SmallRig: An Overview
SmallRig is a globally recognized brand specializing in the design and manufacture of high-quality camera rigs, accessories, and professional filmmaking tools. Established in 2009, SmallRig quickly gained a reputation for its innovative, modular solutions that cater to the needs of filmmakers, photographers, and content creators. The company’s products are designed to provide customizable support and enhance the versatility of cameras, making it easier for professionals and enthusiasts alike to capture high-quality footage in a variety of shooting environments.
Company History and Philosophy
SmallRig was founded with a clear mission: to create flexible, durable, and affordable camera rigging solutions that could be adapted to a wide range of shooting needs. The name “SmallRig” reflects the company’s commitment to producing compact and lightweight rigging systems that do not compromise on strength or functionality. From its early days, SmallRig emphasized the importance of listening to its customers, often collaborating with filmmakers and photographers to develop products that meet the specific challenges they face in the field.
This customer-centric approach has been a cornerstone of SmallRig’s success. The company actively engages with its user community through forums, social media, and direct feedback channels, which has allowed it to refine its product offerings continuously. This collaborative process, known as the “co-design” model, has resulted in a product line that is both diverse and highly tailored to the needs of its users.
SmallRig’s philosophy revolves around innovation, quality, and affordability. The company strives to provide professional-grade products at prices that are accessible to a broad audience, from independent filmmakers and hobbyists to seasoned professionals. This commitment to value, combined with a focus on customer satisfaction, has made SmallRig a trusted brand in the world of camera accessories and rigging solutions.
Top-Selling Products SmallRig’s product portfolio includes a wide range of camera cages, handles, baseplates, shoulder rigs, and other accessories designed to enhance the functionality and ergonomics of cameras. Among its top-selling products are camera cages, mounting solutions, and accessories that have become essential tools for filmmakers and photographers around the world.
- SmallRig Camera Cages Camera cages are one of SmallRig’s most popular product categories. These cages provide a protective frame around the camera while offering multiple mounting points for accessories such as monitors, microphones, lights, and external recorders. SmallRig’s camera cages are known for their precise fit, durable construction, and versatility.
SmallRig Cage for Sony A7 III / A7R III / A9 (Model 2087): This cage is designed specifically for Sony’s popular A7 III, A7R III, and A9 mirrorless cameras. It features a form-fitting design that maintains access to all camera controls and ports while providing a solid foundation for mounting accessories. The cage is constructed from high-quality aluminum alloy, making it both lightweight and durable. It includes a NATO rail, multiple 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 threaded holes, and ARRI locating holes, offering extensive options for customization. The 2087 cage has become a best-seller due to its balance of protection, functionality, and affordability.
SmallRig Cage for BMPCC 4K/6K (Model 2203): The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K and 6K models have become popular choices for filmmakers, and SmallRig’s 2203 cage is designed to complement these cameras perfectly. This full cage provides comprehensive protection while maintaining access to all buttons, ports, and compartments. It features multiple mounting points, including NATO rails, cold shoe mounts, and ARRI-style accessory mounts, allowing users to attach a wide range of accessories. The cage also includes an HDMI and USB-C cable clamp to protect cables from accidental damage, a feature highly valued by users.
SmallRig Cage for Canon EOS R5 / R6 (Model 2982): Designed for Canon’s EOS R5 and R6 mirrorless cameras, this cage offers a snug fit and robust protection. It includes multiple mounting points, including NATO rails, cold shoe mounts, and threaded holes for attaching various accessories. The cage also supports the addition of a top handle, side handle, or other rigging components, making it ideal for handheld shooting. The 2982 cage has been praised for its build quality, ergonomic design, and the flexibility it offers to content creators.
SmallRig’s camera cages are favored by professionals and enthusiasts alike for their precision engineering, ease of use, and the extensive customization options they provide. These cages form the foundation of many filmmakers’ setups, allowing them to create tailored rigs that meet the specific demands of their projects.
- SmallRig Handles and Mounting Solutions In addition to camera cages, SmallRig is known for its handles, mounting solutions, and other rigging accessories that enhance the usability of camera setups. These products are designed to improve the ergonomics of cameras and provide secure, reliable attachment points for various accessories.
SmallRig Wooden Universal Side Handle (Model 2093): The 2093 side handle is one of SmallRig’s best-selling accessories, offering a comfortable grip and enhanced stability for handheld shooting. Made from high-quality rosewood and aluminum, the handle is both lightweight and durable. It features an adjustable design that allows it to be mounted on either side of the camera cage, making it versatile for both left-handed and right-handed users. The handle includes multiple 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 threaded holes for attaching additional accessories, as well as a cold shoe mount for mounting microphones, lights, or monitors.
SmallRig Top Handle with NATO Rail (Model 1955): The 1955 top handle is designed to provide a secure grip for carrying and operating camera rigs. It attaches to the top of the camera cage via a NATO rail, allowing for quick release and easy adjustments. The handle includes multiple mounting points for accessories, including 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 threaded holes, ARRI locating holes, and a cold shoe mount. The ergonomic design and solid construction make it a favorite among filmmakers who require a reliable and comfortable grip for handheld shooting.
SmallRig Multi-Function Double Ballhead with Clamp (Model 1138): This versatile accessory is designed to mount monitors, lights, or other equipment to camera cages or rigs. The double ballhead design allows for flexible positioning, while the clamp provides a secure attachment to 15mm rods, camera cages, or other rigging points. The ballhead includes 1/4"-20 screws on both ends, making it compatible with a wide range of accessories. The 1138 model is popular for its durability, ease of use, and ability to streamline complex setups.
SmallRig’s handles and mounting solutions are highly regarded for their build quality, versatility, and the comfort they provide during shooting. These accessories allow users to create ergonomic, functional rigs that can be adapted to various shooting styles and conditions.
- SmallRig Follow Focus Systems Follow focus systems are essential tools for achieving precise focus control in filmmaking. SmallRig offers a range of follow focus solutions that are compatible with different camera rigs and lenses, providing filmmakers with the tools they need to achieve sharp, accurate focus in their shots.
SmallRig Mini Follow Focus (Model 3010): The 3010 Mini Follow Focus is a compact, lightweight system designed for use with mirrorless cameras, DSLRs, and small cinema cameras. It features a quick-release clamp for easy attachment to 15mm rod systems and includes a hard stop feature for setting focus limits. The follow focus wheel is smooth and responsive, allowing for precise focus adjustments. The 3010 model is popular for its portability, ease of use, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for independent filmmakers and content creators.
SmallRig Wireless Follow Focus System (Model 3262): For more advanced setups, SmallRig offers the 3262 Wireless Follow Focus System, which allows for remote focus control. The system includes a motor, a wireless controller, and mounting accessories, providing a complete solution for achieving precise focus in challenging shooting environments. The wireless system is ideal for use with gimbals, cranes, or drones, where direct access to the camera’s focus ring is not possible. The 3262 model has been praised for its reliability, responsiveness, and the flexibility it offers to filmmakers working on complex shots.
SmallRig’s follow focus systems are valued for their precision, durability, and the control they provide to filmmakers. These systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with SmallRig’s other rigging products, offering a complete solution for achieving professional-grade focus control.
Conclusion SmallRig has established itself as a leading brand in the world of camera accessories and rigging solutions by offering innovative, high-quality products that cater to the needs of filmmakers, photographers, and content creators. The company’s top-selling products, including its camera cages, handles, mounting solutions, and follow focus systems, have become essential tools for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Through its commitment to customer collaboration, SmallRig continues to develop products that are tailored to the specific demands of its users. The company’s focus on innovation, quality, and affordability has made its products accessible to a wide audience, from independent filmmakers to seasoned professionals. As the industry continues to evolve, SmallRig remains at the forefront, providing the tools that enable creatives to push the boundaries of their craft and achieve their artistic vision.