Steadicam operators are highly skilled camera workers who specialize in using Steadicam equipment. Steadicam operation involves carrying up to sixty pounds of camera equipment in a special harness while following often complex instructions from a director to capture all of the action on film. In most cases, Steadicams are used in outdoor locations on undulating or obstacle-filled ground.
Significance
Steadicam operators need to be athletic, able to work well with film staff and directors, knowledgeable about camera work and capable of making a lot of difficult adjustments while walking around with a very heavy package attached to them. The Steadicam apparatus is designed to provide a smooth picture even while the operator is moving around or walking on an uneven surface. It allows directors to get superior shots, particularly up-close, than they would be able to otherwise.

Function
The Steadicam operator can manipulate the camera with their hands, but the stability provided by the harness prevents shaking. The primary reason why many movies don't make greater use of Steadicam operators is that their services are quite expensive -a skilled operator most often works freelance at high rates, selling their services to the highest bidder. The primary alternative to Steadicam operation is hand-held camera use, which generally provides an inferior quality image.

Effects
Before the invention of the Steadicam, film-makers had to use cameras either on tracks or dollies to provide smooth shots in close quarters. Complex and expensive equipment was required in particular to provide quality filming outdoors, limiting the vision of directors significantly. Most Steadicam operators need to have a good sense of conventional filming techniques along with an ability to use their special equipment to its fullest. There are additional challenges involved in using a Steadicam for particular shot directions, such as instantaneous lock-offs and quick pans.

Potential
Steadicams have been a standard feature of the filming industry since the mid-1970s, and have continued to remain in use even throughout the many changes in camera technology. Digital filming techniques have reduced some of the weight that Steadicam operators used to have to carry around, which has made it a bit easier for many people to learn how to use them. Even so, the demand for experienced and talented Steadicam operators remains very high in television, film, media and advertising.

JP Video Services uses a body mount stabilizer, a Glidecam X-10. This allows us to get smooth steady shots while walking, running, going up and down stairs, many more uses outdoors.