Scissors Crane

Overview

A Scissors Crane (also Scissor Crane, Scheren-Kran, or telescopic camera crane) is a camera support grip device whose boom can not only pan but also be continuously extended and retracted during a live take. Unlike a classic jib with a fixed boom length, the telescopic mechanism allows the camera to be dynamically moved closer to or further away from a subject without moving the base.

The name derives from the scissor-like nesting of the boom segments that slide into each other. The principle functionally corresponds to the well-known Telescope/Technocranes: reach and framing can be changed in combination with pan and tilt during a single take, enabling tracking, orbit, and parallax movements.

Construction and Mechanics

Scissors Cranes exist in two performance classes:

• Gimbal Class (e.g., Proaim Powermatic Scissor): CNC-milled aluminum boom that opens from a retracted state to its full reach via a bearing-mounted scissor linkage. The extension/retraction movement is controlled electrically via forward/reverse buttons, with rotary knobs for speed and damping. Instead of a remote head, this class typically carries a 3-axis gimbal (e.g., DJI/Ronin, Freefly Movi, Zhiyun, Moza).
• Professional Class (e.g., Filmotechnic Scissor): Composite construction with a remote head, designed for heavier camera packages and usable comparably to a Technocrane, but more compact and portable.

Technical Data

Values vary depending on the model and manufacturer. The following data are from manufacturer specifications (see sources) and serve as a guide, not as a universally valid standard:

Use on Set

The Scissors Crane is used where a combined crane and telescopic movement is required, but space is limited for a full-sized Technocrane. Typical applications include reveal shots, push-ins and pull-outs in confined spaces, concert and live productions, commercials, and drama. Due to its compact transport length (flight case compatible), it is suitable for changing locations and difficult sites such as rooftops, piers, or outdoor shoots. The Gimbal Class can also be mounted on dolly bases (e.g., Bazooka/GFM Dolly) via adapters to combine crane, telescopic, and dolly movement.