As a handheld camcorder, the EX1 feels awkward — an immediate impression that has been noted by just about every other reviewer. The combination handgrip and control assembly are not balanced with regard to the rest of the camera’s weight. I found it virtually impossible to operate it single-handed. However, Sony has provided a release button that allows the assembly to be tilted up to 90 degrees. I found that tilting to about a 45-degree angle while steadying the camera under the lens or with my left hand on the focus wheel allowed for stable handheld work.

Smaller cameras are harder to handhold anyway just due to the simple law of inertia. I have used the DVMultiRig Pro (www.dvtec.tv) with small cameras and the EX1 mated very well with this support. The electronic image stabilization worked well, and I’m finding that I can shoot a stable image off-tripod.

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