Pan-tilt head driven by gears. Operator controls both axes via hand wheels — every movement repeats precisely to the frame. Required for locked-off shots and choreographed camera moves.
Technical Details
Professional geared heads like the Arri Geared Head GH-2 carry payloads up to 25 kg with a tare weight of 4.2 kg. The pan gear operates with a 6:1 ratio, and the tilt gear with a 5:1 ratio. The handwheels feature friction clutches that slip under overload, protecting the gearbox. Integrated counterbalance systems compensate for camera weight using spring mechanisms. High-quality models have ball-bearing mounted gears made of hardened steel and corrosion-resistant housings made of aluminum alloys.
History & Development
The first commercial geared head was developed in 1935 by Mitchell Camera Corporation for their 35mm studio cameras. The German company Arri developed the GH-1 in 1982 as the first compact geared head for 16mm productions. In 1995, the revolutionary GH-2 followed, setting the standard for modern geared heads through its modular design and reduced weight. Since 2010, electronically assisted systems like the Arri SRH-3 have dominated, combining mechanical precision with motors for remote control.
Practical Use in Film
Geared heads are indispensable for precise camera movements on tracks or for macro shots where minimal image shifts are disruptive. In "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), DoP Roger Deakins used geared heads for millimeter-accurate framing adjustments during complex miniature shots. Studio productions use them for talking-head sequences, as camera height and angle can be readjusted during takes without interrupting the shot. The mechanical damping eliminates micro-vibrations that are unavoidable with direct manual control.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike fluid heads, geared heads do not allow for smooth camera movements during recording but are solely for positioning. Remote heads like the Libra Head or Technocrane SuperTechno combine the precision of gears with motorized movement. For documentary work, fluid heads are more flexible, while geared heads remain irreplaceable for controlled studio conditions and technical shots. Modern gimbal systems are increasingly replacing geared heads in handheld productions, but do not achieve their mechanical precision in static setups.