Why bother with a compact cinema camera if you’ve got to use a Baseplate that’s double the size? With the Short Universal Dovetail, you can benefit from full rigging functionality in a compact package. Swap from DJI gimbals to Manfrotto tripods in moments, and rig directly to the dovetail with a range of compatible Rod Brackets.

The best part? The Short Universal Dovetail is compatible with any camera system: from compact mirrorless bodies through to full-fledged cinema cameras. No matter your setup, the Universal Dovetail is the perfect choice.

Universal Camera Capabilities

That universal compatibility also applies to the cameras you can use: with both a 1/4" and 3/8” screw, the Universal Dovetail can accommodate any camera body. For owner-operators who want added convenience without investing in a full-fledged rig, the Universal Dovetail is a great middle-ground. Whether you shoot run-and-gun video content or are experimenting with cinematic narrative, this compact dovetail gives you everything you need to get started with your rig.

Downsized, not Downgraded

The Short Universal Dovetail is simply a compact version of our bestselling Universal Dovetail: no compromises on anything other than size. It still features the same precise position markers, the same quick-release functionality and the same corrosion-resistant design. If you found your rig was still too bulky before, then the Short Universal Dovetail is sure to become a permanent fixture in your camera bag.

Cross-Compatible Dovetail

A frustrating feature for many filmmakers has been the slight differences between Manfrotto and DJI plate standards. With our new Universal Dovetail, you can use the same mount for DJI RS 4 gimbals and Manfrotto 5 Series tripods with ease. The spring-loaded gear rack for DJI gimbals makes it easy to mount to compatible gimbals, and a safety stop ensures that the dovetail doesn’t detach by itself.

Build Your Rig

For mounting more camera accessories, the Universal Dovetail comes with compatibility for front-mounted 15mm rods, ARRI rosettes and more. Using our series of Rod Brackets for Universal Dovetail, you can create a sleek but practical camera rig for even the most barebones of camera setups.

Guaranteed Safety

The Universal Dovetail also features dual safety stop mechanisms that match the DJI and Manfrotto standards. The Manfrotto dovetail uses the right side stop to provide a front and back limit on sliding travel, whilst also having an indented channel for DJI-standard safeties. The DJI gimbal gear rack is spring-loaded, meaning that it stows itself when not needed.

Stay Accurate

In order to help position your camera, the Universal Dovetail has been laser-engraved for added precision. Markers run along the side of the top slot, which help ensure your camera is straight on the Dovetail. The side also has measurements every millimetre, allowing you to more easily balance and slide the camera into place. The front safety stop has also been marked –in our trademark Bright Tangerine orange to ensure visibility.

Streamlined Design

The Universal Dovetail provides a clean rigging option, with a clear upgrade path for any camera setup. Rather than throwing away your entire cage when a new camera body is added to your arsenal, the Universal Dovetail provides a consistent starting point.

Part of the Create System

Our Create range of camera accessories provide a range of universally accessible camera customisation options. From cheese plates to top handles, you have the freedom to customise your camera however you need, with broad compatibility for almost any camera setup.

The Short Universal Dovetail ships as a standalone unit with all required screws. You will require a 4mm Hex Key and a flathead screwdriver in order to install it.

Camera to Dovetail

1. Align the 1/4” or 3/8” screws with the corresponding thread on the base of your camera.

2. Use a flathead screwdriver to tighten the screw into place.

Rod Bracket to Dovetail

1. Align the two 3/8” screws on the top of the rod bracket with the threads on the base of the dovetail.

2. Use a 4mm Hex Key to tighten both screws into place.

The Short Universal Dovetail is compatible with any camera body, using the included 1/4" or 3/8” screw to install the Dovetail to the camera. The screws can slide with 40mm of travel in the central channel, allowing for balance with bigger lenses or heavier cameras.

The Dovetail itself mounts to either DJI RS or Manfrotto 5 Series plates, allowing for clean transitions between rigs. This means that the Dovetail can be mounted to a range of standard points, including but not limited to:

Manfrotto 501PL Tripods

DJI RS Gimbals

DJI RS Receivers (not at 15mm LWS Standard Height)

Create 15mm LWS Baseplate

Sachtler Aktiv Tripods

Bright Tangerine products are engineered to the highest standards of quality and longevity. Rigorously designed and tested, each new product works to solve practical filmmaking problems, and to maximise convenience on-set. We are fully receptive to customer feedback and have a top-rated customer service team to deal with any and all queries.

Weight	0.067 kg
Dimensions	7 x 11 x 6 cm
Camera brand	Universal
Camera model	Universal
Dovetail standard	Universal Dovetail