It’s the little things that make a big difference: Why Smallrig’s L-shaped stand is my favorite

The L-mount is a pretty simple idea: there’s a way to mount your camera vertically or horizontally with a tripod. However, between that simple idea and the actual product is a huge difference in implementation. I recently tried Smallrig’s L-frame for the Nikon Z6 and Z7 series, and I was really impressed by how it elevates the basic concept to accessory perfection.

If you’re still using an older, smaller tripod plate, upgrading to any L-plate would be an improvement. The L-plate is generally compatible with Arca-Swiss-style tripods, the common mounting method on most mid- and high-end tripod heads (and even a surprising number of lower-end heads now). ). Since L-plates are typically designed specifically for your camera, unlike regular base plates, they will often provide a better fit and may even include notches or latches that help prevent the camera from twisting on the top. plate.

What set? Smallrig’s curly braces Other than that, however, are all extras compared to other panels I’ve used before. The first and most striking point is the addition of a pretty little rest. Specifically for me Z7, the grip is just a hair too small to be really comfortable with larger lenses. This extra surface area is just the right size for a firm grip, although it would be perfect with a bit of texture or even rubber to match the existing Z7’s grip.

Also on the handle area there is a slot for attaching the strap. While I don’t normally use one, it’s nice to have, especially since many of the side straps don’t fit with tripod plates. In addition to straps, the bracket provides 3 1/4″-20 threaded holes on the side plate for attaching other accessories.Overall, this plate offers many options for mounting and truss, beyond just being a tripod plate. Arca-Swiss tripod, all without the complexity and weight of a full cage rig.For the combined use of mirrorless cameras, it’s nice to have these options.

Moving along the bottom, you still have full access to the battery door, along with some 1/4″-20 threaded holes and one 3/8″ hole. At the bottom is a slot for the included hex wrench, capable of rotating both the mounting screw and the adjustable side bracket control screw. As I’ve suffered burns in the past from not having a wrench in the field, having one built-in comes in handy. The wrench is held in place by some magnets and I don’t have to worry about it coming loose at any point.

Using

SmallRig’s L-mount works perfectly for attaching your camera to a tripod, but today, there are plenty of options for doing just that. What really sets this framework apart is how useful it is in every other situation. If I’m trying to set up my camera to shoot a short video, I can easily attach a monitor, light, grip, or other accessory thanks to the included mounting holes. For casual video use, this makes the stand a great alternative to a cage rig.

When using camera handheld, I found the extra grip along the bottom to be a game changer when working with longer and heavier lenses, like the 24-70mm and 70-200mm f / 2.8. In addition, and this is particularly unique, SmallRig creates a Small plate mounted on the tripod of the FTZ . adapter, then connects to the base of the L-frame. This can take the load off the lens mount a lot, redistributing it into a much sturdier tripod and mounting structure. I’ve had issues with the FTZ mount clearance in the past with the camera tripod plate. This approach completely solves that problem, allowing you to mount the FTZ setup over the camera plate and still be secure.

While I haven’t tested them personally, SmallRig also makes a number of accessories that pair well with the L-Bracket, often in the context of video rigs setups. This includes things like HDMI cable clips, cold shoe stands, handles, etc.

Value proposition

The camera accessories market is very interesting and diverse. There’s everything from no-name brands on Amazon and eBay, to premium handcrafted, made in the USA or Italian brands. While it looks like any of these companies could make a small L-shaped piece of metal that works, that didn’t happen in my testing. I have encountered fit or finish issues, clearance issues, etc, especially when testing new equipment.

In contrast, SmallRig’s equipment has always been an extraordinary value, offering the same build quality as panels 2 or 3 times more expensive, but with better features. The Z6/7’s L-frame is no exception. The entire aluminum construction is extremely durable, while the finishes and markings are impeccable. All screws and threads are perfectly cut and rotate smoothly.

I’ve tried several other plates and holders from other manufacturers, including some “universal”, and I have never been impressed. Whether it’s a matter of fitting my tripod head or a poor connection to the camera itself, very cheap plates still don’t work well enough. This is especially evident when testing at 1:1 macro, with a heavy telephoto lens, or when shooting something like a focus stack, where successive shots must be taken from the same position. With this plate, the fit is perfect and the ability to screw it down with an Allen wrench ensures a solid connection.

I also really appreciate that I don’t need to take out the disc for any reason. I can access the battery and ports easily – this is in contrast to other panels that claim to provide those connections, but are, in fact, still getting in the way.

I put the disc in my Z7 when it first arrived and I haven’t removed it since. It performs well, is convenient, and perfectly usable in everyday use, while improving the usability of the camera itself, thanks to that all-important little grip extension. If you’re looking for a mounting option, check out SmallRig . product line – they have solutions for everything from iPhones and GoPros to cinema-grade cameras. This particular bracket is now available with hotshoe at B&H.