Manfrotto MH057A5-LONG Ball Head with 501PL Quick Release Plate, Magnesium, 15kg Load

For photographers and videographers who demand rock-solid stability without sacrificing smooth, precise control, the Manfrotto MH057A5-LONG ball head delivers professional-grade performance in a lightweight magnesium body. Its large 50mm ball and independent pan and friction locks allow you to frame and follow subjects effortlessly, while the included 501PL quick release plate ensures fast camera changes and secure mounting. Whether you're shooting wildlife, sports, or studio portraits, this head keeps your gear steady and your workflow fluid.

Who is it for

The MH057A5-LONG is built for serious enthusiasts and professionals using medium-format, DSLR, or mirrorless cameras with long telephoto lenses. It's ideal for birding, sports, and any scenario where you need to support heavy equipment up to 15 kg while maintaining quick, intuitive adjustments. Videographers will appreciate the smooth panning and tilt control, while stills shooters benefit from the precise ball movement and dual spirit levels for perfect horizon alignment.

Main features

• Magnesium construction: extremely lightweight yet durable, reducing fatigue during long shoots.
• Large 50mm ball: provides smooth, fluid movement and excellent locking power for heavy loads.
• Independent pan lock: enables 360° panoramic rotation without disturbing the ball position.
• Friction control: fine-tune the resistance of the ball movement to match your gear's weight.
• 501PL quick release plate: compatible with Manfrotto's standard Q5 system, allowing fast camera attachment and removal.
• Dual spirit levels: one for horizontal and one for vertical orientation, ensuring accurate framing.
• Wide tilt range: -90° to +30° front and lateral tilt for versatile shooting angles.
• Universal top attachment: 1/4" screw with 3/8" adapter included, fitting virtually any camera or lens foot.

Specifications

• Head type: Ball head
• Material: Magnesium
• Load capacity: 15 kg (33.1 lbs)
• Ball diameter: 50 mm
• Quick release plate: 501PL (Q5 system)
• Friction control: Yes
• Independent pan lock: Yes
• Independent ball lock: Yes
• Spirit levels: 2
• Front tilt range: -90° / +30°
• Lateral tilt range: -90° / +30°
• Panoramic rotation: 360°
• Top attachment: 1/4" screw, 3/8" screw (with adapter)
• Base attachment: 3/8" thread
• Working height: 14.5 cm
• Base diameter: 60 mm
• Colour: Black
• Quick release: Yes

Tips

To get the most from your MH057A5-LONG, balance your camera and lens on the head before locking the ball. Use the friction control to set a resistance that allows smooth movement but holds position when you let go. When panning for video, unlock only the pan lock and keep the ball lock tight to maintain a level horizon. Always ensure the quick release plate is securely fastened to your camera and fully seated in the clamp before releasing your grip. For heavy telephoto lenses, consider using the 3/8" adapter on the lens foot for extra stability.