Kessler's fiercely loyal client base has expanded from the HDSLR world into larger camera support systems, and from the subculture of time-lapse photography to general production.
"Kessler was the first company to offer a real, practical solution for time-lapse moves," said Mitch Gross, AbelCine's Applications Specialist. "Most clients don't want to build something out of hardware and hope it all works. Kessler enabled filmmakers to get amazing moves with out-of-the-box solutions. Their success in that market allowed Kessler to expand into other areas. For certain clients, a device as straightforward and clever as the Pocket Dolly can be a real revelation. To add a hand crank or even a small motor to a slider for buttery smooth moves, in a kit that fits into a camera run bag, is incredible."
While the rapid growth of Kessler Crane has been attributed to strong word of mouth, internet referrals, and some presence at trade shows, the ability to get hands-on time with the gear has been somewhat limited. Now, for the first time in US, you'll be able to walk into an AbelCine showroom in New York or Burbank any time, and get your hands on these innovative products
to play with and evaluate.
"AbelCine and Kessler Crane are a great match," said Eric Kessler, founder of Kessler Crane. "Both companies are all about finding solutions to solve the creative needs of our clients. Now through AbelCine, we can make our products available to filmmakers all over the country with our shared values of client support with quality products."
Key Kessler products include:
The Philip Bloom Signature Series Pocket Dolly, a small lightweight portable slider for cameras up to 15 pounds. The smooth belt-drive system can be operated by a hand crank or an optional motor. Available in three lengths (24", 29.5" and 41.5").
The CineSlider, a robust, portable slider for cameras up to 80 pounds (30 pounds if only center-supported off the Hercules 2.0 head). The smooth belt-drive system features a tension drag control, as well as a clever adjustable diameter crank for speed control.
The Pocket Jib, a portable jib system for cameras up to 50 pounds. Its unique dual-rail telescopic arm design allows the Pocket Jib to extend up to 5' of reach yet collapse down to a small size for operating in tight spaces and for transport. The Pocket Jib is also designed to integrate with the Pocket Dolly and CineSlider, allowing them to mount to the end of the jib for advanced compound moves.
