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 strobe diffuser attachment for a camera, includes a diffuser body adapted for attachment to a camera, a pair of spaced diffuser lenses mounted in the diffuser body and adapted to be located in front of a range of different integral strobe locations for a camera attached to the body, wherein the pair of diffuser lenses are adapted to serially diffuse light emitted from an integral strobe of a camera attached to the body. A distance measurement device uses a pair of light beams which intersect at a repeatable distance from the diffuser body to readily enable positioning of an object to be photographed at that repeatable distance.

Abstract: A portable device for stabilizing an arm or hand of a person. The device includes a stabilizer shaft having a peripheral section and a mating section, a stabilizer coupled with the peripheral section of the stabilizer shaft and configured to engage the arm or hand of the person, a base shaft having a peripheral section and a mating section and in slidable arrangement with the stabilizer shaft, an attachment assembly in cooperative association with the mating section of the stabilizer shaft and the mating section of the base shaft, and a garment clip coupled with the peripheral section of the base shaft. Methods of using and constructing a portable device for stabilizing an arm or a hand of a person are also provided.

Abstract: A camera system having a pole, camera mount assembly and an actuator. The camera mount assembly mounts to the pole and includes a pole base, camera base, link, tendon and spring. The pole base connects to the pole and the camera base connects to the camera. The link connects the pole base and the camera base and allows rotation of the camera base. The tendon pulls on the camera base and rotates the camera base about the pole base. The spring interconnects the pole base and the camera base. The spring also acts as a return. The spring stretches when the tendon pulls on the camera base and recoils to pull the camera base back to an original position when the tendon is released from pulling on the camera base. The actuator mounts to an actuator end of the pole and is used pull the tendon in order to move the camera.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is an accessory to hold a photographic equipment. The accessory includes an attachment assembly and an object. The attachment assembly attaches to the photographic equipment. The object is coupled to the attachment assembly to allow a user to control movement of the photographic equipment.

Abstract: An articulated equipment support includes a pair of elongated support bars, arranged in fixed, spaced-apart relationship, and having their opposite ends joined respectively by a top cross rod and a bottom cross rod. Pivot pins join the opposite ends of the rods to the respective cross bars permitting pivotal, lateral movement of the support bars in unison so that a variety of geometric configurations such as a parallelogram or the like may be achieved. The top cross rod includes an end projection having a bearing surface for rotatably mounting a double C-clamp with an outwardly projecting flange terminating with a bearing for rotatably supporting an equipment platform. An adjustable lock is carried on the platform for releasably securing equipment thereto and a shoulder strap is provided having opposite ends attached to the bottom cross bar and an adjustable mid-section trained across or about the torso of the user.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach. The system can include a handle module that incorporates, for example, an axially and rotationally moveable grip and a proximal handle grip ring and control cage for surrounding a camera control, such as a joystick.

Abstract: A camera stabilizer having a base with an aperture in front and in back, and in alignment with one other. A shoulder support, removably attachable to the base, has an adjustable rod extending forward of it with a detent at its distal end. The adjustable rod inserts into the base through its two apertures with the detent passing through the front aperture to prevent rearward movement of the adjustable rod. A second support removably attaches to the base. It has two telescoping rods connected to each other at their bottoms from which they are pivotable. Adjustable straps on one telescoping rod are adapted to wrap around one's back and fasten to themselves for greater stability. Another strap at the bottom of one telescoping rod is adapted to loop around one's belt and fasten to itself thereby providing addition stability and vertical support.

Abstract: A camera actuator having a main body, camera support, camera link, push arm and actuator cable. The main body rotatably mounts to a pole. The camera support extends from the front of the main body. The camera support is adapted to rotatably receive a camera. The camera link connects to the camera, where movement of the camera link moves the camera about the camera support. The push arm extends from the front of the main body and is connected to the camera link. The push arm mounts in the main body such that the push arm slides in and out of the front of the main body to rotate the camera. The push arm mounts in the main body such that rotation of the push arm rotates the main body. The actuator cable extends into the rear of the main body from the pole and connects to the push arm.

Abstract: According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a camera rig suitable for handheld use comprising a frame and means to attach a camera inside of said frame. The present invention therefore provides a mobile support for a camera, such as a digital video camera by providing a larger grip than a small camera and hence it is easier to hold steady. Therefore the user may shoot film in a steady manner. It is thus an advantage of the present invention that camera shake is either prevented or substantially reduced.

Abstract: A hand held stabilizer support for hand held cameras comprises a first frame having a hand grip and a pivot mount spaced from the hand grip; a second frame pivotally mounted to the first frame at the pivot mount, and a camera mount on the second frame disposed below the pivot mount so that the camera remains in the desired orientation upon pivoting of the support.

Abstract: Portable stand, in particular a portable stand for holding and supporting video cameras, photo-cameras and other optical recording devices, consisting of an oblong basic body; a lower handle mounted to the lower end of the basic body by a first holding element, wherein the lower handle exhibits a fixing hook which engages a pin device of the first holding device and the fixing hook has an at least in parts threaded pin extension for receiving a first forked joint and a fixing screw, wherein the fixing screw is led through a grip surface of the first handle and the first forked joint is pressed onto or released from the first holding element through turning of the grip surface, in such a way that the position of the first handle is adjustable and fixable as desired; an upper handle mounted by a second holding element between the lower and the upper end of the basic body, wherein the upper handle exhibits a fixing hook engaging a pin device of the second holding element and the fixing hook has an at least in pa

Abstract: A camera stabilizer having a base onto which a camera is mountable. Two support members attach to the base by adjustable rods on each support member. A leveling device on the stabilizer permits a user to obtain a horizontally true picture. A mirror on the stabilizer permits a user to direct an external remote control device from the rear, onto the mirror, and reflected into a photosensor on the camera.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach. Various features of such a remote camera positioning and control system are disclosed. The positioner can include one or more beam modules having cross-sectional flexural rigidity that varies along the length of the beam module(s) by use, for example, of stiffening longerons, anchoring braces and relatively low density stabilizing webs. The camera can be mounted to the beam module by a front end assembly that is constructed to place the center of mass of the camera and the front end assembly along the neutral axis of the beam module over as great a range of motion as possible.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach. Various features of such a remote camera positioning and control system are disclosed. The positioner can include one or more beam modules having cross-sectional flexural rigidity that varies along the length of the beam module(s) by use, for example, of stiffening longerons, anchoring braces and relatively low density stabilizing webs.

Abstract: A lightweight collapsible, shoulder mounted camera support assembly for carrying a camcorder or camera and holding the same steady during operation has a front and rear portion for mounting a battery to counterbalance the weight of the camera or camcorder mounted on the front portion. The front and rear portions are collapsible or detachable to aid in transporting and carrying the shoulder mounted camera support. The front and rear portions are offset in such a way as to match the centerline of the camera with the centerline of the shoulder and thus aligned with the operator's eye. The front portion has an angular extension on which the camera or camcorder is mounted and is adjustable in at least one axis relative to the horizontal established by the support assembly.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach without external structural or personnel support. Various features of such a remote camera positioning and control system are disclosed. The positioner can include one or more beam modules having cross-sectional flexural rigidity that varies along the length of the beam module(s) by use, for example, of stiffening longerons, anchoring braces and relatively low density stabilizing webs. The camera can be mounted to the beam module by a front end assembly that is constructed to place the center of mass of the camera and the front end assembly along the neutral axis of the beam module over as great a range of motion as possible. The system can also include a handle module that incorporates, for example, an axially and rotationally moveable grip and a proximal handle grip ring and control cage for surrounding a camera control, such as a joystick.

Abstract: A balance system (1), for hand-held cameras (9), comprises a balance arm (2) and a handle (3). The balance arm (2) may be connected to a camera retaining mechanism (10) and may be swivelled, relative to the handle (3), about a swivelling axis (S) and tilted about a tilting axis (N), running essentially perpendicular to the swivelling axis (S). The balance arm (2) may furthermore be rotated about a roll axis (R) relative to the handle (3), which also runs essentially perpendicular to the swivelling axis (S) in the case of a non-tilted camera (9). The balance arm (2) may thus be rotated in an unrestricted manner about the roll axis (R) relative to the handle (3).

Abstract: A stabilizing platform for attachment to the bottom of the camcorder to steady the filming of subjects with the use of fiber optics positioned along the body of the camcorder to transmit remote control infrared signals to an infrared receiving port on the camcorder. The platform includes a two piece bar that is held together with a locking bolt and includes a mounting screw which attaches the camcorder to the top of the platform and also attaches a handle below the platform. The handle has a locking pin to prevent the handle from rotating with respect to the platform. A remote control is attached to the handle. The remote control also can be imbedded into the handle so that the infrared signal can go from the handle directly into the fiber optics thus giving the user instant control of the signal, and improve the quality of the picture. The fiber optic fibers can be attached along a surface of the platform or along the surface of the camcorder by tape or an adhesive.

Abstract: A camera support (10) has a mounting member (13) to be attached to a camera (11), and a supporting member (14) for supporting the camera (11) through the mounting member (13). The supporting member (14) has a catching surface (22) in the shape of an arcuate surface and a fitting surface (24) in the shape of a cylindrical surface. The mounting member (13) has a catching surface (32) and one or more fitting surfaces (36). The catching surface (32) is adapted to removably catch the catching surface (22). Each fitting surface (36) is adapted to removably be fitted to the fitting surface (24). By engaging the catching surface (22) with the catching surface (32), the camera (11) is set in the horizontal position in such a state as to be capable of rotating vertically so that its vertical angle can be adjusted.

Abstract: A hand held stabilizer holder for hand held cameras comprises a first frame having a hand grip and a pivot mount spaced from the hand grip; a second frame pivotally mounted to the first frame at the pivot mount, and a camera mount on the second frame disposed below the pivot mount so that the camera remains in its orientation upon pivoting of the holder.

Abstract: A shoulder platform that is well-balanced and stable on an operator's shoulder when the camera is mounted on the platform, allowing hands-free balance of the mounted camera. The shoulder platform has an elongated bent frame, a shoulder mount affixed below the frame, a compartment front mounted on the frame above the shoulder mount, two sides mounted above and along the sides of the frame, shelves, storage compartments for camera components and accessories, a latch mechanism, an elongated compartment attached to the lowest shelf that can be latched to the latch mechanism, and means so that the supported camera mounted on the camera mount piece may be placed in different positions for photographing subject matter while keeping the shoulder platform stationary on the operator's shoulder.

Abstract: This invention is related to a camcorder bracket, that may be held by either one or both hands of the user in a variety of positions, and which will support several camcorder accessories and can be disassembled into smaller parts for easy storage and transport. The invention can be configured into different relationships, based on the attached mounting plate, to fit the user's need.

Abstract: A holder for a portable device is disclosed. The holder has a housing and garment attachment clip. The housing retains the portable device using three retaining arms, leaving the top open so that the portable device can be removed and replaced easily without obstruction. Further, an opening through the back of the housing permits a prong on the garment attachment clip to cooperate with a protuberance on the portable device to maintain the portable device more securely in the holder. If desired, the protuberance may additionally bias the prong away from the surface of the holder. This facilitates placement of the holder on a garment or belt. The holder may be styled to cooperate with additional surface features of the portable device for a close fit with the device.

Abstract: When a cameraman photographs a customer by a DSC, an order sheet in which the identification code of a photographed image is written into an IC chip mounted on a sheet and on which the photographed image is also recorded is produced by the DSC, and it is handed to the customer. In ordering the photographed image, the customer goes to a place where an order receiving terminal is installed, and he/she inserts the sheet into the slit of an order sheet reading unit. Thus, the identification code is read, and the whole surface of the sheet is read by a scanner, whereupon the read results are transmitted to an order processing apparatus. The order processing apparatus extracts corresponding image data from an image DB, with the identification code used as a key, and it performs a process complying with the customer's order.

Abstract: The camera, which is put on a user, shoots and processes image into image data and records the same. The camera has two or more operation modes and is provided with a detector for detecting either the motion state or the physiological state of the user or both of them and a controller for selecting one mode from among the operation modes on the basis of the detection results by the detector.

Abstract: A balancer system for hand-held cameras includes a camera mounting mechanism, a pendulum arm, at least one counterweight and a handgrip. The counterweight can be attached to the pendulum arm and the pendulum arm is connected to the camera mounting mechanism. The pendulum arm is pendulum mounted on the handgrip. The handgrip is configured as a hollow bell-shaped balancer (1) which is flared at least in its lower section, when in use, and the pendulum arm is a substantially straight pendulum rod (2) extending through the bell-shaped balancer (1).

Abstract: A remote camera positioning system provides a camera on a positioner, such as an elongated boom, out of the operator's reach. The positioner provides an operator interface, such as grips and optionally a body harness, to enable the operator to support, control and maneuver the position of the camera. A monitor for displaying images generated by the camera is mounted to the operator to enable the operator to view and control the camera images in a self-contained manner.

Abstract: Wrist Mounted Camera Support with a camera enclosure made of resilient material such as lycra covered neoprene, the camera enclosure having a plurality of arm retaining straps integral to the enclosure, the retaining straps having fastening such as hook and loop type fasteners, and the camera enclosure having cut out openings allowing a camera lens, view finder, winding and photo taking button to be easily accessable to the user. A preferred embodiment includes wherein said retaining straps wrap around the users forearm at the wrist area.

Abstract: A belt clip is suitable for use with a camera that includes a pair of front and rear cover parts, a main body part between the front and rear cover parts, and a particular device on the main body part that needs electrical energy to be able to operate and has a power switch with a movable switch element that is moved to change the power switch from a normal state to a working state in order to provide electrical energy to the device. The belt clip has a clip portion for holding one's belt between the clip portion and the rear cover part, an actuating portion for moving the movable switch element to change the power switch from its normal to working state, and an intermediate portion between the clip and actuating portions.

Abstract: A camera (1) a housing (2) and a shoulder support (3) to support the housing (2) on a shoulder. The shoulder support (3) comprises a flexible carrying member (30) having a first end (31 ) and a second end (32). Near its first end (31) the carrying member (30) is connected to the housing (2) by means of a comparatively stiff first connecting member (41) and near its second end (32) it is connected to the housing (2) by means of a comparatively stiff second connecting member (42). The first connecting member (41) is movably coupled to the second connecting member (42) via a hinge (51) and the housing (2). By placing the camera (1) onto a shoulder, the shoulder bearing against the carrying member (30) at a position between the ends (31) and (32) of the carrying member, a pulling force is produced in the carrying member (30), which force acts upon the connecting members (41) and (42) and urges the ends (31) and (32) of the carrying member (30) towards one another.

Abstract: A camera comprising a particular device such as an electronic flash that needs electrical energy to be able to operate and has a power switch capable of being changed from a normal state to a working state in order to provide electrical energy to the device, and an activating member supported to be manually moved to change the power switch from its normal to working state, is characterized in that the activating member is a belt clip constructed to be placed on and removed from one's belt and supported to be pivoted against the power switch to change the power switch from its normal to working state as the belt clip is removed from one's belt, whereby when the belt clip is removed from one's belt the device will be made ready to operate.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning system provides a camera on a positioner, such as an elongated boom, out of the operator's reach. The positioner provides an operator interface, such as grips and optionally a body harness, to enable the operator to support, control and maneuver the position of the camera. A monitor for displaying images generated by the camera is mounted to the operator to enable the operator to view and control the camera images in a self-contained manner.

Abstract: An ergonomically designed digital camera includes a hand grip that can be comfortably held by one hand and a lens assembly that is positioned above and connected to the hand grip by a telescoping and rotating device. The hand grip has one or more buttons including a shutter trigger located on a front surface of the hand grip, and one or more command control buttons located on a back surface of the hand grip. The lens assembly includes a memory device that stores digital images or videos and a micro display viewfinder located on a back surface of the lens assembly. The lens assembly may also include a fill-in flash and/or a telescoping flash.

Abstract: A shoulder-mounted, camera support device having adjustable support bar or bar segments and hand grip assemblies which allow the camera operator to easily adjust positions of the bars and hand grip assemblies. In its preferred configuration, grip position may be adjusted by the operator in a variety of manners without having to release the grip handle by rotating the grip handle thereby unlocking the grip assembly, moving the grip assembly and handle to a desired position and orientation, and then rotating the grip handle thereby locking the grip assembly and handle in place at the desired position and orientation.

Abstract: A camera flash bracket comprising a rotary bracket on which the camera may be mounted, an "L" arm rotatably connected to the rotary bracket, a flash arm fixedly connected to the "L" arm for supporting a flash, means, with at least a portion of said means connected between said "L" arm and said rotary bracket for rotating the flash arm relative to the camera and means, with at least a portion of said means interposed between said rotary bracket and said "L" arm, for fixedly securing the flash in one of two predetermined positions with respect to a camera.

Abstract: A camera elevating and viewing apparatus for providing a view of subjects not clear at eye level. The inventive device includes an elongated central tube having open upper and lower ends. A support bracket is secured to and extends outwardly from the central tube. The support bracket supports a camera thereon. An upper viewing tube is coupled with the open upper end of the central tube. The upper viewing tube aligns with a viewfinder of the camera when positioned on the support bracket. A lower viewing tube is coupled with the open lower end of the central tube. The lower viewing tube has an open outer end with an eye piece disposed thereon.

Abstract: A ready to use, self contained article holding device for use on clothing to hold and support articles of a suitable kind like single use cameras. This device has on one end a protective liner (51) that is peeled off to expose an adhesive (50) that is on the back of a fastening strip (48) for attachment to an article. A fastening material (52) on the reverse side of fastening strip (48) is joined to a complementary fastening material (38) on a fastening strip (46) that is connected by an adhesive back on the second fastener strip (46) to the larger front side of a securing mechanism base (42). Securing mechanism base (42) is made from a sturdy, nonharmful material so that it can support-the weight of an attached item and not damage clothing from which it is held. Fastening strips (48 & 46) are made of material that will allow repeated releasing and replacing of attached products without reduction in holding ability.

Abstract: A frame assembly for supporting a portable video or other camera. The assembly comprises a rigid frame, having a front, and a rear. A pair of shoulder rests are connected to the frame and constructed to rest on the shoulders of an operator. A pair of hand grips are connected to the front of the frame. A camera mount is disposed on the front of the frame for releaseably holding the video camera. Lastly, an adjustable counterweight member is connected to the rear of the frame, for balancing the center of gravity of the frame substantially over the shoulders of the wearer, when the camera is held by the mount. The camera mount and counterweight are preferably relatively slideably adjustable to balance the center of gravity of the frame assembly over the shoulders of the operator.

Abstract: A body-conformable apparatus that includes a platform that is configured to removably and adjustably receive a photography device and maintain the device in an operative position for use by a user. The platform is removably and adjustably mounted on a flexible, resilient harness that is selectively securable on a user's shoulders and upper torso. The harness includes an annular portion conformable to the contours of a user's shoulders and upper torso and has a pair of laterally spaced shoulder regions, which are joined by a pair of spaced-apart transverse regions to collectively define an enlarged central passage for receiving a user's head when the harness is worn by a user. Each shoulder region includes a plurality of spaced-apart sockets that are each aligned with a corresponding socket on the other shoulder region, and the platform is pivotally and adjustably mounted on a pair of the mounting sockets.

Abstract: A camera-cap with a light manual camera operated by remote control, the camera being attached on the head cover portion of the cap with its lens looking forwardly, and a multipurpose cap which includes: a rear view mirror being placed in front of the cap, the mirror angle being controlled by fixed and pivot arms attached to the side of the head cover portion; a camera attached on the front part of the head cover portion and operated by remote control; and an audio recorder attached to the front part of the head cover portion and also operated by remote control.

Abstract: A body-mounted camera support which includes a generally ring-shaped, neck-encircling member to which a camera support assembly is pivotally connected. The camera support assembly includes a support platform for supporting the camera, a platform supporting track extending outwardly from the neck encircling member for slidably supporting the support platform, and a gripping handle assembly pivotally connected to the track for gripping by the user to quickly and easily position the track and the camera platform both elevationally and directionally relative to the user's body. When the camera is not in use, the camera support assembly depends downwardly from the neck encircling member and rests comfortably against the user's upper body. When the photographer desires to use the camera, the camera support assembly can be quickly raised and pointed by gripping the gripping handle assembly.

Abstract: A shoulder carrier for a camera, such as a video camera, is provided which positions the camera with its viewfinder adjacent the viewer's eye without the necessity for additional support. The shoulder carrier includes a shoulder harness including a pair of spaced-apart shoulder supports and at least one securement bar interconnecting the supports, a camera mount including a platform and a camera release, and a coupler interconnecting the platform with the shoulder harness for adjustably orienting the camera mount, and thus a camera carried thereon, relative to the shoulder harness. A belt is provided which connects front and back regions of the shoulder supports and connects across the chest area of the wearer. The belt aids in inhibiting the shoulder support from inadvertently disengaging and falling from the wearer, which would result in damage to the camera, thereby freeing the wearer's hands from holding the camera during use.

Abstract: A camera support for holding a camera in front of a user having a first U-shaped section. The first U-shaped section is connected to a second U-shaped section which is in turn connected to an arm portion that has a camera mount. The first U-shaped section has a first end and a second end and is formed from a pair of generally straight leg portions and a generally arcuate connecting portion. The first U-shaped section is adapted to fit around the user's neck so that the legs rest on the user's chest. The second U-shaped section has a first end and a second end with the first end being rotatably connected to the second end of the first U-shaped section. The arm section has a first end and a second end, where the first end is pivotally connected to the second end of the second U-shaped section by a first pivot. The camera mount is pivotally connected to the second end of the arm section by a second pivot.

Abstract: A camera according to the present invention has an arrangement that a film is discharged to a side toward a subject after a picture has been taken, the instant camera comprising a grip portion formed on a right portion of a camera body when viewed in a normal photography state and from a position of a photographer operating the camera, an optical system disposed on a left portion of the camera body when viewed from the said position of the photographer and including at least a photographing lens, and a film cartridge loading portion which is capable of loading a film cartridge into a position between the grip portion of the camera body and the optical system in such a manner that an exposure surface of the film accommodated in the film cartridge faces the optical system.

Abstract: A multipurpose camera handle includes a base member attachable to the camera. Connected to the base member for rotation about its axis is a first arm which extends transversely of the camera lens axis. A second arm is connected to the first arm at a right angle thereto. The second arm has two telescoping and relatively rotatable sections. A hand grip is connected to the distal end of one of the sections of the second arm. The arrangement permits the hand grip to be positioned at various locations behind, above and beneath the camera.

Abstract: A camera system is adaptable as for right-handed and left-handed users and is extendable and modifiable in a versatile fashion. The camera system includes a basic element connected to a lens, a recording housing, and a handle part. The basic element has a through-opening lying along the optical axis of the camera system, a first connecting point on a first side of the through-opening for receiving the lens, a second connecting point on a second side of the through-opening for mounting the recording housing, and a third connecting point whose central axis is arranged perpendicular to the optical axis for connecting the handle part. The basic element is rotatable about the first connecting point and is adapted to be locked into one of three positions, and the recording housing is rotatable about the second connecting point and is adapted to be locked into one of two positions.

Abstract: A flash bracket with an attached grip that does not affect the photographer's mobility or hinder the operation of the camera and that enables one to freely take photographs in the horizontal position (i.e., the landscape mode), the vertical position (i.e., the portrait mode), or with the flash detached from the camera for an off-camera lighting situation. The flash bracket permits a user to adjust the position of the flash with respect to the lens to limit the size of the undesirable shadows during flash photography. The flash bracket features an attached grip that allows a flash device to be easily installed with the flash directly to the side of or at an upwards slant from the camera. The grip is used when the flash is separated from the camera.