Cannon XL1

[Chet]

Hi
I've been reading some posts on the XL1. My partner and I have had one for about a year now and it's a great camera. I like it for tripod shoots but I find it a bear to hold for long periods off the tripod. I wonder if anyone has tried any of the harnesses or extenders on the market. If you like one let me know what it is and I'll try it.

Thanks
Chet

[Elie]

I also have an XL1, at the begining it was front heavy until I bought the MA100
with the dual battery charger holder and that helped balance it off a bit, now the overall weight has almost doubled because of all the addons.

Still, loving every minute of it

Regards,
Elie

[CarterTG]

A few magazine reviews had mentioned that the XL1 was extremely front heavy, but after spending some time with it, I'm not sure I make the same claim. From the start, I used Canon's BP941 battery, it's approximately twice as tall as the standard BP927. This might be offering the counterbalance that prevents me from complaining.

A fully charged BP941 gives me enough power to put the camera on lenthy pauses/standbys and still let me finish recording a 60min miniDV before it dies out. While a belt pack could be bought for the same cost and offer far more running power, the on-camera cells do offer a greater degree of spontanaety under certain circumstances.



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Carter
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Canon XL1

[Chet]

Thanks Elie and Carter
I printed your replies so I can look at these alternatives. I think I wouldn't mind the additional weight if I could just get some more behind my back. We occassionally do a wedding or something long like that and being off the tripod is desirable. I'd love to get it on unipod but the mount is to far back. I might make my own plate to try that option. I sure do love the video from the XL1. If I could just keep my arm from getting shorter I'd be in good shape. Thanks again.

Chet