Leofoto DC-22Q mini clamp with QD mount

Leofoto DC-22Q mini clamp with QD mount for flexible setups

Sometimes it’s just a tiny part that’s missing for your camera setup to suddenly feel properly dialed in. The Leofoto DC-22Q mini clamp falls exactly into this category: small, lightweight, unobtrusive, yet surprisingly versatile. You get a compact QD clamp that’s specifically designed to attach your camera gear neatly, securely, and quickly to straps or mounts without having to rebuild half your tripod every time.

The DC-22Q is deliberately minimalist and therefore fits perfectly into modern, modular photo and video setups. Weighing only 33 g, with a length of 7.2 cm and a width of 3.0 cm, it almost disappears in your bag, yet provides a very stable connection in use. Ideal when you’re on the go and simply don’t want to waste space on bulky accessories.

Arca-style compatible for 38 mm dovetail systems

According to the manufacturer, the coupling of the Leofoto DC-22Q accepts Arca-style compatible 38 mm dovetail profiles and thus integrates seamlessly into many existing quick-release systems. If you’re already working with ARCA plates, L-brackets, or rails, you can usually integrate the mini clamp directly without having to change your system or source special parts.

What’s particularly practical is that you can attach the DC-22Q to the side of an L-bracket with a 38 mm dovetail clamping profile in order to mount a suitable strap with QD adapter there. This way, you can, for example, quickly detach your camera from the tripod and safely hook it onto the carrying strap without having to fiddle with the base plate. More than that: thanks to its Arca-style compatibility, you can simply use the clamp as an additional docking point in many setups, for example on tripod heads, rails, or mounts that are based on this standard.

If you generally work with ARCA-compatible components and want to expand your system, you’ll find suitable Arca-style accessories under ARCA-compatible quick-release systems. This keeps your setup consistent and you don’t have to switch between different standards.

With QD strap anchor mount for fast strap changes

A key feature of the Leofoto DC-22Q is the integrated QD strap mount, more precisely a single QD strap anchor mount designed for quick-detach strap anchors. The clamp is QD compatible and allows you to snap a suitable strap with QD adapter in and out in no time. This is particularly noticeable in everyday use when switching between tripod operation and carrying strap, because you don’t constantly have to loosen screws or swap plates.

Important to know: to use the QD strap mount, you need a strap with suitable QD strap anchors. Matching straps and adapters can be found under QD strap anchors and compatible straps. Only with this accessory can you really take full advantage of the DC-22Q’s quick-change function.

It’s also interesting that, in addition to the QD mount, there are two classic strap eyelets. Depending on your preference, this allows you to rely either on QD anchors or on conventional strap systems. This combination makes the mini clamp a kind of central hub for your carrying system, especially if you use different straps or mounts in parallel.

Robust 6061-T6 aluminum, black anodized for tough everyday use

For the material, Leofoto relies on 6061-T6 aluminum, a proven lightweight metal that offers a good balance of strength and weight. The surface is black anodized, which not only provides a discreet, low-reflection look but also increases resistance to scratches and environmental influences. Especially if you’re out and about a lot—whether in a backpack, camera bag, studio, or at events—this robust design pays off in the long run.

The DC-22Q’s screw clamp is deliberately kept classic. It works reliably, can be finely adjusted, and gives you a direct feel for how firmly your 38 mm dovetail profile is clamped. No unnecessary frills, just a clear, controllable clamping mechanism that can still be operated easily with gloves or cold fingers.

Mounting options with 2 x 1/4 inch UNC photo threads

On the underside of the Leofoto DC-22Q you’ll find two 1/4 inch UNC photo threads. These threaded holes give you additional options for attaching the mini clamp to various mounts, plates, or adapters. For example, you can place it on a small camera rail, mount it on a magic arm, or use it on a compact rig to integrate a strap or other accessories.

The two threaded points also allow for offset or asymmetrical mounting, which can be helpful in tight setups or special configurations. This way, you can, for example, shift the clamp slightly to the side to create more space for cables, microphones, or other components without having to forgo the QD function.

Mini format, big impact: compact and lightweight in your camera bag

With a length of 7.2 cm, a width of 3.0 cm, and a weight of only 33 g, the Leofoto DC-22Q is deliberately designed as a mini clamp. It almost unobtrusively disappears into any bag, fits into small compartments, or even into the side pocket of a camera backpack. Nevertheless, it offers all the essential functions you need for a secure strap connection and stable Arca-style clamping.

If you prefer to keep your setup lean and don’t want to lug around half a studio every time, such a compact solution is very convenient. You can simply use the DC-22Q as an “always with you” adapter that can be quickly deployed on an L-bracket, a rail, or a head with a 38 mm dovetail profile when needed. Once mounted, it serves as a stable base for your QD strap or other carrying options.

Versatile use on L-brackets and dovetail profiles

The Leofoto DC-22Q becomes particularly interesting if you’re already working with L-brackets. You can attach the mini clamp to the side of an L-bracket, provided it has a 38 mm dovetail clamping profile. In this position, your strap with a suitable QD adapter can be mounted very conveniently without disturbing the main connection between camera and tripod.

This creates a kind of “side exit” for your strap that works independently of the main plate. You can detach the camera from the tripod, hook it directly onto the strap, and later just as quickly reinsert it into the Arca-style compatible mount. This type of workflow may seem unspectacular at first, but in daily use you quickly notice how much smoother it makes your work.

In short: the Leofoto DC-22Q mini clamp with QD mount is a small but very well thought-out accessory that expands your existing Arca-style system with a flexible QD strap mount and additional strap eyelets. Robust, lightweight, unobtrusive, and still surprisingly useful if you want to switch your gear quickly between carrying strap and tripod without having to tinker from scratch every time.