'Lucky Break' Inspires Electric Dolly

There's a fresh variation on the theatrical idiom 'Break A Leg' with the BVE 2011 show in London set to welcome a new company and product at the show - The Flyka Electric Dolly.
It was first developed by the stills photographer and cameraman Tony Holker - who broke his leg in 2008 - and then used a disabled buggy by necessity to continue to work.
Mr Holker commented: "I decided that the smooth ride from a disabled buggy was a great platform.
"I researched and researched to see what else was out there, but there seemed to be nothing, so I set about developing a prototype.
"Five prototypes later, I now have number four and five developed into working, conceptual vehicles for filming - and the reaction from the industry has been superb."
He explained that the affordable Flyka Electric Dolly is a new way to look at filming options as well as saving many hours between setting up shots and laying of track.
Users will also have the ability to record sound during filming, despite using a motorised Dolly. Hire costs start from £200 per day for new clients and future models are now being developed.
He said that the Flyka Electric Dolly benefits include the ability to create forward and backwards tracking shots without having track coming into shot.
It also replicates long running shots without having to tyre out a grip and there's no down time for a Steadicam operator and it creates really slow moving Steadicam shots without footstep jerks.
He said the variable speed goes from stationery to 8mph and the user can record sound whilst filming and doesn't need to use handheld for long distance.
"Of course, with no track to lay, waiting time for crew and actors is greatly reduced due to low re-set or new set-up," he explained.
"We promise you will find types of shots ready to go without any of the usual hassle for longer tracking shots."
(BMcC/GK)