Question Corner: My Tripod Covers The Camera USB Port – How Can I Plug It In Without Removing It Every Time?

Q: My older tripod blocks my new camera’s USB port on the bottom – can I plug it into my passport printer without removing it from the tripod every time?

A: On the new Fujifilm JX580 cameras that we include with our digital passport systems, Fuji has placed the USB port that connects to the printer on the bottom of the camera. While the tripod mount screw is off to one side of the camera, the port is still blocked on some older tripods like those from Sony Passport Systems.

To add clearance and raise your camera of the surface of the tripod, we recommend the Professional Mini Ball Head Camera Mount. This compact riser adapter screws onto your tripod’s head plate (where the camera normally attaches) then your camera attaches to the Mini Ball Head – essentially giving your camera enough clearance to plug in the USB cable. This is a simple, inexpensive, one-time install that frees up your camera’s bottom port and you will never have to remove it from the tripod ever again.

Do you have any tips or accessories you use to make your passport picture taking easier? Please share them in the comments below.