@Sangye Good to know! Thanks. :)
Can you easily add a third-party camera platform to the non-quick release version of the Fotga as listed above? Are the bracket screw holes spaced at a standard distance?
One of the reasons I ask is that the Acratech 2173 anti-twist quick release plate is perfect for the GH2. The only problem is that it's an arca-swiss type design, which requires a small arca-swiss QR clamp.
Since the GH2 is so popular amongst the indie DSLR community, you'd think there would be more choices for relatively inexpensive designer anti-twist rig plates and clamps that would fit a variety of 15mm rod brackets!
The Fotga quick release plate actually grips the GH2 pretty well. I've never had an issue with camera twisting on the Fotga, even when pulling my follow focus past the end of the focus range.
@Strangways looking forward to your solution!
Anyone else modding their Fotga rig's camera bracket so as to add a GH2 anti-twist solution for safe and effective follow focus usage?
I got my rail support without the quick release platform, and have recently ordered a separate quick release platform (the actual Fotga one intended for the unit) and will look into modifying it with some sort of anti-twist solution. If I find something that works well, I'll post it here.
Would this Fotga rail system work with an anti-twist quick release plate (with or without HDMI bracket) for the GH2 since the supplied Fotga plate is attached by screws, because the camera has no extra support pin hole (thank you Panasonic for this stupid design oversight)?
Anyone do this mod for their GH2 using this rail system or one similarly constructed? If I get a follow focus, I don't want the camera body to twist or flex/torque and possibly get damaged and end up with wobbly video.
There are some photos showing a nice dual-point lens support setup here:
http://provideocoalition.com/index.php/aadams/story/cameras_food_fights_with_the_fs700/
http://provideocoalition.com/index.php/awilt/story/an_nex-fs700_amuse-bouche/
I just received mine-- a rail system and follow-focus. Very nice piece of equipment. Now, if my tripod head could hold it more stably, I'd be very happy. Time to shop again...
I went ahead and bought the rail system for my 2nd GH2.
I'm not worried about the weight. I need the exercise.
I bought the Fotga baseplate, and it's great. Very solid construction, adjustable, and a nice quick release system. I only have two complaints after using it for three months: it is heavy, and the quick release seems to be a few millimeters wider than the quick release on my Ravelli tripod. I can still force it into the tripod mount, but it's not smooth at all. Of course this is only an issue when I want to disconnect the camera from my cage rig and mount it directly to the tripod, which I rarely do.
@qwerty123 I found the Fotga for a couple of dollars less. Now I just have to decide if I need another set of rails.
Both look like good entry level bases.
Ha. :)
Vitaliy, what do you think about this fotga in relation to the new small / cool $62 rig you posted about a few days ago?
The Fotga currently sells for $64.28 including shipping. Seems to be a bit bulkier with longer rails: http://www.ebay.com/itm/FOTGA-DP500-DSLR-15mm-Rail-Rod-Support-System-For-Matte-Box-Canon-5D-Mark-II-/130729108529?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e700fe431
Do not worry, they are threaded :-)
Thanks. I saw the holes, but didn't see any threading.
How can one mount this to a tripod? I don't see a standard tripod-screw threaded mount: just a plate with holes.
If you look at photos, you'll see two 1/4" threaded holes and two 3/8" holes. Pretty enough for any tripod.
How can one mount this to a tripod? I don't see a standard tripod-screw threaded mount: just a plate with holes.
If you follow my link, you'll get to the seller's shop, where there are photos of everything. I bought 2 sets of 15mm rails, a shoulder pad, a z-shift clamp to join the 2 sets of rails, and a couple of handles - already had a fotga dslr baseplate and follow focus. VK's post on rig parts will show you where to go if this guy doesn't stock it.
@mrbill can you show some pics of the Fotga setup with handles and a shoulder pad and / or the rig you use? Thanks!
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