Versatile SMALLRIG Rosette Extension Arm Review

Introduction

As a passionate filmmaker who values versatility and ease during shoots, I recently invested in the SMALLRIG Rosette Extension Arm (Model 1870). This adjustable rosette arm not only caught my eye with its practical design but also promised to enhance my camera rig’s flexibility. After several weeks of use, I can confidently say it stands out for anyone working with ARRI standard gear.

Key Features

• Adjustable Length: With an extension range of 167mm to 255mm, this arm provides the flexibility needed to position your camera grips or handles where they feel most comfortable during a shoot.

• NATO Rail Integration: The middle NATO rail allows for quick adjustments. This means less time fumbling with tools and more time capturing that perfect shot.

• Arri-Style Rosettes: The rosettes on either end (M6, 31.8 mm) offer compatibility with a vast range of handgrips and other equipment, which enhances the overall usability of my rig.

• Dual-Sided Use: Equipped for use on both sides, this extension arm opens up creative possibilities for rig setups without complications.

• Robust Build Quality: Crafted from durable materials, I feel confident that this arm will withstand the rigors of shooting on location.

Benefits

• Improves ergonomic handling, allowing for customizable grip placement during filming.

• Enhances stability for handheld shooting, reducing fatigue over long shooting sessions.

• Facilitates quick assembly and disassembly of camera setups, saving precious time on set.

Real-World Use Cases

• Dynamic shooting environments: When filming a documentary on the move, I used the extension arm to adjust my handle quickly without taking my attention away from the action.

• Multi-setup projects: I was able to adapt my camera equipment's position fluidly during a wedding shoot, capturing candid moments from various angles.

• Complex rigging scenarios: Working with additional accessories on my camera, the SMALLRIG arm made configuring my setup intuitive and straightforward.

Pros and Cons

Comparison

• Manfrotto Adjustable Arm: While the Manfrotto arm is also adjustable, it lacks the versatile NATO rail feature, making it less flexible in positioning.

• Zacuto RoZetta Handle: Zacuto's offerings are more specialized, while SMALLRIG provides broader compatibility with various gear, making it a better all-rounder.

Conclusion

Overall, my experience with the SMALLRIG Rosette Extension Arm has been overwhelmingly positive. The ability to adjust the arm's length and quickly reposition my grip without hassle has significantly improved my filming experience. I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking to create a more dynamic and adaptable rig for their camera setup.