Porta-Jib
ActiveOverview
Porta-Jib produces modular portable camera jib arms, dollies, flexible track systems, and related support equipment for professional film and video production. Designed by Scott Losmandy, the products emphasize portability, heavy payload capacity up to 100 lbs, and compatibility with professional fluid heads and tripods. The brand has expanded from initial jib arms to a full system of interrelated components, including recent additions like the Explorer jib and aerial track system127.
History
Scott Losmandy opened a machine shop in Hollywood, CA in 1981 and introduced the first Porta-Jib in 1989, which gained traction through rental inventories like Birns & Sawyer managed by Mark Schweickart. In 1999, Schweickart joined Porta-Jib to lead sales as camera technology shifted to lighter models. The company introduced the Spider Dolly and FlexTrak system in 2000, earning a Best of NAB Award, and continues to adapt with products like the Explorer jib12.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Porta-Jib (versatile jib arm) | Interfaces with professional tripods and fluid heads | $2995+ |
| Explorer Jib (portable jib) | Compact camera jib arm | $1500 - $3000 |
| Spider Dolly (camera dolly) | Support for lighter cameras | $1000 - $2000 |
| FlexTrak (flexible track system) | Aerial track for jibs | $800 - $1500 |
| Camera Trolley (trolley system) | Mobile camera support | $500 - $1200 |
Manufacturing
Products are designed by Scott Losmandy and manufactured in-house at Hollywood General Machining in Burbank, CA, or at nearby Los Angeles machine shops during high demand. All production occurs in the United States2.
Notable Products
- Standard Porta-Jib - Original modular jib arm carrying up to 100 lbs, folds into cases for portability24
- Spider Dolly - Dolly introduced in 2000 for lighter professional cameras1
- FlexTrak System - Flexible track system awarded Best of NAB in 20001
- Explorer Jib - Portable jib arm featured on homepage7
- Camera Trolley - Trolley for camera movement on tracks7
Reputation
Porta-Jib is recognized by professionals for durable craftsmanship, modularity, and heavy payload support in portable jib systems. Early adoption in rental houses highlights reliability in film and video production. Some users note the focus remains on heavier broadcast cameras despite adaptations for lighter models12.