Monopod advice please

RichardC27

RichardC27

Suspended / Banned
Messages
3,839
Name
Richard
Edit My Images
Yes
I've been sat here pondering whether it is worth me investing in a monopod again. I tried one last year and found that I didn't get on with it at all. However, due to the lens I was using not having a tridpod collar, I had to fit it directly to the bottom of the body, where I found it restricted my movement too much (it was a cheapo Jessops job anyway).

Now though, my Sigma 120-400mm lens has a tripod collar, so the monopod would be mounted away from the body, hence freeing up my movement (I think?). Also, my lens has IS, and sometimes this can cause problems when using a tripod. Does anybody know if this will cause problems when using a monopod?

Can anybody recommend a decent quality but relatively inexpensive monopod for me to try? I don't want to shell out loads as I may end up selling it soon after buying.

Edit: My Sigma 120-400mm lens weighs 1.75kg, so any monopod/head combo will have to be strong enough to take that weight.
 
I've just bought a Manfrotto secondhand from MPB the people that advertise on here. I think new that one is about £35. It is a very sturdy bit of gear, I'm quite impressed.

The next problem, though, is what head to use. That seems to offer a bewildering choice.

I think the small manfrotto ball at £39, or the redsnapper one about the same but I'm open to suggestions so will be interested to see what people recommend to you.
 
Manfrotto 679B monopod and MN234RC tilt head. Total cost around £50.
 
Gofer said:
Manfrotto 679B monopod and MN234RC tilt head. Total cost around £50.
Click to expand...

It is the 680B I bought, but if the 679 is the same quality with one less section that should be just as good.

I think you are right about the head if it is just for the monopod, I'm going to use one head for the monopod and the ergorest that goes in the car so a panning facility will be required.
 
I used a monopod for a few shots today and didn't really get on with it. Its good to rest the lens on the save your arms, but i found panning really awkward and so much easier hand held.

It was however a cheap hama pod and i can't help thinking a decent one would "feel" better.
 
Never used a "true" monopod that attaches to the camera, but not convinced it would be worth spending me money on.

I carry a long thin hazel walking stick with a VEE handle and put a bean bag (or substitute) on it.
I find the stick handy for the places I walk so it has twin uses.

Perhaps if you are into sports photography a monopod would be good.
 
I just screw the Monopod directly into the tripod collar, don't see the need for a monopod head!
 
admirable said:
I just screw the Monopod directly into the tripod collar, don't see the need for a monopod head!
Click to expand...

I wondered about that. I bought the monopod for use with the canon 100-400, I was reluctant to buy a head just for that application and can't just screw the tripod collar onto the ergorest. The ergorest will probably just get used with a beanbag but it would be useful to have a head just in case. I think the small ball head should be sufficient and can be tried on the monopod too.

this isn't helping Richard, I didn't mean to hijack his thread. I can thoroughly recommend the Manfrotto monopd for quality though.
 
I've also got the Manfrotto 680. Until we're legally allowed to carry guns and/or defensive sprays, this is my weapon of choice. I got the foot option with it too - 3 short legs stored inside which can screw in the end and give extra stability. Maybe I should sharpen them to a point.

As for screwing the tripod directly to the camera and the need for a separate head, I put on mine a simple one way tilt head - 234RC - just to be able to use the quick release plate, both on this monopod and tripod.
 
I use a manfrotto 684B on a simple 234rc head. Fantastic piece of kit. I have had budget
mono and tripods before but I think with a quality base your work will be better.

Obviously Ebay's always a place to look for a second hand manfotto, probably get back near what you paid for it again if you don't get on with it...
 
I bought a Manfrotto MN680B, which arrived on Tuesday. I'll give it a try at Oulton Park this Saturday, but I think I'm going to need a ball head to go with it. I'm assuming a Red Snapper head will go on the top of a Manfrotto monopod? If I do find I need a ball head I'll be buying the Red Snapper TB-12, which looks excellent for £50
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top