Monopod or not

[22littlereasons]

OK sports shooters... who uses a monopod and who doesn't? Anyone have strong feelings about it one way or another? I'm having pretty good success without one, but I'm wondering if it will make that much of a difference focus wise.

[Cadwell]

I use one a lot, but then you couldn't really hand hold my primary lenses for long anyway. Too heavy. Plus, of course, I need a relatively slow shutter speed - certainly less than 1/focal length - so a monopod helps me with that.

[grego]

Use one. You can get a really good one for about 50 dollars. One reason, is to help balance the weight, especially if you are photographing an event for an hour or so. You always want to be ready for "the moment." Since most sports has a lot of motion in it, it's always good to have it. Heck, I learn on it when I'm not taking photos. :)

It's very useful when following subjects like in soccer for instance. You just turn it and still have a good steady hold so your framing will be easier to do for the subject.

If you are having success without one, you'd probably have even more with one. Atleast, from my experiences, its much easier and nicer on the arms after an hour or so use.

[lostdoggy]

Monopod with quick release while on the move. Its a quick way to get a steady shot and something to lean on while waiting for the shot. Why carry the equipment when you can just let stand on one leg.

[grego]

Monopod with quick release while on the move. Its a quick way to get a steady shot and something to lean on while waiting for the shot. Why carry the equipment when you can just let stand on one leg.

So I'm not alone when leaning on the monopod and camera. Success! :)

[22littlereasons]

Maybe I should've talked about my gear a little. My biggest lens set up is a 70-200, with a 1.4 extender. I've never really experienced fatigue problems just quite yet. Is my lens too small (weight-wise) to be concerned about a monopod?

[grego]

Maybe I should've talked about my gear a little. My biggest lens set up is a 70-200, with a 1.4 extender. I've never really experienced fatigue problems just quite yet. Is my lens too small (weight-wise) to be concerned about a monopod?

I guess it depends what 70-200 you have. If you are using Canon's 70-200 f/2.8L IS, you do want to have the monopod, that's for sure.

But even without thinking about the weight, it's easier to keep a balanced frame and have more control over your photos with the monopod. I can't think of a reason why I wouldn't use the monopod for most sports.

[lostdoggy]

With a monopod it is so much easier to hold the camera. More worries about bracing your elbows to chest to keep steady. Always ready when the moment comes. Just place camera to eye and shoot. Leaving lefthand for framing with zoom.

Also makes for a nice walking stick and a baton when the other moment comes.

[Rob612]

So I'm not alone when leaning on the monopod and camera. Success! :)

No, you're not alone. I always have the whole setup out of my hands (and with the neck strap on!!!) if I am not shooting :)

[Actionphotog]

The monopod is great for all my action shots and when I'm outside shooting, I do keep and tripod in the car at all times...just in case.

[Danny Boy]

I am always using a monopod when shooting my kids sports. For soccer I have the 100-400mm and it would be too much by the end of the game. Even when using the 70-200mm f/4 for softball, I use it as the game goes two hours and keeps me from shaking.