What's the little button on camera tripod platforms?

Question

I've noticed that all tripod platforms (where the camera goes on) has a little button. It's next to the screw that holds the camera. What is that little button for? thanks.

Answer 1

This is only on Video tripods (not usually still camera tripods). Video camcorders have a small hole in them,
just in front of the screw, on the bottom. It is used to
keep the camera oriented, and not slide around,
as you are actively panning and tilting
the tripod head around.
(Since you don't tilt a still camera while it is recording,
it isn't needed on a still camera tripod.)

It's a bad idea to shoot using camcorders on a
still camera tripod, because these stabilizing
push pegs aren't there to keep the camera oriented.
(I made that mistake years ago... Ouch!)

Note: If you are shooting stereoscopic videos with two
camcorders, these are extremely useful for
keeping the cameras parallel. So, it's good to
get similar mounts on your slide bar, if you can find them.

Answer 2

Probably not. Hope you didn't just buy this! Miranda has been out of business for decades! Getting the "platform" piece that attaches to the camera is a hard thing to do. I ordered one for a currently produced "Slik" tripod and it took 2 months thru B&H Photo. (Not B&H's fault just not in stock from Slik). A machine shop may help but it won't be cheap.

Answer 3

It's for more stability. If you look at the bottom of your camera it has a hole for this button. With the screw and the button the camera is more stable.

Answer 4

I asked the lady at the camera store the same question, and she said it's for video cameras.

Answer 5

it locks video cameras in place

a

Answer 6

ummmm.....to push? lol

I asked my hubby who was a photographer in another career life, and he doesn't know!

Answer 7

ummmm.....to push? lol

I asked my hubby who was a photographer in another career life, and he doesn't know!