Quick Release Clamps
Before I get started, let me make it clear how important (for my
works) a quick-release clamp is, and the only kind I have found
reliable is the Swiss-Arca-Style quick-release clamps. I have a
whole box of old Manfrotto quick-release clamps that have at times
failed, meaning the camera suddenly fell off the head. That is a no-
go for me, so, as mentioned, want a box of Manfrotto quick-release
clamps?
Another factor involves how the quick-release clamp is secured to
the tripod head? More and more companies have what they call a
"compact lever-release clamp," a little level that is pushed open
until the clamp pops open. I never use these and am very careful to
only purchase quick-release clamps with the old-fashioned knob
which is tightened by hand. I like to hand-tighten my quick-release
clamps, and tight at that. That way if the camera falls off, it is my
own fault and not some lever that has decided to pop open. By
hand tightening I have never yet had one fail.
All of my equipment, still and video photography, is based on
Swiss-Arca-Style quick release clamps and plates, so it can be put