Monopod and Head suggestions

[Tintin124]

I'm interested in looking for a monopod and Head suggestions for bird photography as I don't really get on with Tripods.

So;

- What setup do you use?
- How do you rate it?
- Things to look for?
- Things to avoid?

Thanks in advance

Bryn

 

[minnnt]

Watching with interest...

 

[RedRobin]

Ha!! I have researched this very subject for the last few weeks and just bought the gear.

Firstly, which monopod because it's easier to decide than the head....

I was using a Manfrotto MVM500A fluid head and foot (now sold), designed primarily for video but used for stills with a different head - I used a 3-way stubby lever Manfrotto 804-RC2 head on it. This is a very very smooth monopod which is sturdy enough for heavy lenses but I found it was a little awkward to carry around through undergrowth etc.

I also photograph birds and as a 'walkabout' wildlife photographer I wanted a lightweight monopod but sturdy enough to support a 100-400mm lens. Long story short, I soon came to the conclusion that GITZO carbon (warm to the touch in winter) was the way to go. The G-lock system is extremely practical, allowing you to twist lock/unlock all three sections at once, so speedy. The GM-2541 also has a clever belt clip which I hook onto a spare cross-chest strap when not in use. It's not cheap but high quality never is. I bought mine on TP Classifieds from a motorsport professional who uses a 600mm Nikon on the GITZO GM-2541. SIRUI are a brand worth checking out too.

On a monopod I wanted a lightweight (but reliable and durable!) head and there are many to choose from. Logically you might think you only need a two-way movement head - Up & down and pan - But if in a hide for example, you will often have to position your monopod leg slightly sideways and so you are better off with a ballhead. This can happen not only in a hide but amongst rocks as another example.

Now, what you do NOT want is anything which is floppy! So the quality of ballhead tension adjustment and how well they can be locked down is absolutely critical. Manfrotto are a good brand and I have had two of their ballheads including their 324-RC2 'joystick grip' head but they simply do not compare with heads by Acratech - I bought the compact 385g GP-SS - Expensive but I can also use it on my tripod and it has a gimbal feature.

I need to write a review of the Acratech GP-SS. I considered the GITZO and Arca-Swiss ballheads but Acratech has so many other real-world practical features such as the open ball construction (no grit debris problems) and chunky rubber knobs which only need a quarter turn to lock down. Action is supersmooooth in all directions.

A lot comes down to what you are happy to spend. I am retired, often shoot hundreds of images a week and walk miles and miles through all sorts of terrain and I no longer want to buy twice!

I hope this helps

 

[Tintin124]

@RedRobin thanks for the very helpful answer, as of now I don't have a budget as I am willing to pay if the benefits are such a massive improvement over a cheaper product. But i would have to save to get it again not a problem.

Obviously if i could find a good product with a "cheapish" price that would be great. I actually liked the look of your original monopod.

So honest opinions about peoples own kit is all I'm after currently as that would be a great help.

 

[Swanseajack]

I have a Benro A38T Monopod as it has a swivel foot you can use it without a head. It's 3 section and rated to 18kgs. Although not used much it's nice and solid.

I have a old Cullmann ballhead which I use on the mono and tripod. I will be looking to upgrade my tripod & head shortly as the tripod I have is a little to short. I will then leave current head on monopod if needed.

Edit: Dont you do a lot of macro? if so the swivel foot maybe more useful for you as it's easy to rock back and forth.?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Benro-A38T-Aluminium-Generation-Monopod/dp/B0048WQMBM

http://www.wexphotographic.com/buy-benro-a38t-aluminium-new-generation-monopod/p1559470?cm_mmc=googlebase-extension-_-tripods-and-monopods-_-monopods-_-benro-a38t-aluminium-new-generation-monopod_1559470&utm_source=googlebase-extension&cm_mmc=google - warehouse cameras & lenses-_-shopping - other products-_-&mkwid=mh4siqju&pcrid=54652739529&gclid=co_spu7g2cmcfwfitaodmwmavg

 

[Tintin124]

@Swanseajack so any pitfalls of your setup? do you use long lens on it? (eqv. 150-500mm type lens) What do you like most about setup?

For Macro I have never used a tripod or monopod as my hands are all I need for that lol (sturdy not) but I don't think I need it for macro work.

 

[old bloke]

I'm interested in looking for a monopod and Head suggestions for bird photography as I don't really get on with Tripods.

So;

- What setup do you use?
- How do you rate it?
- Things to look for?
- Things to avoid?

Thanks in advance

Bryn

Hi Bryn
I no longer use a monopod as having changed to a much lighter system I find I no longer need it, however when I was using a hefty DSLR with a 70-200 2.8 zoom I found it invaluable,
I used a Manfrotto MN681B monopod with a Manfrotto 234RC swivel head this enables you to angle the leg forward which I think increases stability, I found using a ball head a bit of a pain in the whatsit
although I'm sure others will find their experience differs.
Regards Bob

 

[Swanseajack]

To be honest, I bought the monopod as I was buying the tripod from Ffordes and the delivery charge was £10.00, so I added the monopod to the order as to me I was saving money. It was bought for, just in case or GAS. I have only used twice and to me I find it sturdy for me even though I have arm and leg disabilities. The heaviest lens I have used was a old Tokina 300mm f4, which weighed 1.6kgs and a Fuji XT1 body.

As it's rated to 18kgs I can't see any problem using a 150-500mm type lens on it. For me it's good value for my needs and it has a far height of 1610mm plus ballhead and camera which is around my eye level as I'm 6ft tall.

Robin has a good set up at a cost, which if if I was doing his type of photography I would consider buying but it's around £600 worth if buying new. See thread > https://www.talkphotography.co.uk/threads/advice-needed-on-which-head-please.575476/

When I was looking to buy, I also looked at the Manfrotto Neotec which has a one handed release system which you may find handy > http://www.amazon.co.uk/Manfrotto-N...1423654922&sr=8-13&keywords=manfrotto+monopod

Try one from Amazon, as they have a good returns policy and see if it's suitable for your needs.

 

[Chipper]

I have a 3 legged thing monopod, carbon fibre - I love it. Use it when I am at Slimbridge - but not for Birds in Flight. I have amanfrotto head on it. Think i will be looking at 3LT at the heads at the photo show.

 

[Neil B]

Do yourself a huge favour and spend some time learning to hand hold properly, i have missed many a shot messing around with supports that never seem to be the right height.
I've still got all the gear but never use it and just use a blackrapid strap, of course that's just IMHO after lugging kit around for the last 10 years

 

[RedRobin]

Do yourself a huge favour and spend some time learning to hand hold properly, i have missed many a shot messing around with supports that never seem to be the right height.
I've still got all the gear but never use it and just use a blackrapid strap, of course that's just IMHO after lugging kit around for the last 10 years

....I wholeheartedly agree about learning to handhold steadily but there are plenty times when you have spotted your wildlife subject and need to simply hold station for considerable time either in readiness for a behaviour or in anticipation of the subject moving into your preset position - That's when EVERY photographer needs support from either a monopod or a tripod even if you weight train several tons nearly every day (as a photographer mate of mine does).

 

[LCPete]

....I wholeheartedly agree about learning to handhold steadily but there are plenty times when you have spotted your wildlife subject and need to simply hold station for considerable time either in readiness for a behaviour or in anticipation of the subject moving into your preset position - That's when EVERY photographer needs support from either a monopod or a tripod even if you weight train several tons nearly every day (as a photographer mate of mine does).

Agree with you there Robin yes hand holding is ideal but after a short while a long lens gets rather heavy!
I now use a monopod as much as possible and find it helps a lot

 

[RedRobin]

I have 100mm Wimberley P-30 plates fitted to each of my lens tripod collars and that leaves space on the plate to also pop the Acratech Swift Clamp (attached to my BlackRapid strap) on and off very quickly and easily. So going on and off a monopod or tripod is superfast and easy and I can also untether my BlackRapid as a secondary action if I want to.

 

[RedRobin]

@Tintin124 Bryn, I can post pics tomorrow of what I describe in my Reply #13 if you want me to. I want to take some anyway because it may be helpful to people (and because I'm really pleased with what I have done). It's a relatively expensive solution but it works seriously well and is superfast. I have less excuses for missing the shots now!

 

[Neil B]

....I wholeheartedly agree about learning to handhold steadily but there are plenty times when you have spotted your wildlife subject and need to simply hold station for considerable time either in readiness for a behaviour or in anticipation of the subject moving into your preset position - That's when EVERY photographer needs support from either a monopod or a tripod even if you weight train several tons nearly every day (as a photographer mate of mine does).

What's the holding station for considerable time, not trying for the loch ness monster are we
I know plenty of women who had hold long lenses so i'm not sure where the weightlifter technique comes from and maybe it's just down to a lack of physical fitness.
Like i said my findings are after 10yrs using what some might call "MEGA HEAVY" kit.

 

[Chipper]

And then there are those amongst us who have injuries who can’t hold heavy weights!

 

[Tintin124]

@Tintin124 Bryn, I can post pics tomorrow of what I describe in my Reply #13 if you want me to. I want to take some anyway because it may be helpful to people (and because I'm really pleased with what I have done). It's a relatively expensive solution but it works seriously well and is superfast. I have less excuses for missing the shots now!

Absolutely please do I would be interested in seeing the setup

 

[Tintin124]

Do yourself a huge favour and spend some time learning to hand hold properly, i have missed many a shot messing around with supports that never seem to be the right height.
I've still got all the gear but never use it and just use a blackrapid strap, of course that's just IMHO after lugging kit around for the last 10 years

This is something else I wondered, I think I'm pretty handy handheld but needs practice and maybe I'm thinking that the failure rate is unacceptable but would actually be reasonable in real terms. Also I like the idea of being able to lean etc.

 

[Mikechappers]

We are all different physically, both my shoulders are shot, but I can still hand hold a 500mm F4 lens,plus im getting on a bit in years but then again I do not hold it for a considerable time waiting for that special moment, so im with Neil, learn to hand hold, it opens a whole new playing field.

I remember when I first started hand holding the 500mm plus a 1.4 TC the results were dismal, missed focus, birds not even in the frame half the time, thats when you could even find them through the view finder,especially flying birds, but stick with it an do not be afraid to rattle off the shots in burst mode is the only advice I can give, success will come, it just takes practice.

 

[RedRobin]

What's the holding station for considerable time, not trying for the loch ness monster are we
I know plenty of women who had hold long lenses so i'm not sure where the weightlifter technique comes from and maybe it's just down to a lack of physical fitness.
Like i said my findings are after 10yrs using what some might call "MEGA HEAVY" kit.

....I don't know what your problem is with what I posted, Neil - I agreed with you that handholding (cameras!) was ideal but I also explained circumstances which you seem to be intolerant of. Your tone is spikey and seems to be implying that someone can't be a real man unless they can do what YOU prefer to do and don't use a monopod/tripod. I would even go as far as saying that your claims lack credibility. You need to be more tolerant of others and realise that your way is not the ONLY way.

 

[Neil B]

This is something else I wondered, I think I'm pretty handy handheld but needs practice and maybe I'm thinking that the failure rate is unacceptable but would actually be reasonable in real terms. Also I like the idea of being able to lean etc.

Think of the way you shoot macro, birds are the same in the way that you start off with not many keepers but after a while and practice it starts to come together.
It still amazes me how many don't practice holding their camera and shooting at slow shutter speeds.
I'm sure you will pick it up quickly after seeing some of your macro work.

 

[Neil B]

....I don't know what your problem is with what I posted, Neil - I agreed with you that handholding (cameras!) was ideal but I also explained circumstances which you seem to be intolerant of. Your tone is spikey and seems to be implying that someone can't be a real man unless they can do what YOU prefer to do and don't use a monopod/tripod. I would even go as far as saying that your claims lack credibility. You need to be more tolerant of others and realise that your way is not the ONLY way.

You seem to be on a par with my Mrs, she can take a few words and turn them into something else and like your good self comes over as someone who could argue in a empty room
I posted "IMHO" and "Like i said my findings are after 10yrs using what some might call "MEGA HEAVY" kit" i can't see how that gets your tail up

When you say "That's when EVERY photographer needs support from either a monopod or a tripod even if you weight train several tons nearly every day (as a photographer mate of mine does)." & "I would even go as far as saying that your claims lack credibility" you do start to contradict yourself slightly

 

[Diving Pete]

I've just started using a monopod & ball head when using my 400 2.8 & x 2 tele cos damm thats a lump....
The monopod is a 3LT Brian, very solid, robust, just not as slick as a Gitzo - although its brand new & only used for a morning so may get slicker....
I only handhold my 300 2.8 with a 1.4 tele - & thats fairly easy once you get the hang of it. - although may also be considered a lump....

 

[Tintin124]

Neil and Robin can we now call quits on this. I respect both of your works and differing approaches which is very interesting.

Thanks for your opinion I'm interested in seeing your setup Robin and Neil you are probably right I should practice more before deciding on whether to spend my money. However this thread may be very useful for those looking for a solution.

Below is my philosophy.... worded better than I could.

“The problem with today’s world is that everyone believes they have the right to express their opinion AND have others listen to it.

The correct statement of individual rights is that everyone has the right to an opinion, but crucially, that opinion can be roundly ignored and even made fun of, particularly if it is demonstrably nonsense!”
― Brian Cox

 

[Tintin124]

I've just started using a monopod & ball head when using my 400 2.8 & x 2 tele cos damm thats a lump....
The monopod is a 3LT Brian, very solid, robust, just not as slick as a Gitzo - although its brand new & only used for a morning so may get slicker....
I only handhold my 300 2.8 with a 1.4 tele - & thats fairly easy once you get the hang of it. - although may also be considered a lump....

Thanks appreciated. Think your setup is probably heavier than mine.

 

[RedRobin]

Hi Neil @Neil B - I think we may have both over-reacted to each other's posts above and so I apologise for my part.

 

[Alejandro]

Seeing as I have the right to express my opinion, here goes. If you don't want to listen/read it then that's fine as well.

I tried a monopod once. I hated it with a passion. Once I had extended it, it was a right royal pain in the backside. I didn't have a clue how to move with it (I was trying to follow the instructions by not putting it over my shoulder). I ended up walking around with a 6ft pole sticking out in front of me. Needless to say, I haven't tried again! I just went with hand holding after that. Admittedly, my camera and lens only weighed about 2.7kg at the time.

I'm probably going to end up with a heavier lens soon and will be carrying nearer 4kg. I imagine I will still shoot that hand held most of the time. There are times I use a tripod though and will be getting a new head for that. I've used my own "pop-up" hide once to wait for an Otter and having the camera on a tripod made that a lot easier. Also whilst waiting for Red Squirrel's when I was sat inside a holiday cottage it made sense just to put my camera on a tripod.

So, whilst I'm walking around I will handhold. When I'm sat stationary (and know in advance that I will be) I would try and use a tripod. Other times I just rest my lens foot on the nearest fence post etc. I may knock-up a beanbag to give my lens something more comfortable to lie on.

 

[Tintin124]

Seeing as I have the right to express my opinion, here goes. If you don't want to listen/read it then that's fine as well.

I tried a monopod once. I hated it with a passion. Once I had extended it, it was a right royal pain in the backside. I didn't have a clue how to move with it (I was trying to follow the instructions by not putting it over my shoulder). I ended up walking around with a 6ft pole sticking out in front of me. Needless to say, I haven't tried again! I just went with hand holding after that. Admittedly, my camera and lens only weighed about 2.7kg at the time.

I'm probably going to end up with a heavier lens soon and will be carrying nearer 4kg. I imagine I will still shoot that hand held most of the time. There are times I use a tripod though and will be getting a new head for that. I've used my own "pop-up" hide once to wait for an Otter and having the camera on a tripod made that a lot easier. Also whilst waiting for Red Squirrel's when I was sat inside a holiday cottage it made sense just to put my camera on a tripod.

So, whilst I'm walking around I will handhold. When I'm sat stationary (and know in advance that I will be) I would try and use a tripod. Other times I just rest my lens foot on the nearest fence post etc. I may knock-up a beanbag to give my lens something more comfortable to lie on.

Lol Great opinion... Can I ask what ball head and tripod you use? How do you find it etc.

 

[Mikechappers]

Can I ask a question with no intention of stirring the pot at all, but im really interested as someone who has never used a tripod or monopod for birds at all, so this is a question for those that only shoot birds using some form of support, how do you manage to get shots of birds flying high or overhead ? to my limited knowledge this must be very difficult, of course I could be and am probably wrong, but im genuinely interested.

My type of birding is usually walking the cliffs of West Cornwall, where birds can pop up an disappear again in seconds, so im always interested in trying to make life easier for myself.

 

[RedRobin]

So, whilst I'm walking around I will handhold. When I'm sat stationary (and know in advance that I will be) I would try and use a tripod. Other times I just rest my lens foot on the nearest fence post etc. I may knock-up a beanbag to give my lens something more comfortable to lie on.

....Instead of carrying a beanbag, I have the thick neoprene camouflage covers on only the lens hoods of my telephoto 300mm and 400mm prime lenses (now for sale). This allows me to rest the lens on a rock or rough post etc without any concern of scratching or similar damage.

If you use the sort of tripod which folds down short enough and is also lightweight enough (carbon is best), you can easily carry it in a bag slung across your back complete with a ballhead fitted. Currently my only tripod is a Manfrotto MT293C4 and the Manfrotto bag (an extra purchase) is big enough to actually carry my Gitzo monopod at the same time if I want to do so (not yet so far!). This tripod is stable enough for a Canon 100-400mm when needed but I would say nothing much heavier. It's perfect for low macro shots of insects etc which is primarily why I bought it.

A technique I have learnt recently is to bunch the extended tripod legs together to form a 'monopod' if I need any support. And then all I have to do is spread the legs if I want better support (said the bishop to the actress)

 

[RedRobin]

Can I ask a question with no intention of stirring the pot at all, but im really interested as someone who has never used a tripod or monopod for birds at all, so this is a question for those that only shoot birds using some form of support, how do you manage to get shots of birds flying high or overhead ? to my limited knowledge this must be very difficult, of course I could be and am probably wrong, but im genuinely interested.

My type of birding is usually walking the cliffs of West Cornwall, where birds can pop up an disappear again in seconds, so im always interested in trying to make life easier for myself.

....Capturing shots of birds in flight is usually easier and more successful when handheld with no 'pod to tie you down.

A camera lens with fast autofocus and a body with focus tracking capabilities also makes it easier - An L lens on a Canon 7D Mark II, for example.

 

[SarahLee]

Hi Neil @Neil B - I think we may have both over-reacted to each other's posts above and so I apologise for my part.

Thank You Robin. That's much appreciated.
It would make our lives a hell of lot easier if we saw more of that around the forum

 

[sk66]

I use a monopod w/wo a Sirui L-10. I have several monopods, a Gitzo 3551, and old aluminum Gitzo reporter, and a Mo-Go Pod. The Mo-go is the fastest to adjust, but longest at minimum height. The Reporter is the lightest and most compact of the bunch.

I don't want to be a jerk, but Robin just purchased his setup less than a month ago and probably doesn't have a lot of use on it... and almost certainly not a lot of comparative experience with other options. Here's the thread that lead to his decisions.
TBH, I don't see an issue with his choice of Gitzo and Acratech with the head used in gimbal orientation. It's essentially a pan tilt head when used like that. I just don't see the benefit of panning head function on a monopod. And I find a ballhead to be a PITA on a monopod. Basically, I think Robin's choice is functional for the needs, but a rather expensive way of getting there. (I have also used an Acratech GV-2 on a monopod)

I would definitely put a price/budget on the purchase... IMHO, you can get to the same level of durability/stability/usability at ~ $250 total as you can by spending $650. The *only* reason I own the Gitzo 3551 is because I stole it (bought used)...

In a monopod I care most about compact size. I want it to be easy to carry along even if I don't think I'll be using it. I don't care about speed of "setup," I care about ease/speed of adjustment/fine tuning. For me, this is typically done by just adjusting the length of the upper extension. I prefer twist lock for this because you can "loosen it" without completely "unlocking it," letting the weight compress the length gradually.
As far as the head goes, it adds quite a bit of weight (relatively) for little functional improvement. I vary between using no head (just a QR clamp) and the L-10. The L-10 is a benefit when the surface is very uneven and foot placement is less than ideal because you have no choice (i.e. when amongst a bunch of boulders). TBH, I use the L-10 more often than not just because I have it and it doesn't weigh enough that it usually matters.
As far as material goes, IMO it doesn't much matter... My old aluminum one weighs marginally less than my current model CF one. "Stability" is not a big deal w/ a monopod; it's really just used to offload the weight. Of my mono pods the Mo-Go is probably the most rigid/stable because it has just two sections... but I almost never use it.
I *never* use a spiked foot... it just results in a "sinking monopod." In fact, I usually use a replacement "big foot" on my monopods. I've never used those folding "tripod feet;" but I'm pretty certain I would still prefer the big foot.
Of the three, I use the aluminum Reporter w/ big foot the most and anytime "abuse" might be involved.

No matter what you choose, a monopod will never be a replacement for a tripod... trying to make it one is just going to cost more money than it's worth IMO. If you spend a lot of time set up in one place, or need stability, then a tripod is probably going to be the better answer. I hate tripods, but I still own/use them....

But, in the end I prefer to *handhold* using my SharpShooter Camera Mount (rifle stock setup). If you learn how to handhold so that the weight is supported by bone structure it doesn't take a lot of strength (w/wo a stock). I use a D4+400/2.8 supported by my left arm (I used to use the heavier 300-800). I have spinal nerve damage on my left side which has resulted in significant atrophy of my left pec and tricep, with a corresponding loss of strength. And I'm not a big guy to start with.
I'm not suggesting that handholding 15+lbs of gear is optimal; it's not. But I prefer it for rapidly changing scenarios (i.e. traveling) and moving subjects. There's also the "in between" solution of a monopod w/ tilt head belt mounted (stick the foot in a "tool pouch").

 

[Alejandro]

Lol Great opinion... Can I ask what ball head and tripod you use? How do you find it etc.

My current tripod is a Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 - http://www.manfrotto.co.uk/055-carbon-fibre-q90-3-section-tripod - There is a new version now although I don't know what the differences are. It only weights about 1.6KG so is nice and light for the times I have carried it. I've also used the spikes that Manfrotto offer for it - they are a bit of a faff but at least it means the original rubber feet don't get mucked up. I've always found the tripod to be quite solid when I've had 3KG sat on top of it. I'd expect it to be just as solid when I make that 4KG. You might not want to put a 500mm/600mm prime with gimbal on top of it. I'd recommend it for being a good all-rounder.

The head I have is not great. It's the Manfrotto 488RC4. I want to replace it. There is no real friction control so it basically goes from locked to floppy in a second. The level/plate combo has also attempted to break my finger on more than one occasion. It's really vicious! I've been on the look out for ballheads that can be used as an alternative to a gimbal. Things like the Acratech ballheads, Uniqball, Markin's BV-Head etc. A proper gimbal would be too large and heavy for my needs.

....Instead of carrying a beanbag, I have the thick neoprene camouflage covers on only the lens hoods of my telephoto 300mm and 400mm prime lenses (now for sale). This allows me to rest the lens on a rock or rough post etc without any concern of scratching or similar damage.

If you use the sort of tripod which folds down short enough and is also lightweight enough (carbon is best), you can easily carry it in a bag slung across your back complete with a ballhead fitted. Currently my only tripod is a Manfrotto MT293C4 and the Manfrotto bag (an extra purchase) is big enough to actually carry my Gitzo monopod at the same time if I want to do so (not yet so far!). This tripod is stable enough for a Canon 100-400mm when needed but I would say nothing much heavier. It's perfect for low macro shots of insects etc which is primarily why I bought it.

A technique I have learnt recently is to bunch the extended tripod legs together to form a 'monopod' if I need any support. And then all I have to do is spread the legs if I want better support (said the bishop to the actress)

I think a beanbag sounds good in theory but then you realise it's even more weight to carry! The neoprene covers do make for good protection when resting the lens - that's a good tip. I wouldn't be without a carbon fibre tripod now. Not that I've tried many of the alternatives! I've found one that I'm happy with and have stuck with it! I have one of the older style Manfrotto bags and quite frankly - it sucks. It looks and feels massive and yet once you put the head on the tripod ... there isn't enough room!

You can never have too much support.

 

[Mikechappers]

....Capturing shots of birds in flight is usually easier and more successful when handheld with no 'pod to tie you down.

A camera lens with fast autofocus and a body with focus tracking capabilities also makes it easier - An L lens on a Canon 7D Mark II, for example.

Thank you for answering my question Robin, so basically your saying saying im better off to carrry on as I am, well that will save me a few quid so thanks for that.

I know you did not add the camera lens info only my benefit, but I have no idea what an L lens is or the capabilities of the Canon camera you mentioned as im a Nikon user with a D7100 plus a Nikon 500mm F4 ED VR, which I would have thought would have similar capabilities to the kit you mentioned.

 

[weekeith]

I am afraid I am a bit of a cheapster I have a Black Rapid shoulder strap that needs to be removed to use a tripod or monopod, I use the cheapest 7 day shop monopod with a soft ball spliced to the top this allows me to steady the camera without removing Black Rapid and it does not scratch the camera . Ok its not perfect for every thing but is great for street photography etc, What's more if I loss the monopod it does not matter

 

[RedRobin]

Thank you for answering my question Robin, so basically your saying saying im better off to carrry on as I am, well that will save me a few quid so thanks for that.

I know you did not add the camera lens info only my benefit, but I have no idea what an L lens is or the capabilities of the Canon camera you mentioned as im a Nikon user with a D7100 plus a Nikon 500mm F4 ED VR, which I would have thought would have similar capabilities to the kit you mentioned.

....I don't know the individual Nikon digital range (I used to own non-digital SLR Nikons once upon a time) but yes, Nikon and Canon are very similar indeed and of the same high standard as each other. Canon's L lenses are the top of their range and the 7D Mark II is specifically aimed at wildlife and sports photographers.

So my advice is to study the typical behaviours of your subjects, anticipate, and practice your techniques. You always need Lady Luck by your side too!

 

[sk66]

I've been on the look out for ballheads that can be used as an alternative to a gimbal. Things like the Acratech ballheads, Uniqball, Markin's BV-Head etc. A proper gimbal would be too large and heavy for my needs.

I don't recommend the Acratech as a serious replacement to a Gimbal (or any other "side mount" option). I have the UniqBall and I can recommend it with a couple minor caveats (I put review on YouTube). I think the Markins' separate pan/tilt adjustments would be "better," but no leveling and more expensive. And as "a ballhead" I think the Markins would be better....

 

[RedRobin]

I use a monopod w/wo a Sirui L-10. I have several monopods, a Gitzo 3551, and old aluminum Gitzo reporter, and a Mo-Go Pod. The Mo-go is the fastest to adjust, but longest at minimum height. The Reporter is the lightest and most compact of the bunch.

I don't want to be a jerk, but Robin just purchased his setup less than a month ago and probably doesn't have a lot of use on it... and almost certainly not a lot of comparative experience with other options. Here's the thread that lead to his decisions.

TBH, I don't see an issue with his choice of Gitzo and Acratech with the head used in gimbal orientation. It's essentially a pan tilt head when used like that. I just don't see the benefit of panning head function on a monopod. And I find a ballhead to be a PITA on a monopod. Basically, I think Robin's choice is functional for the needs, but a rather expensive way of getting there. (I have also used an Acratech GV-2 on a monopod)

I would definitely put a price/budget on the purchase... IMHO, you can get to the same level of durability/stability/usability at ~ $250 total as you can by spending $650. The *only* reason I own the Gitzo 3551 is because I stole it (bought used)...

....I also stole a (bought previously owned but never used) Gitzo GM2541 monopod - From TP Classifieds.

Although I have only spent two full days and about 1,000 shots with my Acratech GP-SS ballhead so far, I am extremely impressed with it and especially how it so far has never flopped or even slipped after tightening. I have used it on my lightweight tripod and it's great in the gimbal position (pan-n-tilt) although of course it doesn't balance as if weightless as on a true gimbal.

 

[Tintin124]

@RedRobin think that's a good point lady luck is not usually on my side so anything to increase that would be deeply appreciated.