What the thread found

• The EX3 camera base is not flat, which causes unwanted movement when mounted directly to a Steadicam sledge without an intermediate solution.
• Using shims such as cardboard drink coasters placed under the camera in front of and behind the 1/4-20 mount can stabilize the connection temporarily.
• A rigid baseplate designed for the EX3 is the recommended long-term solution, as it prevents the camera's tripod mount from being damaged by repeated lateral torque from tightening the dovetail plate.
• Several commercial EX3 baseplate options exist, including products from VFGadgets, Chrosziel, DM-Accessories, and Manfrotto, each with different prices and features.
• When using a baseplate on an EX3, the bottom piece connects only to the tripod screw mount, while the back wedge plate attaches to four points on the camera's back wedge.
• Manfrotto baseplates use compressible rubber pads that conform to the EX3's uneven base but may allow slight camera flex under load.

Depends on

• The discussion centers on mounting to a Flyer LE specifically, though some solutions may apply more broadly.
• Participants did not reach consensus on whether shimming with cardboard is adequate for heavy-duty production use.
• The original poster needed a lightweight solution compatible with frequent switching between tripod, handheld, and Steadicam use, which was not fully resolved.
• Cost and shipping delays from overseas suppliers were practical constraints for some users.
• Handheld shooting requirements versus tripod or Steadicam use affected which solutions were practical for individual users.

Parts

Dovetail Plate, Base Plate

Same gear or parts

1. 2026Eliminating vibration with the ARRI ALEXA 35 on Steadicam®: rigid mounting plate options to bypass the dovetail systemFacebookThe Steadicam Group
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3. 2026Swapping an ARRI ALEXA 35 between tripod/studio and Steadicam® mounting: baseplate choice and fastest workflow.FacebookSteadicam operators group
4. 2026Tightening a loose quick-release lever on the Top Stage dovetail plate, and preventing camera slip during shoulder operation.DisputedFacebookThe Steadicam Group