A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole
operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach without external structural
or personnel support. Various features of such a remote camera positioning and
control system are disclosed. The positioner can include one or more beam modules
having cross-sectional flexural rigidity that varies along the length of the beam
module(s) by use, for example, of stiffening longerons, anchoring braces and relatively
low density stabilizing webs. The camera can be mounted to the beam module by a
front end assembly that is constructed to place the center of mass of the camera
and the front end assembly along the neutral axis of the beam module over as great
a range of motion as possible. The system can also include a handle module that
incorporates, for example, an axially and rotationally moveable grip and a proximal
handle grip ring and control cage for surrounding a camera control, such as a joystick.
Auxiliary subsystems, such as a monitor, video recorder and battery packs can optionally
be worn by the operator using a support garment, such has a vest.
