Microphone boom

[The23rdman]

Anyone tried one as a diy photography boom?

 

[Garry Edwards]

I used to use them years ago, fine for holding gels, flags etc but not for flash heads - but I suppose they come in different weights and qualities, so there may be some that will take the weight of a flash head safely.

 

[hairboy]

If all you want to hold up is a speedlight, should be ok. Most mic stands aren't very tall (2m or so on average), so not suitable for overhead light, though. If you just want to use it for product shots, then maybe.

 

[The23rdman]

Okay, what's the most cost effective boom solution? Small softbox or umbrella tops.

 

[Calzor Suzay]

Might be worth a read

 

[incapete]

I use mic stands for light stands... saves me space since I would want both anyway.

They're actually fine and with a boom arm you can get it pretty high and/or over the subject. It's a standard thread too so it's pretty easy to fix a spigot to attach the rest of your gear to.
As with normal stands you need to be careful with counter-weights if you angle the boom arm out too far.

 

[The23rdman]

I'll pick one up and give it a go.