Picture Car Glossary
camera car tow arm
What is a camera car tow arm?
Updated June 2026 · Revolution Picture Cars
Also called tow arm, or A-frame tow.
A camera car tow arm is a rigid or articulating steel extension mounted to the front of a camera car that physically connects to and tows a picture car during driving shots.
This setup allows a camera operator positioned on or ahead of the camera car to capture the picture car from a fixed, controlled perspective while the tow arm maintains safe and precise spacing between the two vehicles. It is commonly used for detailed hood and windshield shots during the apparent "driving" of a hero vehicle.
Example
A tow arm connects the camera car to the picture car so the actor can perform while looking like they are driving, with no one actually at the wheel. The rig sets the speed, which removes the driving from the actor's job entirely.
Figures are illustrative, chosen to show the mechanics rather than to quote market rates.
Where you'll see it
Rigged by the camera car's crew, and the standard alternative to a process trailer for dialogue at speed.
Common mistake
Treating a tow arm as interchangeable with a process trailer. The arm puts the picture car on its own wheels at road level; the trailer lifts it, which changes ride, sound, and what the camera sees.
Related questions
- Why tow a picture car instead of driving it?
- So the performer can act rather than drive. The rig controls the speed and the line, which removes the risk and lets the camera be rigged anywhere.
- Does the actor need to steer on a tow arm?
- No. The arm fixes the picture car's direction to the camera car, so the performer's hands on the wheel are performance rather than control.
Official sources
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