Picture Car Glossary

gimbal rig for picture cars

What is a gimbal rig for picture cars?

Updated June 2026 · Revolution Picture Cars

A gimbal rig for picture cars is a motion-controlled hydraulic or pneumatic platform onto which a picture car's body (or body buck) is mounted to simulate vehicle movement pitching, rolling, and yawing during stage filming.

Gimbal rigs are commonly used for in-car sequences where a physical driving sensation must be visible from outside the vehicle (actors being jostled during a chase) while keeping camera access, lighting control, and actor safety optimal. The SFX department designs, operates, and maintains the gimbal during filming.