One drawback is that if your tripod head doesn’t accept the arca Swiss type L bracket you will need a new quick release mechanism. That is if your head will allow you to change it (mine didn’t). I waited till my tripod head died before making the change to the universal arca Swiss type bracket and wished I’d made the change years ago. If you do go for a lever type quick release mechanism, think about getting one that can be adjusted as not all universal arca Swiss type plates are universal, due to slight differences in manufacture and tolerance. I had an L bracket plus a couple of plates, from different manufacturers (The plates were for telephoto lenses). Somewhere I read that there fended to be a difference between those made in North America and those in Europe. Which is probably why the non-adjustable really right stuff quick release mechanisms say to only use their plates, plus its also probably for marketing reasons! This last bit is irrelevant if you just buy the mechanism that you screw in to hold the plate in place.
Loved your final shot, the rays of light coming through binds the composition, awesome. Yes, I'm convinced that an L-Bracket is essential. I've to get one for my D850. Thank you James. Your video is quite detailed .
I have been using an L Bracket for about 2 years and wouldn't go back to shooting without one, however I am yet to find the perfect bracket for my preferred setup. My photography takes me into some challenging landscapes where at times I need to have both hands free so I also have fitted the Peak Design Capture Clip, however at times I would also like to have the option of also using my Black Rapid strap for convenience and added safety in some situations. Maybe I am getting too complex but I would like to have the options so would like to find an L-Bracket that has a solid plate on the landscape side so that I can fit an eye for the strap connection, but every one I can find is strategically hollowed out presumably to save a couple of grams in weight. The bottom line is that L-Brackets should be a must have in every landscape photographers kit.
I was hmm and err about getting a L-Bracket and after seeing your video, I am going to start looking for one. Absolutely love your final shot as well, looking magical. Thank you, James
50 on Saturday coming 28-08-21 & only 2.5 yrs into photography, I'm getting an L bracket this wk and can't wait as a nightscape photographer who's just started delving into panorama's
Thanks for sharing your experience with the L bracket. I own a Three Legged Elle. Just bought it 2 weeks ago. You reinforced my reasons for buying one.
Absolutely! I find it incredible that so many landscape shooters are unaware of them. L Brackets are not given the credit they deserve. Thanks for watching Darren 🙏
Thanks James, just waiting for the 3 Legged Thing ELLIE Universal L-Bracket to arrive for my D850, you have reinforced my reasoning behind the purchase, much appreciated, nice image tutorial also by the way....
I was thinking of the 3 Legged Thing for my Nikon Z6......but twice the price of the Sunwayfoto bracket. I with I knew where each of them are manufactured.......
Cool image and well made points about L-brackets, James. Gear is not just for the “L” of it (ha), nor only for landscapes. I have L brackets for different cam bodies and find them indispensable for reasons you mentioned. Use them for macro work and anywhere careful framing is needed, along w/making nice with tripod. Suggest staying away from plastic and “one size fits all - poorly” models. Folks should have no difficulty finding an L bracket made expressly for a given camera make/model (port cover access like battery compartment). Wish they all would accommodate d-ring type mounting screws to avoid need for extra tool in kit. Make sure to get plate that matches tripod quick release base (Arca Swiss v others). Nice haircut, BTW.😄
Thanks Paul. Good point on making sure to pick a bracket that has the right fitting for the tripod. The world of arca Swiss et al can be rather confusing to say the least. Thanks for the hair compliment 😂
Converted to L bracket about a year ago after about 20 years of Manfrotto QR. Absolutely agree with what you say, but now I'm left with a pile QR plates!! For easier setting up of tripods regarding panos, try a tripod leveling base. No faffing about fiddling with legs.
James. Just watched your video about the L bracket as I was thinking about putting one on my Nikon D750. After your video I have stopped thinking about it and purchasing one. Thanks for the video. Oh and the result of the photo you took of the waterfall was awesome. Bert K Australia
Enjoyed that, James, and I completely agree about the L Bracket, I started using one about 4 years ago and cannot imagine not using one again. Some wonderful greens and I suspect there was little or no increase in saturation. Cheers.
Thanks Andy! Haha I actually decreased the saturation in parts of the image because it looked too much. Vegetation always looks great in May and early June. Cheers for watching 👍
Nice video James, and a great shot of the waterfalls too. I think L Brackets are great, been using one for near 2 years now and very handy, I bought one for my new Sony A7RIII for £11 on ebay and fits like a glove 👍🏻 very very handy to have, plus it's given me about 5mm more on the handgrip of the camera which is dead handy as the A7RIII has quite a small handgrip. So winner winner chicken dinner 😁😁👍🏻👍🏻
Great video James, loved the waterfall shot, that beam of light was really special. I agree on the L- Bracket. I've been using one for at least 3 years and love it, I would never go back to an ordinary plate. Thanks for sharing
Thanks Ralph! Pound for pound I actually reckon it might be the best bit of photography kit I've ever bought in terms of the benefits it delivers. Absolutely amazing that so many continue to shoot without them - hopefully this video convinces them to join us 😁
I never really thought about getting a L bracket until now James but your vlog has convinced me in to buying one 😀 beautiful image especially the beam of light coming from the same angle as the water fall. Cheers, Cliff
A really timely video for me James, as quite surprisingly its one peice of kit, I have always put of buying.I have always got by ok with out one, but like you pointed out, leveling can be a bit of an issue at times.. but it means sense for stability and ease of use. It will definitely be next purchase for me. Good video mate 🙂
That's great Ben. That's why I made the video as I figured there will be many people who will benefit massively from getting one. You'll wonder why you never bought one earlier, I certainly did 👍
I have just bought the Sunwayfoto L bracket for my D810 after initially buying the Manfrotto one which is a dogs breakfast, avoid like the plague! Very impressed with the Sunway bracket, I also purchased the Sunwayfoto MAC-14 60mm Adapter Clamp Arca Swiss Manfrotto 200PL after purchasing a Manfrotto ball head second hand and not realising there is a couple of versions and the base plate did not fit!
Great video James, those L brackets do come in handy that's for sure. I use a Manfrotto L bracket that has the RC2 tripod mount. It weighs quite a bit, but I only found out the other day, it's kind of universal, can use it on any camera. Thanks for sharing the video mate, cheers!
Recently bought an L bracket and have just been on holiday using it. Cannot see me going back to the old plate now. Love your image and the way you crafted it. That shaft of light was glorious. 💗 👍 👍 👌
Yep picked my cheap Hong Kong versions up for both the d500 and d850 great tip for landscape photography, if you multi use camera you might find it a pain Alan keying it on and off
Hi James , great vid, thanks. I was on a workshop and noticed that the pro had an L bracket, got myself one by Pig Iron, a mere £20. Works a treat and saves so much hassle, they are essential.
Totally agree regarding L brackets. I ordered a bespoke one from China for the princely sum of £18 (including shipping) for my D850. It's an amazing piece of kit, delivering all the advantages you discuss. I was so impressed, I then purchased (from the same company in China) another bespoke L bracket for the D800, only this one cost £10 including shipping. Best photographic accessories I have ever purchased. Fantastic image, by the way :-)
Thanks Simon! You got yourself a bargain there. I spent double that. I did get mine in October 2017 though where there was very limited choice but even so 18 quid is a steal
Fantastic video as usual James. Thanks for the heads up on photo stacking . Looks like 1 Sunwayfoto PNL D850 will be winging it’s way to the IOM in The next couple of days. Cheers mate. :)
Excellent vlog James, what a stunning composition and as you said that beam of light just lifted it to another level. As for an "L Bracket" I agree with you that it's an essential kit item for a Landscape Photographer. I have got one fairly recently and now wonder why I hadn't done so sooner! All the reasons you mentioned are pluses and no negatives at all. Great work and thanks for sharing Mate 👍📸
I had been thinking about buying one and this video finally convinced me. I use a Nikon D750 and I found a Sunway PNL 750 for it. Great video and great photo. Thanks..
Quite a beautiful final image! Love the explanation of how you created it! I've not had a solid image yet with focus stacking - have you done a tutorial on how you approach and execute focus stacking?
Love the image James, the sunbeam really makes it. I’ve used L brackets for years. The one thing I learned was to buy a universal version, that way you don’t need to keep buying new every time you replace your camera. Atb
Glen Maye.. Isle of Man? Thought so. Excellent location. I'm a member of the Southern Photographic Society (I'm in Castletown) Like you, I wouldn't be without an L bracket on my Nikon D700, probably the most invaluable bit of kit I have.. well, that or my Benbo tripod..!!
James, what you really need to invest in besides your L-bracket, is a Fluid Head, because every time you move your camera, weather it's in portrait or landscape orientation with a ball head it shifts out of it's original composition. With a fluid head it will never do that. To see more about fluid heads and how they work, check out ( Hudson Henry Photography ) on you tube, he's the guy that knows all about them. After you watch his videos you'll be getting rid of that out dated ball head. I did and I love mine. And you can still use your L-bracket too...!!
Love my L bracket! I bought one from small rig for my canon 5d Mark III and it never comes off! I can even put my peak design plate on it to have it on my capture clip! It’s heavy but works like a charm!
I have thought of getting one because I have had the same problem with stability issues, but I have an old Bogan tripod I don't believe it would work on it. The Bogan has been a true workhorse and that is another issue. Excellent points and video, none the less.
Very nice image, looks very dreamy. I am not a fan of the 3:2 crop in portrait oriented shots though. Always feels a bit slim to me. Regarding L-Brackets: I don't own one and I am not planing on getting one but that's mostly because I only use my tripods for video and shoot 99% of my photos handheld. Cheers from Germany 🙂
Cheers mate! Yeah L brackets are only really useful for tripod shooters, you rightly point out that handheld, they are useless. Extra weight and bulk for no benefit 👍
Cheers mate! Yeah L brackets are only really useful for tripod shooters, you rightly point out that handheld, they are useless. Extra weight and bulk for no benefit 👍
Don't have one. Am researching into getting one for my D800 and D7200. Will also have to change my tripod head. I agree, cannot shoot Decent portrait shots without one. As for panoramas - forget about it 👍
Excellent photo and tutorial! I am strongly thinking of purchasing one for my D750. I use the MB-D16 vertical grip, do you think that will add too much weight? Thanks! Nathaniel G.
I shot a few waterfalls recently and the one thing I came away with was wanting to get an L bracket. I was spending way too much time fixing my camera sagging. The unsexy equipment is often the most important!
I can't use L-bracket without doing something to my tripod. It have RC2 quick release and not Arca Swiss. But it make sense when you explained the disadvantage of having the camera hanging out in portret mode.
Hmmmm James I'm a fan totally of you. I think your whole format is so professional and you really bring photography alive. Obviously there is a but. The instruction in this vid was really in depth. Then it went all QVC on me. Basically I feel like an idiot if I don't get one. The exaggeration of photography without one from just under half way through .... maybe professionals are totally in sink with you and judging by the enthusiastic comments already they are ... as a newbie it went off message for me and it felt alienating. Sorry James 😕
Sorry that you feel that way Adam. That wasn't my intention at all. I shot for 8 years without even hearing about them. The purpose of the video was to try and make sure viewers don't make the same mistake I did. I rate them very highly and want to draw more attention to them. I'm not making any money from this, just trying to help. If I got the tone wrong, sorry. Thanks for watching none the less 🙏👍
@@JamesBrewphoto god don't apologise James. Your channel is always something to look forward to. I love how you break down the composition. I think composition is a dying art and so your instruction is just brilliant. It's made me think a lot differently. But I am only a newbie with a newbies wallet lol. Thank you for taking the time to explain.
Thank you James for a great video I will now get a L bracket, question can you use the L bracket with a big lense ie 120/600 or would you still need to attach your camera to the tripod via the lense bracket. I am relatively new to photography hope it's not a daft question
Thanks Lynn. Big lenses like that tend to be quite heavy so it makes sense to mount the lens itself to the tripod to achieve a better balance / avoid damaged to your lens mounting. As long as the L bracket and lens mount use the same plate type then yes you can mount no problem. All mine are arca Swiss for example 👍
Hiya James. Impressive image, much better than mine although I think the extra light has added another dimension to it. The extra foreground right thru to the background beyond makes this really immersive. I know you didn't get the eddies but it's all the more reason to return :) Those sunbeams are spectacular I have to say, yet another layer to the image :) But do I need/want an L bracket??
Thanks very much Gary! I'm really pleased how it turned out. As for L bracket, 100% get one. Pound for pound they are probably the best bit of photography equipment I've ever bought :-)
Hi awesome vidoes james what made u go for this brand L bracket compared to other brands im in market looking for one for my nikon z7 been considering the 3leggedthing zelda L bracket
@@JamesBrewphoto awesome as say ive got z7 and im looking for a L-bracket was looking at 3leggedthing zelda copper edition but then got recommended smallrig
Excellent video, thank you, could you please confirm that it is possible to fit and use a cable release to the camera whilst the bracket is in the portrait orientation? I have a Nikon D850
I just hate using my ballhead at 90deg -an L-bracket is a no-brainer -so much easier and no fussing about with alignment when changing landscape /portrait -and we all do that for landscape photography.
No other parts necessary - my l bracket is arca swiss and so is my tripod, so they connect seamlessly. Just make sure what ever l bracket you buy has a mounting compatible with your tripod
I have been using an L-Bracket for so long that I have forgotten about the other option, albeit a poor one, of placing the camera into the notch on the side of my ballhead.
Hello James Are you shooting with a Nikon d810.. I purchased a universal l bracket but it is not working well with my d810, the bracket is slipping on the camera body
Hi John, I shoot with a nikon d850. If the universal bracket is a poor fit, I would suggest investing in a bracket specifically designed for the d810. You'll get a much better fit 👍
Thanks James. I am ordering one now. By the way,just got back from Scotland. There is a beautiful path that starts just 1-2 miles north of Oban., starts at a small beach where the road ends -lots of great photo opportunities! Thanks again!
I bought an L-bracket in January 2018 and virtually never take it off. It doesn't fit my camera exactly so I need to loosen it to change the battery and it can't mount flush to the side or I cannot access the terminal for my remote but otherwise I love it.
Any one knows which Arca-Swiss connection (Ball Head) is compatible with this L-Bracket for when shifted to vertical mode ? I have other Manfrotto quick releases but will not fit. Thank you.
Just taken delivery of my L-Bracket. It looks really good but I need to find a way to get it to fit to my Manfrotto Ball head. Any suggestions please? :)
You will need an adaptor for the manfrotto (your tripod) to arca Swiss plates (the L bracket). If you search online I think there are loads out there. I don't shoot with a Manfrotto so don't have that problem myself but many do, so you're not alone. Good luck Steve 👍
Hi James I hope you don't mind me putting this on your page. I just thought it might be of help to Manfrotto Ball head users. I manged to get a great adaptor by the same firm. Sunwayfoto. It's the MAC-14. Works a treat. :)
It is a useful video in any case so, thumbs up, but you have not shown the L-Bracket mounting, the tripod type. Turning the camera a bit slow, maybe for 1 Minute could have been enough. I will buy it, getting the idea from you. It has details about composition, exposure but not the L bracket itself. 5.57 your arm blocked the view of usage.
That's an L of a shot.;)It is possible to calibrate a generic L brackets? What do I mean? Use your tripod, fix the centre focus point to a known item, like a target at level. Now move the camera 90 deg to portrait , adjust the camera to ensure the focus point is on target.Only for OCD sorry CDO as the letters are now in the correct alphabetical order. lol.Also leave the bracket on the camera, it is armour.
Thanks very much Derek! Yeah good point on the armour for the camera. It does offer a degree of extra protection. Not sure I follow on your question, can you explain further? I'm a bit slow in the mornings 😂
1.Put your generic will fit any camera L bracket on the camera, then put the camera with L bracket on a tripod. 2.On a level floor Set a target / item about 20ft away at the same height as the level lens use bubble level on the tripod, eg: if the target is 1m high set tripod to 1m. on landscape mode align the centre focus point of the camera / lens to the target / could be an ornaments' eye or a cross on a piece of paper (imagination required). 3.Now take camera off tripod and use portrait mode. Using the supplied allen key adjust the camera vertically to align the height of the focus point. ( note slide the camera vertically and tighten the screw when correct, keep the camera from arcing, keep the lens level.)Repeat if required, check the focus point between landscape and portrait mode. 4. Keep the L bracket on the camera after adjustment as it acts as Armour!Most L brackets specifically designed for a camera should be pre aligned. The ones that are CNC contoured for a perfect fit to the base of your camera.Time required allow 0.5 hour.Hope this helps. Advantage is pinpoint focus on subject in both portrait and landscape modes. How much time will you gain? Studio work bonus.
People who see my images, Pano's etc; taken with my kodakAZ652 Bridge camera, say how do you get do that- simple, L-brecket, changed my photography hobby, from " theoldgit " L bracket's Rule, your image not so bad, Ha....
One drawback is that if your tripod head doesn’t accept the arca Swiss type L bracket you will need a new quick release mechanism. That is if your head will allow you to change it (mine didn’t). I waited till my tripod head died before making the change to the universal arca Swiss type bracket and wished I’d made the change years ago. If you do go for a lever type quick release mechanism, think about getting one that can be adjusted as not all universal arca Swiss type plates are universal, due to slight differences in manufacture and tolerance. I had an L bracket plus a couple of plates, from different manufacturers (The plates were for telephoto lenses). Somewhere I read that there fended to be a difference between those made in North America and those in Europe. Which is probably why the non-adjustable really right stuff quick release mechanisms say to only use their plates, plus its also probably for marketing reasons! This last bit is irrelevant if you just buy the mechanism that you screw in to hold the plate in place.
Some very good points and useful information David. Thanks! 🙏
Loved your final shot, the rays of light coming through binds the composition, awesome. Yes, I'm convinced that an L-Bracket is essential. I've to get one for my D850. Thank you James. Your video is quite detailed .
I have been using an L Bracket for about 2 years and wouldn't go back to shooting without one, however I am yet to find the perfect bracket for my preferred setup. My photography takes me into some challenging landscapes where at times I need to have both hands free so I also have fitted the Peak Design Capture Clip, however at times I would also like to have the option of also using my Black Rapid strap for convenience and added safety in some situations. Maybe I am getting too complex but I would like to have the options so would like to find an L-Bracket that has a solid plate on the landscape side so that I can fit an eye for the strap connection, but every one I can find is strategically hollowed out presumably to save a couple of grams in weight. The bottom line is that L-Brackets should be a must have in every landscape photographers kit.
The final image is really nice, good work.
Thank you
I was hmm and err about getting a L-Bracket and after seeing your video, I am going to start looking for one. Absolutely love your final shot as well, looking magical. Thank you, James
Thank you for this information! I’ve never used one and now I’m sold! Beautiful image as well!
50 on Saturday coming 28-08-21 & only 2.5 yrs into photography, I'm getting an L bracket this wk and can't wait as a nightscape photographer who's just started delving into panorama's
Thanks for sharing your experience with the L bracket. I own a Three Legged Elle. Just bought it 2 weeks ago. You reinforced my reasons for buying one.
Excellent video, James.
Thanks Jann 🙏
I haven't seen a better case made for an L-bracket. Kudos James!
Thank you for watching
this video indeed convinced me to buy one
I couldn’t agree more James.
I was almost bullied into buying an L bracket and now I couldn’t live without one.
A fantastic purchase
Absolutely! I find it incredible that so many landscape shooters are unaware of them. L Brackets are not given the credit they deserve. Thanks for watching Darren 🙏
Thanks James, just waiting for the 3 Legged Thing ELLIE Universal L-Bracket to arrive for my D850, you have reinforced my reasoning behind the purchase, much appreciated, nice image tutorial also by the way....
Thanks Trevor
I was thinking of the 3 Legged Thing for my Nikon Z6......but twice the price of the Sunwayfoto bracket. I with I knew where each of them are manufactured.......
@@JamesBrewphoto Thanks for the video James.
Very good video and points.
Thanks Mark 🙏
You are right about the L Bracket super convenient and easy to change positions, best part is inexpensive piece of equipment. Great video. 👍👍
Thanks very much! 🙏
Lovely image - good tips, liked how you dealt with the ferns moving in the breeze.
Thanks Sean much appreciated 🙏
Cool image and well made points about L-brackets, James. Gear is not just for the “L” of it (ha), nor only for landscapes. I have L brackets for different cam bodies and find them indispensable for reasons you mentioned. Use them for macro work and anywhere careful framing is needed, along w/making nice with tripod. Suggest staying away from plastic and “one size fits all - poorly” models. Folks should have no difficulty finding an L bracket made expressly for a given camera make/model (port cover access like battery compartment). Wish they all would accommodate d-ring type mounting screws to avoid need for extra tool in kit. Make sure to get plate that matches tripod quick release base (Arca Swiss v others). Nice haircut, BTW.😄
Thanks Paul. Good point on making sure to pick a bracket that has the right fitting for the tripod. The world of arca Swiss et al can be rather confusing to say the least. Thanks for the hair compliment 😂
Converted to L bracket about a year ago after about 20 years of Manfrotto QR. Absolutely agree with what you say, but now I'm left with a pile QR plates!! For easier setting up of tripods regarding panos, try a tripod leveling base. No faffing about fiddling with legs.
Haha I know the feeling. Lots of retired quick release plates 😂 nice tip, I've never tried one but its something I'll look into
Great video and capture! Couldn't agree with you more on the L bracket. In fact, I've just ordered mine from Smallrig a few days ago.
Thanks Kenny - good luck with your purchase :-)
James. Just watched your video about the L bracket as I was thinking about putting one on my Nikon D750. After your video I have stopped thinking about it and purchasing one. Thanks for the video. Oh and the result of the photo you took of the waterfall was awesome.
Bert K
Australia
hi bert, i also own a D750 and need an L-BRACKET did you get on to suit?
Enjoyed that, James, and I completely agree about the L Bracket, I started using one about 4 years ago and cannot imagine not using one again. Some wonderful greens and I suspect there was little or no increase in saturation. Cheers.
Thanks Andy! Haha I actually decreased the saturation in parts of the image because it looked too much. Vegetation always looks great in May and early June. Cheers for watching 👍
Great techniques for this photo, thanks for the advice. I’ve been using my L bracket for 9 months and I love using it.
Thanks very much Martin 🙂
Nice video James, and a great shot of the waterfalls too. I think L Brackets are great, been using one for near 2 years now and very handy, I bought one for my new Sony A7RIII for £11 on ebay and fits like a glove 👍🏻 very very handy to have, plus it's given me about 5mm more on the handgrip of the camera which is dead handy as the A7RIII has quite a small handgrip. So winner winner chicken dinner 😁😁👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks Ryan! Wow £11, what a bargain! Very good point on increasing the grip size particularly on mirrorless, that's another clear benefit 👍
Great video James, loved the waterfall shot, that beam of light was really special. I agree on the L- Bracket. I've been using one for at least 3 years and love it, I would never go back to an ordinary plate. Thanks for sharing
Thanks Ralph! Pound for pound I actually reckon it might be the best bit of photography kit I've ever bought in terms of the benefits it delivers. Absolutely amazing that so many continue to shoot without them - hopefully this video convinces them to join us 😁
I never really thought about getting a L bracket until now James but your vlog has convinced me in to buying one 😀 beautiful image especially the beam of light coming from the same angle as the water fall. Cheers, Cliff
Same here!
Thanks Cliff! Glad I've converted you. You won't regret it for one second. Good luck with your purchases 👍
I agree!!!
A really timely video for me James, as quite surprisingly its one peice of kit, I have always put of buying.I have always got by ok with out one, but like you pointed out, leveling can be a bit of an issue at times.. but it means sense for stability and ease of use. It will definitely be next purchase for me. Good video mate 🙂
That's great Ben. That's why I made the video as I figured there will be many people who will benefit massively from getting one. You'll wonder why you never bought one earlier, I certainly did 👍
Just purchased my first L Bracket and wondering why I didn't do it years ago. Great video mate clear and concise. Nailed that final shot - stunning.!
Thanks Colin 🙏
I have just bought the Sunwayfoto L bracket for my D810 after initially buying the Manfrotto one which is a dogs breakfast, avoid like the plague! Very impressed with the Sunway bracket, I also purchased the Sunwayfoto MAC-14 60mm Adapter Clamp Arca Swiss Manfrotto 200PL after purchasing a Manfrotto ball head second hand and not realising there is a couple of versions and the base plate did not fit!
Yeah the Sunway bracket is really high quality and an excellent fit. Thanks for commenting Simon 👍
nice shot!
Thanks 🙏
Great video James, those L brackets do come in handy that's for sure. I use a Manfrotto L bracket that has the RC2 tripod mount. It weighs quite a bit, but I only found out the other day, it's kind of universal, can use it on any camera. Thanks for sharing the video mate, cheers!
Thanks for watching Adrian 🙏
Recently bought an L bracket and have just been on holiday using it. Cannot see me going back to the old plate now. Love your image and the way you crafted it. That shaft of light was glorious. 💗
👍 👍 👌
Thanks Chris! Well done for getting one, you'll never look back. Welcome to the L bracket club 😉
Yep picked my cheap Hong Kong versions up for both the d500 and d850 great tip for landscape photography, if you multi use camera you might find it a pain Alan keying it on and off
Yes good point if using the camera for other purposes
Really nice waterfall image when I get my new D850 I will invest in a L bracket
Thanks John! You definitely won't regret it 👍
Hi James , great vid, thanks. I was on a workshop and noticed that the pro had an L bracket, got myself one by Pig Iron, a mere £20.
Works a treat and saves so much hassle, they are essential.
Cheers Mark! £20 is an absolute bargain! I can't think of another equipment purchase that gives so many benefits for so little outlay. Essential 🙌
Totally agree regarding L brackets. I ordered a bespoke one from China for the princely sum of £18 (including shipping) for my D850. It's an amazing piece of kit, delivering all the advantages you discuss. I was so impressed, I then purchased (from the same company in China) another bespoke L bracket for the D800, only this one cost £10 including shipping. Best photographic accessories I have ever purchased.
Fantastic image, by the way :-)
Thanks Simon! You got yourself a bargain there. I spent double that. I did get mine in October 2017 though where there was very limited choice but even so 18 quid is a steal
Fantastic video as usual James. Thanks for the heads up on photo stacking . Looks like 1 Sunwayfoto PNL D850 will be winging it’s way to the IOM in The next couple of days. Cheers mate. :)
Thanks Steve! Good luck with the purchase 👍
Excellent vlog James, what a stunning composition and as you said that beam of light just lifted it to another level. As for an "L Bracket" I agree with you that it's an essential kit item for a Landscape Photographer. I have got one fairly recently and now wonder why I hadn't done so sooner! All the reasons you mentioned are pluses and no negatives at all. Great work and thanks for sharing Mate 👍📸
Thanks for watching Rob 🙂
I had been thinking about buying one and this video finally convinced me. I use a Nikon D750 and I found a Sunway PNL 750 for it. Great video and great photo. Thanks..
Thanks Joseph
Quite a beautiful final image! Love the explanation of how you created it! I've not had a solid image yet with focus stacking - have you done a tutorial on how you approach and execute focus stacking?
Thanks Wes. Yes I did do a video in September last year with a guide to editing a focus stacked image. That is worth watching I think 🙂
@@JamesBrewphoto I will check it out!
Love the image James, the sunbeam really makes it. I’ve used L brackets for years. The one thing I learned was to buy a universal version, that way you don’t need to keep buying new every time you replace your camera. Atb
Thanks Trevor! Yeah good point on the universal versions 👍
Glen Maye.. Isle of Man? Thought so. Excellent location. I'm a member of the Southern Photographic Society (I'm in Castletown) Like you, I wouldn't be without an L bracket on my Nikon D700, probably the most invaluable bit of kit I have.. well, that or my Benbo tripod..!!
Don’t own one, have been wanting to purchase. Now I’m convinced. Thanks
Thanks Pamela. Good luck with your purchase 👍
James, what you really need to invest in besides your L-bracket, is a Fluid Head, because every time you move your camera, weather it's in portrait or landscape orientation with a ball head it shifts out of it's original composition. With a fluid head it will never do that. To see more about fluid heads and how they work, check out
( Hudson Henry Photography ) on you tube, he's the guy that knows all about them. After you watch his videos you'll be getting rid of that out dated ball head. I did and I love mine. And you can still use your L-bracket too...!!
Thanks for the suggestion Max. I'll take a look in to them 👍
Love my L bracket! I bought one from small rig for my canon 5d Mark III and it never comes off! I can even put my peak design plate on it to have it on my capture clip! It’s heavy but works like a charm!
Yeah mine is permanently on my camera. Absolutely no need to ever remove. I'm astonished that so many people don't use them 😲
I have one and yes it is a great improvement in my photography.
👍👍👍
Lovely work again, James. I think L-brackets are one of those things that you don’t really know the benefit of until you try one.
Thanks Andrew - totally agree!
I have thought of getting one because I have had the same problem with stability issues, but I have an old Bogan tripod I don't believe it would work on it. The Bogan has been a true workhorse and that is another issue. Excellent points and video, none the less.
Very nice image, looks very dreamy. I am not a fan of the 3:2 crop in portrait oriented shots though. Always feels a bit slim to me.
Regarding L-Brackets: I don't own one and I am not planing on getting one but that's mostly because I only use my tripods for video and shoot 99% of my photos handheld.
Cheers from Germany 🙂
Cheers mate! Yeah L brackets are only really useful for tripod shooters, you rightly point out that handheld, they are useless. Extra weight and bulk for no benefit 👍
Cheers mate! Yeah L brackets are only really useful for tripod shooters, you rightly point out that handheld, they are useless. Extra weight and bulk for no benefit 👍
Don't have one. Am researching into getting one for my D800 and D7200.
Will also have to change my tripod head.
I agree, cannot shoot Decent portrait shots without one.
As for panoramas - forget about it 👍
Thanks Eltin! Good luck with your purchases, they will transform your photography 👍
Can you explain the use of the 2 small security screws on the bottom of the SUNWAYFOTO L bracket?
What a great image. I can’t remember not using an L bracket lol
Thanks very much Paul
Excellent photo and tutorial! I am strongly thinking of purchasing one for my D750. I use the MB-D16 vertical grip, do you think that will add too much weight? Thanks! Nathaniel G.
I shot a few waterfalls recently and the one thing I came away with was wanting to get an L bracket. I was spending way too much time fixing my camera sagging. The unsexy equipment is often the most important!
Absolutely! You won't regret getting one :-)
I can't use L-bracket without doing something to my tripod. It have RC2 quick release and not Arca Swiss. But it make sense when you explained the disadvantage of having the camera hanging out in portret mode.
I had that problem on my old tripod until I found an RC2 to ARCA adapter plate. It wasn't expensive.
Hmmmm James I'm a fan totally of you. I think your whole format is so professional and you really bring photography alive.
Obviously there is a but. The instruction in this vid was really in depth. Then it went all QVC on me. Basically I feel like an idiot if I don't get one. The exaggeration of photography without one from just under half way through .... maybe professionals are totally in sink with you and judging by the enthusiastic comments already they are ... as a newbie it went off message for me and it felt alienating. Sorry James 😕
Sorry that you feel that way Adam. That wasn't my intention at all. I shot for 8 years without even hearing about them. The purpose of the video was to try and make sure viewers don't make the same mistake I did. I rate them very highly and want to draw more attention to them. I'm not making any money from this, just trying to help. If I got the tone wrong, sorry. Thanks for watching none the less 🙏👍
@@JamesBrewphoto god don't apologise James. Your channel is always something to look forward to. I love how you break down the composition. I think composition is a dying art and so your instruction is just brilliant. It's made me think a lot differently. But I am only a newbie with a newbies wallet lol. Thank you for taking the time to explain.
Thank you James for a great video I will now get a L bracket, question can you use the L bracket with a big lense ie 120/600 or would you still need to attach your camera to the tripod via the lense bracket. I am relatively new to photography hope it's not a daft question
Thanks Lynn. Big lenses like that tend to be quite heavy so it makes sense to mount the lens itself to the tripod to achieve a better balance / avoid damaged to your lens mounting. As long as the L bracket and lens mount use the same plate type then yes you can mount no problem. All mine are arca Swiss for example 👍
@@JamesBrewphoto thank you for your help
Hiya James. Impressive image, much better than mine although I think the extra light has added another dimension to it. The extra foreground right thru to the background beyond makes this really immersive. I know you didn't get the eddies but it's all the more reason to return :) Those sunbeams are spectacular I have to say, yet another layer to the image :)
But do I need/want an L bracket??
Thanks very much Gary! I'm really pleased how it turned out. As for L bracket, 100% get one. Pound for pound they are probably the best bit of photography equipment I've ever bought :-)
Hi awesome vidoes james what made u go for this brand L bracket compared to other brands im in market looking for one for my nikon z7 been considering the 3leggedthing zelda L bracket
Thanks Alex! It's made specifically for the Z cameras and i'd heard good reviews about it
@@JamesBrewphoto awesome as say ive got z7 and im looking for a L-bracket was looking at 3leggedthing zelda copper edition but then got recommended smallrig
very nice
i used to want one but i dont do landscapes as much as i used to now : (
Yeah they really are at their most useful for landscape shooting, other forms of photography, less so
Excellent video, thank you, could you please confirm that it is possible to fit and use a cable release to the camera whilst the bracket is in the portrait orientation? I have a Nikon D850
Thanks! Yes it can be done but it will to some extent depend on the tripod head being used
@@JamesBrewphoto Thanks James
I just hate using my ballhead at 90deg -an L-bracket is a no-brainer -so much easier and no fussing about with alignment when changing landscape /portrait -and we all do that for landscape photography.
Spot on correct!
James, shifting from Horizontal to Vertical (Portrait) what other part is required that the L-Bracket hand grip space attaches to the Ball head
?
No other parts necessary - my l bracket is arca swiss and so is my tripod, so they connect seamlessly. Just make sure what ever l bracket you buy has a mounting compatible with your tripod
I have been using an L-Bracket for so long that I have forgotten about the other option, albeit a poor one, of placing the camera into the notch on the side of my ballhead.
Haha it was all like a bad dream 😂 I don't miss the whole notch thing one bit
Hello James Are you shooting with a Nikon d810.. I purchased a universal l bracket but it is not working well with my d810, the bracket is slipping on the camera body
Hi John, I shoot with a nikon d850. If the universal bracket is a poor fit, I would suggest investing in a bracket specifically designed for the d810. You'll get a much better fit 👍
Thanks James. I am ordering one now. By the way,just got back from Scotland. There is a beautiful path that starts just 1-2 miles north of Oban., starts at a small beach where the road ends -lots of great photo opportunities! Thanks again!
@@johnmurray5732 Cheers John - one to keep in mind the next time I'm in Scotland
I bought an L-bracket in January 2018 and virtually never take it off. It doesn't fit my camera exactly so I need to loosen it to change the battery and it can't mount flush to the side or I cannot access the terminal for my remote but otherwise I love it.
Might be the single best camera accessory I've purchased!
Any one knows which Arca-Swiss connection (Ball Head) is compatible with this L-Bracket for when shifted to vertical mode ? I have other Manfrotto quick releases but will not fit. Thank you.
Just taken delivery of my L-Bracket. It looks really good but I need to find a way to get it to fit to my Manfrotto Ball head. Any suggestions please? :)
You will need an adaptor for the manfrotto (your tripod) to arca Swiss plates (the L bracket). If you search online I think there are loads out there. I don't shoot with a Manfrotto so don't have that problem myself but many do, so you're not alone. Good luck Steve 👍
@@JamesBrewphoto Thanks James. Yes I've found a few YT videos on the subject. :)
Hi James I hope you don't mind me putting this on your page. I just thought it might be of help to Manfrotto Ball head users. I manged to get a great adaptor by the same firm. Sunwayfoto. It's the MAC-14. Works a treat. :)
@@wizard6207 Great advice - no problem at all :-)
Do you use Manfrotto type or Arca Swiss? (quick release plate)
Arca Swiss
@@JamesBrewphoto Bummer. All my support is Manfrotto. 😑
Love my L-bracket one of the better purchases I've made. Pano's are so much better.
Yeah Panos for me are lightyears better with an l bracket 👍
It is a useful video in any case so, thumbs up, but you have not shown the L-Bracket mounting, the tripod type. Turning the camera a bit slow, maybe for 1 Minute could have been enough. I will buy it, getting the idea from you.
It has details about composition, exposure but not the L bracket itself. 5.57 your arm blocked the view of usage.
Great video Never skimp on an L bracket go for the best you can afford it will outlast the camera
Thanks John! Good point 👌
Are there L brackets for dslr with battery grips
Sorry I'm not sure
I love my L bracket. It just makes life so much easier. Even just for moving from place to place. Just unclip and move on.
That's an L of a shot.;)It is possible to calibrate a generic L brackets? What do I mean? Use your tripod, fix the centre focus point to a known item, like a target at level. Now move the camera 90 deg to portrait , adjust the camera to ensure the focus point is on target.Only for OCD sorry CDO as the letters are now in the correct alphabetical order. lol.Also leave the bracket on the camera, it is armour.
Thanks very much Derek! Yeah good point on the armour for the camera. It does offer a degree of extra protection. Not sure I follow on your question, can you explain further? I'm a bit slow in the mornings 😂
1.Put your generic will fit any camera L bracket on the camera, then put the camera with L bracket on a tripod. 2.On a level floor Set a target / item about 20ft away at the same height as the level lens use bubble level on the tripod, eg: if the target is 1m high set tripod to 1m. on landscape mode align the centre focus point of the camera / lens to the target / could be an ornaments' eye or a cross on a piece of paper (imagination required). 3.Now take camera off tripod and use portrait mode. Using the supplied allen key adjust the camera vertically to align the height of the focus point. ( note slide the camera vertically and tighten the screw when correct, keep the camera from arcing, keep the lens level.)Repeat if required, check the focus point between landscape and portrait mode. 4. Keep the L bracket on the camera after adjustment as it acts as Armour!Most L brackets specifically designed for a camera should be pre aligned. The ones that are CNC contoured for a perfect fit to the base of your camera.Time required allow 0.5 hour.Hope this helps. Advantage is pinpoint focus on subject in both portrait and landscape modes. How much time will you gain? Studio work bonus.
@@derekgillan7314 Wow that's an awesome tip! Something I will definitely do. Thanks Derek! Expert knowledge right there
Patience required, once you have done it, the next time you set the bracket will be super fast.
People who see my images, Pano's etc; taken with my kodakAZ652 Bridge camera, say how do you get do that- simple, L-brecket, changed my photography hobby, from " theoldgit " L bracket's Rule, your image not so bad, Ha....