Manfrotto MHXPRO-BHQ6 Ball Head - Major Issue!

If you own or are thinking of purchasing the Manfrotto MHXPRO-BHQ6 Ball Head please watch this video as I have had a serious issue with mine that has cost me some expensive camera gear!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Just to keep you all updated, I have been in contact with Manfrotto UK who have been very receptive to the issue. I have sent my ball head to them for them for further testing (they even offered me an interim replacement, but it's not much use with my camera in the repair shop for the foreseeable future) and I am waiting for a further response.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

who did you contact, i want to get mine in for looking at as well now

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I initially went through their online contact: www.manfrotto.co.uk/customer-service/contact-us

[@scotty4418]

What was the outcome from Manfrotto as I have the same issue and luckily spotted it before it cost me my camera or a lens or both

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

scotty4418 Manfrotto were very good actually, they replaced my ball head with a gitzo and the also provided me with a used copy of my broken lens as a gesture of good will 👍

[@scotty4418]

thanks for the update. Followed your lead and emailed Manfrotto and got a helpful reply today and will be sending it to them to inspect

[@chrismid259]

I bought this ball head about 6 months ago and recently spotted your video by chance. I wasn't even aware of the problem until I watched this video. I have placed in and removed the L bracket that I use probably about 1000 times now to try and replicate the issue, but from solely placing in and removing the L bracket and camera from the head, I couldn't replicate the problem that you showed here - that is not saying that there isn't a problem and I will check every time from now onward that the holder bar is correctly in place, but the only way I could get this to do the same was by physically pushing the holder bar (or whatever it is actually called) in with my fingers. Either way, thanks for this video because I wouldn't have known there was an issue with it otherwise.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I'm really pleased that you are not experiencing the issue :-) I don't think that it can affect every unit sold as I would have thought that Manfrotto would have recalled it by now, but it's hopefully something that you can now keep an eye out for :-) Also, thanks for watching.

[@ErikaW80]

Great video - thank you for highlighting this problem. Together with reports of other issues, I've just cancelled my order in favour of the RC2 variant instead. We'll see how that goes.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Erika Hughes I’m glad that my vlog has helped. I hope that you enjoy your new gear 😀

[@jamesollick4413]

Thank you! I was about to buy that head, you saved my camera and lenses.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

James Ollick 👍

[@iainmc9859]

Hey, the internet finally has a positive effect on peoples lives; good for you on calling this out. Companies can't afford bad press so I'm glad Manfrotto dealt with it the right way. I'm constantly repairing on an old head myself on a cheap tripod. I've got a perfectly good Manfrotto in the boiler cupboard but it weighs three times as much as the one I use which lives in the boot of the car. Time I gave it some TLC with a spanner and a lump hammer, anyone got any bodge tape?

[@philfyphil]

Sorry you had to endure this for all our benefits, very good of you to take the time to make this video. I was seriously considering this ball head and this has put me right off. Hope you got it resolved one way or another.

[@raytickle9657]

You timed this vlog perfectly Gary for me personally … thank you

[@martinamery6147]

Thanks for the heads up on the ball head issue, good to know about it. Sorry to hear about your broken lens and hope the camera is all good!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

No problem :-) I'm getting the camera checked over so fingers crossed!

[@preyes621011]

Totally agree with you Sir. I had the same experience 1 year ago. But I was so lucky that my Pentax 50mm 1.4 built like a tank withstand the hit with the concrete.

[@Oske.images]

Thank you for posting. Sound like it's the plate that is the issue. I'll still buy the ball head, but with the alternative quick release 200PL plate. Hope you got everything sorted.. Happy snapping..

[@VolkswagenNut1969]

It must be common for this plate lock. I’ve had that same head on my tripod for 8 years and I noticed very early on that the spring latch would get stuck open like that. Since that discovery, I’ve always flicked the spring bar first to make sure it’s free, then listened for a strong click when I set the camera/plate into it, jiggled it (holding the camera firmly by the lens) to make sure it secured properly, then tightened the lock knob down. I agree, that’s silly for an expensive part that’s so vital for the safety of the camera gear. But I’ve put up with it and done the routine because it’s such a solid tripod head otherwise. None of the tiny bits of play I’ve had on cheaper ball-heads. My current issue with this thing is that with age, the knobs are all prone to loosening and falling off, and there’s no way to properly tighten the screws the way they’re designed. So a very hefty solid head with several unfortunate little design flaws.

[@grahampclifford6046]

Gary. I had the same issue! Thankfully I noticed before the unimaginable happened. Thanks for sharing.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Graham P Clifford I’m really pleased that you noticed it because it’s really not a nice feeling 👍

[@grahampclifford6046]

It certainly isn't! It really freaked me out. I'm now using a £20 Neewer head, just screw it closed, non of this button pushing!!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Graham P Clifford I don’t blame you, I’m definitely going to get myself something different as I just can’t risk that happening again

[@MrGraeme1961]

Good Video mate. I was gutted for you on Saturday. Its really good of you to put this out there for everyone to see. Hopefully somebody from Manfrotto will see this vlog. ATB. Graeme

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Thanks Graeme, I was gutted too, but if this video can help someone from having the same issue then I guess at least some good comes out of it :-) Good to meet you on Saturday, by the way!

[@eclipse525]

I realize this is an older video, and I wonder if it was mentioned. If you read the instructions, it tells you to place your camera on the ball head until you hear a "Click ."This indicates that the plate is secured to the base, and then you proceed to tighten with the knob. The "red" button is only for release. Fortunately, I have never had this part of the base fail on me, and if this is a recurring problem with a large percentage of owners, then I agree it's unacceptable, but I don't think this is the case. You can't beat this ball head for the price. Great value, for sure. Perhaps one day, I can afford a "Really Right Stuff" ball head, but the MHXPRO-BHQ6 is solid for now. I hope this helps someone else.

[@AndrewHomer]

Great video. I tried the exact same ball head 12 months ago and when I asked guy in calumet if any issues he told me reports of sticking plate. Decided to go sunwayfoto ball head instead. Surely manfrotto should acknowledge an issue

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Andrew Homer It’s crazy that this issue is clearly a known one and yet nothing has been done about it. Hopefully this video will save what happened to me from happening to someone else.

[@rael1999]

Cheers Gary. Just in the process of looking for a ball head for my manfrotto tripod and there was one of these on offer, but I'll be giving it the swerve now.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I'm glad that I have been of assistance 🙂

[@rael1999]

@@GaryNormanPhoto ....Ended up with a Benro GX25 Two Series Low Profile Arca Ball Head. Nicely made and looks sturdy. Thanks again.

[@NickSmithPhotography]

I bought the other manfrotto ballhead , then adapted it using a different less fiddly screw lock also made by manfrotto. Worked a treat. After spending 130 quid on the snap lock version I didn't want to fork out for the screw lock version as well. Good that you got the issue out there though mate. Am sure you have help a few others save their gear. 👍👍

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

nicspics photography hopefully my vlog can help others 👍

[@GrzegorzBaranArt]

Thank you for this video.. unfortunately I have just purchased similar ball head. I can also see that this ball head has no cuts for side security srews many arca swiss plates has to make sure the plade doesnt slip off on side. THe plate deliver with this hear is also crap as has no rubber at the top. I used to use RC2 plates but I needed a stronger and more stable mount for heavier equipment for macro and arca swiss type felt like a better solution.. now I can see that it might be not.. or it might be just Manfrotto .. which is a shame as it isnt a cheap ball head at all. Cheers!

[@jremi]

That is absolutely terrible! This video is 6 years old. I hope Manfrotto has fixed this major issue. I am about to purchase the BHQ2 which uses the 200PL plate, a safer option I believe, although it could be useless for L brackets, I don’t know…

[@DiegoMcCartney]

Sorry to hear about that! I have the same ball head and I appreciate you sharing the cautionary tale. Can’t say I’ve experienced the issue yet, but I’ll keep an eye out. Hope you can recoup your lost lens with insurance.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Diego McCartney I genuinely hope that you never have an issue with it, but just be aware 👍

[@Frank19747]

The problem is that when you push the red button in the plate that it moves does not go all the way in. In mine I can feel that there is a little lip when I oust it in all the way. I use an l bracket as well it goes on easy but removing the bracket is more difficult because of the little bit that doesn’t go in all the way when you push the button in all the way. My work around was to cut a notch on the L bracket so the bracket slides over the safety pin on the ball head.

[@Benskingdom]

I had the same issue too. Luckily my nikon z7 fell onto fairly soft ground. No lasting damage.

[@philn1957]

I saw this problem and contacted Manfrotto who sent me out a replacement plate, since then I have bought a different plate to ensure this never happens to my kit.

[@beejayg2]

Thank's for saving me for having that experience, as I was looking the replace all my manfrotto traditional systems to the arca swiss. Hope the you got it all sorted

[@fredericktennant9151]

Thanks for the confirmation on this issue, I decided to go for the standard quick release version but I picked up a second plate which I have fitted an Arca Swiss plate on top, yes its ghetto but it works

[@MrEstcourt123]

Thanks for the warning, I avoided this model and at least one other vlogger has made a similar comment. I popped into the local store and looked at the alternatives and was impressed with the Benro ball heads as an alternative for similar money.

[@stephendavidthompson]

Thank you Gary!

[@pizzafroth1521]

I changed the clamp on my head to a standard arca swiss clamp and now it works flawlessly. I have this head and i read about the issue ,(which scared me to be honest) so i changed the clamp on the head when i got it and have never had a single issue. The clamp wasnt even expensive but it works like a charm!

[@TheFaustianMan]

That sucks man. I was doing research and came across your problem. Thank you for handling this in a well composed and educational matter.

[@1spitfirepilot]

Very helpful. Thanks - I've got that ball head too.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

1spitfirepilot it’s a decent head, just be careful with the clip 👍

[@AndyAstbury]

The only really safe Manfrotto lock system is RC4. I bolt a Wimberley clamping base to an RC4 plate - setup never fails.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Andy Astbury I have an update on this coming next week 👍

[@MartinFransson]

I was actually considering this ball head but there is no way I´m risking my camera like that. Thank you for the warning!

[@keety]

Exactly the same thing happened to me last week in Iceland. Thought it was securely on the tripod, turned round and heard a crash as my R5 plummeted the 6 foot to the tarmacked car park in Iceland. Luckily I had a Kase filter ring on with polarizer attached, which took the hit.. the filter ring is fine but I need a new polarizer, the L bracket also seemed to have helped as that protected the body, as there's not a single scratch on the lens or body! This was the final straw with Manfrotto for me, and I swiftly ordered the benro ball head. That was the second manfrotto head that failed for me on the trip. I have a small travel tripod and the ball head basically fell apart in my hands. I have at present a collection of 3 broken manfrotto tripods and 3 broken heads. Their gear just falls apart. I'm careful to wash all my gear down after its been in salt water, lube it when needed etc. I think the record for me was my first carbon fibre 190bx, which laster 2 weeks before the leg fell off (I'd used it once.. picked it up and the leg literally came away in my hands)

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I’m sorry to hear that you had the same issue, but I’m pleased that you didn’t suffer too much damage. To be fair I’m astonished that Manfrotto haven’t had more complaints or even issued a recall for this particular ball head as it’s clearly suffering from a design flaw

[@craigozancin]

I just bought this ball head. I then saw this video. I did some searching and l9ts of people having this same issue. After some more research I found out that manfrotto has a plate that is true arca-swiss design with out the faulty quick release. I bought it and installed it on the ball head. I works great. The part is the Manfrotto MSQ6T Top Lock Traveller Arca Swiss Quick Release Adapter. The only issue I encountered is because of 8ts shape, you can't use a small arca-swiss plate. I ended up buying a larger 3 legged thing plate that works perfectly.

[@ianmartin5779]

Great update Gary thank you. I was at the NEC yesterday and actually bought this very same ball head that was at a show price of £78 brand new. Ironically because my cam lock type head on my Manfroto tripod did the exact same thing in the lakes earlier this year. My Canon 5D + 70-200 lens rolled forwards in slow motion out of the camplate and fell on the floor. Thankfully no damage as it fell on my foot and just gathered some dirt byt worrying all the same hence swapping from camplate to arca swiss design with a new head. I will watch out for that now, seems a great, smooth action tough built head otherwise. Cheers

[@vinstyles]

Wow, so sorry for you. Yes, this is a major flaw in this particular product and Manfrotto need to make you whole again, ie you suffered damages because of a faulty product and Manfrotto need to reimburse you for your loss.

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

Glad you pointed this out Gary, I have the same tripod and was going to buy that head, I guess I will be looking at alternative tripods.

[@AhmadThabet-qw1kc]

Many Thanks for the honest review based on practical experience, since travel Tripods must secure the Camera and Lens, before any shooting. However; please recommend a more reliable ball head from Manprotto that will never let you down and secures easily for both Portraits and Landscapes.

[@rambling_rambler]

I had the Manfrotto plate version, looks similar, and when I was doing long exposure shots noticed they were blurred. It only happened after I bought the 5D Mark IV. I noticed that never mind how tight I tightened it there was a slip and long exposures were blurred. With my 70D it didn't happen so guessing 5D was too heavy. Now got 3 Legged Thing Albert and it's been superb.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Garry Blackburn I’ve read really good things about that setup. I may look into getting it 👍

[@rambling_rambler]

Re: Photography I knew I'd seen someone else saying about Manfrotto quality recently here's the link if you've not seen it kzbin.info/www/bejne/nHXKqYKqlLqtosU

[@LeeGale]

I feel your pain and I hope you get sorted with your damaged goods, but one thing I'd like to point out is that the clamp on this ball head as with some other heads isn't compatible with all types of L Brackets. I have the 3 Legged Thing QR11 L Bracket and it slips out due to the groove on the bracket not matching the lip on the clamp. Thankfully I noticed this when I got it and with the help of the staff at Manfrotto and a few extra pounds spent, I replaced the clamp with a Novoflex Q Mount and I've never had an issue. The head is fantastic and the new clamp is just as good. Hope you get everything sorted.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I appreciate that, but as you can see in my vlog when the lip is in the correct position the bracket is held in place perfectly without issue. Personally I would consider that compatible. It's only when the lip catches that the issue occurs, meaning that it is a design flaw in my opinion. Equally I have just tested the same scenario with the official plate provided with the head and the same thing happens.

[@LeeGale]

I agree Gary and this is quite a serious issue. I thought that this could have been a one off or maybe a batch issue, but after reading through the comments its seems that quite a few people are having the same problem with it. I do hope you and anyone else suffering with this gets sorted.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Lee Gale Photography Thanks Lee, much appreciated 👍

[@Alan-DPhotos]

Glad you could turn a disaster into something positive. I'd still be crying to be honest. Well done and I hope you manage to get a claim in.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Alan D thanks mate 👍

[@jukeboxjohnnie]

its other manfotto heads too my 486MGQ6 does the same i thought you might be taking it apart to fix it

[@heathernewman7930]

I can hear how gutted you are. I'm just starting out, so it's good to have pointers in the right direction 🙏📷

[@andyg1645]

Im looking to upgrade to a good quality tripod with an Arca Swiss QR plate and have considered the Manfrotto but, as Electrician with 45 years experience I often come across electrical equipment made in Italy that looks good aesthetically but suffers from poor design which is usually because it’s more complicated than it has to be. This has made me wary of anything made in Italy and although the Manfrotto tripods look good it would appear that their Arca Swiss QR plates have poor design & build quality. This isn’t the only reviewer who has highlighted this flaw in the Manfrotto QR head. The inner clamp on the Manfrotto QR base plate is a somewhat unnecessary and pointless design that could and has unexpectedly failed which is down to poor Italian design. My K&F tripod only has one knob for tightening the QR base onto the arca swiss plate on my camera, it’s simple and has worked perfectly for years.

[@shanestark7709]

So why is the little lip needed? Not sure why the x-tra step was needed, I change mine to a Swiss Arca mount because it was simpler for me to get the camera on and off. Sorry about the lens, Hope the camera still works!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

There's a groove in the camera mount that the lip fits into, I guess it's supposed to make it more secure. The camera 'seems' ok, but is off to be looked at shortly so fingers crossed :-)

[@shanestark7709]

Hope the camera comes back in good shape. Let us know if anything comes about from all this. Good luck and best wishes.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Thanks Shane, I'll keep you updated :-)

[@pizzafroth1521]

Thats what i did too. I kept my head, but changed the clamp to a standard arca swiss clamp. Now i have no problems at all.

[@michael_swardh]

Thanks!! I have hade problem with my Manfrotto 468MG-Q6, the camera did not fall of but it keeps sliding back and fort... very annoying, now I know why and will watch out for it in the future. Thanks Again!!

[@janabiphotos]

Thanks for the Vlog , i was about to buy one now

[@SidBonkers51]

There definitely seems to be a big problem with that ball head which is strange as Ive never had problems with Manfrotto systems before. It might be worth dashing off a letter to Manfrottos chairman, if nothing else it will highlight the problem to him/her. Ive been using an L bracket and Arco Swiss adapters for about 6 months now ( not the model you mention) and really dont care for them at all, so will be changing all my mono/tripods back to the RC2 quick release systems that I previously used as I don't find the L bracket any faster in fact I find it more fiddly to switch between portrait and landscape positions and have always been worried that the Arco Swiss system is not as secure.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I have tagged manfrotto_uk in a tweet, but I am going to drop them a line too because you're right, if nothing else they should be aware of the issue. I'm inclined to agree with you regarding L brackets, in fact up until a couple of weeks ago I'd been tilting the ball head into the portrait position as I'd 'forgotten' that I was using an L bracket!

[@sanclewphotographic]

I also thought about buying this ballhead but not now, I will stick with my current Manfrotto head, glad you bought this to our attention, as it could be a very expensive, maybe you will be reimbursed from the manufacturer for the lens that you lost, after all it is a design fault. ?

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

colin clewley I’m not holding my breath to be honest 😬

[@stevebennettphotography]

Mine was exactly the same and it was that and the fact that I'd suffered another clip failure on the tripod itself that prompted me to by a new tripod at the photoshow.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I think that I may need to look at doing the same myself now as I'm not sure I could ever go out with that head again and feel totally secure.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

i am getting a Benro soon as i can, i looked at the show but they did not have one there

[@stevebennettphotography]

I went with the 3 Legged Thing Winston. The plate release is not as quick, you need to unscrew and screw back up each time, but at least you know it's secure. Still not fully sold on twist locks on the legs but it sure beats getting your fingers caught in the Manfrotto fliplocks :-o

[@timscanlanphotography]

Hiya buddy. I've had exactly the same problem with this ball head. I bought it with the Manfrotto MT055CXPRO4 less than 18 months ago- £450 worth !!. Smashed a Nikon 16-35mm f/4 due to this problem. I originally put the problem down to a third party (very expensive) L bracket which I've stopped using but it happened again with another bracket. I think I've solved the problem with mine by thoroughly cleaning and lubing it and now only use the Manfrotto bracket that came with head. I can sense your frustration and I sympathise, especially as it's cost you (like me) a lot of money. Gary Gough has this week done a great review of a relatively cheap carbon tripod that comes with a decent ball head. I'm thinking of deserting Manfrotto kit and going with something a lot cheaper but infinitely more reliable. I'd be keen to hear your feedback from Manfrotto, especially if they do a recall via their approved dealers !! Many thanks for highlighting a huge problem with an expensive piece of kit.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I now have a resolution from Manfrotto. Look out for a video update shortly.

[@timscanlanphotography]

Thanks Gary.

[@johnastbury4116]

thanks for the tip

[@Pembpitcher]

My dad just bought one of these yesterday , and has just seen this video , he said to tell you that it looks like they have redesigned the head now so it doesn't do it anymore . He says it looks like they have made the lip longer and there is nothing now on the bit that tightens for the lip to get stuck on .

[@josealvarez2980]

Many thanks

[@jasonjonesphotography610]

I have the same ballhead always having problems with the lip when im in portrait mode

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

That was the position it was in when it fell off. I think it's because there's less balance when it's in portrait.

[@jasonjonesphotography610]

Its fine in Landscape once i have it in Portrait i really have to fiddle with the lip to lock in the camera...its a pain in the ass

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Totally agree! Even more so when your bloody camera goes for a swim because of it!

[@jasonjonesphotography610]

i know the feeling :(

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

I have the problem no matter what way round the camera is, i must have a bad one

[@MadsPeterIversen]

I was thinking about buying this ballhead, but now I reconsider. I think you should send this to Manfrotto :)

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I have tagged them in a tweet so hopefully they'll pick it up :-)

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

You can spend your money on better ones now, this is a big issue buddy.. I was with Gary Saturday, and showed him the trouble it happens on mine all the time and for £250 it is not funny

[@timscanlanphotography]

I'd avoid this head until Manfrotto respond Mads. I'm so glad I didn't have one of my really expensive f/2.8 lenses on when mine failed !!

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

Mate i have the same trouble with mine, i want to get mine off as well, soon as Gary gets a response ill call them, i was with him and see it happen, i told Gary on the day i had troubles, i wish i had known what he was using i would of warned him soon. Dont buy one yet hold on, and to be honest i dont think i would buy another like that now anyway so many better ones out there..

[@mikebrownhill4662]

I'm late to this video, and I'm sorry to hear about your "accident" - I hope things worked out for you in the end. I have sporadically had this problem with the same head failing to grip my L plate, but thankfully I've spotted it in time to avoid your experience. I simply don't trust the head anymore, and I'm looking to replace it at the moment. I've also come across another problem with the Manfrotto head - at least with my copy. It's not a "dangerous" issue in the same way as the locking problem, but it makes the head virtually useless for panoramas. I find that when I loosen the panning base to make a sequence for a panorama, there is way too much give in the base and it's almost impossible to keep a level pan between frames. I can lock the base between each frame, and that eliminates the slight "flop" when it's loose - but this isn't a good workaround because each time I lock it, there is a very slight discrepancy between each frame and this really shows up when I come to stitch the images later. These two issues are a shame because the ball head is pretty solid otherwise, especially considering its price. But I've learned my lesson and I won't use the head any more. I'm looking at heads by Acratech, Promediagear, FML and Arca Swiss (I would also consider Really Right Stuff but they're quite hard to find in the UK). The price of most of these heads is a LOT higher than the Manfrotto, but I think peace of mind when it comes to the security of my gear and the ability to shoot panoramas properly will justify the cost in my case.

[@owenjohn1192]

I can still hear the thud as it hit the rocks, hope the camera is ok. We where all expecting someone to go in the water (Tim), but not equipment.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Dont! I'm having nightmares about that sound!! ;-) Camera seems ok but I'm getting it checked over just in case. Hope your astro photography went well :-)

[@owenjohn1192]

Unfortunately not it was clouded over!, went to the coast in the morning only to find Sea fret!, I will keep trying!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

owen john nightmare!

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

Owen i thought it was a person as well, to my discuss to see a camera face down and look of share dismay in Garys face

[@garystone6583]

Hi Gary, think you was unlucky to break a lens and lucky not to loose all your gear, I use an L bracket with arca swiss style ball head and looking to upgrade. Was looking at the one you used. Made me rethink Thanks for the heads up

[@anthonyhazlewood5788]

Thanks for that Gary, I hope Manfrotto reimburse you for the damage... I'm glad that I had the other type of quick release (is it the 200PL)?... I think that a lot of people will thank you for that info...

[@philiplewis1600]

Thank you I was looking to buy one

[@andresserrano86]

I'm pretty sorry for you, thanks alot for your video experience, have a good day! and i hope never happen again.

[@muthurajchandrabose862]

I have a very similar problem ..but a kind of reverse....I couldn't release the lock.... struggling at present to find a solution....I cannot remove my camera (L bracket attached) from the ball head....any suggestions???thank you.

[@chrzanik666]

Not happy this just happened to me with cannon r6 and 100-500 rf I grabbed the camera last second 😐 so upset with such flaw 😔

[@scotttilleyphotography]

Interesting, but not the only company... I had a three legged thing ball head... funny can't see it in there range anymore!! Bought a spare plate from Jessops so not a cheap copy. It ejected my camera and smashed a tokina 11-16. Apparently the plate was not within there tolerances. Said bye bye to that one after that!!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Scott Tilley Landscape Photography it’s so frustrating when companies come up with excuses like that. If these things are designed to be ‘universal’ then that’s what they should be

[@constantine_black]

Thanks

[@worldofphotography8923]

Exactly the same thing happened to me and it cost me my 1DX2 and 16-35mm lens. I've changed the plate on the ballhead now but not the ballhead now. Luckily I was insured. But the trust was gone and I changed it now

[@sigsegv111]

hello, funny ... I have same ball head but I hated the manfrotto plate straight away from the beginning exactly because this feature ... I just felt that the red button feature melts down my attention if the screw is really locked tight so I replaced the plate very after month or so ... I am using pig iron quick release unit + pig iron L-bracket (check pigiron.eu) and I am happy with it ..

[@Catscratch13]

Thanks for the warning

[@klallen25]

Feel bad for you,just bought the same ball head will now buy a different head plate

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

It's the spring loaded clip on the main head that you need to make sure doesn't get stuck.

[@klallen25]

Sorry you are right meant the head with the spring on it

[@_PanKot_]

Sorry for You. I was on that head, but instead i ordered bhq2... I dont trust arca swiss with my heaveier sets. Its easier to make mistake than manfrotto mount.

[@mark_rutt]

any resolution on this from manfrotto? I have the same ballhead, and experience the same issue all too frequently. thankfully i've always caught it before any accidents but its a matter of time, and leaves me feeling less than confident in it. Any thoughts on fixes or feedback from the manufacturer? thanks!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Mark Rutt yes, I sent the head back to Manfrotto (after contacting their customer service via their website) They investigated and agreed that my particular item was indeed faulty and offered me a replacement. I would suggest that you contact them if you are experiencing the same issues. They really were very helpful (of course this may be due to the fact that I’d released this video)

[@mark_rutt]

@@GaryNormanPhoto Thank you for the reply! I'll reach out to them and see if they can resolve. Its a shame as I really like the product, but its a serious flaw. Cheers.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Mark Rutt that’s exactly how I felt. Excellent ball head but because of that flaw I would never trust it in the field again. I have a Gitzo now which tightens by screwing the plate in place and I’m far happier.

[@harpmans]

Yes, I had the same problem. I lost the camera and lens.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I’m really sorry to hear that.

[@alokjoshi4861]

Thanks, which ball head you recommend for the same tripod?

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I have one of the series three Gitzo ballheads on that tripod now, but I'd recommend that whatever you go for that it's one where you screw the plate secure rather than relying on any type of spring mounted fastening system

[@alokjoshi4861]

@@GaryNormanPhoto Thanks, any Manfrotto one that you can recommend?

[@Robert-ug5hx]

I keep a tiny can of wd 40 in the bag for the spring loaded moving parts

[@annapleslova]

I have same problem with this ballhead.

[@jakubborysko]

Thx

[@steveearnshaw5426]

This is the old style ball head. The current version has been redesigned and eliminates the red lockin button.

[@johnbianchi6430]

I've owned this model ball head for years and never had an issue with it. My only complaint with the head it's so darn heavy. Have you tried WD-40 on it? That cures everything from sticky parts to Whooping Cough. Hopefully, you have insurance on your equipment that will pay for the lense repair/replacement. As an FYI, you shouldn't have to press the red button to install your camera, only to release it. The plate should slide back and seat on the Arca Swiss with a click without pressing the button. At least that is how works on my ball head and some others I've seen.

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Thanks very much for the info, I have to say that on my particular head it is tricky to install the camera without pressing the button, but that could be me I guess :-) I'm sure that some WD40 may do the trick, but my point is that it should never stick like that in the first place. It's a heavy beast, I'll give you that!

[@johnbianchi6430]

I agree, the plate shouldn't stick.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

Hi John, i was with Gary Saturday, i have used WD40 plus Silicon spray and other stuff from work, does not make any difference to mine at all, i fact the WD40 made it worse.

[@johnbianchi6430]

Thanks for the information. It would be interesting to disassemble the head and see if there was something restricting the movement of the plate.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

Its not the plate, its the stainless spring clip that is meant to flip back up once the button is released, it does not slid it just sticks down under the retainer.

[@scotie690]

Me and my wife have both this ball head. The same issue happens with us. Also she lost that screw and it costs about 45 euros with shipping. I hope people see your video and don't buy it, because it's an horrible flaw and the brand don't solve it. Shame on them.

[@melodychest9020]

Good video but couldn't see what you were doing at the bottom @4:00 .. sorry to hear about your accident mate. Shows that even with expensive so called good quality gear things can still go amiss .. lack of quality control these days with everything coming out of China is what I think. There is so much of the cheap stuff floating around like there is no tomorrow, it is scary to think of putting expensive stuff on top of all that. Manfrotto is supposed to be good but still for rough terrain like landscapes I think one MUST invest in the best to safeguard camera and lenses. Cheers mate.

[@thevalleywalker]

Good heads up on the Ballhead. I wonder if Manfrotto are aware of it?

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I've tagged them into a tweet regarding this vlog so I'll wait and see if they get back to me.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

i did contact someone a couple times was told to take it to the shop i got it from, i got mine online so was not so easy

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

As i said to you Gary on Saturday when i showed you the fault, mine has stuck down so many times. My video goes out Wednesday evening if you want to put a link in this to show people. I have explained in the vlog i did at the time its a bad design fault. Great idea to do a vlog on this subject as i am sure so many people have this ball head after Mr Thomas Heaton uses one and has 200+K subscribers who watch him use it. I do hope Manfrotto recall them and or replace them, as i am so aware my camera has fallen once but i managed to catch it lesson learned. Let me know if you hear anything my friend...!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Cheers mate, I'll pin the link in the comments here once you've uploaded it :-)

[@filmselparaiso6263]

thx for the video

[@360highlands3]

In a recent post Mr Heaton described the same issue with his!

[@canifotografie8420]

Unfortunatly i saw this video to late:( I had the same issue and i learned it the hard way. I was walking in a mountain area in scotland and it just felt of my tripod 20 meters down. I was standing on a path and didn't do anything strange. Lots of damage to my camera. I sended an email to manfrotto and so far they only offered me a discount. I am pretty angry and frustrated. I bought a Manfrotto head so ithought i had something reliable. I hope they change there mind.

[@CymruRJW]

Hi, That is horrible, have a look at Amazon reviews, might help your case with Manfrotto. Get your camarea checked out ASAP. Ron

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Ron Williams thanks, I’ll check the reviews out 👍

[@petercoleman1638]

Did you use a Manfrotto camera bracket ?? I guess not!!

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

The bracket is irrelevant Peter, because the spring mounted clip was caught under the housing, meaning that the camera was not secured regardless of the type of bracket attached. Manfrotto agreed with my diagnosis of the issue...

[@barrymcalle7377]

Really bad design personally I wouldn’t think of a manfrotto head with arca Swiss and just shows that guy who is is name dropped into loads of vlogs does not always know best

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

I have to admit that I normally research before I buy but on this occasion it was an impulse buy...

[@CymruRJW]

Hi again, Have a look at this Review, this guy actually highlighted with photographs. www.scottymanphoto.com/manfrotto-xpro-ball-head-top-lock-review/ Ron

[@GaryNormanPhoto]

Ron Williams yep, I see he mentions it but says it’s not a deal breaker 🤔

[@CymruRJW]

Hi, Did you know about the flaw ... NO .... so it is "NOT FIT FOR PURPOSE". The other guy says its not a deal breaker, that is his problem, because he is aware of it. AS Mads says he will reconsider BECAUSE HE KNOWS THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH IT, AS YOU POINTED OUT. Sorry nut I would be on my way to see a solicitor, this head has HISTORY.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

just had a look myself, i wish i had known that before i spent £265 on one... what do you say Gary??

[@swansong007]

EVERYTHING YOU DO IS OUT OF CAMERA SHOT