Motion Control & Special Effects Rigs
Robotic precision and dynamic effects for unforgettable tabletop visuals
At Studio Ballena, we elevate tabletop production with our advanced motion control robot, Robbie, and a suite of custom special effects rigs. This combination allows us to create dynamic, repeatable and precisely timed movements — essential for splash shots, liquid arcs, ingredient motion, multi-pass compositing and cinematic product reveals.
We can work:
As a full-service production partner
or
As a plug-in specialist operator team within agency or production workflows.
Every move is engineered with intention — for visuals that feel bold, clean, and fluid.
Meet Robbie — our CRX1440 Motion Control System
Robbie brings accuracy, fluidity and creative control to set. Compact enough to move easily on location, yet powerful enough for high-speed dynamic shots.
Key Specs
- 1440 mm reach
- 11 kg payload
- Up to 3 m/s movement
- ± 0.04 mm repeatability
- Runs on standard 230V (or battery where needed)
- Fits through standard doors & elevators
- Always operated by an experienced motion control specialist
Dynamic Effects, Fully Controlled
Motion control becomes even more powerful when combined with our special effects rigs. These devices trigger movement in liquids, powders, ingredients or products — at precisely the right frame.
Stop-motion-style consistent angle tracking
Clean, repeatable hero movement arcs
Floating or spinning product reveals
Explosive ingredient bursts
Timed liquid pours, splashes and droplets
Our Special Effects Rigs
Our rig collection is available for use in-studio or on location, either as standalone equipment or synced with motion control.
They allow for precise, accurately timed movement of liquids, powders, props and products — ideal for high-impact tabletop visuals.
Available rigs
Manual control unit
Gripping dropper
Turntable
Tube slot dropper
Iris dropper
Liquid drip system
Product rotator
Conveyor belt
Launch table
Custom Work
Need something unique?
We adapt, modify or custom-build rigs to match the creative and physical behavior of your product.
Perfect For
Brands needing visually impactful hero shots
Agencies requiring a specialist tabletop production partner or motion control specialist
Production companies needing robotic precision on set
Post/VFX teams planning multi-pass composite workflows
Why Work With Us
Photo & video
expertise
We understand how to handle your project
Scalable
team
The right skills, only when needed
Flexible
collaboration
Full-service or supporting agencies as needed
Consistent
results
Thoughtful, precise and intentional execution
Let’s Build Your Shot
Tell us about the motion or effect you're looking to achieve — we’ll engineer the rigging and movement path and advise how to get the strongest result on budget and timeline.