Sachtler has announced the launch of the aktiv fluid head, which it says allows camera operators to mount, level and lock the head in seconds and to switch quickly from tripod, slider or hand-held shots in an instant.
   

The new head uses the company’s SpeedLevel and SpeedSwap technology across the four different models available. SpeedLevel enables operators to release, level, and lock their head in place by lifting a lever, rather than using bowl clips. Operators can use the SpeedSwap feature to switch their camera between a tripod or a slider in seconds, according to Sachtler.

The aktiv6 and aktiv8 models are compatible with all main Sachtler 75mm tripods – with aktiv8 available in ‘side load’ or ‘touch and go’ camera plate options – while aktiv10 is a 100mm bowl head with side load camera plate. aktiv supports payloads from 0kg up to 12kg (8kg for aktiv6).

“We worked closely with camera operators around the world to understand their needs to develop ‘flowtech’ a tripod that makes camera set-up faster and more flexible,” said James Guest, engineering manager – Vitec Production Solutions. “Now with aktiv we have made fast even faster. Studying camera operator movement, we removed any elements that slow them down while adding more flexibility and control as well as more levels of drag and counterbalance than ever, giving operators more time and opportunities to push their creativity.”