Tripod or Monopod ?

[Trecky]

I have a Velbon Sherpa 250R tripod but I find it quite heavy to carry around with all my camera gear as well. We have planned a cruise and time in Singapore in January, so I am looking for something that is lighter in weight and more versatile.
Has anyone used a monopod or does anyone have a suggestion as what to buy.

I have a Canon 500D with a 70-200mm ef 1.4 L zoom lens and have found I just can't keep it steady enough to stop that camera shake. I am looking at buying a new macro lens this year so something that would help with both lenses would be great.

Any help much appreciated.

Lee

[Mary Anne]

I use my manfrotto monopod every time I pick my camera up it has a Slik Trigger Style Ball Head on it.
Its coming in my suitcase when we go overseas in two weeks.

[Trecky]

Thanks heaps Mary Anne, I am beginning to think the Monopod is the way to go for travelling.

[peterb666]

I have a Manfrotto monopod with a Slik ball head on it and rarely ever use it now. The main problem I have is that I tend to do a lot of 2 second and longer exposures so a monopod isn't really that useful.

[val2002]

Hey Lee, If you really do have a 70-200mm ef 1.4 L zoom lens then you probably wouldn't need a tripod or monopod at all But I'm guessing you have the f4 version. I've got an old Manfrotto tripod and monopod as well. I use the the heads which have the same quick release plates on both. But I find I only use them once in a blue moon. So I probably wouldn't go to the trouble of taking them on a holiday especially when you factor in the added hassle of packing and carrying it everywhere you go.

Another suggestion would be to save the money up for the IS version of the lens or bump up the iso so you can get a faster shutter speed. Perhaps practise better shooting/breathing techniques to minimise shake when you press the shutter button might be of use too.

[peterb666]

If you really do have a 70-200mm ef 1.4 L zoom lens then you probably wouldn't need a tripod or monopod at all

A trolley with wheels would be a better option.

[coolie21]

A trolley with wheels would be a better option.

Like this one?

[Trecky]

Wow that's nifty.

[ving]

MANFROTTO 682b
http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/cache/offonce/pid/2372

[Trecky]

Thanks everyone, I think I will do a bit more experimenting to try and stop the camera shake before I spend any more money. Thanks for all the suggestions.

Cheers

[Brian500au]

Hi, I have a small manfrotto monopod with one of the smallest tilt heads I use soley for travel photography. It easily folds down to about 500mm and will fit in either my suitcase or my back pack. There are just times when you are traveling you really do need something to lean your lens or camera on. I have found if I really need a slow shutter then I can brace the monopod against a ledge to give me a little more stabilty. When traveling I would not leave home without one.

[kiwi]

Actually I wouldn't mind a very compact and light tripod for travelling too, I often just have hand luggage, any suggestions


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[bigdazzler]

Actually I wouldn't mind a very compact and light tripod for travelling too, I often just have hand luggage, any suggestions

This .. might have to sell a kidney though.

[peterb666]

This .. might have to sell a kidney though.

Great little tripod and you have 2 kidneys anyway.

They have my perfect tripod too... Ocean Traveller

Unfortunately, I checked the Australian price and I doubt I would get the $1600 necessary for one of my kidneys. I draw the line at buying a tripod that is worth more than my camera.

[Kerry]

Actually I wouldn't mind a very compact and light tripod for travelling too, I often just have hand luggage, any suggestions


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Had a look at this and quite liked it for travel and plan on buying it before my next trip..

http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/prod5645.htm

[mikec]

Actually I wouldn't mind a very compact and light tripod for travelling too, I often just have hand luggage, any suggestions


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Kiwi while others may disagree but what I've found very good is a Jolby Gorrilapod Focus with one of the smaller Manfrotto ball heads. While its not as good as a proper tripod, it has served me well many times and it easily solid enough for long exposures. Assuming what you mount it to is solid.

[bzkit]

Hi all,
I recently received a Nikon D90 as a gift from my family. I have been a very casual photographer recently despite being very active 20 years ago. I started with a Pentax ME and during the 90's reengaged with a Nikon F50.
I am looking to purchase additional lenses (to the standard lens supplied) and possibly a replacement to my 30 year old Velbon VEB-3 tripod (aluminium and heavy).
Any suggestions on an appropriate combination?
My interests are; scenery, portraits, action/sport, close ups.
Thanks

[kiwi]

Hmm, will check that out some more, ta


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[wattsgallery]

Hmm, will check that out some more, ta


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Interested to see what you decide on Kiwi. I am finding the Manfrotto a bit heavy for all day/night carrying but do appreciate the tripod for longer exposures and want it to be able to hold a decent weight.

[Trecky]

Thanks everyone for the help, much appreciated.

Lee