The Simple Wooden Camera Upgrade That Fixed My Canon C400 Rig
If you’ve spent any time around cinematographers, you know how crazy camera rigs can get — batteries, monitors, focus motors, audio gear, timecode boxes. It doesn’t take long before a simple setup turns into a science project.
On the flip side, some shooters keep it super minimal, staying light and fast so they can focus on story. I’ve been finding my own balance as I build out my corporate cinematography work. My Canon C400 and C80 have been perfect for interviews and small business features, but I ran into a frustrating problem with the stock C400 top handle: no good place to mount a second monitor, if you’re also using the mic mount.
Why two monitors? One is for camera control, but the second is a clean feed without menus cluttering the frame — essential when I’m working with clients on set. As a photographer, this is very much like looking at a print of your image instead of just admiring it on your computer (or worse, just your phone). I’ve found that even looking at a 8x10 print of your image is much more revealing of any ‘flaws’ in the image.
After some searching, I found a simple but elegant solution from Wooden Camera: a top plate designed specifically for the Canon C400. It bolts right onto the stock handle, adds mounting points, keeps the mic mount usable, and still leaves the hot shoe accessible. Best part? My SmallHD Cine 7 monitor drops on perfectly.
I’m impressed with how well-built this plate is. Wooden Camera gear has a reputation for being bulletproof, and this little accessory lives up to it. If you’re a C400 owner struggling with monitor mounting, this is a must-have upgrade!
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