bought a used magic arm w/ platform - what is this?

[jamespjones]

So,

 

Yesterday I picked up a used magic arm. I noticed that the optional camera platform has a 1/4 20 thread

on the far corner. What do people typically use this for? Seems unnecessary - but I'm guessing it has

some good uses.

 

James<div></div>

[ellis_vener_photography]

you use it as an insert for cameras with a 3/8" tripod mount.

[Matt Laur]

That there is your Flenischiem Coupler Mounting Point. If you're using a modern DSLR, like the one I'm selling you right now, sir, you'll also need a Clotwell Anti-Rotation Flange. If your camera has more than 10MP, you'll probably also need this Makisoto polarity inverter. The green ones are better, though, and only $100 more. Or, you can replace the whole thing with a new, titanium rig from Pretty Perfect Stuff. That one will actually add several years to your life, and make you more attractive to the opposite sex, too. Did I mention we have a payment plan?

[Matt Laur]

Sorry! Seen too many equipment ads today, I think. But I did read an interesting article recently, showing a photographer working on a Rolex ad shoot on the beach. He made some really interesting use of the ol' Magic Arm. It was pretty inspirational, actually.

[mark_in_st._louis]

I'm assuming you mean an item like this:

<A

href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5181-REG/Bogen_Manfrotto_2930_2930_Magic_Arm_with.html">http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5181-REG/Bogen_Manfrotto_2930_2930_Magic_Arm_with.html</A>

<p>They can be used with a <a href=

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5166-REG/Bogen_Manfrotto_2915_2915_Super_Clamp_without.html">super clamp</a> or another base at the bottom.  This would allow you to lock a camera or strobe to a pole, table top or base and trigger it remotely.

<p>

See the comments on "Image #3" on this page:

<a href="http://www.daveblackphotography.com/on-the-road/06-2006.htm">http://www.daveblackphotography.com/on-the-road/06-2006.htm</a>