HDSLR Project

This post is something entirely different, a bit of DIY for anyone with an HDSLR camera, or anyone that loves to machine aluminum (so that should pretty much cover everyone).

Let me preface this post by briefly explaining my predicament, most camcorder/video camera have a threaded insert in their base AND a secondary hole to accept a small post from the tripod mount. Why? The second hole locks the camera's motion so it is extra stable. Well, the Canon 5D that I use only has one threaded insert and therefore has the ability to spin-free on its tripod mount.

My solution was to fabricate a custom base for the camera that would keep it from spinning on the mount, hold my diopter, and provide a solid mount for any other accessories.

I hope you enjoy, let me know in the comment section if you have any questions.

I started with a heavy-gauge aluminum plate, scribed all of my hole/slots, then went to work.

The key to the mount are two stops, located on the rear of the 5D, these keep the camera locked into position.

An overhead view of the entire set-up, the main reason the camera must be rigidly mounted is to allow the friction follow-focus to maintain constant pressure against the lens.