DIY Tripod Mount How-To

Steps 7-11

7. With the lens mounted on the camera, place the assembly back on the lens and mark the center of the camera's tripod mount on the bar. Center that mark and drill a 1/4" hole. The sample I show here was the first one I did and the bit was dull and wandered a little. You don't need to be perfect but keep it centered as much as possible. File the burrs. Make sure the bar is secured when you drill or you will have a lethal piece of metal spinning out of control.

8. Attach the mount to the camera with the thumb screw. Holding the camera with lens loosely, place the bar on your outstretched finger to find the center of balance. Mark this location and center. Drill a 13/64" hole and tap it with the 1/4" tap, then paint it all.

 

9. Cut pieces of sheet rubber slightly larger than the top and bottom of the base bar and band (click image to enlarge):

 

10. Brush contact cement (I used a pop sickle stick) onto one side of the rubber pieces and only one side of the mount at this time. I did the bottom first but the order doesn't matter. After the contact cement dries attach the piece of corresponding rubber to that area. Be careful not to let the pieces touch until they are in position. Paper can be placed between the pieces, then carefully remove the paper when the pieces are aligned. Trim the excess with the utility knife. Repeat for the next two areas and trim the holes for the thumb screw and tripod mount.

11. Your tripod mount is ready!

 

The Tripod Mount in Use

Now attach the finished tripod mount to the lens and camera, mount it to the tripod or monopod and go out and capture some great images! If you find a different or easier way to build the mount that described here, please share.

If you drop the mount on cement and the band comes off, simply file some of the epoxy away and reapply. The rubber on the mount acts both to prevent scratches on the lens and camera, but also hold the lens securely. Just remember, the thumb screw is only held by friction.

 

K10D mounted with 1.7x AF tele-converter:

 

-Jack

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