Monopod

[Flytyer]

I have never owned a Monopod and know nothing about them. What I would like to know is. Is it necessary to use a head on one or does the top screw into the camera socket. I am referring to one like the Manfrotto 680B. TIA jb

[lannes]

You can just screw the camera onto the monopod without a head, makes taking a supported portrait shot difficult though.

[RPCrowe]

The monopod screw will screw directly into the tripod socket of your camera. Most monopod screws are convertible from 3/8" to 1/4" size.

However, I prefer using a swivel head. I like having my monopod perpindicular to the ground directly under the camera. I get better support this way, A swivel will allow me to tilt the camera up or down without having the pod at other than a 90 degree angle to the ground.

IMO, the ultimate attaching system for a monopod or tripod is a swivel with an Arca Compatible quick release clamp with an L-bracket. This will allow you to hold the camera in either portrait or landscpe position without haveing it hanging cantilevered over the side.

[RayHff]

Worth a look:

http://www.nikonians.org/monopods/what_monopod_3.html

[Flytyer]

Yes that is worth a look. Thank you very much. jb

[Lowner]

I use a cheap(ish) ballhead, because I find it easier to put the monopod base between or even behind my feet. Using it this way makes it easier to pan with a moving subject but forces me to use a swivel of some kind.

The head does not need to be expensive, mines an old Manfrotto 486 that I had hanging around.