The Platypod Handle: An Evolutionary Tool In Their Ecosystem

Most people don't understand what all the fuss is about when they see a Platypod for the first time. If I showed it to my mom, she'd probably feign excitement in the way only a mom can. If you've ever used a Platypod, though, you know how powerful such a little piece of aluminum can be. You can use them for anything from travel and landscape to toy and food photography as a way to show your audience a new perspective on the world. You can even use them to mount flashes in obscure spots for portrait photographers. Okay, I'm a Platypod evangelist, but their company truly has changed the way I photograph.

The Platypod Handle

A pediatrician and excellent photographer himself, Dr. Larry Tiefenbrunn invented the Platypod and has built an entire ecosystem around it. He's created novel ball heads, clamps, goosenecks for lighting, and other devices that have changed the industry. As with those accessories, I see the Platypod Handle as an evolutionary addition. Retailing at $69 ($55 currently on pre-order), its utility is somewhat limited when in isolation, although there are certainly use cases like as a vlogging handle. While I can envision it for this purpose, I'd rather use a gimbal myself both for stability and control. That being said, you don't need a Platypod base to utilize the device, as it has multiple mounting points and is arca-compatible.

The first thing we'll talk about is the build quality and design. As with all Platypod products, it's made from finely machined aluminum, which makes it incredibly sturdy, but surprisingly lightweight at 7.6 oz. The base has a 3/8"-16 socket in the bottom and extends from 6.5" to 10.5" using a twist lock that also rotates 360 degrees. The inner tube can be removed to get it down to 3" if you need it shorter. Finally, there are eight 1/4"-20 threads around the top with a 3/8"-16 bolt for mounting accessories.

An Accessory You Didn't Know You Need

Now that we've got the specs out of the way, let's talk about how I envision using it as a photographer and (very novice) videographer.

Turning My Tripod Into A Light Stand

Flash has become a huge part of my life as a wedding and portrait photographer. The downside is that I need to bring a light stand in most cases, which can be flimsy (if lightweight) or barely adjustable and only good for flat surfaces (if heavy-duty). In contrast, my tripod is way sturdier and more versatile than many light stands. When traveling, I also like to take portraits but having both a tripod and a light stand can be overkill in terms of weight and space. For years, I've wanted to use my tripod for both its intended use and to hold lighting equipment, but I was worried about needing a fragile extension pole. I have no such concerns with the Platypod Handle. In fact, I'm amazed at how rigid it is. The tripod and this device allowed me to mount a Profoto A2 and Clic Softbox at the perfect height for outdoor portraits whereas the softbox would only be at shoulder height otherwise.   

Overhead Setup For Product Photography

Overhead shooting isn't something I do much, but that's mostly because I haven't had the equipment to make it work. I think those days are over. For a robust overhead rig, I set up a tripod on a table, rotated my ball head 90 degrees, and attached the Platypod Handle. As you can see, I can use my Insta360 Flow (my review is upcoming, but it's a brilliant device) to do overhead photos as well as videos showing off the print products we offer. There's no wobble in this setup, and I would feel completely comfortable putting my mirrorless camera on it.

A Riser For Food Or Macro Work

I pick a different photography goal every year and want to do more macro in 2023. Having said that, I'm usually about a year behind, so I'm just getting comfortable with video (my goal for 2022). In any case, I anticipate using the Platypod Handle in this macro endeavor. If you connect this to a Platypod base, you'll have all the functionality of a tripod but with a small enough footprint that you can fit it easily on a table. The Handle's four-year design process is apparent with the precision that you are able to dial in the perfect height and rotation since it ranges from 3" to 10.5” and flawlessly rotates around until locked back in place. Add some goosenecks connected to small LED lights, and you have a complete setup

What I Liked

• The build quality is impeccable yet it's incredibly light. I don't have any concerns about durability or rigidity.  In my camera bag, it's barely noticeable.
• By attaching this to my tripod, I have a light stand. 
• I have the flexibility to take different kinds of photos or videos from what I’ve done in the past, like overhead shots of products.
• Perfecting your setup is easy and secure with its 360-degree rotation and all the mounting options.

What I Didn’t Like

• Personally, I wouldn't use it as a vlogging handle. My hands would be way too unsteady for anyone to watch the footage that came out. For me, a lightweight phone gimbal is the perfect blend of size and stability
• I wish they had a bundle to buy two of these for a discount

Disclaimer: 

I was provided with a loaner version of the Platypod Handle for this review but have already placed my order.

Also, I’ve had complete freedom in this review and Platypod provided no input into the article.