SmallRig has wasted no time in rolling out accessories for Nikon’s new Z5IIC, the viewfinder-free, screen-first take on the full-frame Z5II that we reported on earlier this week. The range covers three bases: a full cage for video rigs, an L-shaped grip for quick switching between horizontal and vertical framing, and a slim baseplate for those who just want a better hold.

As the Z5IIC is aimed squarely at creators who shoot on the rear screen, it makes sense that the first accessories focus on mounting and rigging rather than eyecups and hoods.

Cage

The HawkLock Quick Release Cage Kit for Nikon Z5IIC is the most comprehensive option. It offers a NATO rail, 1/4in-20 threaded holes, ARRI locating holes, a cold shoe, a QD socket and a wrist strap slot, so there’s plenty of room for a monitor, microphone or light.

SmallRig uses protective pads and a three-point locking structure to stop the cage twisting, and it can be fitted without removing the camera’s strap lugs. An Arca-Swiss plate is built into the base, so the camera can move straight from a DJI gimbal to an Arca-type tripod head and back again without swapping plates.

L-shaped grip

The L-shaped grip has Arca-Swiss plates on both the bottom and the side for fast switching between landscape and portrait orientation, something that’s increasingly useful for anyone shooting for social platforms. The side section has been designed so that it doesn’t block the vari-angle screen, and a hinged battery door means you can still reach the battery, controls and ports with the plate in place. There’s also a 1/4in-20 thread and a lanyard hole.

Baseplate

The Bottom Mount Plate for Nikon Z5IIC is the lightest of the three at 79.5g. It raises the height of the body by 13mm and follows the contour of the hand to give a fuller grip, while its aluminium alloy construction protects the base of the camera from scratches. It has an integrated Arca-Swiss plate, several 1/4in-20 mounting holes and a lanyard hole, and it comes in black or silver to match either version of the camera.

We think the baseplate will be the most popular choice for stills photographers, as the Z5IIC’s flat-topped design means a little extra grip goes a long way. For video, the cage makes the most sense.

SmallRig Nikon Z5IIC accessories specifications

HawkLock Quick Release Cage Kit: NATO rail, 1/4in-20 holes, ARRI locating holes, cold shoe, QD socket, wrist strap slot, integrated Arca-Swiss plate, three-point anti-twist locking
L-Shaped Grip: Arca-Swiss plates on base and side, 1/4in-20 thread, lanyard hole, hinged battery door, clearance for vari-angle screen
Bottom Mount Plate: 79.5g, aluminium alloy, raises body by 13mm, integrated Arca-Swiss plate, multiple 1/4in-20 holes, lanyard hole, black or silver

SmallRig Nikon Z5IIC accessories price and availability

The HawkLock Quick Release Cage Kit is listed at $59.99 and the Bottom Mount Plate at $29.99. Pricing for the L-shaped grip and UK prices have yet to be confirmed. All three are available through the SmallRig website.