QD connectors for carrying cameras

[Amit Kotwal]

Hi Pipits!

Angela and I were looking at some better ways to carry a camera and long lens, while still making it easy to mount on a tripod. Here's the setup I tried today:

The idea is to use a "Quick Disconnect" (QD) connector (which was originally developed to carry rifles), with a compatible Arca-Swiss plate. Here's a link with details:

https://kirkphoto.com/quick-disconnect-system.html

The advantage of this approach (over, say, the Blackrapid strap) is that we keep an Arca-compatible plate on the camera (or lens) at all times, so switching from handheld to tripod is really quick. But we can still use a shoulder sling strap, instead of a neck strap.

I'm currently using this plate: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CVX1ZFYS

And this swivel connector: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B09Z63YBJZ

There are a few other options:

Plate: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08TTKPQJF or https://reallyrightstuff.com/bqds-bi-directional-mounting-plate-w-qd-socket/

Swivel: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00HKBSQ26 or https://reallyrightstuff.com/strapswivel/

This combo should fit any sling strap up to 1.25 inches wide.

Hope this is useful!

Regards,

Amit