Steadicam and Operators Masterclass with Mike Heathcote, ACO,SOC (19 Apr 2026)

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Join the NZCS in Auckland on the afternoon of Sunday April 19th for an intensive 4-hour Masterclass on Steadicam and Camera Operating with international operator, Mike Heathcote ACO, SOC.

Born in Toronto, Canada, Mike Heathcote is a Camera/Steadicam Operator with nearly two decades of experience behind the lens. Some of his most recent A Camera/Steadicam operating credits include: A Minecraft Movie, Captain America: Brave New World, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, and Creed III.

Mike is in New Zealand prepping for his return to the project code-named “Obsidian” and has kindly offered his international expertise to guide interested members through a comprehensive Masterclass on the Steadicam craft, including:

Theory, History, Mindset and Body Awareness including The Origins and Inspiration; The Physics of Floating; The Balance, The Gear: Embracing New Technology; Body Awareness and the “Zen” of Operating; Camera Operator Tips and Set Survival.

• Hands-On Steadicam Experience including The Art of Balance; Suiting up and Body Mechanics; Movement, Navigation and Low Mode;

This will be a four hour Masterclass held at Metrofilm Camera Rental house, starting at 12.30pm and finishing around 5.00pm with an afternoon break.

There will be something for everyone in this course – whether a seasoned professional with substantial Steadicam experience, or a beginner, interested in taking up the “sport” or learning more about the intricacies of this specialised craft, including a dedicated session to camera operating tips and tricks.

Come along for this rare chance to network with other operators and learn more about the difference between “Missionary” and “Don Juan” walks, the 5 “C’s” of Cinematography and assist technologies like Volt, Wave, Level and Trinity.

Kind thanks to Portal Productions Ltd and Metro Film Camera Rentals for sponsoring this event.

Limited places available so register now.

New Zealand Cinematographers Society upcoming events

Steadicam and Operators Masterclass with Mike Heathcote, ACO,SOC (19 Apr 2026)