Thinking of getting a Monopod

wornish

Senior Member
I have shaky hands so normally use a tripod but want something lighter for carrying around when travelling.
Do they work. Any tips ?

The Manfrotto MM294C4 and the Manfrotto quick release monopod head seem to be a good price but should I pay more to get a better one.
 

Krs_2007

Senior Member
They do work and I have that exact same one. Except I put a promaster ball head on it. The monopod is great, light and helps to steady the shot. They are easier to cary and easier to setup.

I recommend it
 

Horoscope Fish

Senior Member
I have shaky hands so normally use a tripod but want something lighter for carrying around when travelling.
Do they work. Any tips ?

The Manfrotto MM294C4 and the Manfrotto quick release monopod head seem to be a good price but should I pay more to get a better one.
Monopods are one of the best things to come along since sliced bread in my opinion: I have a couple (very inexpensive) monopods that I wouldn't want to be without. My Manfrotto 'pod is NOT carbon fiber like the example you list, however, so I can't address if that's worth the price of admission or not. As for monopods in general, though, two (very enthusiastic) "thumbs up" from me.

...
 

mikew_RIP

Senior Member
They work but not for me,bought a manfrotto and ball head gave it a couple of weeks and still found it annoying,thats why i opted for a lighter tripod than my benbo and the gimbal,if you can make one work for you then they look to be great.
Think there are a couple of you tube vids on how to use them
 

Krs_2007

Senior Member
Its the BS-08 ball head, I have the BS-18 on my tripod so I wanted to make sure I go between them without changing up things.
 

Steve B

Senior Member
I have a Manfrotto 680B with a 234RC head (tilt top quick release) that I use for shooting sports. It works very well to stabilize the camera for that purpose. Personally, I do not like using a ball head on a monopod, the tilt top gives me the flexibility I need without a lot of extra bulk and complexity. I have thought about purchasing a carbon fiber one but I would go with the 694CX, even though it is about twice the cost, due to the heavier construction and the additional height. With the D800 I would definitely consider the 694CX (or the 695CX).
 

wev

Senior Member
Contributor
I have the Vanguard carbon below, which has good height (I'm 6' 7") and is very stable; well worth the money in my opinion. Very handy as a walking stick when I'm out in the canyons. Unfortunately, their goods are often hard to find in stock.
 

snaphappy

Senior Member
I have an older manfrotto monopod and always keep it in my vehicle. Folds up small and lighter than a tripod when I go for a walk plus it doubles as a comfortable to hold walking stick :) A tripod is sturdier but also heavier to carry and takes longer to set up when you're walking and come upon wildlife.
 

fotojack

Senior Member
I have a Manfrotto 079 monopod with a Slik SBH-100 ball head. I also have a Benro MP-68 M8 monopod with a head of unknown origin. :) It's old, but still works like a charm.....smaller and lighter than the Manfrotto. I could not see myself without either of them. They both have their place in my arsenal of gear.
 

weebee

Senior Member
I have the Sirui P-326 carbon fiber mono pod. Weighs less then a pound without the ball head. I'm using a 3Pod H1 ball head. Great combo. Love how it stabilizes my camera
 

BackdoorArts

Senior Member
I have a Manfrotto 680B with a 234RC head (tilt top quick release) that I use for shooting sports. It works very well to stabilize the camera for that purpose. Personally, I do not like using a ball head on a monopod, the tilt top gives me the flexibility I need without a lot of extra bulk and complexity.

Steve saved me a lot of typing. ^^^ What he said!!! ^^^ :)

But just so I contribute something, I also have a MeFOTO Roadtrip, which is a great compact tripod that also converts to a monopod. $189 for the aluminum model, complete with ball head. I use mine all the time - it's relegated my Manfrotto tripod to studio work or the backseat of the car. I don't use it as a monopod that often, but it's nice to have that function. I prefer the Manfrotto as a pure monopod, and it makes for a sturdier walking stick.
 
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Browncoat

Senior Member
I've rarely used my monopod...mostly for sports photography, since tripods usually aren't allowed on the sidelines. It's probably the least-used piece of gear in my arsenal.

That said, my monopod is the one remaining thing that I've never upgraded to "pro" level. I got mine @ Walmart for about $20-30, and see no need to sink money into an upgrade.
 
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