SmallRig Vertical Mount Plate for Cage - Fast Portrait Switching

In this review the SmallRig Vertical Mount Plate stands out as a practical add-on for photographers and videographers who frequently switch between landscape and portrait orientations. It is designed chiefly for users of DJI RS series gimbals and Arca-style tripods who need a reliable, quick method to move into vertical shooting without disassembling cages or baseplates. The single biggest reason to buy is the instant vertical switch: the L bracket lets the camera flip to portrait mode quickly while keeping access to controls and mounted accessories.

Key Features

• Instant Vertical Switch: The L bracket vertical plate enables rapid portrait-mode transitions so the shooter does not need to remove cages or baseplates during a shoot.
• For Stabilizers & Tripods: Compatibility with Arca-Swiss tripods and DJI RS gimbals provides smooth transitions between tripod and gimbal setups without extra adapters.
• Full Access: The vertical grip mounts to the side of the camera ports and preserves access to top buttons and dials during vertical shooting for uninterrupted operation.
• Multiple Compatibility: The plate includes an integrated Arca-type baseplate and a 1/4'-20 threaded side hole for attaching Manfrotto-style quick-release adapters when needed.
• Integrated Cable Organizers: Included cable organizers help route and secure cables during vertical shooting to reduce strain on ports and keep the rig tidy.

Who It's For

The SmallRig Vertical Mount Plate is ideal for hybrid shooters who move frequently between gimbal and tripod work, such as wedding photographers, content creators, and run-and-gun videographers using DJI RS 2, RS 3, RS 3 Pro, RS 4, RS 4 Mini or RS 4 Pro stabilizers. Its quick-switch design saves time on set and keeps camera buttons accessible when shooting portrait sequences.

It is less valuable to users who never shoot vertically or who use camera models and cage systems that are not compatible with Arca-type baseplates and the specified DJI stabilizers. If you rely exclusively on a non-Arca quick-release ecosystem, consider a plate specifically matched to that system.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Enables fast portrait transitions without removing cages or baseplates, improving workflow speed.
• Works with Arca-style tripods and DJI RS series gimbals for versatile mounting options.
• Side attachment preserves access to top camera buttons during vertical shooting.
• Includes cable organizers to keep cables secure and reduce port strain.

Cons

• Compatibility is focused on Arca-type systems and specified DJI gimbals, so other setups may need additional adapters.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The SmallRig Vertical Mount Plate is a smart, practical accessory for shooters who need fast, reliable portrait switching between tripod and gimbal setups. It offers good value for anyone using Arca-type quick releases and DJI RS series stabilizers because it saves setup time, preserves button access, and tidies cables, making it a worthwhile add-on for efficient, professional workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work with my DJI RS 3 Pro?
Yes, the plate is listed as compatible with DJI RS 3 Pro and other RS models in the same series.

Does it allow access to camera top controls in vertical mode?
Yes, the vertical grip attaches to the side of camera ports and is designed to preserve access to top buttons and dials.

Can I mount this on Manfrotto quick-release systems?
The side panel has a 1/4'-20 threaded hole to accept quick-release plate adapters for Manfrotto-style systems, though an adapter may be required.