As a photographer, I constantly grappled with the frustrating dance of switching between horizontal and vertical shots on my tripod. It always felt like a clumsy compromise, costing precious moments and sometimes even perfect compositions. The thought of missing that critical shot or having an unbalanced setup was a constant source of stress, especially when using heavier lenses. A reliable solution for quick and stable orientation changes, like the NEEWER Rotatable Collar Mount Plate, would have significantly smoothed out my workflow and elevated my photography.
- 【Flexible Angles & Improved Balance】 This NEEWER CA058 rotatable collar camera mount plate seamless quick horizontal to vertical shots without compromising stability, and enhances balance when...
- 【Quick Horizontal to Vertical Switch】 The camera rotating plate rotates the camera lens collar 90 degrees and achieves a quick, easy switch between landscape (horizontal) and portrait (vertical)...
- 【Secure Lock Camera Lenses】The camera lens collar firmly fastens your camera to the mounting plate via an anti twist 1/4" screw, with cross patterned rubber pads for stability. This vertical...
Essential Considerations Before Investing in a Camera Collar Mount
Photography often demands rapid adaptation, especially when transitioning between landscape and portrait orientations without disturbing your shot’s balance or optical axis. A quality camera collar mount plate is indispensable for anyone using telephoto or heavy lenses on a tripod or gimbal, as it prevents front-heavy setups and allows seamless shifts. The ideal customer is a professional or serious amateur photographer working with Nikon Z-series cameras (Z8, Z7 II, Z6 II, Z5) and compatible FTZ II adapter lenses, who frequently shoots in varied orientations. This gear is also perfect for videographers leveraging gimbals, seeking improved balance and efficient transitions.
However, if your primary setup involves only lightweight, prime lenses, or if you rarely use a tripod, a specialized collar mount might be overkill. Budget-conscious beginners might find it an unnecessary expense, potentially better served by a simpler L-bracket for occasional vertical shots. Those with incompatible lenses, like the Nikon Z 70-200mm f2.8, should definitely look for alternatives. Before purchasing, consider your camera and lens compatibility, the weight capacity needed, the quick-release system (Arca-Swiss is standard), the material build for durability, and whether it allows full access to your camera’s ports and screen.
- Aluminum alloy construction, CNC precision machining,anti-rust and lightweight, to use.
- The tripod mount ring is designed for Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM, EF 70-200mm f/4L and EF 70-200mm f/4L IS lens. It replaces Canon lens collar A-2/AII.
- 【Fix and balance your tele lens】It helps you fix and balance your tele lens which is heavy or long hanging off the front of camera.
Introducing the NEEWER CA058: A Closer Look
The NEEWER Rotatable Collar Mount Plate CA058 is a specialized accessory designed to streamline the process of switching between horizontal and vertical camera orientations on a tripod or gimbal without losing balance or adjusting the optical axis. It promises enhanced stability for heavier lens setups and quick transitions for dynamic shooting. Upon purchase, you receive the rotatable collar mount, a camera mounting plate, an L-shaped hex key, and a user manual.
Compared to generic L-brackets, the NEEWER CA058 offers superior balance, as it rotates around the lens’s axis, not the camera body. While market leaders like Really Right Stuff offer similar precision, Neewer provides a robust, cost-effective alternative. This particular model is tailor-made for Nikon Z8, Z7 II, Z6 II, and Z5 cameras using the FTZ II adapter with specific compatible lenses (e.g., Z 24-70mm f/2.8, 50mm f/1.2). It is not for users with the Z 70-200mm f2.8 lens or those primarily shooting handheld.
Pros:
* Seamless, quick horizontal to vertical switching.
* Significantly improves balance with heavy lenses.
* Robust CNC aluminum alloy construction.
* Full access to camera screen, ports, and functions.
* Arca-Swiss and DJI RS 3/2 compatibility.
Cons:
* Not compatible with all Nikon Z lenses (specifically Z 70-200mm f2.8).
* Can obstruct lens focus switches on some smaller lenses.
* Slightly bulky, adding some weight to the setup.
* Rotation may not be perfectly smooth in all areas.
Delving Deeper: The Core Features and Advantages
Flexible Angles & Improved Balance
The moment I mounted my Nikon Z8 with the FTZ II adapter and a heavier lens like the Z 24-70mm f/2.8, the difference was immediately noticeable. The rotatable collar mount cradles the lens, shifting the balance point directly under the optical axis, rather than off to the side as with traditional L-brackets. This central balance feels incredibly stable, whether on a tripod or a gimbal. The rotational mechanism itself feels solid, providing confident support for even professional-grade gear. I’ve often used it for long exposure shots where the slightest vibration is detrimental, and this mount holds rock-steady. It truly feels like an extension of the lens itself, not just an add-on. The two collar tabs further enhance lens security, preventing any unwanted movement or flex, which is a common concern with heavier setups. The slight vertical adjustment ensures my lenses are perfectly centered, eliminating any imbalance issues.
This feature is paramount for serious photographers and videographers. When you’re using telephoto or fast prime lenses, the weight distribution can become front-heavy, straining your tripod head or gimbal motors. By supporting the lens directly, this mount drastically improves stability, reducing shake and enhancing sharpness in your images. This improved balance also extends the life of your tripod head and gimbal, as they aren’t constantly fighting against an uneven load. For video work, smoother pans and tilts are achievable. The peace of mind knowing your expensive gear is securely balanced allows you to focus solely on composition and timing, rather than worrying about your setup.
Quick Horizontal to Vertical Switch
This is arguably the standout feature. The ability to rotate the camera lens collar 90 degrees and swiftly switch between landscape and portrait orientations is a revelation. I simply loosen the knob, rotate, and tighten. It’s truly a matter of seconds. What impresses me most is that the optical axis of the lens remains perfectly centered. There’s no need to recompose or re-level your shot after rotating, which is a significant time-saver on location. I’ve used it extensively for event photography where moments are fleeting, and the speed of this transition has been invaluable. Even though it specifies a 90-degree rotation, the locking mechanism allows you to secure it at any angle within that range, offering greater flexibility. However, it’s worth noting that the rotation isn’t always buttery smooth throughout the entire 90 degrees; there can be a couple of tighter spots. It’s a minor inconvenience, but noticeable when aiming for a super fluid transition.
The traditional method of switching orientations involves either an L-bracket (which still shifts the camera’s center of gravity) or detaching the camera from the tripod head, rotating it, and reattaching—a clumsy, time-consuming process that often leads to losing your original framing. This eliminates these frustrations. For landscape photographers, capturing both wide vista shots and vertical panoramas becomes effortless. For portrait photographers, the transition from full-body to headshot compositions is seamless. This efficiency directly translates to more shots captured, less setup time, and ultimately, a more productive and enjoyable shooting experience. It’s particularly vital for situations where speed is of the essence, such as weddings, sports, or wildlife photography.
Secure Lock Camera Lenses
The security of my camera and lens is always a top priority, and the NEEWER CA058 delivers here. The camera is firmly fastened to the mounting plate via a robust anti-twist 1/4″ screw. This isn’t just a basic screw; it’s designed to prevent any rotation of the camera body relative to the plate, which is crucial for maintaining alignment. The cross-patterned rubber pads on the plate are a thoughtful addition, providing excellent grip and preventing scratches to the camera’s base. What I particularly appreciate is the design that allows for slight vertical adjustment, ensuring a snug fit for lenses of various sizes, preventing any wobble. I found that installing it was surprisingly simple, despite my initial overthinking. It truly locks the camera and lens into a single, cohesive unit. One user mentioned a ‘PUSH’ button aligned over the lens release; while not explicitly in the product description, this seems to be an added benefit for quick lens changes, indicating smart design choices.
A wobbly or insecure connection between your camera, lens, and tripod is a recipe for disaster. It leads to blurry photos, potential damage to your gear from drops, and constant adjustments. The secure locking mechanism of this camera mount plate provides unwavering stability, ensuring your shots are consistently sharp. The anti-twist design means your horizon stays level, and your composition remains intact, even when making adjustments to your tripod or gimbal. This level of security offers immense confidence, especially when shooting in dynamic environments or with expensive equipment. It protects your investment and preserves the quality of your work.
Quick Release Camera Mounting
This vertical camera tripod lens mount is equipped with an Arca-Swiss compatible quick release base plate. For anyone already invested in the Arca-Swiss ecosystem (which is most professional photographers), this is a huge convenience. It seamlessly integrates with my existing tripods, monopods, and camera sliders. The transition from handheld to mounted shooting, or moving between different support systems, is incredibly fast. It’s also fully compatible with DJI RS3 Pro, RS3 Mini, RS3, and RS2 gimbals, making it highly versatile for hybrid shooters who switch between stills and video. The base plate also features multiple 1/4″ and 3/8″ threads, which are essential for attaching additional camera rigs, hand grips, or magic arms, further expanding its utility. While the screw to connect the camera to the plate can be a bit tricky to tighten by hand without a tool, once it’s on, it’s secure.
In fast-paced shooting environments, every second counts. A quick-release system drastically cuts down on setup and teardown time. If you need to rapidly transition from tripod to handheld, or switch between a monopod and a gimbal, this feature is a lifesaver. The broad compatibility with industry-standard systems like Arca-Swiss means you don’t need proprietary plates or adapters for each piece of gear, simplifying your kit and reducing clutter. The additional mounting threads are a huge bonus, allowing for a highly customizable rig setup, whether it’s adding an external monitor, a microphone, or an LED light. This modularity ensures the mount grows with your needs, making it a valuable long-term investment.
CNC Aluminum Build & Full Access to Screen
Holding this mount in my hands, its premium construction is evident. It’s crafted from CNC anodized aluminum alloy, which feels incredibly robust yet surprisingly lightweight (6.38 ounces). This material choice makes it durable, anti-rust, and scratch-resistant—qualities I truly appreciate in gear that gets used outdoors and in varying conditions. Despite its sturdy build, the design is impressively slim and thoughtful. Crucially, even when the camera is mounted and rotated, there’s full, unimpeded access to the camera’s LCD flip screen, all ports, and functions. I can easily change settings, check playback, or connect external devices without having to remove the camera from the mount, which is a common nuisance with some L-brackets. The black powder-coated finish not only looks sleek but also adds to its durability.
Durability means longevity, and investing in gear that can withstand the rigors of professional use is always smart. The CNC aluminum construction ensures the mount won’t flex or bend under the weight of heavy lenses, maintaining stability and precision. The anti-rust and scratch-resistant properties mean it will look good and perform reliably for years, even after being subjected to the elements. Perhaps most importantly, the full access to the camera’s screen and ports eliminates workflow interruptions. You can remain engaged with your creative process, making on-the-fly adjustments or reviewing shots without cumbersome dismounting. This user-centric design dramatically improves the overall shooting experience, making the NEEWER Rotatable Collar Mount Plate CA058 an indispensable tool rather than a frustrating obstacle.
What Others Are Saying: Real User Experiences
Having scoured the internet, I found a strong consensus among users about the positive impact of this mount. Many photographers lauded its seamless transition from horizontal to vertical, noting how it revolutionizes their workflow. One user, despite initial skepticism about compatibility, praised its perfect fit and ability to balance heavy lenses, calling it a “game-changer” for travel and packing. Others highlighted the robust Neewer quality, the effective pressure clamp, and the utility of the Arca-Swiss quick-release. While some mentioned the slight bulk or minor friction during rotation, the overwhelming sentiment points to it being a highly recommended, valuable addition to any serious photographer’s kit.
Final Thoughts: Is This Mount Right for You?
The constant struggle of maintaining balance and efficiency when shifting camera orientations on a tripod can severely hamper creative flow and lead to missed opportunities. The NEEWER Rotatable Collar Mount Plate provides an elegant solution to this problem. Its unparalleled quick-switch capability, superior balance for heavy lenses, and robust CNC aluminum construction make it an exceptional choice. If you frequently shoot with compatible Nikon Z cameras and FTZ II lenses, and demand both speed and stability, this accessory is an ideal fit. It truly transforms the way you work, ensuring you never miss that perfect shot. Click here to check out the NEEWER Rotatable Collar Mount Plate and enhance your photography workflow.
Last update on 2025-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API