I've combined my training as a biologist and cinematographer to design a motion control camera system for biological research and natural history film production.  This 6 axis motorized system is constructed from industrial grade components and controlled using open source software.  The flexible design can be configure for just about any macro studio application. 

​I am currently collaborating with a team of researchers to investigate the biomechanics of the extreme climbing dexterity exhibited by the Wandering salamander (Aniedes vagrans)

New Publication 

​Brown, C.E., Goldenberg, W.P., Hinds, O.M., O'Donnell, M.K. and Staub, N.L. (2025), Vascular and Osteological Morphology of  Expanded Digit Tips Suggests Specialization in the Wandering Salamander (Aneides vagrans). Journal of Morphology, 286: e70026. https://doi.org/10.1002/jmor.70026




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​And press coverage of our article:

"Will's motion control system is allowing us to make exciting discoveries in salamander biomechanics and could be applied to  a broad range of scientific imaging and animal research purposes.  As the operator can simultaneously rotate a stage, move the camera in any direction and adjust focus, we are able to respond to the movements of live vertebrates and reliably capture images that were previously impossible via conventional methods."

​Dr. Christian   Brown
Postdoctoral  researcher,  Integrative  Biology
Washington  State  University

See Christian's website and research covered by:

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Technical Specifications
​for Motion Control System

Details

Maximum payload- 40lb (18.14kg)
X axis- 25cm travel
Y axis-38cm travel
Z axis- 25cm travel
Pan axis - 360 degrees
Tilt axis-  360 degrees
Turntable rotation- 360 degrees

Features

Lens Control 
Dedicated camera power
Integrated SDI, HDMI, USB-c
Recording START/STOP trigger
​Wireless or hardwired joysticks
     

Applications

Animal Behavior Sequences
​Motion Control Timelapse
Focus Stacking
​Microphotography
Animal Physiology Research
Photogrammetry and 3d scanning

Past Research 

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​Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri​) space use and behavior in campground and non-campground sites in coastal redwood forests. (2016) Goldenberg W.P., J.M. Black and T.L. George. The Condor: Ornithological Applications.15-187 ​​​

​Influence of food subsidies on the foraging ecology of a synanthropic species in protected areas. (2016) West, Henry, Goldenberg and Peery. ECOSPHERE. 7(10)