Anyone use a tripod or monopod for air shows?

cambsno

cambsno

Suspended / Banned
Messages
20,999
Name
Simon
Edit My Images
Yes
I see people use them, never done so myself. Most of my aero stuff is prop planes (normally 1950 or before) so airshots are normally panning ones.

Opinions?
 
I have tried a monopod at airshows and gave up on it. I found it too restrictive with aircraft at rapidly changing altitudes but I guess if you were going to limit what you shoot to aircraft making low passes or take off/landing then a monopod would be ok.

I've never tried a tripod and quite honestly I can't see me trying one unless at some point I take along a lens that I can't handhold... in which case I'd probably take a monopod, get frustrated with it and change lenses!
 
I'm trying (and failing) to imagine just how a tripod could be of any possible use shooting aircraft. Monopod perhaps, to save your arms from falling off if you're using a heavy lens for hour after hour, but I always hand hold for this sort of thing.
 
jon ryan said:
I'm trying (and failing) to imagine just how a tripod could be of any possible use shooting aircraft. Monopod perhaps, to save your arms from falling off if you're using a heavy lens for hour after hour, but I always hand hold for this sort of thing.
Click to expand...

That was my thought, but recall seeing a lot of monos at places like Duxford, and didnt know if i was missing a trick? I guess panning could be smoother?
 
:shrug:

Only way is to try it and see, I guess.Perhaps ask the people you see using them?
 
I've struggled with a monopod for airshows and font bother any more.

I've tried with Motorsport and for head on shots works well, but I can't pan with one - probably same for airshows really ...
 
I took a monopod to Waddington airshow last year to try and after 20 minutes or so I gave up. I was using a 5D3 and a Sigma 150-500 OS and for some of the slower planes it helps with the weight but once you get a fast moving plane, specially if they are changing altitude rapidly, the monopod becomes a burden rather than a help. I'll be going to Waddington again this year with the same basic setup, but without a monopod.
 
Thanks guys - I was always fairly happy with handheld. Panning technique needs a bit of work but did get some very good shots last year, so will carry on practicing.
 
a tripod is useful to rest the camera on, and establishing a space so other people don't stand too close to you.

:crowded:
 
wuyanxu said:
a tripod is useful to rest the camera on, and establishing a space so other people don't stand too close to you.

:crowded:
Click to expand...

BO works too and is free.
 
Handhold all of the time. I tried a tripod once....

Kev.
 
Would a tripod with a gimbal be better? I ask because I was bought the Sigma 150-500 for Xmas. I find it really difficult to hold it steady for any length of time, I'm a weakling with a neck problem:( have been considering a gimbal in the hope this would enable me to do some wildlife, aviation etc. have been looking at The Lensmaster.
 
tripod with a gimbal maybe but a monopod is very restrictive. i just hand hold the 300 2.8 is.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top