Rotating Flash Bracket

thingiverse

I designed this rotating flash bracket because I couldn't find an existing design available for 3D printing. Commercial brackets that rotate the flash around the lens to keep it above the camera when switching between landscape and portrait are available, but tend to be either very expensive or rather flimsy with the weight of the flash gun on top. I found that using separate components that join together, added much more strength to the overall structure and has the advantage of being able to replace individual parts as required. Strength was the biggest challenge, as there is a surprising amount of twisting force across the bracket when used, and because of the value of the equipment that it supports, I opted to use steel screws to join the components together instead of printed PLA screws. The joint between the head and the thread of printed PLA screws proved to be very weak with the screw head shearing off too easily. I used an aluminium 100mm Arca bracket which can connect the bracket to a tripod whilst also strengthen and secure the piece together. I already had one of these, so didn't have to purchase it. Having said that I have included a 3D printed 100mm arca type bracket in the STLs. Which although quite strong is obviously not going to be as strong as the aluminium one, which usually costs around £10. The design uses a 10x3mm spring and 7mm ball bearing to hold the flash in position at 0, 45 and 90 degree stops. I have tested the quick release plate that attaches to the base of the camera and it fits the Canon R6 and R and possibly others. The lip on the plate prevents the bracket twisting when changing to portrait mode, which a flat version without the lip is prone to do. The plate also fits Arca type clamps so can remain on the camera to connect it to a tripod when not using the bracket. Screws should be tightened until they have a firm grip, but be careful not to over tighten. The holes are not threaded as I found that using the 1/4" steel screws to tap their own threads worked best, just ensure the tapping is done bit by bit. The screw may get a bit hot in this process, but it isn't a problem. Once the screw is in it is best to leave it in to prevent the steel thread wearing the internal PLA tapped thread because of repeated use. To fire the flash you will need a wireless trigger or a flash cable.