Looking for a monopod....

[rc13k]

I recently got a job and I am looking for a monopod. What would you recommend?

These are some things I'm looking for:

Around the same height as me. I'm 5'6"
Easily take the camera off the monopod within seconds
Easily switch from landscape to portrait orientation
Less than a foot and a half closedSo what are my options? All comments are well appreciated.

[beepclick]

I picked up the Manfrotto 680B monopod with the 234RC-3229 head recently. I haven't used it much yet, but the person at the local camera store put a body on it and showed my how easy it was to switch orientation portrait/landscape. It has the quick release plate, and uses the same plates as some of the popular Manfrotto tripod heads, like the 488RC2.

I paid around $100 for my setup, and I'm sure it's much cheaper at Adorama/Amazon, etc.

If it's an option, go to your local dealer and try out different setups.

[JohnJ80]

I recently got a job and I am looking for a monopod. What would you recommend?

These are some things I'm looking for:

Around the same height as me. I'm 5'6"
Easily take the camera off the monopod within seconds
Easily switch from landscape to portrait orientationSo what are my options? All comments are well appreciated.

pretty much any monopod is going to work well for you given your height. it for for taller than 6' that choices get narrow fast.

To do what you want to do with quick release, you should look at one of the Really RIght Stuff clamps and then get an L bracket for your camera.

What doesn't work well it so use something like the bottom side only plates like the Manfrotto RC2 choices and then flop it over with a ballhead or something like a 3232. It is awkward and not as stable. The Arca Swiss plate system is the way to go and it will work great for you with an L plate.

J

[rc13k]

Any monopod eh? So what's my cheapest option?

[JohnJ80]

Any monopod eh? So what's my cheapest option?

a little general, it seems.

The 680B is ok, but it is heavy. The Gitzo 2540 is very light and very stable but it is not cheap.

Personally, I have the Gitzo and think it is terrific. On top of that, I don't like flip locks - but that is a personal preference.

J.

[DDCSD]

What body/lens will it be for?

This is the one I have. I really like it.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/353310-REG/Bogen_Manfrotto__679B_Monopod_Black_with.html

[rc13k]

Oh yea I forgot to mention if it was possible to have it less than a foot + 1/2 closed. The body I'd say is a 40d and 70-200 f/4 L IS just in case I end up upgrading later on.

[DDCSD]

Bogen 676 is cheap and just over 18" tall.

[condyk]

I just picked up a Slik Pro 600 and very impressed. Normally anything with 'pro' in its name sucks, but this very strong, great build quality, close's small, has decent flip clips for speed and is light in weight. I got it mainly for travel. It's cheap for waht you get.

[Ralph Merlino]

I have been using a Gitzo Studex for many years. I use it for
sports with 500mm and 600mm lenses. No trouble very fine
piece.