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DIY Portable DSLR Dollies

DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera dollies are essentially stands or rolling tripods where the camera is attached. They are used in studio photography when you need to move the camera position frequently, but still want to have a sturdy base from which to shoot. By using a secure tripod, utility wheels and mounting hardware, you can create your own DSLR dollies that can be easily transported from location to location.

Things You'll Need

DSLR Tripod - used or new
Utility wheels and mounting hardware

Instructions

- 1
  Select a tripod that is high enough and sturdy enough to support the weight of your DSLR and a lens. Tripods come in a variety of sizes and strengths. Some are designed only for video cameras, while others have adjustable heads designed for still cameras. Find a used tripod that will safely support weight of your DSLR.
- 2
  Remove the rubber feet from the bottom of each of the tripod legs. These feet can either be screwed off or may need to be cut to be removed. Go to your local hardware store and purchase three utility wheels with locking levers and the related hardware enabling them to attach to a pole.
- 3
  Secure the hardware to the bottom of the tripod legs. Depending on the style of wheel you have, this hardware should be held in place with self-tapping screws, or a nut and bolt system that allows it to be attached to the pole. In the bottom of the hardware will be either a threaded socket into which the wheel will be screwed, or a pressure socket into which the wheel post is inserted.
- 4
  Insert the wheels into the hardware. Extend and lock the tripod legs into their position. Roll the tripod to the shooting location and lock the wheels so the tripod-dolly does not roll. When done, remove the DSLR camera from the head of the tripod and fold it up as you normally would.

Photography