Periscope adapter by P+S Technik. Mirror deflects the optical axis 90°. Shoot around corners, under objects, into tight spaces — camera stays in place. For angles where the body won't fit.
What is the Skater Scope?
The Skater Scope is a modular periscope/probe system from P+S Technik (Munich). Originally developed for skateboard videography, it enables extreme low-angle shots parallel to the ground. Today it is used versatilely for tabletop, commercials, and feature films.
Technical Definition
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | P+S Technik |
| System | Modular |
| Origin | Skateboard films |
| Quality | Cinema-Grade |
System Components
Basic Setup
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Periscope Head | 90° deflection |
| Probe Tube | Extension |
| Rotator | Image orientation |
| Relay Optics | Image transmission |
| Camera Adapter | PL, EF, etc. |
Configurations
| Setup | Application |
|---|---|
| Low Rider | Close to the ground, parallel |
| Periscope | Around corners |
| Probe | Into tight spaces |
| Tabletop | Product shots |
Name Origin: Skateboard Films
Origin
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Problem | Camera at board height |
| Solution | Periscope downwards |
| Result | Revolutionary look |
| Name | "Skater" Scope |
Skateboard Shots
| Shot | Description |
|---|---|
| Board-Level | Parallel to the skateboard |
| Follow | Next to the skater |
| Ground POV | Asphalt perspective |
| Trick-Reveal | Immediately at the board |
Comparison with Other Systems
| Aspect | Skater Scope | Century | Innovision |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction | Modular | Fixed | Modular |
| Focus | Low-Angle | Universal | Universal |
| Quality | Very good | Very good | Excellent |
| Price | Moderate | Moderate | Premium |
Applications
Modern Use Cases
| Area | Shots |
|---|---|
| Sports | Skateboard, BMX, Ski |
| Commercials | Product tabletop |
| Automotive | Low-angle vehicle shots |
| Feature Film | Special perspectives |
Typical Shots
| Shot | Description |
|---|---|
| Floor Level | Directly on the floor |
| Under Vehicle | Under vehicles |
| Tabletop | Parallel to the tabletop |
| Pet POV | Animal perspective |
Technical Specifications
Optics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | Variable (depending on setup) |
| Light Loss | ~2 stops |
| Distortion | Low |
| Sharpness | Good to very good |
Practical Aspects
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | Moderate |
| Robustness | High (sports use) |
| Setup Time | Fast (modular) |
| Mount | Universal adapter |
Challenges
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Light Loss | More light, open aperture |
| Stability | Special mount |
| Sharpness | Precise adjustment |
| Dirt | Regular cleaning |
The Legacy
Development
- 1990s: P+S develops system
- 2000s: Skateboard films coin the name
- Today: Versatile standard tool
Influence
The Skater Scope has made ground-level cinematography practical – from extreme sports to product advertising.
Today
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Sports, commercials, feature film |
| Equipment | P+S Technik (original) |
| Cost | Moderate rental |
| Trend | Still relevant |
Modern Development
Although Laowa and other budget probes have become popular, the Skater Scope remains relevant for specific low-angle applications – especially where robustness and modularity are required.
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