Correct monopod usage

[Kelv2888]

I've searched the forums here and the net and haven't really found a article on how to correctly use a monopod in different situations and positions.
Does anyone have any tips or advice in using one?
I am buying one this weekened and I'm just wondering if its pretty much straight forward operation or there are correct and incorrect ways of using one.
Thank you

[CoolToolGuy]

There is the 'no head' camp and the 'with head' camp. I fall into the latter. I use a ball head. It works well for me, and I pan with it with the ball under light tension.

One non-traditional use for me is theater work. I have sat in the pit to shoot plays. I sit in a seat and run the monopod leg from my chest to the floor and prop the end with my foot.

Other than that, it is a one-point camera support.

Have Fun,

[Kelv2888]

Thanks!
Ill probaly get the ball head too

[lostdoggy]

I purchase my Manfrotto w/o a head because it can accommondate either 3/8 or 1/4 fitting. So if you are looking for a monopod that is something you should look for otherwise you will be limited to what head you can buy. Recently I added a grip action manfrotto ball head, thou it is a little heavy on the monopod it makes positioning the camera quick and simple. Just squeeze the trigger and turn the head to the position you want. I also use the monopod sort of like a walking stick since I've injuried my knee. The main reason why I use a Monopod is because it is easier to setup then a tripod and it also takes the strain of my neck carring the camera. Most of all it help stabalize the camera when I need to frame a shot.

[Kelv2888]

which model did you get?
Wait all week to shoot and it rains!:oops:

Thanks for the reply

I purchase my Manfrotto w/o a head because it can accommondate either 3/8 or 1/4 fitting. So if you are looking for a monopod that is something you should look for otherwise you will be limited to what head you can buy. Recently I added a grip action manfrotto ball head, thou it is a little heavy on the monopod it makes positioning the camera quick and simple. Just squeeze the trigger and turn the head to the position you want. I also use the monopod sort of like a walking stick since I've injuried my knee. The main reason why I use a Monopod is because it is easier to setup then a tripod and it also takes the strain of my neck carring the camera. Most of all it help stabalize the camera when I need to frame a shot.

[tim]

I got the manfrotto monopod with the simple head, it just moves the camera from landscape to portrait, and that's all I need it to do. I have a ball head on a tripod that'd probably fit, but I have no desire to put it on the monopod.

[lostdoggy]

Manfrotto 679 chrome finish with Grip Action Ball head 3265
I pick this setup because I needed a cane substitute for my knee. Iplan to get a lighter head like manfrotto mini 484 RC2 which weights a little over 1/2lb. The new combo will weight about 2lb.
The 3245 by Manfrotto is a nice POD too but the release grip would be a problem for me.
IMHO get something light but strong enough to support the equipment you plan to attach to it.

[BobL]

I've searched the forums here and the net and haven't really found a article on how to correctly use a monopod in different situations and positions.
Does anyone have any tips or advice in using one?
I am buying one this weekened and I'm just wondering if its pretty much straight forward operation or there are correct and incorrect ways of using one.
Thank you

The monopod can be thought of as a device that substantially reduces vertical movement and minimizes high frequency vibration (camera shake). Rotation about the principal lens axis, and the axis between your hands is also converted into much lower (controllable) frequency rotation about the tip of the pod. To minimize sideways (left and right) and backward-forward motion you can make the remaining 2 legs of the tripod out of your own legs, so just like one uses a normal camera, stand with your legs slightly apart and drop your arms and elbows.

My cousin uses a mono as a simple steady cam with a small video camera for indoor/ ambient light work and doesn't always bother with it touching the ground/floor. He has attached an external battery as a counterweight about 150 mm from the tip of the pod. The sheer inertia of the weighted pod makes for some very smooth filming. I have though of using a mono in this way with a still camera but first I have to get me one - a mono that is.

[TomPierce]

http://www.outdooreyes.com/photo5.php3

http://www.nicholsonprints.com/Articles/monopods.htm

The key to using a monopod is to use your own two legs together with the monopod to create a tripod. Rather than trying to hold the monopod perfectly vertical, place your legs slightly apart and lean the monopod towards you. Adjust the monopod head to give you the correct angle.

[mrcoons]

Another way to use a monopod when seated is to hook the bottom of the monopod in your belt. I use my monopod for video as well as with my XT. Works great when you don't have time or the room for a tripod.

[2goldens]

Some great information. My next purchase will be a monopod. I like to walk around and take pictures.

[Kelv2888]

Wow, many thanks for all the wonderful info and links provided!
Does anyone remember reading any articles on monopods from pop photo or any other mag?

[Kelv2888]

http://www.outdooreyes.com/photo5.php3

http://www.nicholsonprints.com/Articles/monopods.htm

The key to using a monopod is to use your own two legs together with the monopod to create a tripod. Rather than trying to hold the monopod perfectly vertical, place your legs slightly apart and lean the monopod towards you. Adjust the monopod head to give you the correct angle.
Thanks! Great info!

[boBquincy]

A good monopod for field use can be made from aluminum tent poles. Just have your local camping supply store put together five or six pole segments cut to stack up to a few inches below your eye height. The weight is about 3 ounces and the stiffness is plenty for dSLR use.
I used to use a 1-4/20 nylon screw on mine but now just top it with a rubber eraser. For seated use you can fold up a couple segments.

boB