Shooting a Rally race in a few hours. (mono pod question)

molested_cow · Dec 7, 2012

There's a local rally race (automotive) tomorrow that I just found out a few days ago. I haven't got the time to check the route in person in day time. It's in the mountains with narrow road pretty much all the way. I spotted some places to shoot close to the starting line, but I will try to make it into the mountains whenever I can.

I don't have a mono pod, never used one before. However I am planning to uses my tripod as a mono pod for panning shots. Problem is, I don't know how to use a mono pod in the first place!

My question is, when using a proper mono pod, do you lock the ball joint? I was messing with my tripod a bit just now. I used zip ties to bundle the legs so they don't go spreading on me(wouldn't mind that if it was a girl). I extended one leg, mounted the camera and moved it around as if I am trying to pan. It feels awkward. I then loosen the pivots and it feels a bit smoother, but not all that great yet.

So how should it be done?????

Also, any tips on shooting a rally race?

I don't have a good telephoto at this moment. I have a crappy AF-D 70-300mm that I will avoid using because the IQ sucks balls. I will rely on my 105mm VR and 35-70mm. I also have a 20mm if I find a good chance to use it. Now I am regretting a bit that I didn't get the 28-300mm.... but still not sure about it yet.

curtyoungblood · Dec 7, 2012

Are you trying to get panning shots that blur the background and keep the car in focus?

My gut feeling is that the mono-tripod is going to make things more difficult than it is worth. Using a tripod like that is kind of clunky and doesn't really lend to following fast object, IMO. You'd probably have better luck hand holding the shot. Just start tracking the car, and push the shutter while you're doing so (my main point is to start the motion long before you press the shutter so you're comfortable w/ the speed). I think this is especially true if you aren't using particularly long and heavy glass.

12sndsgood · Dec 7, 2012

it may work for some shots, but do to its size and the fact its not a monopod i can see it being awkard. if im using a monopod id just set it up so i can pan left and right. i'd have my shot setup so thats all i need to do. depending on the layout of the road and where you are this could be awkward. some shots may benefit from it, some shots may not. just depends on where your setup at the time. worst case just handhold and work on your panning. when i do i usually start with a higher SS then just slow my shuter speed down more and more as i get more used to it. starting in the 1\250 sec. and then trying to get down to the 1\50 sec range. which can be sketchy on a 70-200 lol.

tirediron · Dec 7, 2012

Have to agree with that ^^. I have tried the tri-monopod before, and it's nothing but a PIA. It's unbalanced, awkward and overly heavy. Unless you're shooting with long, fast glass, hand-holding should be fine. I've always had better results panning hand-held than using any kind of support, and especially where things are not going to be flat and level, I think your method would be problematic.

KmH · Dec 7, 2012

I don't recommend putting a ball head on a monopod, unless you need the extra height. In that case, yes, lock the head.

molested_cow · Dec 7, 2012

Turns out that it's pouring rain today. It's cold and wet. I will still go out and take a look, but i need to get my camera rain ready. I have no doubt that my D700 will survive in this condition, but I am more worried about the lens.

KmH · Dec 7, 2012

Keep a couple, 3, 4, of these in your camera bag - Op/Tech 18" SLR Rainsleeve for Digital & Film Cameras with Lenses up to 7" Diameter, 18" Long

and a couple of the ones for use with a hot shoe flash - OP/TECH USA 9001142 Rainsleeve-Flash 14-Inch Protective Cover for Camera and Flash

EIngerson · Dec 7, 2012

Tape and a couple trash bags work fine for rain.

KmH · Dec 7, 2012

Clear plastic makes it easier to find that button/switch you need to push/hold/switch.

molested_cow · Dec 8, 2012

The rain was not a problem. I attached plastic bags on each lens in case i change lens.

There are a few difficulties. The rain really doesn't make the experience better. The course is in the mountains with very narrow route and since auto racing is pretty unpopular here, no one goes into the track to wait for the cars like other countries do. So if I go into the restricted area, I will be all alone in the mountain. Earlier today I want to check out a part of the route and there was this snake ( we call it umbrella snake ) which is the 5th most venomous in the world. It was just hanging out in the middle of the road and then disappeared into the bush. I was like..... nope!

So I just stayed at the starting line watching the cars launch, then to the finish line to see them finish. Not much action really. The cars are more like home made modified cars then real professional teams, so not much of drifting at all! There will be more tomorrow. Hopefully the weather will be better, but I highly doubt so. I am rather disappointed.