d4 "FlipLock"

With the d4, ARCA-SWISS has once again developed a revolutionary re-design of the conventional 3-way head.
The d4 is a symbiosis of a ballhead and a 3-way head.
ARCA-SWISS has succeeded in combining the advantages of both systems in one head while integrating significant improvements over a traditional 3-way head.
The versatile d4 tripod head was specially developed to meet the demands of all kinds of advanced photography, both outdoors and in the studio.

An outstanding head

The ARCA-SWISS d4 head has been honored with the renowned iF Award, one of the most prestigious design prizes worldwide.
The jury of distinguished experts highlighted the d4 tripod head for its special qualities, such as its level of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability, and ease of use.

Compact, innovative design

The heads are very small and compact, and the usual protruding levers are completely absent.
Mounted on a tripod, the d4 can be used just like a conventional ballhead.
When the X and Y axes are released, the camera can move freely.
Unlike a standard ballhead, however, movements can be carried out smoothly and independently of one another.
This already works when both axes are open — and even more precisely when one of the two is locked.
The d4’s innovative design combines the pivot points of the X and Y movements at a single point, resulting in very small swing radii.
Chosen perspectives remain intact during fine adjustments.

The head’s tilts are equipped with self-locking damping.
This largely compensates for the weight of the camera.

Another striking feature is the positioning of the spirit levels. They are located beneath the upper panning unit and arranged at a 90° angle.
Both are visible in such a way that the photographer can easily level the camera even from a low shooting position.

Panoramic rotation:

The d4 features two panning units: a lower one to align the camera to the subject, and an upper panorama for precision pans once the camera is leveled.
The upper panorama is operated manually on the d4, but the gp (geared panning) option enables manual or precise geared rotation of the upper panorama.

What does quick release “FlipLock” mean?
The FlipLock lever allows fast and secure clamping of the camera plate or L-bracket.
The double safety mechanism prevents unintentional release.
The FlipLock quick release fits all camera plates, L-brackets, monorails & optical benches from ARCA-SWISS.
An overview of all quick release systems can be found in our “Knowledge Base”.

Note: The FlipLock quick release is intended only for use with original ARCA-SWISS camera plates and L-brackets.
Third-party products claiming to be “Arca Style” compatible may not fit and, if used, may void the warranty.

Note: The FlipLock quick release is intended only for use with original ARCA-SWISS camera plates and L-brackets.
Third-party products claiming to be “Arca Style” compatible may not fit and, if used, may void the warranty.