Best way to hold a dslr camera

When it comes to capturing stunning photographs with a DSLR camera, one of the most crucial aspects is the way you hold the camera. Proper camera handling not only ensures sharp and clear images but also helps prevent hand fatigue during long shooting sessions. As a photographer, mastering the correct technique for holding a DSLR camera can significantly enhance your photography skills and overall shooting experience.

One of the fundamental principles of holding a DSLR camera is to use both hands. By gripping the camera with your right hand on the grip and supporting the lens with your left hand, you create a stable and balanced platform for shooting. This dual-handed approach allows you to have better control over the camera’s movements and minimizes the risk of camera shake, resulting in sharper images.

Additionally, maintaining proper posture while holding the DSLR camera is essential. Keeping your elbows close to your body and standing with your feet shoulder-width apart can help stabilize your body and reduce the chances of camera shake. Remember to breathe steadily and gently press the shutter button to avoid introducing any unwanted camera movements while taking a shot.

Proper Grip for Holding a DSLR Camera

When it comes to holding a DSLR camera, a proper grip is essential to ensure stability and control over your shots. As a photographer, mastering the right grip technique can make a significant difference in the quality of your images.

One of the key aspects of a proper grip is to hold the camera with both hands. Use your right hand to grip the camera body, with your index finger resting on the shutter button and your other fingers supporting the underside of the camera. Your left hand should support the lens, providing additional stability and control.

  • Hold the camera close to your body to reduce strain on your arms and improve balance.
  • Keep your elbows close to your sides to further stabilize the camera and prevent camera shake.
  • Use your body as a brace by planting your feet shoulder-width apart and leaning slightly forward to create a solid foundation.

Understanding the Basics of Holding a DSLR Camera

When it comes to capturing sharp and steady images with a DSLR camera, proper hand positioning is crucial. Holding the camera correctly can make a significant difference in the clarity of your photos.

In order to hold a DSLR camera effectively, it is important to use both hands to provide stability and control. One hand should grip the right side of the camera body, while the other hand supports the lens from beneath.

Tips for Holding a DSLR Camera:

  • Use a firm grip: Ensure that both hands are securely holding the camera to minimize shake and achieve sharper images.
  • Keep your elbows close: Tuck your elbows in against your body to provide additional support and stability.
  • Breathe steadily: Take a deep breath and exhale slowly as you press the shutter button to reduce the risk of camera shake.
  • Practice good posture: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a stable stance to avoid unnecessary movement.

Positioning Your Hands for Stability

When holding a DSLR camera, it is crucial to position your hands properly to ensure stability and reduce camera shake. One effective technique is to place your right hand on the grip of the camera, with your index finger resting lightly on the shutter button. This allows you to easily access the shutter button while maintaining a secure grip on the camera.

To further enhance stability, use your left hand to support the bottom of the camera or the lens. By cradling the camera in your left hand, you can help distribute the weight evenly and minimize the risk of camera movement. Additionally, consider tucking your elbows close to your body to create a stable base for shooting.

  • Place right hand on camera grip
  • Rest index finger on shutter button
  • Support bottom of camera with left hand
  • Tuck elbows close to body

Using a Camera Strap for Added Security

When it comes to holding a DSLR camera, one of the best ways to ensure its safety and prevent accidental drops is by using a camera strap. Personally, I find that a camera strap provides added security and peace of mind while shooting photos or videos.

Attaching a camera strap to your DSLR allows you to hang the camera securely around your neck or shoulder, keeping it within easy reach at all times. This not only helps prevent the camera from slipping out of your hands but also reduces the risk of damage in case you accidentally let go of the camera.

  • Camera straps come in various styles and designs, so you can choose one that suits your preferences and comfort level.
  • Some camera straps even feature anti-slip padding or quick-release mechanisms for added convenience.
  • Overall, using a camera strap is a simple yet effective way to enhance the security of your DSLR camera and ensure a more comfortable shooting experience.

Maintaining Proper Body Posture

When holding a DSLR camera, it is crucial to pay attention to your body posture to ensure stability and avoid fatigue. One key aspect of maintaining proper posture is to stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. This stance provides a stable base and helps distribute weight evenly.

Additionally, remember to keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Avoid slouching or leaning forward, as this can strain your back and shoulders over time. Engage your core muscles to provide support and stability while holding the camera.

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
  • Keep back straight and shoulders relaxed
  • Engage core muscles for support

Adjusting Your Grip for Different Shooting Scenarios

When it comes to holding a DSLR camera, the way you grip it can make a big difference in the quality of your photos. Depending on the shooting scenario, you may need to adjust your grip to ensure stability and comfort.

For landscape photography, a firm two-handed grip is ideal to keep the camera steady and level. Use your left hand to support the lens and your right hand to operate the camera controls. This grip allows you to make subtle adjustments to framing and composition with ease.

  • Portrait Photography: When shooting portraits, consider using a vertical grip to maintain a comfortable position for your hands. This grip allows you to easily switch between landscape and portrait orientations without straining your wrists.
  • Action Photography: For fast-moving subjects, a secure grip is essential to prevent camera shake. Use a combination of hand and body support to keep the camera steady while tracking the action. Consider using a camera strap for added stability.
  • Low-Light Photography: In low-light conditions, a stable grip is crucial to avoid blurry photos. Use a tripod or rest the camera on a stable surface to minimize movement. If handheld shooting is required, consider using a wider stance and bracing your arms against your body for support.
See also  Best dslr camera for makeup photography

Practicing and Perfecting Your Technique

Now that you have learned the best ways to hold a DSLR camera, it is important to practice and perfect your technique. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with your camera, and the better your photos will turn out.

Here are a few tips to help you improve your technique:

  • Practice regularly: Take your camera out as often as possible and practice different techniques, such as shooting in different lighting conditions or experimenting with different camera settings.
  • Experiment with angles: Try shooting from different angles and perspectives to add variety to your photos.
  • Learn from others: Look at the work of other photographers and try to replicate their techniques. You can also join photography groups or forums to get feedback and tips from fellow photographers.
  • Take a photography course: Consider taking a photography course to learn more about composition, lighting, and other important aspects of photography.

Remember, mastering the art of holding a DSLR camera takes time and practice, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep practicing, experimenting, and learning, and you will see improvements in your photography skills over time.

Best way to hold a dslr camera

NEEWER Camera Video Cage Film Movie Making Kit, Aluminum Alloy with Top Handle, Dual Hand Grip, Two 15mm Rods, Compatible with Canon Sony Fujifilm Nikon DSLR Camera and Camcorder (Black + Blue)

$75.04
3 new from $75.04
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as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • 【Wide Compatibility】 This NEEWER universal camera cage is widely compatible with Canon 5D Mark II 5D Mark III 600D 700D Nikon 7200D Sony Fujifilm Pentax and other DSLR cameras and camcorders, ideal for photography enthusiasts, professional photographers, and filmmakers
  • 【Complete Accessories】 The camera cage has ergonomic dual handgrips for stable shootings. The silicone top handle can attach to the camera cage for taking low-angle shots. And the integrated dual-rod base with two rods 15mm in diameter and a 60mm rod rail gauge can let you adjust the camera positions and mount accessories like a follow focus, a hood, and a lens support
  • 【Convenient Mounting】 The camera cage features a built-in 1/4” thumbscrew that allows you to mount and dismount your camera quickly without tools. The silicone padding stabilizes your camera from wobbling and protects it from scratches
  • 【Multiple Mounting Points】 Multiple 1/4” and 3/8” threaded holes on the top of the cage allow for mounting several photographic accessories, including articulating arms, cold shoe mounts, field monitor mounts, and more
  • 【High-Quality Material】 With aircraft-grade aluminum alloy material, high-precision CNC machining, and an anodized finish, the camera cage is strong and durable



Price history for NEEWER Camera Video Cage Film Movie Making Kit, Aluminum Alloy with Top Handle, Dual Hand Grip, Two 15mm Rods, Compatible with Canon Sony Fujifilm Nikon DSLR Camera and Camcorder (Black + Blue)
Latest updates:
  • $75.54 - September 11, 2024
  • $75.04 - September 8, 2024
  • $75.54 - September 3, 2024
  • $75.04 - September 1, 2024
  • $75.54 - September 1, 2024
  • $75.04 - September 1, 2024
  • $75.54 - August 31, 2024
Since: July 19, 2024
  • Highest Price: $75.54 - August 31, 2024
  • Lowest Price: $75.04 - July 19, 2024



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SPIDER HOLSTER – SpiderPro Camera Hand Strap v2 with Snap Assembly and Optional Wrist Strap – DSLR and Mirrorless Compatible (Red)

$75.00
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as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • ✅UNIVERSAL: This genuine leather camera strap is compatible with both DSLR and mirrorless cameras, with or without a vertical grip attached.
  • ✅NO STACKING ISSUES: Hand Strap includes hardware to be installed by itself, and can also be installed underneath any Spider Camera Plate or 3rd party tripod plate with no issues.
  • ✅THREE SNAP CONNECTION: Remarkably easy to install and holds firm.
  • ✅EASY ACCESS: Camera Strap does not interfere with back or top button controls. Easy access to the camera's memory card slots.
  • ✅COMFORT FIT: The strap's curved S-shape and proprietary core construction "remembers" the shape of your hand. Can be easily adjusted to most hand sizes!





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Lowest price Product: SPIDER HOLSTER – SpiderPro Camera Hand Strap v2 with Snap Assembly and Optional Wrist Strap – DSLR and Mirrorless Compatible (Red) - $75.00


NEEWER Aluminum Alloy Camera Cage, Filmmaking Rig with Top Handle, Dual Grips & Arca Type Base, Compatible with Sony A7S III A7IV A6600 Canon EOS R5C R5 R6 DSLR/Mirrorless Cameras - VS107, Blue

$79.56
3 new from $79.56
Free shipping
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as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • 【Universal Camera Cage】 Engineered with premium CNC aluminum alloy, this Neewer camera cage is universally compatible with Canon EOS 90D/ EOS 6D Mark II/, Sony Alpha 7C/ Alpha 7 III/ Alpha 7R IV/ Alpha 9 II/ Alpha 6600, Nikon Z 6/ Z 6Ⅱ/ Z 7/ Z 7Ⅱ, Blackmagic 4K / 6K ,Fujifilm X-T4, Pentax, and other DSLR mirrorless cameras and camcorders up to 33lb/15kg.(This product is not suitable for a lens with support ring, so please remove the support ring before use)
  • 【Comprehensive Upgrade】 The upgraded cage features a dual-rod base, two 15mm-diameter rods, and a standard 60mm rail gauge for attaching follow focus, hood, lens support, and other accessories. The non-slip top silicone handle and the two ergonomic handgrips with synthetic leather textures and finger contours offer you a comfortable grip
  • 【Diverse Mounting Points】 The top of the cage has numerous 1/4” and 3/8” female threads, cold shoes, and compatible ARRI locating holes for mounting magic arms, cold shoe mount adapters, microphones, field monitors, LED video lights, RGB lights, and other accessories that will facilitate your video shooting in any situation
  • 【Easy Camera Installation】 An integrated 1/4” aluminum alloy thumb screw with knurls adds friction for quick, convenient, and tool-free camera installation. The enlarged silicone pad prevents your camera and camcorder from wobbling and protects against scratches
  • 【Handheld & Tripod-Mounted】 Grasp the cage with the two contoured handgrips for stable shooting or hold the top silicone handle for low-angle shots. There are two ways to mount the cage on a tripod: (1) Screw it to a quick-release plate via the 1/4” screw holes on the dual-rod base, (2) Remove the dual-rod base and secure the cage directly to the tripod
See also  How to fit a dslr camera strap



Price history for NEEWER Aluminum Alloy Camera Cage, Filmmaking Rig with Top Handle, Dual Grips & Arca Type Base, Compatible with Sony A7S III A7IV A6600 Canon EOS R5C R5 R6 DSLR/Mirrorless Cameras - VS107, Blue
Latest updates:
  • $80.56 - September 11, 2024
  • $80.06 - September 4, 2024
  • $79.56 - September 1, 2024
  • $80.06 - August 28, 2024
  • $79.56 - July 19, 2024
Since: July 19, 2024
  • Highest Price: $80.56 - September 11, 2024
  • Lowest Price: $79.56 - July 19, 2024



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ShiftCam ProGrip Starter Kit - DSLR style mobile battery Grip - Wireless Shutter Button - Built in Powerbank - Qi Wireless Charging - Freestanding Dock - Tripod Mount - Works with Android and iPhone

$149.99
Amazon.com
as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • ERGONOMIC GRIP: Provides the balance and stability normally only found when shooting with a DSLR, closing the gap between camera and mobile photography.
  • WIRELESS POWERBANK: Fast 15w Qi wireless charging keeps you shooting all day. Connect a second device via a cable and charge the two simultaneously.
  • WIRELESS SHUTTER BUTTON: Integrates perfectly with your phone's camera app without any additional software needed.
  • ROTATING PHONE MOUNT AND DOCK: Switch hassle free between landscape and portrait without changing your grip. Use ProGrip as a tabletop stand for reviewing your shots and footage.
  • ACCESSORIZE AND EXPAND: Works with ShiftCam LensUltra series, and features a cold shoe mount and 1/4” tripod connector for additional flexibility to add LED lights, microphones and more.





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Lowest price Product: ShiftCam ProGrip Starter Kit - DSLR style mobile battery Grip - Wireless Shutter Button - Built in Powerbank - Qi Wireless Charging - Freestanding Dock - Tripod Mount - Works with Android and iPhone - $149.99


SmallRig Push-Button Rotating NATO Handle, Quick Release Handgrip for DLSR Camera Cage Kit, w/Built-in NATO Rail, Left Side - 3260

$79.99
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as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • 【CHANGE ORIENTATION IN SECONDS】The SmallRig New Design Nato Handle 3260 is born to achieve changing the orientation in seconds. For different filming angles, you can press the unlock button on the side for easy 360-degree rotation and release it for automatic locking.
  • 【WIDE APPLICTION】The quick nato handle comes with a nato rail, and it could be quickly mounted onto the side of the cage via a NATO clamp.
  • 【COMFORTABLE TO USE】Ergonomically designed with a comfortable silicone surface texture, the handle is anti-slip and sweat-proof.
  • 【MOUNTING POINTS】The handle comes with 1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 threaded holes and a cold shoe for easy attachment of accessories. With built-in hand strap holes, it works with Hand Strap PAC2456 (not included) and provides more options to further enhance the user's grip comfort.
  • 【NOTE】1) The product is ONLY for the left hand. 2) It is a normal mechanical movement if the handle gets stuck and makes clicking sounds. 3) The maximum bearing capacity of 5kg.



Price history for SmallRig Push-Button Rotating NATO Handle, Quick Release Handgrip for DLSR Camera Cage Kit, w/Built-in NATO Rail, Left Side - 3260
Latest updates:
  • $79.99 - August 4, 2024
  • $63.99 - August 4, 2024
  • $79.99 - August 3, 2024
  • $63.99 - August 2, 2024
  • $79.99 - July 19, 2024
Since: July 19, 2024
  • Highest Price: $79.99 - July 19, 2024
  • Lowest Price: $63.99 - August 2, 2024



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Lowest price Product: SmallRig Push-Button Rotating NATO Handle, Quick Release Handgrip for DLSR Camera Cage Kit, w/Built-in NATO Rail, Left Side - 3260 - $79.99


SmallRig Universal Side Wooden NATO Handle Grip DSLR Camera Cage w/Cold Shoe Mount Built-in Wrench, Threaded Holes – 2187

$79.99
2 new from $79.99
Free shipping
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as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • 【HIGH CUSTOMIZATION】 Aluminium alloy inner part and wooden handle external part to provide a comfortable and lightweight handheld shooting. NOTICE: The wooden handle is made of natural rosewood without any painting.
  • 【UNIVERSALITY FOR BOTH SIDES】 The SmallRig NATO Side Handle allows you switch from the left to right quickly. If you want to use it on the other side of the cage, just take off the connection part of handle and change the direction. NOTE: only ONE piece in the package.
  • 【MOUNTING POINTS】 The NATO Side Handle features 3/8 and 1/4 threaded holes on the top for more accessories like SmallRig Magic Arm 2065/2066. A cold shoe to mount articulating arm and microphone directly.
  • 【UP AND DOWN ADJUSTABLE】 The Wooden grip can be adjusted up and down. The built-in Allen wrench on the top is used to adjust the handle up and down based on your needs.
  • 【NATO CLAMP】 The Wooden handle is locked via NATO clamp to make your setup quick release and fits any cage featuring NATO rail on side. The handle is also compatible with SmallRig NATO Rail 2172/1409 for quick-release your setup without any tools.
See also  How to properly clean dslr camera filters





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Lowest price Product: SmallRig Universal Side Wooden NATO Handle Grip DSLR Camera Cage w/Cold Shoe Mount Built-in Wrench, Threaded Holes – 2187 - $79.99


AODELAN Wireless Shooting Grip Tripod with Remote Control for Vlogging, for Sony ZV-E10,ZV-1,ZV-1 II, ZV-1F, a6100, a6400, a6600, a7 III, a7R III, a7R IV, a9, a9 II, Replace Sony GP-VPT2BT(white

$69.99
Amazon.com
as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • AODELAN Tripod Grip with Remote Control can be used either as wireless shooting grip and tabletop tripod (hold up to 1 kg (2.2 lb) weight of camera). Light weight and easy to carry. Ideal for vlogging and live streaming and selfie
  • Used as a tripod: the bottom of tripod equipped with a non-slip pad supplies stable support, leave your hand free and ensuring a clear video
  • As a handheld shooting grip: holding the grip to shoot for still and movie, and controlling your camera with the buttons on remote
  • Detachable functional remote control: the remote control supports shooting still images and video, focus and zoom function in images shooting, operating range is up to 10m/32.8ft
  • The remote control compatible with Sony a6100, a6400, a6600,A6700, a7 III , a7R III, a7R IV, a9, a9 II, Cyber-shot DSC-RX0 II, Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII, ZV-1,ZV-1F, ZV-1 II,ZV-E1,A7C II,ZV-E10





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Lowest price Product: AODELAN Wireless Shooting Grip Tripod with Remote Control for Vlogging, for Sony ZV-E10,ZV-1,ZV-1 II, ZV-1F, a6100, a6400, a6600, a7 III, a7R III, a7R IV, a9, a9 II, Replace Sony GP-VPT2BT(white - $69.99


QUMOX Vertical Power Battery Grip for Canon EOS RP EOS-RP EOS R8 DSLR Camera, Battery Holder for 2X LP-E17 Battery (Battery is not Included)

$59.99
Amazon.com
as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • QUMOX Vertical Power Battery Grip/Holder for 2X LP-E17 Battery can hold one or two LP-E17 Li-Ion batteries - effectively doubles the recording capacity and extends the recording time. (Battery not included)
  • It can be used as an additional power source for the camera.
  • It provides enhanced flexibility and not only helps to keep your hand in vertical and horizontal position, but also provides a stable platform for taking portraits, still life shots and other subjects that require a vertical format
  • There is power on/off swithch
  • With a 1/4 "screw hole in the bottom, it can easily be attached to the tripod.



Price history for QUMOX Vertical Power Battery Grip for Canon EOS RP EOS-RP EOS R8 DSLR Camera, Battery Holder for 2X LP-E17 Battery (Battery is not Included)
Latest updates:
  • $58.99 - September 1, 2024
  • $59.99 - August 14, 2024
  • $58.99 - August 12, 2024
  • $59.99 - July 19, 2024
Since: July 19, 2024
  • Highest Price: $59.99 - July 19, 2024
  • Lowest Price: $58.99 - August 12, 2024



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Lowest price Product: QUMOX Vertical Power Battery Grip for Canon EOS RP EOS-RP EOS R8 DSLR Camera, Battery Holder for 2X LP-E17 Battery (Battery is not Included) - $59.99


Zeadio Camera Video Rig Cage, Aluminum Filmmaking Movie Making Kit with Top Handle & Arca Type Base, Compatible with all DSLR Camera and Camcorder

$79.98
Amazon.com
as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • Made of aluminum alloy for high strength and durability. Load capacity is 44lb/20kg.
  • Includes a top handle for low-angle support and easy carrying. Ideal for making moving low angle videos and images.
  • Built-in multiple cold shoes, ARRI locating holes, 1/4” and 3/8” threaded holes for mounting articulating arms, microphones, field monitors, LED video lights, RGB lights, and other accessories.
  • Comes with two 15mm rods for you to mount a follow focus, matte box, lens support, or other accessories.
  • Compatible with all DSLR Cameras and Camcorders.





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Lowest price Product: Zeadio Camera Video Rig Cage, Aluminum Filmmaking Movie Making Kit with Top Handle & Arca Type Base, Compatible with all DSLR Camera and Camcorder - $79.98


CAMVATE DSLR Camera Cage Top Handle Wood Grip Compatible for Sony Panasonnic - 1175

$81.22
3 new from $81.22
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of August 3, 2024 3:26 am

Features

  • Designed to work with:60D,70D,50D,40D,30D,6D,7D,7D, 90D MarkII,5D MarkII,5DMarkIII,5DS,5DSR,650D,600D,550D,500D,450D,760D,750D,700D,100D,1200D,eos M5; D7000,D7100,D7200,D300S,D610,DF,D3200,D3300,D5100,D5200,D5500; Sony A99,A58,A7,A7II,A7RII;Panasonnic G7,GH4,GH3,GH2:Samsung nx1
  • Thread Holes for base plate: 1/4"-20;Mounting Hole for base plate: 1/4"-20
  • Camera Mount Screw: 1/4"-20;Thread Holes for top plate: 1/4"-20
  • Side Pipe Length: one 125mm ,another one 145mm
  • Thread Holes for side pipe: 1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16





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Q&A:

What is the best way to hold a DSLR camera?

The best way to hold a DSLR camera is to use both hands, with your right hand gripping the camera grip and your left hand supporting the lens. This provides a stable and balanced hold, reducing camera shake and ensuring sharp photos.

Why is it important to hold a DSLR camera correctly?

It is important to hold a DSLR camera correctly to ensure stability, reduce camera shake, and prevent blurriness in photos. Proper camera handling also helps to prevent hand fatigue during long shooting sessions.

Should I use a camera strap when holding a DSLR camera?

Yes, it is recommended to use a camera strap when holding a DSLR camera to prevent accidental drops and ensure the safety of your equipment. The strap can be worn around your neck or shoulder for easy access while shooting.

Are there any tips for better grip when holding a DSLR camera?

For a better grip when holding a DSLR camera, make sure to keep your elbows close to your body, tuck in your elbows for added stability, and use a firm but comfortable grip on the camera. Practice good posture and remain steady while shooting to improve your grip.

John Holguin
John Holguin

Certified travel aficionado. Proud webaholic. Passionate writer. Zombie fanatic.

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