Monopods

[myko5]

I was wondering what the differences in monopods I should look for. To me I think its just a pole with a head for a lens ring to attach to. Is there really anything I should look for other then height and weight? I wouldn't be using it professionally. After getting my 70-200 2.8 and realizing its weight, I just thought one might be handy to have for little league games and sports of that nature.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[480sparky44 43]

Get one that's tall enough you can look into the VF without bending over.

 

[tirediron]

I would also suggest getting one with a tilting head rathr than just a flat plate. This will make it much easier to adjust your vertical axis for those pop-fly shots and long slides into home.

 

[Overread19 7]

Far as I know most monopods have a flat top - the head with the tilt is an extra (many shops sell both as a kit though).

 

[myko5]

Yea browsing thru b&h I noticed the kits with the different head on them. Cheaper then I expected, but then again I dont really know the difference in brands too well.

Thanks for the tips.

 

[bratkinson]

Although there are monopod heads available that can tilt from side to side only, I opted to put a full ball head on mine. That way, I can be in any position relative to the subject, with the monopod at (slightly) other than true vertical, and still get the shot the way I want it.

 

[KenC]

A small ball head is a good idea. Since a monopod is something you would carry when you don't want to or can't bring a tripod, probably its most vital features are that it folds up to a pretty short length (mine fits in my regular backpack) and it's not too heavy, otherwise you will not want to carry it and won't have it available.

 

[Joshonator]

Make sure you have a quick release if you're hiking! It's a pain to keep having to unscrew it. Tilt-head is probably the way to go if you need a head.