The Evolution of Platypod

From Flat Plate to Photo Powerhouse. 

If you’ve spent any time in the photography world over the past few years, you’ve probably heard the name Platypod tossed around in conversations about travel gear, tripod alternatives, or clever tools for tight spaces. What started as a quirky, flat tripod base has evolved into something much bigger — a full ecosystem of smart tools that help photographers stay light, creative, and nimble in the field. I’ve been using Platypod gear for years, and watching its evolution has been pretty fascinating.

Let’s rewind to the beginning.

The Humble Beginnings

Platypod was born from necessity — the brainchild of Dr. Larry Tiefenbrunn, a radiologist and passionate photographer who needed a compact and stable platform for his camera while traveling. Traditional tripods were too bulky for airline travel, especially with strict carry-on rules. Enter the first Platypod: a simple, lightweight metal plate with threaded holes and non-slip feet that could support a DSLR in places where tripods just couldn’t go.

It didn’t take long for photographers to catch on. Here was a tool that could be strapped to a rock, set on a table, or mounted to just about anything — giving you rock-solid support without the fuss. And perhaps most importantly, it didn’t look like a tripod, which meant no hassles in tripod-restricted areas like museums or crowded tourist spots.

Innovation Through Listening

What I admire most about Platypod is that its development didn’t happen in a vacuum. The company has been incredibly responsive to photographers’ needs, listening to feedback and building out the product line with smart, practical updates.

The original Platypod Pro was followed by the Max, a larger version designed for heavier camera setups. Then came the Ultra, a more compact option that slid into a back pocket or fit easily in a sling bag — perfect for mirrorless shooters and smartphone photographers alike. Now we're on the Delta, reverting back to the idea of three-legs like a tripod allong with the strength and versatility of a Platypod. 

Along the way, we've introduced a range of accessories that turned Platypod from a one-trick pony into a versatile rigging solution:

• The Multi Accessory Kit: With spikes, straps, and adapters, you could now secure a Platypod to almost anything.

• Goosenecks and Flex Arms: Great for holding lights, microphones, or action cams in tight spaces.

• The Elbow: An articulating arm that added even more flexibility to light placement.

Enter the Platypod Ecosystem

The game-changer came with the development of the Platypod Handle — a modular grip and support system that opened up even more possibilities. Combine that with the Platypod Disc (for even more mounting options) and suddenly we weren’t just talking about an alternative to a tripod anymore… we were talking about a creative rigging platform.

You could build a lighting rig, hold an LED panel, position a mic for video work, or even mount your phone for vlogging — all using the same lightweight gear you’d already packed.

The Platyball Revolution

In a bold move that expanded the brand beyond flat supports, Platypod introduced the Platyball — a completely reimagined ball head. Instead of using a side knob or lever like traditional ball heads, the Platyball uses a pistol-style grip with a button lock-and-release system, making one-handed adjustments easy and intuitive. It also mounts upside-down compared to standard heads, putting the leveling base on top. This design is genius when you're shooting panoramas or trying to stay level on uneven ground. With built-in bubble levels and an optional electronic leveling system in the Elite model, Platyball showed that Platypod wasn’t just solving problems — they were redefining how we think about support gear altogether.

The Platypod Community: A Movement

One of the coolest things about Platypod’s evolution has been the community that’s grown with it. From landscape photographers to studio pros to YouTube content creators, people are constantly finding new and creative ways to use Platypod gear. Social media is full of behind-the-scenes shots showing Platypods supporting lights in stairwells, cameras on roller coasters, or audio gear in tight studio corners.

Platypod didn’t just give us new gear — it gave us new ideas.

Looking Ahead

It’s clear that Platypod isn’t slowing down. As the gear continues to evolve, so does the vision: it's no longer just about holding a camera still — it's about empowering photographers to build smart, modular setups wherever they go. Whether you're shooting stills, video, time-lapse, or content for social, Platypod has a role to play.

As someone who values gear that actually helps me make better images, I can say this: Platypod may have started as a flat piece of metal, but it’s become one of the most dynamic tools in my bag.

Here’s to the clever little plate that dared to do more.