Today, there are mounting systems to place video cameras virtually anywhere. From helmets to cars, motorcycles, boats, helicopters and even broomsticks, there are specialty mounts for camera bodies. Then there are mounts to attach accessories, such as hard disk recorders, batteries and lights, to the camera itself. The choices, and companies making them, are enormous.

Element Technica (www.elementtechnica.com) recently introduced V-DOCK, a new professional mounting system designed to replace the messy and insecure practice of using Velcro-type material or gaffer tape to attach accessories such as batteries or hard disk recorders to the camera platform.

Compact and user-friendly, this precision mechanical device includes a main assembly featuring a female V-Lock interface and a spring-loaded split clamp. A separate male V-LOCK attaches to accessories to allow fast mounting.

The V-DOCK main assembly anchors securely anywhere on a single 15mm or 19mm iris rod. Once in place, it’s a simple matter to add any item equipped with the male V-LOCK. Removal of accessories takes only seconds. Prices start at $250.

Delkin (www.delkin.com) recently introduced the Fat Gecko camera mount, a dual suction cup assembly that allows the mounting of cameras to moving vehicles. There are three attachment options: a suction cup mount, clamp-style handlebar mount and crossbar bicycle mount.

The suction cup allows cameras to be secured to motorcycles, cars, trucks, airplanes, or any other smooth surface. The suction cups are so strong they can hold a eight-pound camera and the double knuckle design and two-inch extension tube allow for a 360 degree tilt, turn and rotation for the best shooting angles.

The 1/4 x 20 tripod mounting screw means users can use virtually any video or digital still camera on the market. With the handlebar mount, one can attach the Fat Gecko to standard 1-1/4 inch handlebars on motorcycles, ATVs, go-carts and more. The cost is $89.99.

Hague Camera Supports (www.b-hague.co.uk) offers a wide range of camera mounting gear for attachment to about anything, including broomsticks and trees. One model is the 100mm bowl mount, which attaches to any horizontal pole, roll bar, scaffolding, ladder run, or table edge. It is held in position by two superclamps, the jaws of the clamps will attach to a pipe or tube between 12 to 55 mm in diameter or to a table or beam with a maximum width of 25 mm.

The 100mm bowl gives a rigid platform onto which you can attach a video head or leveling system. It’s ideal for use in locations where it is impossible to use a tripod, such as stepladders to get that high shot or on railings or scaffolding. Price is about $107.