6 Best Camera Tray Systems For Ergonomic Handling For Divers

Capturing stable, professional-grade underwater footage requires more than just a high-end camera; it demands a stable foundation to combat current and buoyancy. A well-designed tray system acts as the backbone of an underwater rig, transforming a shaky handheld device into a professional imaging platform. Investing in the right ergonomics now prevents the fatigue that often cuts a dive short.

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Backscatter Double Handle: Best Overall Tray

The Backscatter Double Handle stands out as the premier choice for divers seeking a balanced, rock-solid platform that fits nearly any housing. Its wide, adjustable base accommodates a massive range of camera footprints, making it the workhorse for those who switch between different setups. The handles are positioned perfectly to provide natural, ergonomic grip, which significantly reduces wrist strain during long sessions in the water.

This system is built with high-grade materials that resist the corrosive effects of constant saltwater exposure. It provides a stable, predictable foundation that prevents the “bobble” often seen with lighter, less rigid trays. For a photographer or videographer who values reliability over gimmicks, this tray is the definitive choice.

If your primary goal is steady, professional-grade output across various dive conditions, look no further. It is not the most lightweight option on the market, but its durability and handling comfort justify every extra ounce. Choose this if you need a “buy it once” solution that grows with your gear collection.

Nauticam Easitray II: Top Modular Extension

Nauticam’s Easitray II is the gold standard for divers who anticipate expanding their rig with external strobes or video lights over time. Its design philosophy centers on modularity, allowing for the easy attachment of various arm systems without requiring complex tools. The tray base is remarkably slim, ensuring it maintains a low profile even when fully loaded.

The primary advantage here is the seamless integration with other Nauticam accessories, creating a cohesive, professional ecosystem. Because the handles are height-adjustable, the system accommodates different hand sizes and glove thicknesses with ease. It manages the weight of heavy lighting setups exceptionally well, distributing the load across the palms rather than the wrists.

This system is ideal for intermediate to advanced shooters who value refinement and precision engineering. While the price point reflects its high build quality, the modularity ensures you won’t outgrow it as your lighting techniques evolve. It is an investment in long-term capability for any serious enthusiast.

SeaLife Flex-Connect: Easiest Grip Assembly

For the diver who prefers to spend more time shooting and less time tinkering with hex keys, the SeaLife Flex-Connect system is a revelation. Its “click-on” mechanism allows for rapid deployment of lights and trays without needing a dedicated toolbox on the dive boat. This user-friendly interface makes it the perfect entry point for those intimidated by complex underwater rigs.

The handles are cushioned and provide a natural, intuitive grip that feels secure even in gloves. The system is designed for flexibility, allowing components to bend and pivot to reach tight crevices or macro subjects. While it may not offer the extreme rigidity of a solid metal bolt-on system, its versatility is unmatched in recreational settings.

Consider this system if you are primarily a casual shooter or someone who frequently travels and needs to pack gear quickly. It removes the friction of gear assembly, letting you focus on the reef rather than your hardware. It is the most practical choice for those who prioritize convenience above all else.

Ultralight TR-DM Tray: Best for DSLR Setups

The Ultralight TR-DM tray is engineered specifically to handle the heft of full-sized DSLR housings and large glass ports. Constructed from machined aluminum, it is built to survive the rigors of boat travel and heavy-duty use. It provides the necessary stiffness to prevent flex, ensuring that heavy lighting arms remain exactly where they are positioned.

This system excels because of its uncompromising rigidity; when you lock your arms in place, they stay there. It is a no-frills, high-performance tool designed for professionals who cannot afford gear failure in the middle of a shoot. The weight, while significant, actually serves as an advantage by adding ballast to help stabilize the rig in surge or current.

If you are shooting a large-format housing, this tray is a non-negotiable upgrade. It is not intended for the casual GoPro user, but for the serious shooter, it offers peace of mind that lightweight plastic alternatives cannot match. Opt for this system if your rig is heavy, expensive, and demands maximum structural support.

Kraken Sports TR08: Best Adjustable System

The Kraken Sports TR08 is a masterclass in adaptability, featuring a tray width that can be adjusted on the fly to fit various camera housings. This makes it an excellent choice for divers who share equipment or own multiple cameras of different sizes. Its aluminum construction is both durable and impressively lightweight, minimizing the physical burden during long dives.

What makes the TR08 shine is the inclusion of built-in focus light mounts and multiple points for attachment, giving you plenty of creative freedom. The handles are comfortable, even for extended use, and the overall balance of the tray feels remarkably natural in the hand. It strikes a rare balance between heavy-duty performance and user-friendly adjustments.

This system is recommended for the versatile photographer who needs one tray to do it all. It is highly efficient for travel and provides enough mounting points to keep even complex rigs tidy. Choose the Kraken TR08 if you value a balance between customization and portability.

Ikelite Steady Action Tray: Best for GoPros

The Ikelite Steady Action Tray is the premier choice for action camera enthusiasts who need a stable base that doesn’t overwhelm a compact device. It is compact, lightweight, and specifically designed to provide a better grip for small cameras that are otherwise difficult to hold steady. The base acts as a solid anchor, making it significantly easier to track moving subjects like turtles or schools of fish.

Despite its small footprint, it provides ample space to mount small video lights, which is essential for restoring color at depth. It simplifies the handling process by giving you two points of contact instead of relying on the awkward, tiny body of an action cam. It’s an essential upgrade that instantly makes your footage look more polished and intentional.

This tray is specifically for the diver who wants to improve their action cam results without building a massive, heavy rig. It is affordable, durable, and highly functional for its intended use. If your gear bag is centered on compact action cameras, this is the most logical and effective addition you can make.

How to Balance Your Camera Tray Underwater

Achieving neutral buoyancy for your rig is the secret to flicker-free video and sharp macro photography. If your rig is too heavy, your wrists will tire within minutes; if it is too buoyant, fighting to keep it submerged will result in erratic, shaky movement. Use buoyancy arms—hollow sections that offset the weight of your lights—to fine-tune the system until it hovers effortlessly.

• Test on the surface: Hold the rig by the handle and see if it sinks or floats aggressively.
• Small adjustments: Use small lead weights or buoyancy floats on your arms to achieve a “slightly negative” bias.
• Fine-tune in shallow water: Spend the first five minutes of your dive adjusting your arm angles to confirm the rig stays level.

A perfectly balanced rig should feel weightless in the water, allowing you to manipulate the camera with only a fingertip. When the rig is neutral, you can hold it with a light touch, which reduces the transmission of hand tremors to the lens. This small investment of time before the dive pays off in vastly improved footage.

Choosing the Right Arms and Clamps for Gear

Arms and clamps are the connective tissue of your tray system, and choosing the wrong ones will leave you frustrated. Ball-and-socket arms offer the most versatility, allowing for infinite positioning of your strobes or lights. Clamps are the link; prioritize high-quality, corrosion-resistant clamps with an easy-to-grip tension knob for quick adjustments.

When selecting arms, consider the length and weight. Shorter arms are stiffer and easier to handle for macro subjects, while longer arms are necessary for wide-angle shooting to prevent backscatter from side-lighting. Always ensure your clamps are compatible with the diameter of your arm balls to avoid slippage at depth.

Investing in a few high-quality clamps is better than buying many cheap ones. Poor-quality clamps often lock up or fail, which can lead to lights drooping or even breaking off. Stick to reputable brands that specialize in underwater imaging gear to ensure your expensive lights stay securely attached.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Saltwater Damage

Saltwater is an unforgiving environment that will seize up even the finest equipment if left neglected. After every dive, soak your tray, handles, and arm joints in fresh, warm water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This process leaches out salt crystals that settle deep within the threads and pivots where rinsing alone cannot reach.

• Move all parts: While the rig is soaking, articulate every ball joint and move every clamp to ensure fresh water circulates through the entire mechanism.
• Dry completely: Use a clean, lint-free cloth to dry your gear before storing it.
• Lubrication: Occasionally apply a tiny amount of silicone grease to your o-rings or joints to keep them moving smoothly and preventing oxidation.

Never force a seized clamp or joint; doing so will likely strip the threads or snap a component. If a joint becomes stuck, soak it longer and gently wiggle it to break up the salt buildup. Proper care ensures your tray system remains a reliable asset for years, regardless of how many miles you log.

Attaching Lanyards for Secure Dive Handling

Losing an expensive camera rig is a nightmare scenario for any diver, which is why a secure lanyard system is mandatory. A coiled lanyard that attaches from the tray to your BCD (Buoyancy Control Device) ensures your gear remains within reach even if you need to let go to perform a task. Ensure the clip is large enough to operate with gloved hands but secure enough to prevent accidental detachment.

Avoid using thin cords that could tangle in your regulator or mask straps. Use quick-release buckles if you frequently pass your camera to a buddy or want to set it on the sand for a moment. Positioning the lanyard attachment point so the rig hangs at your side prevents it from dragging on the reef during descents.

Safety should always dictate your gear setup. A well-placed lanyard prevents the panic of watching your camera drift away into the blue and keeps your hands free during critical moments. When configured correctly, a lanyard becomes an invisible, reassuring safety net that allows you to focus entirely on the subject in front of the lens.

Whether you are capturing macro shots on a shallow reef or filming pelagic action in the blue, a proper tray system is the most significant upgrade you can make for your underwater imaging. By prioritizing stability, maintenance, and ergonomic handling, you set yourself up for better results and more comfortable dives. Grab your gear, head to the water, and start documenting the beauty beneath the surface.