Monopod or tripod

[ganna]

Hi
How many of you are using a monopod? I know you need a tripod for very slow shutter speeds, but I found my tripod heavy and uncomfortable to carry, especially on hikes over uneven terrain. Is it worth purchasing a monopod, or do most photographers use a bean bag (often too close to the ground!:) )
Cheers
Martin

[Nicole]

This is probably of no help since you want something smaller or lighter, but there's always the option of getting a monopod that has tripod legs as well, like the Manfrotto 682 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=Search&A=details&Q=&sku=5493&is=REG&addedTroughType=search). It's a bit on the long side (31"), but maybe in a carrying bag of some sort it would be a good option. I just think that it's pretty neat, and if I were going to replace my tripod, I'd definitely consider this. :)

[stuart]

it would work ,you would just have to steady it more.it has been suggested to me that they are more handy for steading big long lenses.i havnt got one but id love to try one

[googlit]

One (very cheap) alternative to a monopod that I've read about is this:
measure from the ground to about where you like to hold your camera, multiply it by two, and cut a little more than that length of a sturdy string.
thread a large-ish washer onto the string
somehow attach a bolt with the same threading as the thread-mount on your camera (like the little bolt nub on a tripod, etc)
tie the ends of the string together


what you end up with is a big loop... to use it, you thread the camera onto the bolt, step on the washer, and pull the camera up, tightening the string. You take the shot while keeping the string pretty tight. I haven't tried this myself yet, but from what I understand it does much better than just hand-holding your camera.

I'll post pics and stuff once I do get around to making this rig.

If it works pretty well, I'd see this one as ideal for hiking... almost no bulk, and it'll even fit in your pocket! Can't say that about most mono-/tripods!

[Nicole]

Yeah, I'd love to see that when you get around to it googlit, I've seen that online, but I've never tried it myself, and I definitely wouldn't mind something that would fit into a pocket!

[rpoffenberger]

I use a monopod for sports photography. It is lightweight and doesn't get in the way if I have to be in the bleachers. I don't use it for many other things, though.

[jiminyClickit]

ganna,

If you decide to try the monopod, a universal joint mount will make any use of it much easier. I use a bogen 3016 (made by Manfrotto) with the camera strap around one arm and the other shoulder, using it as googlit describes with the string, pushing out and down, for everything but the very slowest shutter speed. In the collapsed mode (30") I place the lower end in a pocket or belt loop, which places camera about an inch above my head. With each method, widening your stance will also steady your shot.

[rjb_FotoTaker]

If you do choose to get a monopod, spend the money for a good one. I bought my first one at Circuit city for about $25. It was about as good as balancing my camera on a cane fishing pole.

You always get what you pay for.:o

[ganna]

Thanks a lot for the advice. I will definately try the "rope" method
Cheers
Martin