Is the Rotating Collar a Solution? - Sony A7iv L-bracket MEGA TEST

Today I test out 5 different brackets for the Sony A7iv, including the rotating collar, which has a massive problem that no one seems to be talking about.
I want a solution to the L-bracket problem, and in buying all of the decent ones I could find, this is what I found.
Camera clip I always use: geni.us/PDCameraClip
(It's expensive but well worth it!)
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My Equipment list:
Sony A7iv: geni.us/SonyA7iv-FF
Sony A7C: geni.us/Sony-A7C-FF
Nisi 15mm f4: geni.us/Nisi-15mm
Tamron 17-28mm: geni.us/tamron-17-28mm-fe
Tamron 28-200mm: geni.us/tamron-28-200mm-fe
Camera Clip: geni.us/PDCameraClip
Camera Bag - Lowepro 450Aw ii: geni.us/LoweproProtactic450aw
Sirui Tripod: geni.us/sirui-tripod-legs
Sirui Tripod ballhead: geni.us/sirui-tripod-ballhead
iFootage tripod: geni.us/ifootage-TC7
Small travel tripod: geni.us/little-tripod
Gloves: geni.us/MyGloves
Jacket: geni.us/MyJacket
Filming camera gear:
iFootage TC7: geni.us/ifootage-TC7
Manfrotto video head: geni.us/Manfrotto-video-head
Sony A7C: geni.us/Sony-A7C-FF
Hollyland Lark 150: geni.us/Lark150wirelessMic (Not the best but it does the job for now)
Rode Video Micro: geni.us/Rode-video-micro
GoPro Hero Black: geni.us/GoProHero10POVCam
Snap Mount: geni.us/SnapMount
DJI Mini 2: geni.us/DJIMINI-2
My Amazon wish lists: www.amazon.com/shop/mikesmith
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Nick Page / @nickpage
Ben Horne / @benhorne
Michael The Maven / @mmaven
Thomas Heaton / @thomasheatonphoto
Curtis Judd / @curtisjudd
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Thanks
Mike
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[@PaulComptonPDphotography]

Hi, I really hope you pin my video to the top, because you have missed one other way... and this is the best way you will get to mount your camera.. Its strong and long lasting and can be done to most L brackets, in fact smallrig have made the extension piece i sent them. I have also made them for Nikon Z camera and a canon for friends. XT5 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYm9loyOoJuoqaM XT4 kzbin.info/www/bejne/iHXYmZl5l9SsnNk Great video again you really get it all in

[@mikesphotography]

Hey Paul, Thanks for sharing your video. That is a great way to get it out of the way of the flippy screen! I agree with you about the PD QR plate, I wish all the manufacturers had that as part of the bottom plate like with the 3-Legged-Thing design. I am liking the f38 L-bracket at the moment, but it will be intersting to see how it works when it gets colder here in the uk with it being such a tight fit. As always thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated 😁👍

[@PaulComptonPDphotography]

@mikesphotography your welcome, and thanks for the pin, I was worried it may upset you posting a link. I love the way mine is now even though I use the ATOLL on my XT5 so far. Just annoying it can't fit all lenses

[@mikesphotography]

@@PaulComptonPDphotography no worries at all. It goes into the held comments with links, but after seeing what you machined, it was a fantastic solution to this issue. I'm always happy to share good ideas. 😁👍

[@ianloe4423]

Love the review Mike! Awesome stuff as always

[@mikesphotography]

Hey Ian, Thanks very much! I hope you are well dude!! Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@DesertPackrat]

Atoll has a longer adapter that pulls the ring away from the camera so that the lens button can be accessed.

[@onikaimu]

Full of hands on experience here, Mike. It was great to see all these brackets being used. Stay safe.

[@life_in_gen]

Thank you for this video. Someone suggested this video to me and did not disappoint. Ty

[@AzarathGirl123]

Hey Mike, want to let you know that both nisi and sunwayfoto make several versions of these collars with their biggest size at 80+mm diameter, which is even bigger than the atoll version. Also the sunwayfoto version comes with a rather long mounting plate which allows the ring to protrude out the front more than the atoll. This should solve the problem of lens compatibility and obstruction of the lens release button problem.

[@benharveyphotography]

Really helpful comparison, Thank you Mike.

[@mikesphotography]

No worries, thanks for watching Ben 😁👍

[@billkossmann9246]

Very helpful - thanks Mike!

[@mikesphotography]

No worries, Thanks for watching Bill 😁👍

[@martinoberstein8431]

Thank you ever so much for showing and explaining all these tools and their strengths and weaknesses, Mike! As I use an A 7rii and an A 7s ii am happy with the fitting smallrig L-bracket which is very useful and handy and like you I appreciate the magnetic holder for the extra tools.

[@hogboy5488]

Nice video Mike, not many people cover this stuff because it's not exciting, but tripod heads and brackets are the things we interact with the most. I don't have a flippy screen on my A7riii and A7riv so happy with the standard smallrig brackets for those

[@lynsmith1096]

Good comparison and review video Mike.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks very much Lyn!

[@MrTmiket0007]

Thanks so much for sharing another wonderful video like always Mike, keep up with the awesome content 👏👍🤗

[@mikesphotography]

And as always, thanks for your kind words Miguel!! 😁👍

[@johnjordan4716]

great video Mike, thanks

[@mikesphotography]

No worries John, Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@luiscampos4511]

Good job, Mike. Your honesty is greatly appreciated. It is a pleasure to follow your content every week. Greetings from Spain.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks so much Luis! Great to hear you are liking my videos!! ¡Gracias por ver! 😁👍

[@DR-fy7qy]

Great video mate! Unbiased and detailed. Thanks.

[@mikesphotography]

No worries, Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@samarthdev4470]

Right time cause even I’m sick of old school l braket. Thanks for sharing your views ❤

[@paulcollingridge8387]

Excellent! I still use my A7iii so I don't need to worry. Keep the content coming!

[@mikesphotography]

Great to hear your A7iii is still going strong!! Such a great camera!! As always thanks for watching Paul 😁👍

[@runheli]

I have the same problem with the L Braket, but it is from SmallRig so the Problem is handleable 😉. Thank you for the Tests and your expierience 🙋‍♂

[@junaustria0119]

I bought the Sunwayfoto LS-75 Ring. It's a 75mm ring. And it doesn't stop me using my tilt-shift lens. This is done by turning the camera body 180 degrees on the mount, with the lens pointing at the opposite side. Try it. Forgot to mentioned. I'm using Portkeys PT6 with this setup.

[@itsdavo5810]

Wish I found this video earlier. This is the closest to my use case -- using an L-bracket together with the PD Capture Clip. thanks for the thoughtful real-world analysis

[@findermanimages]

I have neither a Sony camera nor that ring bracket, but I still watched the video for the advice in general. It's good to see an honest review highlighting the downsides to products. Keeping it real! 😉 It doesn't really matter what a product looks like as long as it does the job, so for now, the Mike-Gyver rig is worth sticking with 👌🏼. Congrats on the 100k, too, well deserved.

[@mikesphotography]

Haha!! I might have to start calling it that ... Mike-Gyver rig!! 101,000 is just around the corner!! 😆😃👍 As always thanks for watching dude 😁👍

[@firpofutbol]

I invested into the Falcam system and have various F38 and F22 accessories for my A7IV. FYI they make an F38 quick release plate that's compatible with both F38 AND peak design capture clip.

[@mikesphotography]

The F38 and F22 system are really interesting concepts aren't they. I have been trying them out and they seem to work quite well. Thanks for the tip about the f38/capture clip QR plate... might have to pick one of those up. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@Lizzzzzzy921]

⁠@@mikesphotographythe falcam system has absolutely made the biggest difference in client work. If you take the time to learn how it works and use the washers and make sure everything is secure it really can be life changing. I went from fumbling around wasting time looking amateur to speeding up my workflow and looking like I know what I’m doing no twisting in screws or digging around for that one tool for ten minutes. It is worth the expense.

[@stephenwoodburn2970]

Thanks for that review, Mike. I had been keeping an eye on that product for a while, but was not convinced of it. I knew if I held out long enough, you would buy it and let me know if I should. All of the points you brought up were things that I was worried about, mainly the changing lens issues, which I need to do often because I always have the wrong lens on my camera. Speaking of lenses, my Sony 200-600 arrives tomorrow. I made that choice after renting some lenses and trying them out. Congrats once again on reaching 100K subs. I have enjoyed the ride with you seeing your channel grow. I hope you and yours are well. Take care.

[@mikesphotography]

I was wondering which lens you would end up going with. The 200-600mm is a beast, but a formidable beast!! I'm sure you will love it. I was really surprised by the collar, I was really hoping it would be a solution to the flippy screen/L-bracket problem, but alas no. Thanks so much dude!! Looking forward to you coming over in the Autumn (fall). As always thanks for watching dude 😁👍

[@andycoleman2708]

I have the ATOLL S version (I did the Kickstarter) and it fits all my lenses, including the 100-400 and 200-600. I also have a three-legged thing L-bracket but I don't use it on my A7IV because of the flippy screen but also because it is uncomfortable to have it pressed to my face when using the viewfinder (shooting wildlife).

[@michellewesson4409]

I use mine on the Canon R5. I agree with your comments.

[@mikesphotography]

Good to hear you get on with the atoll s Andy. I'm guessing that Sony haven't intruded on that area around the neck of the lens with any USB ports or release buttons, so the bracket can work freely. Thanks for letting us know. 👍

[@nikkoarnado6521]

Falcam just released their Falcam vertical horizontal half cage which fits my Tamron 35-150. I'm really liking it a lot so far especially paired with DJI RS3 Pro.

[@valdemarjrgensen8128]

I think the F38 L-bracket has quite a big issue you didn't mention. When in vertical position the camera is off center. The main reason I want and L bracket is to hold my camera vertical for panoramas and ideally I want to turn around the nodal point, which you can't do with the F38.

[@Thomasmcse]

Mate! Thanks for the video. I saw your first one already and I thought after that as well that the Atoll might solve the problem. But thanks to your video, it stoped me doing a mistake.

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Thomas, glad to be able to help. I was really hoping it would have been a solution, but it really raises more problems than it solves. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@Thomasmcse]

@@mikesphotography Fingers crossed, the next version will solve these problems.

[@duaneromanell3431]

Another great video. Been learning a lot from your content over the last few days. By no means a professional, but making strides to become better acquainted with my gear. I am guessing that half cage can accept any sort of mounting system on the side/bottom? I'm currently using the Manfrotto 234RC on my tripod, and have the accompanying plates on a variety of pieces in my kit. Cheers, Mike!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks very much Duane, great to hear you are enjoying my videos and tutorials. Yes, the great thing with the half cage is that you can mount anything you want to the 1/4 20 threads on the side and the bottom, and also the top. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@DA-yd2ny]

Thanks a lot, Mike. 👍

[@mikesphotography]

No worries, Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@ZioComposite]

9:20 You can install the PD plate into the F38 quick release base. You then have the option of using it with PD capture clip =P

[@bradwiggins2332]

SUPER GREAT VIDEO. The only other thing I wish you would have covered is whether they extend the hand grip or not. I know a few of the options you showed, don't extend the height of the hand grip, which is one of the secondary benefits of using an L bracket on the small Sony bodies.

[@richardlash454]

Thanks for the great review. I’m having trouble finding the Falcam L mount. Has it been discontinued? Anybody have a link?

[@alemattosbr]

Nice comparison! Thanks for sharing, Mike! I bought the smallright rotatable, and it's working well for me (I dont have any incompatible lens so far). As for quick release system, I migrated from peak design capture clip TO pgytech beettle clip (+ snaplock for tripod/gimbal). It turned my life easier. Kind regards.

[@mikesphotography]

Great to hear it is working for you! 😃 If you ever want to get a different lens, just be sure to check their compatibility list. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@berndsczepanski]

Great video , very helpfull. Question: i do habe the a6700. The last two option ulanzi bracket vs small rig cage..... why do you prefer the last..... does the ulanzi bracket fit as arca swiss....or not? Thanx

[@jholmes4824]

silence corner atoll s much bigger rig but fits every combo. I matched it up with a kessler qwik release v2 and just slide in almost any camera and lens combo save for tele zooms.

[@bobcarrphoto7938]

Thank for your thorough review of the options. I bought the Atoll after realizing a standard L-bracket didn’t work with the A7 IV flip screen. I have since changed to SmallRig half cages for that camera and my A6400 with an additional mount on the cage for portrait orientation shots. I have, but don’t use PD capture clips, so I can’t speak to that use case.

[@mikesphotography]

Interesting to hear you switched to the half cages. They work really well and don't feel as bulky as full cages. Thanks for watching Bob 😁👍

[@zgravity00]

Thank you SO VERY MUCH for this informative video. I think F38 L-bracket might be my solution. However, I need to know--when you put the camera on vertical position on your tripod, does it get in the way of accesing your plugs (i.e. multi plug, hdmi, headphone plugs, etc.) Please let me know.

[@brianbracher]

Thanks Mike, really helpful as I had been seriously considering the collar option. However, from your review I see it doesn’t fit my Tamron lens! That saved me from a frustrating purchase. Hopefully they will sell ve this as it definitely seems a great option going forward.

[@mikesphotography]

Hi Brian, I hope a company does come out with a viable solution to this problem as it does seem to be a good option ... it just needs a fair bit more R&D before it is truly ready for the mass market. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@davidbailey1689]

Thank you Mike. I was tempted to buy that ring system, believing that it was the ultimate. Your investigative report proves that it’s not. Saved me some hard earned cash.

[@mikesphotography]

That's great to hear that I have saved you from wasting money!! At the moment, I am in tow minds between the Falcam one and my own cobbled together bracket ... but the jury is still out... Thanks for watching David 😁👍

[@CluelessYoutuber]

Really great review and considerations dude! I was thinking to get an L-bracket next so this was really helpful. Although I don’t have a flippy screen with my A7iii, but something to think about for long term use if ever I upgrade 😂

[@mikesphotography]

No worries, it is something to think about. There are plenty of good ones for the a7iii, although I think the smallrig one is a little too bulky from what I remember. As always thanks for watching 😁👍

[@watkinsphoto]

You make some really good points. For me, the Small Rig rotating collar has so far been a good solution because it is compatible with the lenses I use. I also shoot a lot of astro, and it is nice not to have to take the camera out of the tripod in the dark and remount to shoot vertical. I think the message of your video is to make sure that what you buy is compatible with your gear and needs.

[@mikesphotography]

Exactly. I love the concept of the rotating collar, and I was so frustrated that it didn't fit all the lenses I had... but I can understand the limitations that they have with the grip on the camera body. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@musiqueetmontagne]

I was going to get a rotating collar thingee just for astrophotography, when it's on a tracker or just aligned and you need to do vertical pans would be great.

[@edwarddebruyn8717]

Thank you for this review. Hesitated for this model but have the Atoll and the Sunwayfoto (SF). 1. Absolutely right that the lens release button is rather difficult to acces. With gloves it wouldn’t work. This is the case for both, the Atoll and the Sunwayfoto LS63 (SF). 2. My TC’s however fits with the Atoll but not with the SF. However it’s finding the right place between making the lens release button accessible and the possibility for the using the TC’s. Can imagine that it will not work with some adapters. 3. Both can be mounted inverted under a tripod for near to the ground shots. 4. Both can be turned 180° 5. But the extra release button is indeed a welcome extra Conclusion. The Atoll is more expensive but you can use it with a TC from Sony. There is a “ATOLL X” model coming with a wider ring (90mm) and compatible with camera’s like Nikon Z9 and Canon R3. This model will be compatible with all adapters and the release button seems very accessible.

[@SHENRAR]

I designed and 3d printed my own as I couldnt find one that worked with my camera, the capture clip and my budget all at the same time.

[@Nickporter17]

Excellent video Mike! Just like always! I've been eyeing these brackets for a while. I was pretty sold on the small rig flip bracket. But, as soon as I thought about it a little bit more I came to the same conclusion that It's not compatible with the peak design capture clip. Then I got pretty intrigued by the rotating brackets. But, I didn't know about the issues you experienced with lens compatibility. So, bravo for sharing all of your research with us! I was also quite torn because the 180° rotation of the atoll is so practical. But, so is the lens release button on the small rig. I also like that the small rig has a plate that extends the grip a little bit. I don't recall right now, but I don't believe there are any 1/4-20 mounts on it. I would definitely be adding some, if possible. I checked out the falcom system too. But, there's a shocking number of negative reviews on these. If I recall correctly, they are mostly about the quality control and reliability. Again, if I'm remembering right, people would be out on shoots and couldn't get the clips to lock or unlock. So, that brings us back to your same conclusion that the half L bracket with peak design capture clips you shared a year ago is, practically speaking, still the best solution. Bravo again Mike! Thank you so much.

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Nick, great to hear it has helped. I actually had the falcam one as well but only got it after filming this video ... it is the one in the thumbnail (as I'd already sent the smallrig one back). The falcam has a lot of other problems with it. It uses the f22,f38 and f50 mounts on the base of each of the mounting points, but the f50 part of the bracket gets in the way with the falcam backpack clip and it actually doesn't fit at all... then there is no release button built in so it is hard to remove the lens, and then the rotation is not smooth like the smallrig one. it feels like metal grinding against metal. It also comes apart if you over rotate it, and this was the biggest thing that put me off it. As always thanks for watching 😁👍

[@garfieldmtify]

NICE, VERY NICE JOB!

[@edmondrusso2831]

I have no problem with L-Brackets. It only takes 3 seconds to switch from landscape to portrait. Greta video Mike. You have become one of my to go channels for sincere and honest reviews. Thank you so much.

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Edmund and great to hear you like my videos, Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@shupingyin8082]

I want to find a L bracket like that for canon EOS R5. i like the design very much. Good review

[@anderseneroth1138]

Good, you found me the L-bracket with integrated Peak Design clip! Thanks.

[@mikesphotography]

Hey Anders! I hope you are doing well!! The Three legged thing is such a good bracket for cameras without the flippy screen. If I still had my a7iii or the a7riii/iv I would definitely go for that one. As always thanks for watching 😁👍

[@Vantrakter]

Nice video. I just bought the NISI Wizard at a pretty good price, being aware of the USB-C port on the side-issues with some Tamron lenses. However the Loxia 50/2 doesn't work well either because the Wizard ring tends to cover the aperture ring and you cannot position the Wizard so that the lens release button, focus ring and aperture ring are all accessible. Besides that the Loxia cannot be removed because it has a narrow place to grip for removal which is covered by the Wizard ring. It does not get wider than it is at the base so the Wizard can be removed before it. It seems to work well with the Tamron 70-300 RXD however. No it isn't a support for the longer lens, which is still only supported by the mount, but the balance becomes a bit more centered and it's a 500g lens. We'll see how much use I get out of it.

[@petemellows]

Nice reviews there. I use the three-legged thing and love it. Of course, I don’t have the Sony and my screen is a completely different setup, so there are no issues for me. Bigger lenses should have their own collar to balance the weight better.

[@mikesphotography]

The three legged thing is a well built L-bracket, I was really surprised at how smoothly it went into the Capture clip... You're right about bigger lenses needing their own collars to take the weight, although it would be a hassle having to take this on and off every time. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@rogerlush3344]

I bought an L bracket specifically for my Canon EOS R6 but as you aptly demonstrated it doesn't allow the full use of the flip out screen, I thought I was just unlucky, so it's good to know it's not just me! Your adaptation device looks like a great idea! Thanks for the advice on the various options that will save me time and money in not buying something that will not be any use 👍

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Roger, it is frustrating when companies don't do all the R&D necessary ... it's almost as if we have become the R&D department for a lot of these accessory products. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@ferdinand8842]

I agree, reviews should highlight both pros and cons of the product. I had the Atoll S, but didnt like that i couldn’t get to the release button, I looked at the SmallRig collar but I tend to use my a7IV as well as my a6300 which wasnt compatible and i also neede that PD mount. Hopefully Silence corner makes a V2 in the future addressing these issues/quirks

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the Atoll S. Some people have got on with it ok, but most seem to struggle. I was really hoping that the smallrig version with the release button built in would be a solution, but with the compatibility issues, it really isn't. Let's hope they do make a version 2 with all the quirks worked out. Thanks for watching Ferdinand 😁👍

[@thomassch.4110]

Great that you did the complete roundup! Isn't there a second major flaw of the rotating l-bracket? Isn't the room for fingers on the grip limited as well since the diameter of the lens base effectively grows bigger?

[@mikesphotography]

You are right Thomas, I could just about get my fingers in to the gap, but thinking about it, if I had gloves on it would become a problem. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@kamentsev]

Thank you! Still not a flip screen fan after upgrading

[@mikesphotography]

No worries Vladimir. Let's hope that Sony use the flip/tilt design on all future cameras that they have on the A7rV. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@kamentsev]

@@mikesphotography Yep, I`m sure new product line will inherit A7rV screen design. Maybe not the screen itself because a7RV should stand out, but the mounting solution

[@realMysta]

Just fyi the Atol model s and x(especially x) both work with larger lenses(tamron specifically) - i haven't had any issue on either hitting the button, maybe marginally harder but I do it on the fly all the time. Also the 1.4x Sony adapter works with both.

[@kenyattasavage350]

I just bought an X for my a7iv, and yes, it sovles the release button and lens issues!

[@ArruAravind]

Hii bro sigma 50mm lens compatible to This Smallrig ? or not because i do no that’s y am asking u if its compatible means i will buy

[@andrewnewton6524]

A great video with a fair analysis of the products. I don't use a Sony but a Canon R7, which has a similar issue with the screen. I had tried the Ellie short and found that by extending the upright arm away from the camera gives a little more range of movement without needing to use the slot. However it does make the bracket wider when fitting in to a camera bag and also makes the handling a bit clunkier if not using a tripod. I'm currently using a Camvate half cage after seeing your earlier video. It does give flexibility for the screen and I can attach a capture plate but again it's a bit of a clunky solution; the top part of the bracket covers the mode dial from above so I have to adjust it from the side - I haven't used it in winter with gloves but feel it could prove tricky! Like you I was hoping the ring models might be the answer but also like you the reviews I had seen were wholly positive, which did cause the cynic in me to question. Thanks for making the video and more importantly taking the time and expense of purchasing the alternatives

[@mikesphotography]

It is such a shame this wasn't the solution to the L-bracket problem. I have a full cage on my a7c for filming and have that same problem, it covers the mode dial. If you get the gloves with the removable tips, this is not too much of a problem to get around. Thanks for watching Andrew 😁👍

[@mastermike7000]

I use a full-size SmallRig cage on my A7IV, with an Arca-Swiss plate on the side (and a PD clip on the bottom) like your cobbled together solution. I prefer the extra weight it adds to the camera - and it feels like it's protecting the whole camera, which I'm hoping will work out nicely when I come to sell it in a few years.

[@mikesphotography]

Having a full cage does feel like it is protecting the camera more than just a bare body ... I have one on my A7C for filming and it has saved it a few times. I seem to never learn to anchor it down when filming in the wind!! 😆🙈 Thanks for watching Mike 😁👍

[@johnpurcellpurcell5207]

Sony a7m3. I own it and have never used an L or cage. Which will you recommend? John purcell. (Amateur in Florida)

[@TobSounds]

Interesting tool that lense rotator😎 i might get a lense rotator for my future camera 🙂

[@mikesphotography]

Haha!! That's the spirit!! It won't be long before you have one!! As always thanks for watching 😁👍

[@ferdinand8842]

Everyone !! Silence Corner has pre orders for the Atoll X with a 90mm diameter. Should work with Canon R3, bodies with battery grips, a7IV with cage etc

[@FrancescoDallOlmo]

I came up with the same solution: half cage with the PD plate on the side. It works good, however I can’t fit my camera in the backpack leaning on the side, which would save a lot of room on my ICU. I’m getting a ring since all of my lenses are compatible

[@queenb703]

will it work on dji ronin s3 gimbal? thanks

[@Foghorn225]

I've gone with the smallrig full cage for my a7iii as there was no half cage available, that way I could do the same as you're doing with the double PD clips. However, I have found that each side of the cage is an individual piece held by two tiny allen head bolts which can be removed to essentially turn it into a half cage, and I've found no issues with compromised stability or sturdiness. Just less weight and bulk.

[@mikesphotography]

Great to hear what you have done with the full cage. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@elwick_photo]

I found while you cant flip it down with a peak design clip mounted on the small rig folding L bracket, it does mean you can fold the side mount down put of the way when using the screen, and that does the job for me.

[@mikesphotography]

Good to hear you have found a use for the folding bracket. Thanks for watching Mark 😁👍

[@shadow-cast]

I use an arco swiss clamp on top of my L bracket, so I can choose flippy screen or vertical, plus camera is lighter hand held

[@paulm8157]

First, Congrats on 100K🎉 Mike. Did you get the YT 100K plaque yet? Valid points. Product comparisons almost gear review content, not up to your customary erudite approach, IMO. Feature set approach would have been stellar - what to look for in an L-Bracket if your cam has flappy screen (or not). Hope that makes sense. I don’t understand the “long lens” bit. If a lens is so long that it comes with its own collar tripod foot, my guess is that any L-bracket would be inappropriate; lens too front-heavy for body lens mount w/o that mid-lens collar support. Don’t collars generally rotate, anyway, enabling vertical shoots? Possible work-arounds: smartphone as remote live-view and cam control; external auxiliary monitor. Ever use them, Mike? For sale: one L-bracket collection😊. Same for other cam-specific add-ons. Nice picnic table, w/umbrella hole, yet. Vid post notice time stamps: Mike=1:00 PM, Henry=1:01 PM. Mike wins😊. Cheers!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks very much Paul!! I haven't got it yet, but I think it is on it's way... 😃 Good point with the what to look out for approach... might have to do that next time. With the long lens, it is not so much that I would use it to mount a camera and long lens on it... more so in switching between lenses to go from a wide to a telephoto shot. You would have to remove the bracket every time you wanted to use the longer lens, and I switch between the two lenses quite a lot. Haha!! Maybe Henry did that on purpose... 🤔 As always thanks for watching 😁👍

[@banditalley9592]

While we are on words of caution... I bought the ring bracket from Ulanzi for a Sony A6400 - TWO major issues : 1. The body of the A6400 is too small, and the locating feet for the base of the adaptor barely touch the side of the body, causing it to wobble. 2. The lens release mechanism is SO close to your fingers on the tiny battery grip that you can easily press it when just holding the camera, causing your lens to become unscrewed. Buy with caution on crop bodies with small grips!

[@mikesphotography]

I have the Ulanzi falcam one at the moment, and you are right... more problems with that one. I wish the companies that ripped off the original manufacturer would at least try to make them better ... Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@banditalley9592]

@@mikesphotography Update - the Ulanzi one fits the new A6700 perfectly. The bigger body of the new camera is a better match! Also the larger grip means your fingers are not close to unclipping the lens by accident.

[@travislytle2211]

Very nice review, very helpful. I just got the new Alfie L bracket from 3 legged thing and I'm not sure I like it. The portrait position on my peak design tripod seems a bit off due to the flippy screen cutout. You can put it at the corner but like you've seen feels a little off but is solid. Oddly there is a screw there on the portrait side that I can fit a peak capture clip. If I just had this and not the full L bracket it would be great. For now I'll go tripod free and stay handheld with just the capture clip.

[@mikesphotography]

Another commenter mentioned the Alfie 3LT bracket. It just seems to be the same as a standard L-bracket. What you mentioned is another problem with those cutouts, they make it feel a little less stable than it should be. If you're not shooting with a tripod much, then a Peak Design QR plate would be the best option. Thanks for watching Travis 😁👍

[@travislytle2211]

@@mikesphotography lucky I have the r5 so I don't need that notch, which adds wobble. I'm trying to save weight for an upcoming trip, so capture clip or sling it. Btw really enjoying your videos lately, keep up the great work.

[@davidligon6088]

Thanks for the review. The answer for me is the A7RV display flip mechanism. I use the Rogeti and it works very well. I can tilt the screen in vertical or horizontal position, without moving it to the side, and I can even face the display forward (although the vertical leg of the L plate does block part of the screen). I can even access the cable doors. I really have no need to flip the screen to the side of the camera. I did screw a Peak Design Capture Plate on the bottom. The built-in Capture Plate support is a very nice feature of the 3 Legged Thing L Bracket, but I don’t care for the gap in their vertical leg, I don’t think screwing on the Peak Design Plate to the Rogeti is a big hassle, and I can move the Peak Design Plate to the camera if I’m not going to be using the L bracket.

[@mikesphotography]

I think you're right David. Having a flippy/tilty screen is the way forward. Without the tilt option with the A7iv, you want to flip it out to get the tilt, but with your camera, this is not a problem. Let's hope Sony goes with that option on all future cameras. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@carlb401]

The other issue with the ring type brackets is on the Canon R5 it blocks access to the remote port on the front of the camera. Pro media gear offer an offset bracket for some of the Sony / Canon/ Nikon cameras where the vertical mount part is moved more to the front of the camera to allow full use of the Articulating screen. There is also Stabil gears who make various brackets inc a universal one that has the vertical mount built into the left hand end of the base so it is just a base rather than an L bracket so allows easy access to all ports and use of the articulating screens.

[@mikesphotography]

That's interesting to know. Thanks for sharing. I saw the Progrear one, but it just looks way too bulky for what it needs to be. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@yogurtAKAbigcockhaver]

good job

[@mikesphotography]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@barrynoon1812]

Hi Mike, as you know I debated long and hard following your last video on this subject, in the end I didn't get one!! In hindsight it was the right decision as I now primarily shoot with my 50 400 and as this has a tripod collar that is sufficient for both landscape and portrait orientations. My only other lens is the Tamron 20 40 but the fact that is rarely used necessitates the need for spending on any further accessories. That being said I have had to buy a new ball head as I lost the previous one!!!?? Don't ask! Thanks for the update on this interesting subject. Best Regards Barry

[@mikesphotography]

I was thinking of you when I first found out that the 50-400mm didn't fit this bracket. Like you said, if you use the longer lens most of the time, then the collar is perfect for this. I do switch quite a lot between lenses, so this is when it becomes a problem. Looks like I'll have to stick with my cobbled together bracket for now. As always thanks for watching Barry 😁👍

[@jamesdixon2085]

I put my L bracket on the right hand side to avoid the flip out screen issue. It seems wrong since they are always on the left but it works.

[@mikesphotography]

Unconventional, but if it works for you then that is all that matters. Thanks for watching James 😁👍

[@andymiles5156]

Thanks for showing those various options. The 3 legged thing Alfie bracket dedicated to Sony cameras looks interesting, but they don’t yet have an option with a built in PD clip, you essentially have to add one on the bottom which makes it bulkier. I like to use my camera off the tripod too, so being able to unbolt the side of the bracket is useful. One of these days I’m going to try mounting the L bracket on the tripod with PD clips on each arm, so essentially the camera only has a PD mount on the bottom but will be portrait or landscape depending on which PD clip you use.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks for sharing that Andy. I just checked out the Alfie 3LT and watched the promo video... it seems as though they brushed over the flippy screen problem, to the point where they cut out through editing when the guy flips the screen out and would run into problems with it. It is a shame as I really like 3LT products, and the PD clip I had was super smooth in the capture clip. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@andymiles5156]

@@mikesphotography Ah yes that’s annoying. It’s interesting with the A7R5 my focus has changed from the issues around being able to articulate the screen, in fact I’d rather have no gap in the L bracket now, to being able to quickly remove the portrait part of the L bracket to make handholding lighter and more comfortable. The L bracket you showed that folded won’t help as it’s as heavy and still juts out from the bottom of the camera, so that was very useful to see.

[@mikesphotography]

@@andymiles5156 Interesting how the new screen has changed your preferences. I bet it makes it much easier having the option of both. Yep, even though the folding bracket is an interesting concept, the extra height when folded away as well as the hinge sticking out are two other things that aren't great with it.

[@veholic1]

Hey Mike, great review! I like your cobbled together solution, it seems like it would work for what I want. I do have a small-rig L bracket for my a7iii but for use in astrophotography, the doors are mostly blocked to where you plug in an intervolometer. Extending out the bracket allows the plug to *just* fit in, but that adds a bit of height which is a little bit of a problem when using the tracker. I purchased the Ulanzi version of the rotating ring type and was disappointed to find my favorite Tamron 28-75 g2 didnt fit. However if you are brave or stupid like me, I shaved a little off of the USB lug on the lens at an angle and it allowed it to fit. I only use this when planning on shooting astro as the bulk of the ring make hand holding the camera uncomfortable.

[@mikesphotography]

Haha!! How did you shave a bit off? Did use sandpaper it down!? I tried the ulanzi one recently as well, and found the same as you and it doesn't have the lens release button. I think there is slightly more room with the Ulanzi one though. Thanks for sharing your findings Chris... and thanks for watching 😁👍

[@veholic1]

@@mikesphotography Hey Mike, I used a small file, cut it at an angle that took away the composite up to the bottom of the opening for the usb-c on the lens, I'd post a pic but KZbin doesn't have the option in replies. The Ulanzi one I have does have the lens release, I saw they have a few different versions now.

[@mikesphotography]

@@veholic1 Ah interesting. That will do it. Interesting that the ulanzi one you have does have the lens release button. At least they are developing the product. 👍

[@f3m467]

imagine i cut the quick release plate on the falcam L bracket and put the quick release plate from peack design . I gonna need a screw long enough to screw the PD, Falcam and camera together. Do you know if exist some camera screw long enough to bring together firmly?

[@mikesphotography]

That could work... and you can get extra long screws. I bought one years ago to do a similar thing with my motorised slider, where I had to reach through two plates. You just need to find a 1/4 20 threaded bolt. The falcam also has screw mounts so you could just add a PD QR plate. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@f3m467]

@@mikesphotography yes i can do that on the Falcam, but after that it's too bulki , :)

[@Thephysiquemechanic]

Which a73 L bracket did you have in the video? I'm looking for one for my camera I do have the f38 system, but they don't really want make one specific for that camera, maybe the L bracket that you have if it fits good I can order that one and put the f38 mount on there?

[@mikesphotography]

I have the Rogeti bracket for the A7iii. It does have 1/4 20 threads on the bottom so you can easily attach the f38 QR plate to the bottom of it. I used to do that with the peak design QR plate and it worked well. This one: rogeti.com/products/l-plate-for-sony-a1-a7s3 Although their customer services aren't that great... I did a video on that bracket a while back and I had their customers contacting me about them not getting back to emails from people that had ordered it. It got to a point where I took the video down. The smallrig one is also quite good, although it is quite bulky: amzn.to/43GMq9B I hope that helps.

[@Thephysiquemechanic]

@@mikesphotography thanks so much, I appreciate you!

[@garykanston]

I bought the Ulanzi version of the rotating collar thinking it would be a great alternative to the L bracket, only to discover that the ring prevents one from getting a good grip on the camera when shooting handheld :(

[@mikesphotography]

Hey Gary, the smalllrig did narrow the finger grip but not too much. Interesting to hear the Ulanzi one closes this gap even more. Thanks for watching 😁👍

[@f3m467]

That is a REVIEW..!!!!!.. Tks. really Tks

[@mikesphotography]

Glad you liked it!! 😃👍

[@JanKeiferJaim]

you should get the Benro one

[@AzarathGirl123]

Great video Tho as someone with a falcam F38 backpack clip, I don't see any issue with the falcam L bracket 😂

[@juancarlosgarcia3025]

Hi Mike, how long... a very revealing video, luckily my splendid a7III doesn't have a "dizzy" screen and I'm not affected by the L-bracket..😋😋😋. But I still liked the idea of the rotating collar, there are several manufacturers, of course Smallrig would not buy it for the price...🤭🤭🤭 But hey, surely more models will come out later with updates to these design flaws due to lack of R&D...😅😅😅 About the folding L-Bracket you have to think that When you attach the camera to the backpack, you don't need to fold the side for portrait photography, so the clip is totally viable with the folding L-bracket. A hug. Take care of yourself.

[@mikesphotography]

It does seem like we have become the R&D department for accessory companies!! As always thanks for watching JC 😁👍

[@juancarlosgarcia3025]

@@mikesphotography Obviously!!! The users are the perfect R&D and more important still..... THE CHEAPEST!!!

[@mikesphotography]

Haha! Indeed!! ... and they pay the bills!!! 😆🙈

[@gregthomasphotography]

Two further issues with the rotating collar system, you loose the finger room near the grip making it harder to hold, particularly with large lenses and the tripod foot is sticks out so far it make it hard to put in your bag, for me this last issue is the deal breaker

[@mikesphotography]

Two good points there Greg! Thanks for pointing those out and thanks for watching 😁👍

[@ElroySerrao]

Don't the longer lenses come with their own collars which you can rotate anyway ?

[@mikesphotography]

Yes it does and a lens collar is the best way to mount the bigger lenses, but my point is that if you switch between lenses through the day, you would have to remove the bracket every time you wanted to use the longer lens. Thanks for watching 👍

[@user-jp9js9th8o]

thank you for the video - but the so called flaw is not the problem of the ring but of the constructive wise necessity of release buttons; and Tamron could have been putting the usb port on another part of the lens tube... as so often in life: most things need a kind of compromise... and it is not forbidden to use an l bracket additionally for some works;-)

[@rogalaphotography]

The Attoll one is MUCH BETTER since it works with more brands of cameras and it also has a Peak Design plate on it so you can use it on a camera clip. Has for the lens release button I have ZERO issues with my R5 or my R…you just have to install it correctly!

[@rogalaphotography]

I also forgot to mention that I ended up switching to the Falcam cage for my R5 and it has the F38 mount on both the bottom AND side of the cage. This allows it to be used as an L bracket with the F38 quick release system! I strongly suggest Falcam!!!

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks for your thoughts. The falcam is indeed a great little bracket. The more I use it, the more I am starting to like it. Like you said, if you install it correctly, there shouldn't be a problem. Thanks for watching 👍

[@tlareG]

👍

[@akkarparkiamopas3401]

I have own first gen of Atoll rotating collar and it works well for my Astro. All my lenses do fit it perfectly. By the way, I have no idea why Atoll did not make patent on his initial product and now many more famous makers have stolen Atoll innovation.

[@mikesphotography]

Good to hear it works for you Akkarpark! 👍 I think most companies that operate in other countries tend to ignore patents these days ... what is even more interesting is that on the smallrig page, it has "designer: Tracy Joy" just above the list of incompatible lenses ... 😆🙈 ... when we all know that it was designed by the people over at Silence Corner...

[@heyoBRAVO]

Seems like every solution has issues if you want to both use a PD capture clip and a floppy screen. :(

[@frankinblackpool]

Maybe your flippy screen woes are more to do with the camera's limitations than the L-brackets? I know that Sony are excellent cameras with Phased Detection, however all your woes revolve (or not) around the limitations of the flippy screen of your choice of camera. Have you considered switching camera brands, or cameras to a product that has Phased Detection, is full frame, superb with stills and video capabilities and has a very versatile and articulate flippy screen? Granted this is an expensive "using a sledge hammer to crack a nut" solution for an L-mount but think of all the camera reviews of a new camera along with lenses to review on your channel. 😀

[@mikesphotography]

Haha!! Well if I could afford it, I would have every camera out there ... but unfortunately KZbin doesn't pay that well... 😫🙈 The thing is, I do like the flippy screen and the a7iv is a fantastic camera... as well as using L-brackets ... first world problems! I guess I'll just stick with my cobbled together rig for now... As always thanks for watching Frank 😁👍

[@frankinblackpool]

@@mikesphotography I know what you mean about the consumerist desire to own every camera that we could get our hands on. Have you considered a Field Monitor attached to your HDMI port? With a long enough cable, you can set the monitor on the ground. If attached to your camera on windy days, it acts like a sail introducing camera-shake. I have an Atomos Ninja V, other brands are available. I never thought that a small external monitor would be so useful, and quickly became almost indispensable for filming and photography. Focus Peaking is a dream compared to squinting at a tiny camera display.

[@PH61a]

Guess I'm lucky: all my 9 Sony lenses fit in my Smallrig rotating collar...

[@climbdive1165]

Hi Mike...if you want to sell the L-Bracket that fits the Sony A73, i'll take that...cheers Shaun

[@keima1110]

May be you should just get a Sony A7RV .. you can put the screen out and flip it.

[@mikesphotography]

That is right... I wish they'd have implemented that years ago...

[@garyrichards6079]

And if you use a Battery Grip on the bottom of your Camera !!

[@mikesphotography]

You'd need to google that one ...

[@bamsemh1]

Still alive? 😳 You disappeared for days without notice 😬 send you several photos, but they never got delivered 😕

[@mikesphotography]

Hey Villiam, Sorry, a few things came up that I had to deal with. 😔 Hopefully I'll be able to reply to you a little later. 👍

[@DesertPackrat]

Mike: take another look at the Atoll. It is possible that for Sony there are issues (maybe, maybe not) but for Canon Atoll is a super solution. The thing to keep in mind is that there are two adapters plate that solve access and height issues. I have a control ring on my with full access and the ability to access the Lens release. It is the best purchase I have ever made, and beats a L bracket, hands down. The small rig has only one advantage and that is a red dot for lens mounting since it covers this. That is why God made red finger nail polish.

[@mikesphotography]

Thanks for sharing. I'll be sure to have another look at the Atoll. Thanks for watching 😁👍