1st monopod experience

[aam1234]

Just tried a monopod today for the 1st time. Boy oh boy, what a great little gadget. What makes it very useful is the tilt/pan head with QR (quick release). Also, having the auto type makes it even better.

Made many 1/8 and 1/10 photos, haven't seen them yet, but it wouldn't be surprising if they came out hand shake free.

I'll wait to see the photos before recommending that combo.

[CyberDyneSystems]

I can't live without my Monopod! :mrgreen:

[aam1234]

If I'm not mistaken, I bought the same combo as yours. I actually bought them upon your recommendation.

Many thanks for your advice.

[CyberDyneSystems]

Glad it all worked out..

..yes,. that is a good combo.. very quick to adjust and use. :)

[Jmurman]

I can't live without my Monopod! :mrgreen:

what monopod do you use?

[CyberDyneSystems]

I think we are both using the Manfrotto/Bogen 3245

http://www.bogenimaging.us/product/templates/templates.php3?sectionid=14&itemid=299

With the 3229 tilting head

http://www.bogenimaging.us/fileindexednew/module2/item/file0000960.gif

[aam1234]

And if I may add, I've been using some cheap tripods for a while. Let me assure you, you can tell a good quality mono/tripod if you see one.

I mean, the quality between the cheapos and good ones is easily noticeable.

[Scottes]

The 3245 simply rocks. I love it - especially since I found the tension screw.
:D

I *do* need to get a tilt-swivel head though. My 2.5 lb ballhead isn't optimal.

[Conk]

I think we are both using the Manfrotto/Bogen 3245

http://www.bogenimaging.us/product/templates/templates.php3?sectionid=14&itemid=299

With the 3229 tilting head

http://www.bogenimaging.us/fileindexednew/module2/item/file0000960.gif

I use the exact same head with this monopd. I love it. http://www.bogenimaging.us/product/templates/templates.php3?sectionid=14&itemid=1809

[neo_xeno]

well after hearing about and seeing the 3245 and the 3229 head, i went ahead and ordered them. i have never used a monopod before but sounds like it's alot easier and quicker to set up then a tripod.

[jonnyhorizon]

need a monopod that doubles as a walking stick
seen any?
...

[Jon]

need a monopod that doubles as a walking stick
seen any?
...

Some of the Leki trekking sticks (and others, as well) come with 1/4-20 threaded screws. Galen Rowell used to use a cradle of 2 ski poles when travelling light; you could try that as well. If you want a regular monopod, which you will also use as a walking stick (reversing the priorities above), get the monopod that suits you and glue some ensolite/leather/rubber around the top of the shaft for a grip. But you'll sacrifice shock-absorbency and the leg locks may not hold up as well as hiking staff leg clamps will under the load of you bearing down on it.

[slejhamer]

What are the advantages of the swivel/tilt head? Doesn't it limit you to holding the monopod completely vertical when the camera is in "portrait" position? My recollection is that that is the least stable position for the monopod...

[cmM]

http://www.bogenimaging.us/fileindexednew/module2/item/file0000960.gif

I use the exact same head with this monopd. I love it. http://www.bogenimaging.us/product/templates/templates.php3?sectionid=14&itemid=1809

Me too :wink:
Well almost. I use the same head, but the leg is 681B.

[CyberDyneSystems]

What are the advantages of the swivel/tilt head? Doesn't it limit you to holding the monopod completely vertical when the camera is in "portrait" position? My recollection is that that is the least stable position for the monopod...


I only use a 'pod with a slightly larger lens.. one that has a tripod collar.. thus I use the collar to rotate to portrait when needed...

You are correct though.. this head does not allow a "portrait" tilt... it only tilits the lens up and down.. which in 99.999% of the time is the only motion one needs on a monopod as the pod itself turns to allow panning.

[CyberDyneSystems]

need a monopod that doubles as a walking stick
seen any?
...

Any sturdy 'pod will double as a walking stick.

But Leica used to make a snazzy one with a spiked end etc... that eally looked the part. Check "Henry's" in Toronto.. (on line too) they used to sell this monopod/walking stick.

[slejhamer]

I only use a 'pod with a slightly larger lens.. one that has a tripod collar.. thus I use the collar to rotate to portrait when needed...



Gotcha, thanks Jake. That makes sense. I was thinking about investing in the 70-200 f4's collar, but that wouldn't help with my other collarless lenses. I guess I will stick with the ball head. 8)

[jylitalo]

need a monopod that doubles as a walking stick
seen any?
...

Leki was already mentioned, but Komperdell Guide (Antishock trekking pole) also has proper screw for camera mounting. Only downside is that once you unscrew the normal top, you will also lose hand strap.

- Juha