Scott,

I have to agree. Don't get involved with zoom. Camera dep. has to supply a zoom control for a zoom lens no matter where the camera is mounted,dolly, stix, or arm. They are used to that. You just have to make sure that they have a long cable for the microforce or what ever zoom control that they have.

For focus, I told clients for years that i didn't have any lens controls. Seldom did i get a complaint. In my market i was able to get away with it. I just didn't want the responsability of that. i.e. the ac complaining about my focus system because he was unfamiliar with it or the stress of it not working properly. My thought process was it is the AC that is in control of focus and i don't want to be sucked into it.

I do own a focus system now and it is a BFG from Bartek enginering and a FMG motor. The system is relitivly inexpensive but very well made. I use it both for steadicam and jib work.