I understand the basic concept of using plates, to allow quick mounting to a tripod. Having done some tripod shooting recently where I had to mount and unmount the camera a few times I started thinking maybe I should look into a plate.
But I've read about camera-specific and lens-specific plates. When looking at online dealer listings I see a confusing array of plates. It's also not clear to me whether the quick release that mounts on the tripod works with all plates and whether it must be purchased on it's own or it comes bundled with plates in some cases. I also understand that Manfrotto sells it's own non-compatible system. Are there other plate systems as well?
But I've read about camera-specific and lens-specific plates. When looking at online dealer listings I see a confusing array of plates. It's also not clear to me whether the quick release that mounts on the tripod works with all plates and whether it must be purchased on it's own or it comes bundled with plates in some cases. I also understand that Manfrotto sells it's own non-compatible system. Are there other plate systems as well?