Monopod/Tripod advice for heavy lens

[Dredd123]

Dear All,

My Sigma 120-300 f/2.8 lens has just arrived - it is quite heavy!!!

I'm finding it very difficult to use handheld so I think I need a monopod or tripod. Any recommendations to support this lens and a 40D? I quite like the look of the Manfrotto 682B self standing monopod but I don't know if it will be robust enough to support this lens. Any other suggestions?

Thanks in advance,
Dave.

[jft158]

I asked about monopods earlier when I was looking. Check out this thread. I ended up with the Manfrotto 680B with the 3229 head. It has worked great with my gripped 40D and 70-200 2.8.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=498667

[donaldjl]

I'm also using a 680B and find it to be a very sturdy monopod. It's not as light as some of the carbon fiber offerings, but for the price, it's hard to beat.

[ben_r_]

Ill suggest the same. 680B should be great for that setup.

[clayk]

I just bought an Induro MXC34 carbon fiber monopod. Very high quality and low price.

I also got the Benro A-428 tripod and KS-1 ballhead. All of that was $450 shipped from B&H.

All are very high quality, low price and hold my 400 2.8 just fine. I am glad I bought these instead of manfrotto or Gitzo. IMHO

[Mr B Pix]

Ditto for the 680B! Bought mine on eBay.

[bobbyz]

My bogen 679B can hold 500mm f4 IS and 120-300mm. No problems an dit only costs $45 at B&H. So you should be OK with bogen entry level monopods.

[ed rader]

I just bought an Induro MXC34 carbon fiber monopod. Very high quality and low price.

I also got the Benro A-428 tripod and KS-1 ballhead. All of that was $450 shipped from B&H.

All are very high quality, low price and hold my 400 2.8 just fine. I am glad I bought these instead of manfrotto or Gitzo. IMHO

i bought a benro mc-66n6 monopod and i love it. it cost about a third of the price of the comparable gitzo and frankly i just can't see much differnce.

i used the monopod heavily in africa with 3229 tilt head and man i couldn't recommend it more :D!

i'm seriously thinking about replacing both of my tripods -- manfrotto and slik --with one lightweight benro tripod.

ed rader

[Tom_D]

I use the Manfroto 680B Monopod (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=0&shs=Manfroto+680B+Monopod&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=jsp%2FRootPage.jsp&A=search&Q=*&bhs=t&Go.x=16&Go.y=17)w/322RC2 Grip Action Ball Head (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/303591-REG/Bogen_Manfrotto_322RC2_322RC2_Grip_Action_Ballhead .html)and 322RS Electronic Shutter Release (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=0&shs=322RS+Electronic+Shutter+Release&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=jsp%2Fproduct.jsp&A=search&Q=*&bhs=t&Go.x=8&Go.y=9). This setup works well with both my 70-200 f/2.8 IS (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/234444-USA/Canon_7042A002_70_200mm_f_2_8L_IS_USM.html) (abut 3.5 lbs) and Bigma (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/380686-USA/Sigma_736101_Zoom_Normal_Telephoto_50_500mm_f_4_0_ 6_3.html) (just over 4 lbs). The shutter relase right at your thumb is very nice.

[The Fox]

680B user here also. I find it very well suited for my gripped 20D or Hasselblad 500C with 150mm F4 block on it.

[jhom]

Monopod:

Inexpensive - Manfrotto 680B
Expensive - Gitzo GM5540

Tripod:

Inexpensive and heavy - Manfrotto 055
Expensive and lightweight - Gitzo 2 or 3 series

Ballhead:

Markins M10

[ben_r_]

Monopod:

Inexpensive - Manfrotto 680B
Expensive - Gitzo GM5540

Tripod:

Inexpensive and heavy - Manfrotto 055
Expensive and lightweight - Gitzo 2 or 3 series

Ballhead:

Markins M10
Dont forget to add to that expensive monopod solution the RRS High Capacity Monopod tilt head!

[Dredd123]

Wow, cheers for all the opinions and advice.

All things considered, I'm leaning towards the Gitzo GM5540. Having said that, the GM5540 appears to have been replaced by the GM5541. Does anyone konw if the replacement is up to scratch? Also, what other accessories would I need to attach my camera and lens to the monopod? Some of the RRS and Markins M10 attachments look and sound very well made. I guess I would want some sort of quick release mechanism to get the camera off the monopod quickly. What else? (as you can probably tell I'm completely green in this area).

Many thanks in advance (again),

Dave.

[jhom]

Wow, cheers for all the opinions and advice.

All things considered, I'm leaning towards the Gitzo GM5540. Having said that, the GM5540 appears to have been replaced by the GM5541. Does anyone konw if the replacement is up to scratch? Also, what other accessories would I need to attach my camera and lens to the monopod? Some of the RRS and Markins M10 attachments look and sound very well made. I guess I would want some sort of quick release mechanism to get the camera off the monopod quickly. What else? (as you can probably tell I'm completely green in this area).

Many thanks in advance (again),

Dave.

As far as I can tell, the GM5541 has a platform with an additional set screw and a different rubber foot. Otherwise it is the same as the GM5540.

After using Manfrottos for several years, the GM5540 is like a giant redwood tree compared to an oak tree. Both do a great job.

With regard to a quick release system, I would recommend a RRS AS system with either a lever or screw clamp. You will need the camera and lens plates. As already mentioned the new RRS monopod head has gotten some great comments. You might consider it, if you need a head. Many of us don't use a head with our monopods. It depends on what you plan on shooting. If I were to use a head, I would consider a Markins Q3.

Here is my current setup for the GM5540. I'm using a RRS screw clamp.

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/5530/gm5540jy9.jpg

Here is the giant redwood to oak tree comparison: :D

http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/1644/5540680compjk0.jpg

[jr_senator]

Seems I'm the only one using Manfrotto's 681.

[Dredd123]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for helping me out with this. Am I correct in thinking that a "head" gives you the ability to move the position of the camera around on top of the monopod, whereas the plates/clamp simply attach the camera to the monopod and you have to move the monopod itself to alter where the camera is pointing? If so, can a quick release mechanism be combined with a head?

I anticipate using my Sigma 120-300 for motorsports and wildlife so I'm not sure if I would need a head or not for these?

I also have the Canon EF-S 10-22 and 17-55 2.8 which I use for landscapes and general shooting so again don't know if these scenarious lend themselves to a head or not?

What scenarious do you use your monopod for?

Could you point me in the direction of the relevant camera and lens plates on the RRS website (for a 40D, Sigma 120-300 and Gitzo GM 5541)

All the best,
Dave.

As far as I can tell, the GM5541 has a platform with an additional set screw and a different rubber foot. Otherwise it is the same as the GM5540.

After using Manfrottos for several years, the GM5540 is like a giant redwood tree compared to an oak tree. Both do a great job.

With regard to a quick release system, I would recommend a RRS AS system with either a lever or screw clamp. You will need the camera and lens plates. As already mentioned the new RRS monopod head has gotten some great comments. You might consider it, if you need a head. Many of us don't use a head with our monopods. It depends on what you plan on shooting. If I were to use a head, I would consider a Markins Q3.

Here is my current setup for the GM5540. I'm using a RRS screw clamp.

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/5530/gm5540jy9.jpg

Here is the giant redwood to oak tree comparison: :D

http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/1644/5540680compjk0.jpg

[ben_r_]

Seems I'm the only one using Manfrotto's 681.
Not a bad monopod for the money, but once you go Gitzo and RRS, youll never go back and youll wonder how you worked with anything else ;)

[jhom]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for helping me out with this. Am I correct in thinking that a "head" gives you the ability to move the position of the camera around on top of the monopod, whereas the plates/clamp simply attach the camera to the monopod and you have to move the monopod itself to alter where the camera is pointing? If so, can a quick release mechanism be combined with a head?

I anticipate using my Sigma 120-300 for motorsports and wildlife so I'm not sure if I would need a head or not for these?

I also have the Canon EF-S 10-22 and 17-55 2.8 which I use for landscapes and general shooting so again don't know if these scenarious lend themselves to a head or not?

What scenarious do you use your monopod for?

Could you point me in the direction of the relevant camera and lens plates on the RRS website (for a 40D, Sigma 120-300 and Gitzo GM 5541)

All the best,
Dave.

You are correct about the plates and head. If you decide on a head, then there are several excellent manufacturers that sell heads with AS type clamps including Markins, RRS, Kirk, Wimberley. As long as you use an AS quick release system, you can essentially interchange components. The plates of one company will fit on another's clamps with a few exceptions. The most notable is the RRS lever clamp. It is best to use RRS plates with it. However, others will fit. You will need to check it out before you buy.

For your Sig, you will need to get a lens plate for it. Then you will need a clamp for your monopod. I recommend staying with one company to maximize compatibility. However, from personal experience, Markins will readily accept RRS plates and brackets.

Assuming you shoot in both portrait and landscape mode, a RRS L bracket allows for the most flexibility and convenience. The correct L bracket for your 40D depends on whether you have a grip or not. The RRS site has a video that illustrates the advantages of the L bracket. You will not need anything else for your other lenses once you get an L bracket.

The alternative is a camera plate for the 40D. The disadvantage is you will be limited to landscape mode shooting. You will need either a ballhead or a tilt head if you want to shoot portrait mode with the monopod. So, I would go with a L bracket.

I use my monopod for as many things as possible. I have learned that stability leads to image sharpness. The frequently use my monopod for sports particularly field sports such as football. However, it is used for landscapes, wildlife, people, etc. There is little that you can't shoot with a monopod. Coupled with a good tripod you have all you need.

For your stated subject matter, I don't think you need a head. Your subject matter is far enough from you that a simple tilt of the monopod will give you the necessary framing. You pan by turning the monopod. If you are shooting up close you might need a head. In my case, then I would use a tripod.

RRS has good customer service. Give them a call and they will readily give you the correct information.

[b.d.bop]

Gitzo 5540 monopod, RRS High Capacity Monopod head and RRS B2ASII lever clamp - it's what's for dinner.


http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y28/b_d_bop/MH-01HighCapacityMonopodHeadB2AS-1.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y28/b_d_bop/MH-01HighCapacityMonopodHeadB2ASII_.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y28/b_d_bop/MH-01HighCapacityMonopodHeadB2AS-3.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y28/b_d_bop/MH-01HighCapacityMonopodHeadB2AS-4.jpg

[Tareq]

I was looking for asking about the monopod, i think i asked it indirect way on some threads, so i know which monopod i will buy, and the ballhead is not a big problem as well, but i was looking to buy monopod for shooting sports with my 300 f2.8L IS or any longer in the future, so which ballhead i should get for that purpose? i feel i don't need a ballhead as some said and i believe in that, then how i can use my lens with monopod then to make it free for tracking around on the monopod itself?

[ed rader]

I was looking for asking about the monopod, i think i asked it indirect way on some threads, so i know which monopod i will buy, and the ballhead is not a big problem as well, but i was looking to buy monopod for shooting sports with my 300 f2.8L IS or any longer in the future, so which ballhead i should get for that purpose? i feel i don't need a ballhead as some said and i believe in that, then how i can use my lens with monopod then to make it free for tracking around on the monopod itself?


i use a 3229 tilt head. on my 100-400L i orient the QR so the lens moves up and down and with a short lens i mount the QR so i can switch from portrait to landscape.

i find this $30 head invaluable for working with a monopod :D.

ed rader

[Tareq]

i use a 3229 tilt head. on my 100-400L i orient the QR so the lens moves up and down and with a short lens i mount the QR so i can switch from portrait to landscape.

i find this $30 head invaluable for working with a monopod :D.

ed rader

Link please?
Is it for Manfrotto or Gitzo mononpod? I have Manfrotto but later i will get Gitzo, to use with 300 f2.8L or 400 maybe and 70-200 2.8IS

[ed rader]

Link please?
Is it for Manfrotto or Gitzo mononpod? I have Manfrotto but later i will get Gitzo, to use with 300 f2.8L or 400 maybe and 70-200 2.8IS

these will work on any monopod.

manfrotto tilt head | B&H Photo Video (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=search&A=search&Q=&ci=0&sb=ps&sq=desc&sortDrop=Relevance&ac=&bsi=&bhs=t&shs=manfrotto+tilt+head&ci=398&basicSubmit=Submit+Query)

ed rader

[Tareq]

these will work on any monopod.

manfrotto tilt head | B&H Photo Video (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=search&A=search&Q=&ci=0&sb=ps&sq=desc&sortDrop=Relevance&ac=&bsi=&bhs=t&shs=manfrotto+tilt+head&ci=398&basicSubmit=Submit+Query)

ed rader

Ah ok, thank you very much

You said i can use that tilt head for lens moving up and down, can i move right and left when i track players as well?

[bobbyz]

In typical field sports, there is not much up/down movement so don't know who helpful head is for monopod. Most folks using superteles have lens stuck directly to the monopod screw. Some use plates but from how the tripod foot look on b&s forum, I think very few use lens plates.

[jhom]

In typical field sports, there is not much up/down movement so don't know who helpful head is for monopod. Most folks using superteles have lens stuck directly to the monopod screw. Some use plates but from how the tripod foot look on b&s forum, I think very few use lens plates.

I use a clamp, lens plates and L bracket combos on the monopod. I find it very convenient. Also, they protect against stripping the threads of the tripod mounts on the camera body and/or lens tripod collar.

[Tareq]

I use a clamp, lens plates and L bracket combos on the monopod. I find it very convenient. Also, they protect against stripping the threads of the tripod mounts on the camera body and/or lens tripod collar.


<<< Curious to see samples, seems it is not one or 2 things, many choose what he feels fine for them [i hope to meet some pro sports shooters to ask them directly and they can answer clear directly of the heads they use for sports using those long primes].

[ed rader]

Ah ok, thank you very much

You said i can use that tilt head for lens moving up and down, can i move right and left when i track players as well?


a monopod pivots very well :D!

ed rader

[Tareq]

a monopod pivots very well :D!

ed rader

OK, we have to try that anyway ;)

Tareq

[Dredd123]

OK, I've decided I am definately going with the Gitzo 5540 or 5541 monopod.

Regarding the RRS attachments, I am about to press the button on an order from RRS for the Hi Capacity monopod head and quick release, plus two plates; one for my camera and one for my Sigma 120-300. However, I'm having doubts about the RRS gear; it looks great quality, but approximately $300 for what is, at the end of the day, a couple of bits of anodized metal?

Someone convince me?

Thanks,
Dave.

[Tareq]

OK, I've decided I am definately going with the Gitzo 5540 or 5541 monopod.

Regarding the RRS attachments, I am about to press the button on an order from RRS for the Hi Capacity monopod head and quick release, plus two plates; one for my camera and one for my Sigma 120-300. However, I'm having doubts about the RRS gear; it looks great quality, but approximately $300 for what is, at the end of the day, a couple of bits of anodized metal?

Someone convince me?

Thanks,
Dave.

For normal shooting with tripod i got 1 RRS ballhead and few RRS plates, now i can say that i will buy another head for panorama even it is about $1000, really great product for what you pay.
about monopod i am also decided for 5540 or 5541, just i am confusing about the right head or plate or anything to use that monopod with my bodies, i can use bodies directly to the monopod no problem, but sure there are situations that i need to use a head for that instead no head and nothing.

[ben_r_]

OK, I've decided I am definately going with the Gitzo 5540 or 5541 monopod.

Regarding the RRS attachments, I am about to press the button on an order from RRS for the Hi Capacity monopod head and quick release, plus two plates; one for my camera and one for my Sigma 120-300. However, I'm having doubts about the RRS gear; it looks great quality, but approximately $300 for what is, at the end of the day, a couple of bits of anodized metal?

Someone convince me?

Thanks,
Dave.
True, but you have to consider three things: 1) Anything Arca-Swiss compatible is going to be expensive, 2) Its the ONLY game in town as far as decent capacity Monopod heads go unless you put a ballhead on your monopod. IMO that cheapy Bogen tilt head is way too little for my comfort level. Would you really feel comfortable putting your $3000+ setup on a $350 gitzo monopod and a $30 Bogen tilt head? and 3) I dont know if youve bought any RRS stuff yet, but the quality of their "just pieces of metal" is insane. Expensive yes, but high quality components aways are, and in the case of RRS, there isnt anything better. They pretty much are the "top of the line".

[ed rader]

True, but you have to consider three things: 1) Anything Arca-Swiss compatible is going to be expensive, 2) Its the ONLY game in town as far as decent capacity Monopod heads go unless you put a ballhead on your monopod. IMO that cheapy Bogen tilt head is way too little for my comfort level. Would you really feel comfortable putting your $3000+ setup on a $350 gitzo monopod and a $30 Bogen tilt head? and 3) I dont know if youve bought any RRS stuff yet, but the quality of their "just pieces of metal" is insane. Expensive yes, but high quality components aways are, and in the case of RRS, there isnt anything better. They pretty much are the "top of the line".

i do. i used the 1d mark III + 100-400L with a $30 manfrotto head in africa and it worked perfectly.

before the $300 bits came out this was the only show in town and i just haven't seen the horror stories of failure and gear destruction :D.

now, if i were using a much heavier set-up i would probably consider the hi-priced spread :D.

ed rader

[jhom]

OK, I've decided I am definately going with the Gitzo 5540 or 5541 monopod.

Regarding the RRS attachments, I am about to press the button on an order from RRS for the Hi Capacity monopod head and quick release, plus two plates; one for my camera and one for my Sigma 120-300. However, I'm having doubts about the RRS gear; it looks great quality, but approximately $300 for what is, at the end of the day, a couple of bits of anodized metal?

Someone convince me?

Thanks,
Dave.

Yep, they are "bits of anodized metal" and they are costly. However, how much are you willing to pay for a system that will make using your gear simple, convenient, and secure?

Several years ago, I was in your shoes. Justifiably, I questioned the cost for RRS components especially when I could continue using my Manfrotto gear. I put off buying the stuff. Eventually, I pushed the button because I was never quite satisfied with my setup. Everything took a little more than I liked to setup. Convenience and flexibility were a just a step behind. Stability and security of my gear just did not leave me feeling good.

These worries are no longer a concern. Push the button. Move forward and enjoy your shooting. You are buying the best monopod available. Don't denigrate it by going cheap.

My suggestion to ease the initial pain to the pocket is to buy the clamps and plates first. Shoot with them and get a feel of what you get and might need. Then buy the tilt head later if you need it. If you don't like the stuff you can easily sell it. RRS components retain a very good resale value. They are almost immediately snapped up on B&S. In fact, you typically have to search hard to find them.

Enjoy.

[20DNewbie]

Another 3229 user here, and while it's not as pretty as the RRS it tilts just fine while using the 300 2.8L IS.

[GSH]

Seems I'm the only one using Manfrotto's 681.

Sorry to ruin your "exclusive" but you are not alone ;)

[RPCrowe]

I use a Manfrotto 681 Monopod which is very sturdy, tall enough for my 6'1" height and relatively light in weight for a monopod so sturdy and tall.

The Manfrotto 681 has been replaced with the 681B which is black in color instead of aluminum.

The 681 and 681B monopods are three section monopods which are taller, lighter and heavier duty than the 680B pods. However, the 681 series pods do not fold as short as the 680B which is a four section pod. Except for the longer folded length, I really like using the 681 but, wish I had a 681B because it is less apparent when shooting wildlife.

Here are the stats for the Manfrotto 681 and 680 pods (the "B" models have the same stats)

Capacity: 681 - 26.4 lb 680 - 22.05 lb
Height: 681 - 63.39" 680 - 60.63"
Folded length: 681 - 25.59" 680 - 20.08"
Weight: 681 - 1.76 lb 680 - 1.83 lb

I have recently returned from a trip to Alaska where the 681 served me very well in supporting my 30D with 17-55mm f/2.8 IS; 70-200mm f/4L IS and 300mm f/4L IS lenses. I even used the Monopod as a walking stick on some very wet and slippery hillsides.

I had thought about changing the monopod for another which would be lighter and which would fold to a shorter package but, really, the difference in weight is inconsequential and often some fiber pods are actually heavier (and a heck of a lot more expensive) than the 681 considering its weight, height and capacity.

My 681 fits in my suitcase so I caried it as baggage. I asked the security people both coming and going if I could carry a monopod as carry-on baggage. LAX said no! Stating it was a "club-like implement". Anchorage said sure! "We see these all the time." Apparently it is a gray area which different airports, and perhaps different security persons, consider differently. So I would not want to try to carry on on a plane. Being right and missing the plane due to the hassle would not be worth it.

I used a Kirk MPA-1 (Manfrotto Swivel tilt head with Kirk Quick Release) with Arca Compatible plates on each tripod ring and a Really Right Stuff L-Bracket on the 30D when I used the 17-55mm lens. I really did not need the monopod with the 17-55mm but, it was easier to mount the rig on the monopod than to shoot with the 17-5mm and 30D unmounted and try to hold the monopod separately. The RRS L-Bracket is a great way to mount a body to a tripod/monopod head when using a camera/lens not equipped with a tripod ring.

The Kirk MPA-1 and the Arca Compatible clamps and RRS L-bracket cost more (a whole lot more) than does the monopod but, IMO, they make shooting very enjoyable and that is the reason I use them. However, if you are using only a tripod ring equipped lens on your pod, the basic Manfrotto tilt head will work very well by using the tripod ring to attach and remove the lens. That is a considerably less expensive way to go.

[gymell]

I've got the Gitzo GM5540 which I use with my 1D III and 500 f/4. I just got the RSS high capacity head for it, just arrived yesterday so I haven't had a chance to use it. I already had the RRS Pro/L clamp which I had attached directly to the monopod and that's what I used up until now. I think it's definitely worth it to pay a few hundred dollars for some fancy bits of metal to support my heavy lens and make my life more convenient. ;) You can't go wrong with this combo.

[GSH]

Would you really feel comfortable putting your $3000+ setup on a $350 gitzo monopod and a $30 Bogen tilt head?

I feel comfortable putting a £4000+ set-up on a £50 Manfrotto 681 and their own Quick-release clamp which cost about £30. Strangely enough i know 1 or 2 others on POTN who do just the same.


:D

[René Damkot]

I feel comfortable putting a £4000+ set-up on a £50 Manfrotto 681 and their own Quick-release clamp which cost about £30.

True.
But do you dare carry the monopod with equipment attached over the shoulder? :p

[snails]

I have a Manfrotto 680B with the 3992RC2 head, it is very sturdy and a great combination. 055 and 488RC2 soon to come.

[snails]

True.
But do you dare carry the monopod with equipment attached over the shoulder? :p

I would not do this with ANY tripod/monopod.

[GSH]

True.
But do you dare carry the monopod with equipment attached over the shoulder? :p

I'll be doing just that tomorrow at least when using the 120-300.

I tend to carry the 500 by the carrying handle on the collar as the bloody thing digs in my shoulder :D

[René Damkot]

I would not do this with ANY tripod/monopod.

I do it quite often actually....
Arca Swiss FTW ;)

[Tareq]

I use Manfrotto 679B + 322RC2 with MK2N/MKIII + 300 f2.8IS
Just i will buy GM5540 when i come back from my vacation to keep shooting in football matches this coming session.

[jeromego]

im just wondering, has anyone here tried using manfrotto 679B with a 488rc2 ball head. the reason im asking is that i have the 190xprob tripod and the 488rc2 and right now i just attach the 488rc2 to my monopod whenever i use it. im really thinking of getting a separate head for my monopod but im not sure which one i should get, whether i should get the 486rc2 or one of those tilt/swivel heads. i just wanna stick to manfrottos since all my qr plates are of that brand. or does anyone know if the manfrotto qr plates fit a different brand of qr mechanism? thanks.

[Jon]

If you're buying a separate head for your monopod go with the 486RC2; you don't need the panning feature of the 488 when you can just rotate the monopod.

[Dredd123]

Thanks again for all the advice and tips on this thread. I've gone with the following:

Gitzo GM5541 monopod
RRS High Capacity Monopod Head with B2-Pro II (decided I want the tilting flexibility with this head)
Relevant plates for Canon EOS 40D and Sigma 120-300 f/2.8

Cheers,
Dave.