Tripod

Vanguard

The History and Present of Vanguard — Where Is the Taiwan-Born, China-Raised Tripod Maker Now?

Vanguard started as a small OEM tripod factory in 1986 Taiwan. Today it spans 8 countries, makes its own tripods, camera bags, and sport optics in-house, and holds multiple TIPA awards. This 10-chapter deep dive covers Vanguard's founding, manufacturing, product lineup, and market position.

2026.03.12

Vanguard

Part 3: Reform, Opening Up, and OEM — How Tripod Factories Gathered in Guangdong (1978–1999)

With Reform and Opening Up and Special Economic Zones, an OEM/ODM tripod manufacturing cluster formed in Zhongshan, Guangdong. It explains skill accumulation through contract manufacturing for overseas brands such as Manfrotto and SLIK.

2026.03.06

History of technology

Part 1: The Arrival of Photography — When Cameras and Tripods Came to China (–1949)

Photography entered China alongside the opening of treaty ports after the Opium War. From the daguerreotype era to commercial studios, this chapter organizes the "industry zero" starting point when tripods were entirely imported.

2026.03.04

History of technology

SmallRig Cage Kit for Canon EOS R50V (5427): Hands-On Review and Power Setup Tips

A hands-on review of the SmallRig Cage Kit 5427 for the Canon EOS R50 V. I cover fit and handling, the Arca-Swiss compatible base, vertical mounting points, cable management, and practical rig expansion. Also included: external power setups using the Canon DR‑E18 DC coupler with NP‑F and V-mount batteries.

2026.01.30

SmallRig