The only SMT device I've had to solder (so far!) is the OPA164* op-amps, which I use for my OPIC mics..... I find a tiny blob of 'Blu tack' ( I believe it's called 'poster putty' in the US ?) on the underside in the centre of the device holds it in place so that the pins can be easily lined up.
Then manually soldered with thin solder and a sharp tip.... Seems to work fine.....
