of the rod when fully extended, at an end opposite to the first end, the output device displaying images transmitted by the camera.

Abstract: Embodiments of hands-free camera holders according to the present disclosure can enable a user to obtain the exact picture they want by giving them complete control of the camera position. A hands-free camera holder can include a camera support member, e.g., a platform, that is connected by way of an adjustable frame. In optional embodiments, the user can connect to the frame by way or a collar/harness. By using a switch, or trigger means, that is connected to the camera, to take the picture, the framing of the picture is not disturbed, whether activated by the user or an assistant. The separate switch concept/means can also enable individuals with disabilities to use other parts of their body to operate the camera. Using adaptive technology, any reliable movement can be used as a trigger for the camera.

Abstract: A multi-functional storage apparatus for selectively supporting a capturing device includes a main casing having a receiving cavity and a supporting arrangement. The supporting arrangement is provided on the main casing to operate the main casing between a normal storing mode and an capturing mode, wherein in the normal storing mode, the supporting arrangement is arranged to rest on the main casing so as to allow the main casing to function as a portable carrying device through storing objects within the receiving cavity, wherein in the capturing mode, the supporting arrangement is selectively extended from the main casing to detachably attach to the image capturing device, in such a manner that the image capturing device is securely and suspendedly supported by the main casing as a supporting base for stably capturing image in a predetermined direction.

Abstract: A hand held camera unit comprises a shoulder assembly and a platform assembly for releasably holding a camera. A connector is provided between the shoulder assembly and the platform assembly, and is movable between a locked position wherein the platform assembly is fixed relative to the shoulder assembly and an unlocked position wherein the platform assembly can be selectively moved relative to the shoulder assembly in the roll axis, the yaw axis and in a fore and aft direction.

Abstract: A device may include a receiving surface to receive a cleaning device adapted to clean a surface of a lens when the device is proximate to the surface of the lens. The device may further include a mounting surface to moveably support the device on a host surface, where the host surface further supports a lens. The mounting surface may further maintain the device in a first position that maintains the cleaning device proximate to the surface of the lens to remove a foreign object from the surface of the lens, and maintain the device in a second position that maintains the cleaning device away from the surface of the lens to allow the lens to receive optical information related to a subject.

Abstract: A camera rig with a center-of-gravity correction system, which includes an adjustable shoulder platform, a camera platform connected to the shoulder platform, and an abdominal support system connected to the camera platform. The camera platform is vertically, horizontally, and pivotably movable relative to the shoulder platform, and includes a mechanism for providing center-of-gravity correction for a camera mounted thereon. The abdominal support system is horizontally and vertically adjustable relative to the camera platform.

Abstract: A device having a support in the form of a base plate for being fixed to a camera such as with the receptacle for a tripod in the base of the camera, a slotted tube extending from the support for holding a spring loaded plunger rod and an actuator pin extending through the plunger rod and through opposing slots in the slotted tube. The plunger is moved by a retractable line from a remote position to cause movement of the actuator pin to actuate the shutter release of the camera.

Abstract: A multi-functional storage apparatus for selectively supporting a capturing device includes a main casing having a receiving cavity and a supporting arrangement. The supporting arrangement is provided on the main casing to operate the main casing between a normal storing mode and an capturing mode, wherein in the normal storing mode, the supporting arrangement is arranged to rest on the main casing so as to allow the main casing to function as a portable carrying device through storing objects within the receiving cavity, wherein in the capturing mode, the supporting arrangement is selectively extended from the main casing to detachably attach to the image capturing device, in such a manner that the image capturing device is securely and suspendedly supported by the main casing as a supporting base for stably capturing image in a predetermined direction.

Abstract: A camera manipulation device comprising a plate having a top surface, a mounting element for securing a camera to the top surface of the plate, a handle for a user to hold the camera manipulation device and two or more connector elements for connecting the handle to the mounting plate, wherein each of said connector elements comprises at least one of a first and second pivot member.

Abstract: A camera support assembly including an elongated support, such as a extensible support, which support extends between a base assembly and a handgrip, whereby a user of the camera may secure a camera to the base assembly and, while holding the handgrip, position the camera a distance away, which may be greater than arms length, to capture a still or moving image of the user, of an obstructed scene, or of hard to reach and/or unsafe areas.

Abstract: A multi-functional storage apparatus for selectively supporting a capturing device includes a main casing having a receiving cavity and a supporting arrangement. The supporting arrangement is provided on the main casing to operate the main casing between a normal storing mode and an capturing mode, wherein in the normal storing mode, the supporting arrangement is arranged to rest on the main casing so as to allow the main casing to function as a portable carrying device through storing objects within the receiving cavity, wherein in the capturing mode, the supporting arrangement is selectively extended from the main casing to detachably attach to the image capturing device, in such a manner that the image capturing device is securely and suspendedly supported by the main casing as a supporting base for stably capturing image in a predetermined direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a camera support device worn on the body comprising a multifunctional assembly of electrical components. The inventive device is characterized in that an operational mode switch device is used to switch the operational mode of connection devices and signal lines between a first and a second mode. In the first mode, the signal lines are used for transmitting a video signal of a first type. In the second mode, only a part of the signal lines is used for transmitting a video signal of a second type while the remaining signal lines are used for other purposes.

Abstract: An image pickup apparatus, comprising: a lens unit, a grip unit which can be attached and detached to/from the lens unit and forms all or a part of a grip when photographing, a guiding member which, being set on the lens unit, guides the grip unit in a direction approximately orthogonal to an optical axis of the lens unit; and a guided member which is set on the grip unit and engaged with the guiding member.

Abstract: A fully adjustable, handlebar support apparatus is readily attachable to a hand held video or still camera or to another support device, such as a monopod or tripod and includes a flexible, articulating handle which may be grasped by the camera operator and selectively manipulated to exhibit an infinite range of possible contours to the flexible handle.

Abstract: A shooting stabilizer is disclosed having an arm support, a clamp, an optional connection member, one or more optional and securable pivoting means, an optional support leg, and one or more optional affixing means. The shooting stabilizer provides an arm support to stabilize the shooting arm of the shooter when shooting a firearm.

Abstract: A hand held device that is connected to a precision instrument's handle or eye piece to bridge the connection between the operator and the instrument. With the device connected, the invention allows the instrument's operator to finely control the instrument's movement. Allowing the adjustment of the instrument's shot by pulling on the device instead of the instrument's handle or eyepiece. Elastic resilient tape is used to smoothly guide the fine movements of an instrument and reduce unwanted vibrations caused by an operator's hands. Using the device by operators of precision instruments is a simple task. The device's small, light weight, and easy to operate design can be made in different sizes to accommodate the various sizes of precision instruments, like cameras, telescopes, and transits. Moreover, the device can be sold individually for a low price.

Abstract: A voice activated headset imaging system and elements thereof enable hands-free imaging. Hands-free imaging in some embodiments of the invention comprises receiving by a headset assembly a voice command and executing by the headset assembly an imaging control instruction generated in response to the voice command. Execution of the imaging control instruction involves an operation such as activating an object pointer, capturing an image, deleting a captured image or downloading a captured image.

Abstract: A device for rotatably mounting a camera on a person comprises first and second connecting means. The first connecting means has a U-shaped slot which is defined by a curved pocket and a pair of opposed channels which extend from the pocket. The second connecting means has a circular plate which is slidably received by the U-shaped slot. The circular plate is rotatable within the U-shaped slot. A threaded member extends from one of said first connecting means or said second connecting means. The threaded member is for engaging a threaded female tripod receiver of the camera. A strap assembly is connected to another one of said first connecting means or said second connecting means. The strap assembly is for mounting the device on the person.

Abstract: A support for a camcorder includes a platform connectable to a camcorder and a gripping handle attached via a multi-directional joint to the platform. The handle includes a head portion close to the multidirectional joint and is segmented along its major axis so as to define at least three pivotably connected leg portions, so as to enable the opening of the leg portions to form a mini-tripod for stationary support of the platform. The support further includes a stabilizer arm having a first end associated to the platform, an opposite second end to which a balancing, stabilizing weight is attached. The arm is provided with a joint enabling the pivoting of the second end of the arm between a first free-floating stabilizing position of the platform and a second position wherein the second end of the arm is suitable to rest on a shoulder-chest area of a camcorder operator.

Abstract: A camera bracket is disclosed which facilitates movement of a camera and its field from the horizontal to the vertical position and maintains the center of the camera lens in exactly the same in relationship to all objects, such as the sun, as long as the photographer does not change position and which maintains the center of the camera lens in the exact same position with respect to any flash that is being used even if the photographer does change position.

Abstract: The present invention provides an adapter device adapted for easier operation of a lid that opens and closes an opening through which a video camera is to be inserted and on which a viewfinder is to be installed. The present invention provides an adapter device to which a video camera device is to be attached, the adapter device including an adapter body having formed therein a receptacle in which the video camera device is to be installed and having formed at the rear end thereof an opening through which the video camera device is to be inserted first at a lens-unit mount thereof, a lid provided pivotably on a vertical pivot of the adapter body to open and close the insertion opening, and a mount base provided on the top of the lid on which a viewfinder is to be installed.

Abstract: An adapter device is disclosed to which a video camera can easily be attached. The adapter is compatible with both small and large camera lenses which may be attached directly to it. The adapter includes a receptacle which enables the video camera to be located within the adapter after being inserted through a rear opening. Once inserted, the adapter includes both mechanical and electrical connections to enable the camera to be connected to the adapter. A key mechanical connection is located at the front end of the adapter and it interfaces with a lens-unit mount of the camera. The electrical connection is located on the bottom inner surface of the adaptor and the connection interfaces with a terminal block on the video camera.

Abstract: A method for providing positioning information related to image information presentation for a portable communication device, includes providing first image information to be presented (202), obtaining the first image information by the portable communication device under control of the user of the portable communication device, registering second image information by the camera of the portable communication device (206) and mapping presented first image information and registered second image information (208). The method may also include recognizing at least one image element of the presented first image information as being included in the registered second image information (210) and determining the position of a predefined area of the registered second image information in relation to the recognized at least one image element (212). The determined relative position of the predefined area may be used for controlling purposes of the first image information being presented.

Abstract: A portable camera support that includes a handle and a first support member attached to the handle. The first support member is attached to the handle such that the first support member rotates relative to the handle in a first plane. The portable camera support further includes a second support member that is attached to the first support member. The second support member is attached to the first support member such that the second support member rotates relative to the first support member in a second plane which is orthogonal to the first plane. The portable camera support further includes a mounting member that is adapted to be mounted to a camera. The mounting member is attached to the second support member such that the mounting member rotates relative to the second support member in a third plane which is orthogonal to the first plane and the second plane.

Abstract: The present invention provides an adapter device to which a small video camera can easily be attached.

Abstract: A pivot shaft mechanism includes a rotation support cylinder; an inner shaft provided in the rotation support cylinder to be relatively rotatable; an annular space formed between an inner peripheral surface of the rotation support cylinder and an outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft; engaging recesses formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft; and a resilient ring member which includes an arc-shaped arm portion which is formed as a partial annular ring, and a pair of bent end portions. The resilient ring member is installed between the rotation support cylinder and the inner shaft with the arc-shaped arm portion installed in the annular space in a resiliently deformed state and the pair of bent end portions installed in the engaging recesses in a resiliently deformed state to apply a frictional resistance between the rotation support cylinder and the inner shaft.

Abstract: A digital camera capable of selectively taking still images and moving images, includes a camera body including a photographing optical system; a grip mounted to the camera body to be rotatable relative to the camera body; a first manual operational member adopted for making the digital camera take the still images; and a second manual operational member adopted for making the digital camera take the moving images. The grip includes two adjacent non-parallel surfaces, neither of which faces the camera body, the first manual operational member and the second manual operational member being provided on one and the other of the two adjacent non-parallel surfaces, respectively.

Abstract: A configurable wrist or arm worn camera harness (1a) that facilitates convenient carry, access, and secure use of a camera during participation in a physical activity. Camera harness (1a) is comprised of an adjustable strap system for attaching harness (1a) to operator wrist or arm and a coupling system for attaching, one at a time, cameras of various shapes and sizes to aforementioned harness (1a) in a either a manner that allows camera to be moved pivotably while attached to harness (1a) and operator or in a manner that secures camera in a fixed, non-pivoting position. A clasping system is incorporated to harness (1a) to secure camera in a first secure flat carry position on operator wrist or arm. Clasping system can be released by operator to allow camera to be pivotably moved upright into a second secure position for the purpose of taking a photograph.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed, may include a mounting device for a piece of equipment having an accessory receptacle. The mounting device may include at least two arms connected together providing at least two rotation axes, a mounting stud for mating with the accessory receptacle and connected to one of the two arms providing at least one rotation axis, and a mount for mating with an accessory of the equipment and connected to the other one of the two arms providing at least two rotation axes.

Abstract: A camera bracket is disclosed which facilitates movement of a camera and its field from the horizontal to the vertical position and maintains the center of the camera lens in exactly the same in relationship to all objects, such as the sun, as long as the photographer does not change position and which maintains the center of the camera lens in the exact same position with respect to any flash that is being used even if the photographer does change position.

Abstract: A viewing device comprising: a handheld telescopic rod; a camera attached at a first end of the rod; and an output device mounted on a bottom half of the rod when fully extended, at an end opposite to the first end, the output device displaying images transmitted by the camera.

Abstract: A camera mounting system for enabling a person to take pictures or videos hands-free in a wet environment with a water-proof camera is disclosed. The camera is of the type having preferably an electric one or two-position switch actuator. A water-proof actuation cable is connected at one end to a shutter actuation connector that is interconnected to the camera actuator. The other end of the actuation cable terminates in a mouth-actuated shutter control, such as a bite or tongue switch. A head mounting means, such as a helmet, is included for mounting the camera thereon, and has an inside surface, an outside surface, and an aperture therethrough. A longitudinal axis of the aperture is generally either vertical or horizontal when the helmet is worn by an upright person looking forward. As such, the orientation of the person's head can be used to judge the orientation of the camera mounted on such a helmet, the camera being mounted to take normally landscape or portrait oriented photos or videos.

Abstract: A support assembly for supporting an optical recording device about an operator includes a shaft having a first distal end for mounting the optical recording device, and a second distal end for bearing against the back of the operator. A friction plate arm is slidably disposed on the shaft and pivotable movement of the friction plate selectively captures the operator between the friction plate and the second distal end, thus causing the friction plate to frictionally lock against said shaft.

Abstract: An extendable pivot shaft mechanism of a camera includes two concentric cylindrical members fixed to a camera body and a rotatable grip, respectively; an advancing/retreating lock control member supported by one of the concentric cylindrical members and linearly movable along a rotational axis without rotating relative thereto, the advancing/retreating lock control member being operated from outside the camera body or the grip; a rotation locking mechanism for changing a state of the advancing/retreating lock control member and the other of the two concentric cylindrical members between a rotation locked state and a rotation unlocked state in accordance with a linear movement of the advancing/retreating lock control member relative to the one of the concentric cylindrical members; and a lock biasing device for biasing the advancing/retreating lock control member in a rotation locking direction to cause the rotation locking mechanism to change to the rotation locked state.