I just went through this exact same panic when I started out because I was so worried about my camera getting scratched or the cables getting yanked! I ended up getting the SmallRig Sigma fp Cage CCP2518 and it is seriously amazing for the price. It has a tiny footprint but feels like a tank, which is perfect for your Chicago shoot! The best part is it definitely does not block the battery door at all. I use a dummy battery all the time for long studio sessions and it works like a charm. For the SSD thing, I was super paranoid about the USB-C port breaking so I added the SmallRig Samsung T5 SSD Mount 2245B and it has this little clamp that holds the cable tight. It makes me feel way safer! I know some people love the 8Sinn Sigma fp Cage for the heat vents but honestly the SmallRig one dissipates heat pretty well too. If you are worried about cable strain specifically, the Tilta Sigma fp Full Camera Cage TA-T02-FCC-G is also fantastic because their SSD holder is really integrated. Just make sure you get the one with the HDMI/USB clamp included! You are gonna love how it feels once it is all rigged up, it totally transforms the camera from a tiny soap bar into a real beast! Good luck with the doc!

I disagree slightly on the SmallRig... I have been much more satisfied using the 8Sinn Sigma fp Cage Aluminum CNC for pro sets. It offers better cooling and doesnt block the dummy battery door.

• 8Sinn: Best clearance for cables.
• Nitze Sigma fp Cage TP-FP with Cold Shoe: Very rigid for heavier cine glass. The 8Sinn cable clamp is way more reliable for SSDs than the cheap ones tho.

Solid advice 👍