Content creation is ever-evolving, and providing a platform for creators to express their ideas is important for unlocking unlimited possibilities. SmallRig has been at the forefront of empowering creators through the DreamRig program. Since the program launch in 2017, it has attracted 1325 DreamRiggers collaborating on 2788 creative projects, resulting in 40 outstanding DreamRig products that have provided photography accessories and equipment solutions to over 180,000 global users.

In 2023, as we reflect on the collaborative journey of DreamRig, we've garnered numerous invaluable design insights and brought forth many outstanding photography accessories. In acknowledgment of these achievements, we proudly organize the annual DreamRig Project Awards, aimed at celebrating the exceptional contributions of creators globally. Seven DreamRiggers were honored for their exceptional product designs that blend creativity with practicality. Let's take a closer look at these innovative, award-winning products.

SmallRig's DreamRig Program Annual Awards

• DreamRig 2023 Best Product Design: Cage for AirTag

Designed by DreamRigger Owen Hunte, the Cage for AirTag 4149 won the Best Product Design for DreamRig 2023. This intelligently designed cage provides secure protection and easy installation for Apple AirTags, allowing content creators to track their photography equipment effortlessly. Constructed from durable aluminum alloy with scratch-resistant padding, it securely holds the AirTag while maintaining the lightweight of camera equipment. The rotatable mounting point allows flexible and adjustable installation, making the cage compatible with various gear, camera cages, and stabilizers. With this SmallRig cage, creators can track their valuable items without adding bulk.

• DreamRig 2023 Best Product Design: Quick Release Mount Plate (Arca-Type Compatible) for AirTag

Designed by DreamRigger Peter Steeper, the Quick Release Mount Plate (Arca-Type Compatible) 4150 also received the DreamRig 2023 Best Product Design Award. As the name suggests, this mounting plate features an Arca-type quick-release design, perfectly concealing AirTags at the bottom of the camera while allowing connection to tripods. The quick-release function ensures a secure lock with a simple lever flip, enabling creators to attach AirTags and enhance gear organization seamlessly.

• DreamRig 2023 Best Product Design: SmallRig x Mikevisuals Extension Arm Tracking Shot Kit

Co-designed by Mikevisuals, the SmallRig x Mikevisuals Extension Arm Tracking Shot Kit 4362 also earned the DreamRig Best Product Design Award for the year. This kit provides content creators with a completely balanced extension arm solution for capturing smooth tracking shots. The devices at both ends can be adjusted and secured 360° freely, with two additional 11-inch rosette arms for added versatility. Moreover, this SmallRig magic arm can be shortened to 37cm when not in use, facilitating storage and portability. With an expansive range of 70-49cm extension, the kit meets the lens focal length requirements in different shooting scenarios, providing creators with a broader perspective for dynamic moving shots.

• DreamRig Outstanding DreamRigger: Adjustable EVF Mount with NATO Clamp

Last but not least, the Adjustable EVF Mount with NATO Clamp 3507, designed by DreamRigger Ian Roche, stood out for its multifunctionality. This mount integrates with most camera devices, securely holding displays, electronic viewfinders, or other accessories with an adjustable viewing angle. Notably, the mount utilizes widely compatible dual NATO clamps, enabling quick assembly and disassembly of the EVF mount and installation anywhere without NATO rails. The mount offers 360-degree adjustments through three pivot points, meeting diverse monitoring orientation needs. This robust and convenient mounting method gives creators greater flexibility and stability in various scenarios.

These award-winning products showcase how our DreamRig program is helping creators develop solutions that fully meet their needs through user-centered innovation. The DreamRig products offer thoughtful design, practical functionality, and convenience that enrich content creation.

Reflecting on SmallRig's Achievements in 2023

The end of the DreamRig Program Awards marks another fruitful year for SmallRig. In 2023, we made breakthrough progress in product innovation, community building, and social responsibility.

In product development, we continued to launch new camera accessories at an astonishing pace. In 2023, we introduced a total of 221 new camera accessories, providing solutions for up to 4 million content creators. Notably, this year, we secured a remarkable 58 design patents and 8 special breakthrough inventions. From stabilizers to lighting equipment, we have been expanding our product range to meet users' video needs while pushing the boundaries of advanced technology.

In community engagement, the DreamRig Program has 156 professional creators worldwide, bringing localized insights and fostering collaborative effects. We also conducted 67 offline events, spanning a distance of 11,684 kilometers, establishing meaningful connections globally.

Regarding social responsibility, we adopted 2.6 million eco-friendly kraft paper boxes to replace plastic packaging in support of low-carbon and sustainable packaging in 2023. In the future, we will continue this sustainable practice and strive to develop more environmentally friendly initiatives.

Looking Ahead to More Possibilities

The success of this year's DreamRig program highlights the power of co-creation and the heights we can reach by collaborating with creators worldwide. The DreamRig products with clever designs represent the new creative capabilities. 

As SmallRig continues to expand the DreamRig program, we look forward to more groundbreaking and innovative photography accessories in 2024, further providing diverse content creators with more creative and practical photography solutions. We encourage you to explore our products, interact with our creator in the SmallRig Facebook Community, and share your expectations, ideas, and suggestions for SmallRig. In 2024, let's witness the continuous development of camera accessories for the future of content creation.