Ballheads, Quick Release Plates

I'm looking into getting a new ballhead for my tripod. I'm looking at the RRS BH-55 but am open to others. One thing that gets me is you need a different quick release plate for each camera body or lens? These plates are fairly expensive, and I have a tendency to swap out for new lenses often. I didn't think this could be right, is this a gimmick for making us spend more money?

I have never used any of the RRS gear, but I have heard great things about them. If/when I do switch ball heads, I plan on going with RRS, and the Arca Swiss style quick release system. The price is the biggest drawback for me, but I think it's a really great system. I like the idea of being able to switch from horizontal to vertical without having to totally loose my camera position like I do with my current system. I currently have a Bogen/Manfroto 488RC2 ball head and quick release system. It works pretty good, and the QR plates are pretty inexpensive so you can put them on every lens and camera body without breaking the bank.

Like anything else with photography, you get what you pay for.

Do you have to get a camera specific or lens specific plate with your current system? I just don't like the idea of, if I get a new camera or lens, I gotta put my plate plate up on ebay or something and buy a new plate.

I have a similar one to Mike. I have the 486RC2 for my XTi, I have had the 100-400 attached and no problems.

To answer your question, no you don't need a camera or lens specific plate.

James

Like James said, you do not need a specific plate for each camera or lens. BUT, with Bogens system, you do need a specific plate for the quick release system that you have. All of the plates I have are identical, and they all fit the RC2 system. Bogen does make other systems that use a different plate, that will not fit in the RC2 system.

The system that Bogen uses just crew into the tripod socket on the bottom of your camera, or the tripod collar on your lens.

If you go with the Arca Swiss style system, you will need a specific L bracket designed for your specific camera or lens.

Well I found a Mongoose M2.3 on ebay for a good price, so I decided to go with that. I still don't completely understand this mount and bracket stuff. My only quick release head came in one piece and has been very easy to use.

Does anybody know if I get the Wimberley P20 quick release plate for this head, if I will need anything else?

Wimberley P20 Quick Release Plate