Thank you for this video. I found it while also coming to the conclusion that I needed a simple way to swap heads on my tripod and monopod. $120 for the release clamp plus $55 each for a release plate for a total of $230 plus taxes. This made me wonder “that’s steep’”. I needed an alternative. Since I am rather new to all of this, please forgive me if I use incorrect terminology and/or names of pieces of equipment. I had these pieces already here, so this was a quick and easy and free experiment. Needed: one Arca Swiss QR clamp and one 50mm Arca Swiss QR plate. - Remove the ⅜ to ¼ screw adapter from this QR clamp. - Securely attach QR clamp to the ⅜ screw on tripod. - Securely screw the ⅜ to ¼ screw adapter into your tripod head. - Securely attach QR plate into the ¼ screw - Securely attach tripod head to the QR clamp on your tripod. Done. That’s about $15 (Amazon for a QR clamp+plate). This looks good, this looks solid, and unless I am missing something, no need for $230 of new stuff. I have this currently set up on my SLIK PRO 700DX, Magnus gimbal head and Canon 90d.

Once again Steve talks and it costs me money :-) Thanks for a great tip!!

Absolutely Brilliant idea , thanks for sharing this Steve

Just installed my clamp and 2 plates on a couple of heads. Finally. Pretty sure the RRS clamps were on backorder for over 2 months precisely because of discussion about this topic on your forums in the late summer! LOL Thanks for yet another great tip.

Always like to rewatch your videos prior to getting my gear ready for the field. Off I go with my Z9 and 100-400S.

Did this after watching your video and have also just added one on my Lenscoat beanbag for my car window. So easy to swap my gimbal head from tripod to beanbag.

I just got in a new carbon fiber light weight tripod for my camera, i'm older so need to have as light as load as possible. I was dreading changing the heads from the gimbal to the regular ball head and was going to order another tripod but your method just saved some frustration and weight. So thank you Steve

Why is it that everyone of your gear videos costs me money?!?! But I love this so much. Yeah, it isn't cheap but it's far less expensive than another good tripod!

Hi Steve, l like this system,too. Using the same RRS clamp and plates on all of my equipment. 3 Tripods and multiple heads and gimbals. Yes, RRS is expensive but if you tried it once then you know the quality. I really like this stuff. I can also recommend all the parts.

Great tip! I’ll be doing this but I’ll drill lever on quick release and add a little safety via little cable or something to ensure quick release can’t be opened.

Did the same after watching your "what's in the bag" video a few weeks ago except I got the DVTL-55 plate instead of the 40. Since I shoot both landscape and wildlife the ease of changing out heads is great. I like the tip using the blue Loctite since the quick release lever is not going to be removed the added safety of a more secure base is reassuring. I tend to use my tripod more often, but it is nice to have the monopod/gimble option.

while blue loctite is ok, you can use a dab of Colgate toothpaste for the same results with absolutely NO thread damage when you or if you need to remove it. We use Colgate for a lot of frequently removed bolts for desert racing applications... works great

Arca-Swiss now make a quick release base for changing heads. It is more streamlined than the RRS solution. Both plates have grub screws to lock to tripod and head and you can buy additional head plates. I use it for my BH-55 , gimbal and Arca-Swiss D2 geared head.

The sunwayfoto version has an adjustable lever which can adjust to the minor difference for different acra plate. Could be an alternative. Great video！

That is a great setup, will have to look into it for my trip to the Grand Tetons next week. Would love to see a video on how you pack for fly away trips.

Thank you love this idea

RRS is expensive but also a great value! Keep the videos coming!

Thanks so much...... OMG It was so Simple. I struggled for days on end.

OMG This is AWESOME! Thank you, Steve. But geez, you've just cost us more money again, LOL!!!

For that price You could also permanently attach a (other brand's) 'slim' laveling baseplate with build-in clamp (even if it is redundant with the head's abilities... tripod setup is that much more logic)

The Really Right Stuff clamps and plates are actually: TH-DVTL-40: Round Dovetail Plate. And B2-40-LR-M6: Lever-release clamp

The convenience & quickness of this setup outweighs the expense (for those that actively switch out heads for different shooting situations). Do the 2 set screws in RRS quick release plate catch outer edge of Wimberly WH-200 to secure attachment? Thanks for another helpful tip, from one of the best.

I can drop my Gimbal off my Benro/Induro tripod with the turn of a lock knob and replace it with a Benro S7 fluid head in about 10 seconds, the Gimbal comes out of the centre of the tripod and the fluid head drops in. The lock nut is built into the tripod for both heads.

Many thanks Steve for sharing, this is great info! I’m going to outfit my system with this setup too!

Awesome video

I know you had a pop up saying it requires a torch to remove a screw with loctite on it, but, you may really really want to emphasize the hassle that that can become, let alone the fact that you could ruin the internals. Take it from a mechanic with forty years experience keeping fasteners in place. You're much better off using a light lubricant on the threads and especially in the case of a screw with a tapered head, put it on the mating surface of the screw head. It's all about clamping force! If you install a screw into dry threads it will take far more turning torque to get the same amount of clamping force as a lubricated thread. Clamping force is was keeps things secure.

If I use a leveling base on a systematic tripod, wouldnt it be cheaper and quicker just to buy another leveling base to keep attached to each of my tripod heads? I can lock and unlock it from my tripod just as easy as this.

Hey Steve, do you think you could make a video on your wildlife post processing workflow? I know post processing can be a lengthy process but I would love to see your techniques.

Hey Steve, always great stuff, one of the best on KZfaq. Will there be a review of the Nikon 500/5.6 PF anytime soon?

Cool man love it thanks👍🏻Only if RRS were more readily available Aghh🙄

A fantastic 'why didn't I think of that' moment. Awesome video Steve, as usual to be honest. If people are worried about locktite, teflon plumbing tape works really well while still being easily removed from the threads if needed. In case something needs deep cleaning, like if your tripod went for a swim in saltwater or got otherwise 'gross.' One thing to remember Steve, in moist/humid environments (like Costa Rica) you can start getting galvanic corrosion between steel and aluminum parts if the anodizing is scratched through. Considering you probably check your gear somewhat regularly and clean as needed, it's likely not an issue. Just pointing out that it is a consideration since those threaded studs and screws are usually steel against aluminum parts. Mostly I just side on 'overkill' for being paranoid about my gear though.

How is the gimbal set up for the quick release with Swiss Arca lens foot?

Steve, great idea. The RRS Dovetail is also expensive. Do I really need to use a RRS Dovetail?

when you thread that clamp onto the tripod , its a close metal on metal contact. doesnt that affect the opening or closing of the clamp due to friction on the tripod base?

Where can I find the Really Right Suff PG-CC Cradle Clamp ?

That's pretty cool!

A great tip. BUT I can't locate the Clamp: Really Right Stuff B2-LR-II Lever-Release Clamp (60mm). Is it still made? Also, RRS is very difficult to get in the UK even "A" does not stock it. Any suggestions for a workable alternative?

Hey Steve, I am a 14 year old wildlife photographer and I have saved up for a second Nikon body. I currently have the aps-c D7500 but am trying to decide between a used d4 or a D500. Any advice? Thanks!!

Great idea Thanks for a great tip keep them coming

As always thanks Steve, I am putting this in place. Do you ever do classes out west, I live in Phoenix Arizona? Thanks

I looked at those, but was scared of them. The lever seems too exposed. I've brushed up against trees and stuff and would be afraid the lever would pop open. I ended getting one of the tripods with the systematic plates that you mount the heads to. To me, these have just a touch extra security.

The Really right stuff gear that you use is great , but beware the lever release as it can easily dump your gear on the ground if you're not always paying attention. Early on in my use of the lever clamp I dumped my pano setup on the ground because I fully opened the lever instead of just half opening the lever as I was trying to slide the bar thru the clamp to adjust the setup. Luckily my camera wasn't mounted when this happened. I have since gone back to the old screw type of clamp . It takes only a few seconds longer but gives me a little piece of mind.

hey steve, could you possible test the AF speed of the nikkor 500mm pf when you get the chance? id love to know how fast the AF is and you said there's a copy on the way to you! love your videos! :D

cant seem to find a supplier for these pieces in the UK . anyone found any where uk based?

steve we cannot wait for the 500 pf review :(

Just seeing this video and love this set up. I"m looking at getting the Feisol CM-1471 monopod with this Wimberly. I also have the Benro Adventure tripod with a Benro IB2 tripod head. However, I have an L-bracket on my camera. Can I still keep the L-bracket on the camera with this type of setup? I'm thinking yes but just want to make sure. Also, I see since making this video that RRS no longer makes the TH-DVTL-40 Round Dovetail Plate. What would you recommend as an alternative?

Great tip...too bad that really right stuff is really expensive :-)

Like this tip Steve. However one question I offer carry my 600mm over my shoulder on the tripod, do these clamps lock up solid enough for this action?

Good idea but your back pack must be the size of a small convertible to have all that gear available with you on a shoot.

Hi Steve, very useful video, thank you for sharing this. I see that you have in this video a RRS tripod, did you switch from Gitzo to RR? May I ask which model did you get and what would you recommend between a Gitzo GT4543LS and a RRS TVC-34L? Thank you!

I know in past videos you used Gitzo tripods but the tripod in the video seemed to be a really right stuff tripod. Is this a new piece of equipment and could you share the model info. Thanks, planning to get a new tripod this holiday season.

Great video as always Steve! Just ordered both. I thought I notice you have a 3rd one on your Wimberly was I seeing right? If so, I want to do the same.

Steve, don't you worry about snagging the RRS clamp lever on something, especially when you're carrying the tripod over your shoulder, and accidentally releasing the camera/lens from the base plate? I do... that's why I went with your idea and used the Manfrotto 323 RC2 system instead. It also uses a lever to lock the plate in place but it also has a small secondary lever that locks the primary lever. BTW, love your videos and have bought a couple of your books which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Bety good! Congratulatios!

Thanks Steve, very clever solutions, by the way have a look at the GITZO Tripod Systematic series solution . I have one from that series and it works absolutely fine.

Cool where can you get these and how much

it's quick, but one more connection, less secure?

Hi friend, could you help me with a question? How to make the Histogram be displayed in Live view mode? I bought my D810 now but I can not see it.

Thanks for posting this very useful video. I've been considering going with RRS clamps for my tripod and monopod - but one thing holds me back. I use a 600mm f4 lens (VERY heavy) and when I move position I sometimes keep my gear attached and put the tripod or monopod over my shoulder to carry the setup (I know - I really shouldn't!) I'm worried that with the RRS clamp, the lever could catch on my rucksack and release my gear. Am I being paranoid - or is this a real risk? If the latter, then I think I either have to look for a good quality screw clamp or finally break my bad habit and dismount my gear when I change position. Thanks for any help!

Dear Steve, I am living in India. I am watching your videos regularly. I can get the Clamp you mentioned through a friend living in the USA. But the Dovetail is not available from any online stores in the US. Can you please suggest to me an alternative to Really Right Stuff TH-DVTL-40 Round Dovetail Plate? I like the RRS brand. So, if the alternative also may be RRS. Thank you.

I like it

I can`t sign up to receive your e-mail newsletters because I`ve not received your instruction e-mail to confirm my subscription even after several attempts :(

Please tell me more about the Gimble Head and where can I purchase them from please.

Sorry Steve, it is not really related to this video... There were rumors about a 600mm f5.6 pf lens. Is that gossip is still around, it this is what turned out to be the 500mm f5.6 pf? (as 600pf was predicted to be announced around this time i think the rumors was dated back to april of this year)

I'm about to buy an RRS 34L MK2 4 legs listed in your "what's in my bag Costa R". There I think you have the TVC-34L rather than the TFC-34L. Any reason - bigger head?

What concerns me is that the lever is so easily pulled to release the plate. Is there a locking device which stops it from opening so easily as I would be afraid of it catching in undergrowth, clothing or strap of bag when carried over the shoulder. I still think I would prefer the thumb screw as thes will take at least one turn before the plate is released.

I like well-built stuff and don't mind paying more for it, but I feel that the RRS products are really over priced - even for being made in the USA.

See below clamp by Acratech. I do have RRS... their long versons of clamps, and love them, but sometimes wish I rather had their more square ones (like those shown). But, admittedly : Their mean, slighty larger jaw-width then the Arca standart, can be 'annoying' ! I never tried jet those by Acratech but they sure seem to deserve the also too high price much more (added tension AND safty locking). kzfaq.info/get/bejne/ba2aeKtztZm0aXU.html

Hey Steve, I am going on a trip to the Okavango Delta in Botswana in March. I am looking for a monopod to use in the vehicles. Induro makes a 100$ monopod that is too short for standing but is tall enough for the vehicle. Should I get that or spend the extra money for a taller induro or gitzo to use there and at home for standing? Thank you!!

RRS is way over priced. There's no justification for a ball head to cost $500+. For real.

Awesome attachments, but holy hell are they expensive for what they are!

Hi Steve, What would the difference be between the dovetail that you are using with the TH-DVTL-55 ? www.reallyrightstuff.com/TH-DVTL-55-Dovetail-Plate TIA

Nice idea, but I guess the weight will add up fast. My backpack is already to heavy :D

That's what separates a pro from the rest of us. Personally I'd consider it a waste of good money.

yuck. Forced ad at the beginning that I can't skip

Really? People ask a lot about the this? I didn't know that the audience here is that much of beginners! No offense intended.

I've considered doing this in the past and this is a nice and fast way....but really it takes about 20 sec to unscrew and re-screw those heads on and off the same tripod....how often do you need to switch from shooting landscapes with a ball head to shooting birds with the gimbal and need to change things faster than 20secs?....Seems to be an expensive solution for a non-existant problem in 99% of situations....

Awesome video