Overhead Camera Mount DIY for $15
Lately I’ve been more and more interested in creating video content. I have plans for knitting, small scale DIY and food videos. However, I’ve encountered a big problem- filming overhead is hard!!! Filming your hands, while trying to make something with a tripod angled oddly above you is next to impossible! After a few disastrous attempts I decided to look into overhead camera rigs. Most of the ones I saw were in the $150 price range so I decided to see if there was a cheaper alternative. Spoiler alert- there is….my Overhead Camera Mount DIY!
This overhead camera mount DIY is a must for craft, knitting and food bloggers/YouTubers!It’s made with pvc pipe which is inexpensive, sturdy and lightweight. This took me about 20 minutes to make and costs less than $15! I just filmed my first video with this mount and it worked so well! I hope you guys find this as useful as I do and expect to see more videos from me in the future!
Supplies for Overhead Camera Mount DIY
PVC pipe (2, 5 foot lengths)
PVC connectors (5 elbow, 2 “T”)
Flat head screw
Drill
Super glue
Cut the pipe into the following length:
3- 14 inch sections
2- 12 inch sections
1- 23 inch section
(some of the big home improvement stores will cut the pipe for you, otherwise you can use a hand saw or miter saw)
Join the pipes together, using the connectors as pictured. I super glued the corners of the stand so they would be extra secure.
To attach the camera: Drill a pilot hole through the “T” connector. Using your fingers, twist the screw through the hole from inside the connector.
This camera mount can easily accommodate a cell phone camera as well! All you need is a mini tripod (I bought this one from Amazon). It comes with a hole that you can screw to the camera mount.
You’re going to want to angle the “T” connector at the base of the stand slightly back so the camera is positioned directly overhead.
this is genius, love it. Thanks for the idea
Such a smart idea! Shooting overhead is challenging and the arm attachment for a tripod is expensive. How much did you spend on all the supplies for this?
So sorry just noticed the price was in your title!
What a smart idea! But it seems like it would be too light for a real camera, wouldn't it? I think my DSLR would instantly tip it over. Maybe it could be adapted for metal pipe? I might have to try that, because I have the same problem with not having a good way to shoot overhead shots and video. Thanks for the inspiration!
Hi Rachel- I made the camera mount to use (mainly) with my DSLR. I attached my phone to the mount for the blog pics because I wanted to use the better camera to photograph everything. I promise it doesn't tip over! The based is wide and it makes up for the weight of the camera.
Can I ask what specific camera you have? Some are significantly heavier than others, as I learned when I upgraded my old Nikon to a much bigger, heavier one. I'd like to compare the weight to mine before I try to build one of these.
Good point- I didn't think of that. I use a Canon T5i.
Thank you!
Fantastic idea!