How to Build a Clamp Camera Mount
In situations in which a tripod is either unavailable or impractical to use, photographers can also use a clamp as a mount for their cameras. These clamps allow for a greater variety of camera positioning and enables photographers to steady their shots in environments unsuitable for tripods. They are also smaller and more portable then tripods, making them ideal for a photographer who wishes to pack light. While available for purchase, a clamp camera mount can also be made at home inexpensively.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Select your clamp type. A clamp camera mount can be made from any clamp available at a hardware store, but spring clamps and C clamps tend to work best. Consider your needs and purchase a clamp that most readily meets them.
-
2
Purchase a screw that fits into your camera's mounting socket. The standard mounting socket is 1/4 of an inch in diameter and fits 1/4-20 thread screws. If your hardware store has loose screws, bring your camera body to help you find a screw that fits securely. A thumb screw will work best, but any screw can be used.
-
-
3
Drill a hole into the clamp at the location you wish to mount your camera. Leave enough room to operate the clamp without the camera getting in the way.
-
4
Use your tap wrench to thread the hole you just made. The threading needs to match that of the mounting screw.
-
5
Fit the rubber washer on the top of the hole. This washer will cushion your camera's body and prevent it from being scratched by the metal of your clamp. Glue the rubber washer in place or simply let it float freely with your mounting screw holding it in place.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you do not have the hardware to drill a hole into your clamp or to thread the hole appropriately, you can also affix your mounting screw to your clamp with glue. You will be unable to turn the screw independently from the clamp, but you may rotate the entire clamp when screwing it into your camera's mounting socket. If you have a spare quick-release plate from a tripod, you can also affix this to your clamp in lieu of a mounting screw.
While clamp camera mounts will enable you to clamp your camera vertically to a surface, this puts strain on the mounting screw and mounting socket. Ensure that your clamp will hold your camera securely before trusting it, especially with a particularly heavy lens attached.
