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Chris is not just the owner and founder of Optical Support, but an absolute key figure in the introduction of Steadicam and many other now industry standard pieces of equipment to the U.K and Europe.

Chris is a born engineer, starting with his early days of Lego and Meccano, making way to his teenage years where he took on his first role as an apprentice electrical/mechanical engineer at the Salvation Army’s printing factory in St. Albans. 1989 was Chris’ entry into the film industry, where he joined IC Equipment, the Aaton and Angenieux agents at the time. First learning, and then excelling as a lens engineer, specialising particularly in 16 and super 16mm cinema lenses. Chris took his engineering skills onward to Cine Europe, and finally to Tattooist International in 1994. By this time Chris was working on cameras as well as lenses, but it wasn’t until he met operators Peter Cavaciuti and Peter Robertson that he encountered his first Steadicam. A still relatively new and mysterious bit of kit, but this didn’t faze Chris as he dived headfirst into working on the Pete’s rigs. As Tattooist looked ominously like closing, Chris took the bold move to go it alone, and on November 8th 1996 Optical Support was born.

As the name suggests, the company started life as just lens service and repair. But as Chris’s relationship with the Pete’s developed, and the housing of their kit in the office, the idea of more Steadicam soon came about. Purchasing a third Steadicam then opened the door to dry hire, which then lead to training and regular practice session for operators. Chris, the Pete’s, and OS were the first to introduce GPI PRO stabilisers and Preston Cinema Systems into the U.K. and Europe, for both rental and sale.
The company has grown steadily (pun intended) over the last near 30 years, but still retains the core values and feel that it had when it was just Chris in his small unit in north London. Sometimes a little chaotic but always welcoming and friendly, a perfect reflection of Chris’ own character. He continues to lead OS product design, continually focused on quality engineering, while pushing the boundaries on ideas for Steadicam and stabiliser equipment. As well as equipment, it’s also people that Chris has shared his knowledge with along the way. Many of the most established and well-known U.K. Steadicam operators took their first tentative steps at Optical Support, something Chris is still encouraging right up to the present day.

If you’ve had any contact with Optical Support over the years, then well, you probably know Mike. One of the longest serving and knowledgeable members of the team, especially when it comes to Steadicam and stabilisation equipment.

Mike joined Optical Support in 2010, after spending 4 years at one of the largest broadcast equipment and facilities provider in the U.K. Continuing his experience in kit prep initially at OS, then expanding into service/repair work and after time, managing the rental department. Time and dedication has meant Mike is able to provide support in almost all areas of the company, which is why in 2023 it made perfect sense he look after the running of OS Products EU.
Now located in Spain, Mike offers his wide skillset for our European customer base, while overseeing our Netherlands and Spanish office.
Although based somewhere sunnier, Mike still is very much connected to our London HQ, providing customer support and help with the general running of the company.

“When I first started I didn’t even know what Steadicam was, but now, I scarcely think about anything else. OS is a company like no other in my opinion, small but mighty in terms of experience and technical knowledge, while maintaining genuine personality and soul.”

Our depth of specialist engineering knowledge is the foundation of the company. Russ is the personification of this, with 3 decades of experience in film industry equipment engineering, service and repair. Starting his career at the renowned Optex, Russ worked as a mechanical engineer in several areas of the company, notably on the world famous Optex Excellence periscope/borescope system. In 2003 he took over the repair and service of Steadicam, specialising in this until the unfortunate closure of Optex in 2005. Russ was then approached by OS owner Chris Edwards, and with his level of engineering skill and Steadicam experience, he was the perfect match for a then growing Optical Support. Initially Russ used his extensive lens service skills at Optical, working on both cinema and broadcast lenses. As demand for Steadicam service grew, and more engineers joined OS, Russ now over sees both the lens and Steadicam service departments. But as with all at OS, he never passes much time without a screwdriver in hand.

Now the longest serving staff member, Russ is an invaluable source of knowledge, helping the growth and training of staff, and a key point of contact for customers. An almost unrivalled knowledge of Steadicam and other stabiliser systems mean that if Russ hasn’t got the answer, then there probably aren’t many that do!

“I joined the company as it was a small growing business with a friendly vibe, where I instantly got the feeling that I was a valued member of a team and not just a number. There is always an enjoyable atmosphere and it’s a fun place to work, every day brings a new challenge, and with new products coming out there is always more to learn… And a beer with the team at the end of the week is always a pleasure”

Working in a rental department can be a fast paced and often unforgiving role. Requiring immediate reaction and absolute attention to detail. Fortunately, these are attributes that Ben has in abundance. Starting his journey at a young age with a keen interest in cinematography and photography, entering and winning several filmmaking competitions through college and university. After finishing his Filmmaking BA course with first degree honours, Ben split his time between working in the camera department on set and as a rental house technician.

Ben’s understanding of clients on set needs, coupled with his technical knowledge, make him a rental department wizard at Optical Support. Alongside his in-house work, Ben still gets to flex his on set skills, often working as a technician to support our equipment during rentals. Even fulfilling a dream working alongside Sir Roger Deakins on “Empire of Light”.
You’ll likely hear Ben’s cheery voice when you call with a rental query, and whatever the need, Ben will work his magic to make it happen.

“The best part of my job is the ability to refine my knowledge on a deep and enriched level to help individuals and productions but also to stay connected with all the operators and productions. The collaborative and tight knit team and working environment are extremely rewarding and keeps the whole process interesting, refreshing and new day to day.”

Working in “sales” might spark thoughts of sharp suits, margins and corporate handshakes. But we like to look at things a little differently, and Ross exemplifies this. Having focused on camera operating and 35mm film development during his BA Contemporary Media Practise degree, Ross came to Optical with real hands on enthusiasm. Joining the sales team and learning equipment from the most experienced engineers in the company means Ross provides a high level of technical guidance when advising customers on purchases. Along with now leading the sales department, Ross also has a key role in our own product development, especially our OS360 Trinity upgrade and DragonFly sled.

Informing and supporting customers in making the right choice is always number one priority for Ross. So if you have the chance to visit our office showroom, you’ll experience that in the friendly, relaxed manner he does so well (probably getting a lovely coffee while you’re there!).

“I started at Optical when I was fresh out of University at the age of 21. Knowing very little about not much, Optical gave me a space to grow and learn alongside talented engineers and technicians. The opportunity its given me in terms of my work and travel is something I will always be grateful for, and I am very proud of the role I’ve grown into within the company”.

As with all OS staff, your job title doesn’t necessarily define your skill set, and Ors is certainly no exception. After a decade in hospitality management, she returned to uni to obtain her master’s degree in finance and pursue a different career path. Starting in the sales department at OS, Ors quickly absorbed all the technical info she could from the rest of the team, and even branched out to product assembly. With this foundational knowledge in the day to day of how OS works, Ors then moved into her specialist area, accounting. She now keeps both internal and customer accounts in check, providing more than just standard accounting support, thanks to her deeper understanding of the equipment we deal with.

“Optical Support realised my potentials and skills that were originated from a very different industry.  Gave me the chance to improve myself and grow into a much more suitable role for me. I am very proud to be a part of this one of a kind company that has a hardworking yet very much of a family like atmosphere.”

Dealing with high value camera equipment can make you a target for criminals, so it’s important to be prepared for any eventuality. This is where Gustavo, or “Gus” as he’s known to his pals, comes into play. Keeping an ever-watchful eye on day to day activities, Gus is first to alert us if any suspicious characters enter the building. He takes his job role very seriously, and lives by a “guilty until proven innocent” mantra, especially when it comes to the close quarter protection he provides OS owner Chris.

Despite Gus’s hard dog attitude, he does have a soft side. If you give a friendly shake of the paw upon meeting (and maybe a sneaky treat), most who visit the office become good friends with Gus, and will receive a warm welcome when they return.

“Nothing happens here without me knowing, so don’t try anything. Also don’t try to bribe me. Especially with food. Not even sausages. Honestly it won’t work”

Marley was brought into the company by Kev, where initially we thought he might join Gustavo in company security. However Marley’s more “care free” attitude didn’t quite fit in with Gus’s way of doing things, so Marley moved into the customer liaison role. Marley is always on hand to greet customers when they arrive, usually checking if you’ve brought lunch, as he knows how important a good meal is. He makes regular rounds through the working day to make sure everyone is happy, or maybe want to take part in a bit of ball throwing exercise. Although post lunch Marley must take his compulsory afternoon siesta (he is the only employee with this privilege, with the exception of Mike).

“I’m happy if you’re happy, and if you’re not happy, well, I’m probably still happy but it’s ok maybe we can play with the ball or share a sandwich that usually helps!!!”