Do u need a monopod?

[dng]

Just wondering I am going to a couple races this year, Formula 1 and indy. I really want to take some pics, but i was wondering if a monopod was really necessary?

[Littlenose]

dng, i took my monopod with me to Brands last weekend... it was the first time i'd used it and it made a world of difference... the camera shake effect is reduced enormously.

[fslshooter]

Sports shooters use a monopod when they find the camera with lens too heavy to hold steady. So it depends on your strength, the weight of the equipment and how long you'll be shooting with it. I normally don't use a monopod with a lens up to 200 mm; however, sometimes I use a monopod on a 70-200 when I know it will be a long session. I wouldn't dream of attempting to hand hold anything bigger than a 200mm f/2.8 for even a single shot. Yesterday I saw a fan at the ballpark taking pics with a P&S that would have fit in his shirt pocket --- and the camera was on a monopod. It looked rather strange ;) .

[RichardtheSane]

Also if you are using long focal lenghs, slower shutter speed and panning a monopod can help your technique

[Todd Jacobsen]

How often are heads put on monopods? I currently use mine with just a QR attached.

[cmM]

I use a monopod at times. It comes in handy when you are affraid of camera shake. A poor man's IS

[dng]

hmmmm well im going to be using a 70-200 f/2.8l is lens, should i still get a monopod or is the is good enough? Also what would be a good monopod to get?

[Conk]

hmmmm well im going to be using a 70-200 f/2.8l is lens, should i still get a monopod or is the is good enough? Also what would be a good monopod to get?

You can't lose using a monopod. You will get better shots. There are many to choose from. It's all in how much you want to spend. Manfrotto have good ones starting from $54.00 http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=search&Q=&ci=397

[Todd Jacobsen]

hmmmm well im going to be using a 70-200 f/2.8l is lens, should i still get a monopod or is the is good enough? Also what would be a good monopod to get?

Let's see how tired your wrists/arms get holding up that lens. If they get worn out, it be time for a monopod.

[stormywhether]

here's a poser: what are the advantages to using a monopod over a lightweight tripod?

I'm assuming there are times when carrying a tripod is uncomfortable, or at certain events where a tripod might be barred from entry.... any other reasons?

[rfreschner]

Sitting in the stands at a ballgame comes to mind.

[MarkoPolo]

Look at the Velbon Neo-pod 6. Very good carbon fiber for $109 at B & H.

[Citizensmith]

I use a monopod at times. It comes in handy when you are affraid of camera shake. A poor man's IS

Absolutely. Poor man's IS is what they are.
I'll use one when I'm hiking a long way and can't be bothered to carry a tripod. A lot better than nothing.

[stormywhether]

Sitting in the stands at a ballgame comes to mind.
whole new thread this, I suppose, but do they allow you entry to major league ties carrying a monopod and camera?

Here in the UK you'd probably get locked up for carrying even a P&S into a soccer match!