Spark overhead mount

 Zu3D Spark

Film your story from above.

Secure the mount, point Spark down and bring paper characters to life.

Spark mounted above a handmade paper rocket
Overhead filming with a paper rocket made for this example.

Set up a steady filming area

Use a level, stable table. Clear space for the mount’s base and for the paper or model below the lens. Keep the camera supported while you attach it or adjust the mount.

Position the overhead mount

Assembly video coming soon. Use the written steps and photographs below to position Spark securely.

  1. Set down the base. Open and position the mount’s base so it sits steadily on your surface. Leave enough room below the arm for your filming area.
  2. Attach Spark. Fit Spark in the supplied camera clip and attach the clip using the mount’s camera fitting. The clip is shared with the small tripod: move the clip with Spark when changing mounts.
  3. Adjust while supporting the camera. Position Spark above your scene with its lens pointing down. Tighten the adjustable joints before taking your hand away.
  4. Check balance. Confirm that the base stays steady and the camera does not droop. Reposition the mount if it rocks or tips; do not continue until the camera is secure.
  5. Frame and focus. Open Spark’s live picture in Zu3D. Place the character or paper under the lens, adjust the framing, then turn the lens rim until the detail is sharp.
  6. Light and test. Position the lights so the mount does not cast a shadow over the action. Capture and play back a short test before animating.

See the filming arrangement

Spark fitted to the overhead stand with the camera facing down
Position the camera above the scene and secure the adjustable joints.
Spark looking down at a paper rocket on a green background
Keep the filming area clear and light the paper evenly.

Make a paper adventure

Cut a character or rocket from coloured paper. Move it a little between captures, keeping the paper flat. If you use green screen, avoid green parts in the character you want to keep.

To follow a movement guide, open preview settings, then View → Path. Set Frames and Spacing, and move to the next marker for each capture.

The mount can also hold a light using the supplied fitting. Check the fitting, balance and stability whenever you change its position.

Plan your next film

If the picture moves or goes soft

Stop capturing and support Spark before adjusting a joint. Check the clip and mount are secure, then use onion skinning to line the scene up with the previous frame. Recheck focus whenever the camera height changes.

Picture and equipment help