7 Best Mounting Plates For Waterproof Camera Housings

Achieving stable, professional-grade underwater footage requires more than just a high-quality camera and a waterproof housing. A dedicated mounting plate—or tray—serves as the backbone of the entire system, providing the necessary foundation for lights, strobes, and handles. Choosing the right one transforms a slippery, handheld camera into a balanced, ergonomic rig ready for any aquatic environment.

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Backscatter Double Handle Tray: Best for Video

Video shooters require absolute stability to avoid the “shaky cam” effect that ruins underwater footage. The Backscatter Double Handle Tray is specifically engineered to provide a wide, balanced stance that acts as a natural stabilizer. By placing the hands further apart, the operator gains significantly more control over panning and tilting motions.

This tray excels due to its modular design, which accommodates a vast array of housing sizes. It integrates seamlessly with popular video lighting arms, allowing for precise positioning to illuminate subjects evenly without harsh shadows. If video production is the primary goal, this tray offers the best return on investment for steady, cinematic results.

Ultralight TR-D Digital Tray: Best for Durability

In the world of underwater photography, gear often takes a beating from salt, sand, and accidental impacts on boat decks. The Ultralight TR-D Digital Tray is built to withstand these harsh conditions better than almost any other option on the market. Constructed from high-grade anodized aluminum, it resists the corrosive nature of saltwater environments indefinitely.

This tray is the gold standard for photographers who prioritize longevity and ruggedness over lightweight portability. Its mechanical simplicity means there are fewer parts to fail or corrode, making it a reliable choice for remote expeditions. If a tray needs to last for a decade of constant use, this is the definitive choice.

Nauticam Flexitray II: The Premium Pro Choice

Professionals demand versatility and precise ergonomics, which is exactly what the Nauticam Flexitray II provides. This system is highly adjustable, allowing for minute changes to grip width and angle to fit different hand sizes or suit thicknesses. The craftsmanship is evident in the smooth operation of its mounting points and the high-quality finish.

Beyond its physical build, the Flexitray II is designed to integrate into the wider Nauticam ecosystem, supporting complex lighting configurations with ease. It remains a premium investment, but for those committed to professional underwater photography, the refined engineering is worth the cost. It represents the pinnacle of form meeting function in modern housing accessories.

Sea & Sea Universal Grip: Most Versatile System

Adapting to different camera setups often requires a tray that doesn’t box the user into a specific brand or configuration. The Sea & Sea Universal Grip is remarkably adaptable, featuring adjustable rails that fit nearly any housing footprint available. This makes it an ideal pick for those who might upgrade their camera body without wanting to replace their entire lighting rig.

The grip itself is contoured for long dives, reducing hand fatigue during extended sessions. It supports a variety of accessory mounting options, including focus lights and fiber-optic cables for strobes. This tray is the best choice for the photographer who values flexibility above all else.

Ikelite Action Tray II: Great for GoPro Setups

GoPro and small action camera users often struggle with finding a mount that doesn’t overwhelm a compact housing. The Ikelite Action Tray II is specifically sized for these smaller rigs, ensuring the overall footprint remains compact for travel. Despite its smaller scale, it provides a solid base for adding a single handle and a small video light.

The system is intuitive and lightweight, which is essential for snorkelers and casual divers who prefer not to carry heavy equipment. It eliminates the need for bulky, oversized trays that make small cameras feel unbalanced. For action camera enthusiasts, this tray strikes the perfect balance between portability and functionality.

Fantasea Blue Ray Tray: Top Budget-Friendly Pick

Entering the world of underwater lighting can be expensive, and the tray is often the first place to save without sacrificing critical performance. The Fantasea Blue Ray Tray provides a solid, reliable aluminum platform at a price point that is accessible for beginners. It doesn’t skimp on essential features, offering standard mounting points for arms and grips.

While it lacks some of the advanced modularity found in premium trays, it does exactly what is required: it holds the camera and lights steady. It is the perfect entry point for those just beginning their journey into underwater photography. It proves that budget-conscious gear does not have to be low-quality gear.

Isotta Compact Camera Tray: Best Option for Travel

Travel photographers know that every ounce and every cubic inch in a gear bag matters. The Isotta Compact Camera Tray is engineered for efficiency, featuring a sleek, lightweight profile that packs down easily. It is designed specifically for travel-ready camera systems, ensuring the rig doesn’t become a burden during transit.

Despite its compact nature, the materials are robust and the build quality is undeniably high. The handles are positioned to maximize stability without requiring a wide base, keeping the overall rig as small as possible. For the globetrotting photographer, this tray offers the best compromise between performance and packing space.

How to Pick the Right Tray for Your Camera Setup

Selecting a tray starts with understanding the scale of the camera and housing being used. A massive full-frame DSLR setup requires a wide, heavy-duty tray to support the weight of multiple strobes and heavy arms. Conversely, a compact mirrorless or action camera system will be rendered awkward and front-heavy by an oversized tray.

Always consider the type of diving or water activity being performed. Shore diving often requires a more compact rig that is easy to navigate through surf, while boat diving allows for larger, more complex setups. Assess the number of lights, strobes, and mounting accessories required, as some trays have limited mounting points. Never overlook the importance of balance; the goal is to have the rig feel neutral in the water.

Single vs. Double Handles: Which Is Best for You?

The choice between a single handle and a double handle tray depends entirely on the lighting strategy. A single handle is usually sufficient for simple GoPro setups or for those utilizing a single focus light. It keeps the rig lighter and easier to manage with one hand while the other hand handles buoyancy or safety equipment.

Double handles are the standard for serious photography and videography. They provide two points of contact, which significantly improves stability and makes it easier to position two strobes for even, shadow-free lighting. While they add weight and complexity, the gain in control and light management is essential for high-quality results. Consider whether the shooting style requires constant lighting adjustments, which is much easier to manage with a two-handed, symmetrical setup.

Caring for Your Gear: Post-Dive Tray Maintenance

Saltwater is incredibly corrosive, and failure to clean a tray will eventually lead to seized screws and degraded aluminum. The most critical step is soaking the entire tray in a fresh water basin for at least 20 minutes after every dive. Be sure to work the moving parts, such as the tray adjustment knobs and handle pivots, while the unit is submerged to dislodge trapped salt crystals.

Dry the tray thoroughly with a lint-free cloth before storing it in a gear bag. Periodically apply a light coating of food-grade silicone grease to any metal-on-metal threads or joints to prevent oxidation. By treating the tray with the same care as the camera housing, the gear will remain reliable for years of future exploration.

Investing in a high-quality tray is a foundational step toward mastering underwater imaging. By carefully matching the mounting plate to the specific needs of the camera system and the intended environment, any photographer can achieve greater stability and more professional lighting. With the right support system in place, the focus can shift entirely to capturing the beauty of the aquatic world.