A quick-release plate is a helpful accessory for getting the most out of your tripod or monopod investment. With so many styles and types of quick-release plates available, it’s important to understand the differences and benefits of these popular camera accessories.
Why Use a Quick-Release Plate?
Imagine needing to screw your camera onto your tripod’s threaded connection point each time you want to take a photo. You’d either spend lots of time setting up each shot, or you’d have to carry your camera around with the tripod permanently attached.
Quick-release plates are small, sturdy accessories that make it easy to attach and detach your camera and tripod quickly for simplified tripod-mounted shooting.
Most quick-release plates attach to your camera using the threaded mount on the bottom. When it’s time to use your tripod, just snap the quick-release plate into the tripod head and you’re ready to go!
Types of Quick-Release Plates
Most tripod manufacturers have their own proprietary designs for mounting a camera to a tripod, though several brands take advantage of a unified style of mount called Arca-style quick-release plates.
1. Arca Style Plates
The Arca style system is convenient because of its universal measurements. You can use an Arca style quick-release plate on any Arca style tripod head. Rather than clipping into place, most Arca style plates lock into place with a screw tightening system.
One of the benefits of this type of plate is that you can use a longer quick-release plate on the bottom of your camera and enjoy greater positional flexibility.
2. Proprietary Plates
In an effort to create the most efficient, time-saving, and easy-to-use quick-release plates, many manufacturers prefer to design their own. If you already invested in a specific tripod manufacturer’s gear, you may want to consider sticking with the same brand so your tripod plates work interchangeably.
It’s wise to invest in multiple plates for your tripod so you can have a backup as needed or keep a plate permanently mounted to each of your cameras or accessories.
Leading Brands for Quick Release Plates
When you buy from leading brands in the photography industry, you can feel confident that your quick-release plate will last longer and perform better. Top manufacturers like Manfrotto, Slik, 3 Legged Thing, and Acratech offer high-quality tripods, quick-release plates, and other photography accessories that you can rely on.