Society of Camera Operators announces recipient of the Technical Achievement Awards

The Society of Camera Operators (SOC) announce the recipient of the upcoming Society of Camera Operators Technical Achievement Award is NODO Film Systems – Inertia Wheels MAX. The SOC is also proud to recognise two additional technologies with Honourable Mentions: the TRINITY 2 Ecosystem by ARRI Americas, Inc. and the Mantis by Blkbrd LLC

This award category recognises groundbreaking technologies that advance the art and craft of camera operation and will be presented during the SOC Lifetime Achievement Awards weekend on February 15, 2025, at the Loews Hollywood Hotel. Eligible technologies include new devices or techniques, innovations that improve existing tools, or significant advancements that enhance current equipment.

“This year’s honoree represents the exceptional talent and innovation propelling our industry forward,” said Simon Jayes, Chair of the SOC Technical Committee. “The quality of submissions was outstanding, making it a challenging task for the committee to choose a single recipient. With the Inertia Wheels MAX, Boyd and his team have not only responded to operators’ needs but have also created a product that addresses a very specific challenge. This innovation will help shape the future of camera operation, enhancing both the artistry and efficiency of the craft while setting a new industry standard.”

Jayes added, “Given the high caliber of this year’s submissions, we have also decided to honour two other outstanding technologies: Arri’s Trinity 2 Ecosystem and BlkBrd’s Mantis isolator system. Both are invaluable tools for operators and significant contributions to the film industry.”

The NODO Film Systems – Inertia Wheels MAX revolutionises precision and control for camera operators with its patented motorised Mass and Drag technology, powered by PCB Stator Motors for smooth, latency-free performance. Compatible with gimbals and remote heads like Ronin 2/4D, Inspire 3, and MōVI, it offers unmatched adaptability. Features such as shake effects, single-press limits, and adaptive dampening make it a game-changer for professional camera control.

For more details on the award recipient, as well as the two Honourable Mention technologies, please visit NODO Film Systems – Inertia Wheels MAX, ARRI Americas, Inc. – TRINITY 2 Ecosystem and Blkbrd LLC – Mantis.

SOC President Matthew Moriarty noted, “The SOC is proud to honour these exceptional technologies that empower camera operators and elevate the art of storytelling,” said “Our Technical Achievement Awards are a testament to the ingenuity and commitment of those advancing our industry, and we’re delighted to celebrate these contributions that help bring stories to life.”

The SOC Awards weekend will be held Friday, February 14, and Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Loews Hollywood Hotel. For more details on the Awards and past honorees, please visit SOCAwards.com. For further information about the SOC’s Annual Society of Camera Operators Awards visit SOC.org.