imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

What you see in my avatar is a system that I developed for large lens support that I have named "Bodypod".

Go here to have most of you questions answered - http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-269999-1.html

There is some info I would like to add :

I would like to reiterate the inspiration for my system came from Nancy Elwood's "Quick Action Harness" as seen here - http://flygirl5757.wordpress.com/2009/11/29/more-exploring-with-the-quick-action-harness/
I do not think Nancy is selling these anymore though.

Here is a system that, IMO, could be used with lighter/smaller lenses. It does not have the range of motion of my system so it would be difficult to use with birds. - http://www.ebay.com/itm/331408473727?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT


I do recommend using suspenders and a back brace with lenses over 4 1/2 lbs in weight or if you are of small stature or handicapped in some way. It is worth noting that you can drive a car with the belt on if need be - in a place like Viera or Merritt Island where you might have to get in and out of car while using.

If you are using one of the larger extending zooms, I would recommend considering using something like this with the lens - http://www.ebay.com/itm/251625082172?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
RRS also makes a version of this.

The modified painter's pole that I use with Manfro 234 head, I can make available on a very limited basis for $125 shipped to lower 48. Other heads, of course can be used. In particular, I recommend a video fluid head for tracking wildlife action. The advantage of the painter's pole over a standard monopod is speed of use in changing heights and comfort.

Here is one listing for the many belts on ebay - http://www.ebay.com/itm/Promar-Padded-Fish-Fighting-Rod-Belt-Saltwater-or-Freshwater-Fishing-Belt-/131778823229?hash=item1eaea1443d:g:HGcAAOSwGYVXDK6h

I developed this system while using the Canon 300 2.8 with 2X. Today I still use the system - but with the much more user friendly Sony A77II and Sigma 100-300 f4 with 1.1-2X CIZ.

(Download)

tradio Loc: Oxford, Ohio

Thats pretty slick!

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Yes, that would most definately be a GOOD idea.
If you were all body-podded up with a big lens and your pants suddenly dropped......, would be MOST DIFFICULT to reach down and pull them up!!!!
Man, you thought of everything!!!! :lol: :lol:
SS

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

P.S. If you are a fashionesta - you probably will not like this system !

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

If you're a fashionista, you'll be wearing very sexy briefs, for just such an occasion!!! :lol:
SS

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

My system would go good with your 200 1.8 !

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Here is another interesting support system - similar to mine - https://mogopod.com/collections/frontpage/products/special-combo-deal-mogopod-mk-iii-monopod-stabilizer-size-s-mcr-1-belt-kit

Revet Loc: Fairview Park, Ohio

I have most of the components ready to go to construct the bodypod but the lens support you mention above is new to me. Would you recommend this for the Sigma 150-600C version??? Does this take the place of the Manfrotto 234 head??? In the E-Bay link it looks like a head doesn't come with the support but they do show it mounted on one so it is a little confusing. In your picture you do have the 234 head on it.

Lastly I still need to find the support you wear around your back which hooks into the top of the system. I'm sure I can find something similar with an internet search but I am having trouble coming up with a proper search word to find it. If you could point me in the right direction, that would be great.

Cant wait to try this out after lugging a heavy tripod and gimbal head around!!!!

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Yes, that is a major concern when I leave the house - my pants falling down. I can't count the number of times that has happened. I can't count the number because it hasn't gone beyond zero. :D

I'm sure the inventor could add belt loops or Velcro to attach the pants to that front plate. Better yet, how about a complete suit with that camera support built-in? No fear of pants falling then. :D

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

:thumbup:

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

IMO, the lens support is most valuable for large extending zooms - like the Sigma and would attach the lens to whatever head you have. Here is the RRS version and explanation ( though quite pricey - as is ALL their stuff) - http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/Lens-Support-Pkg-dual-Quick-Release

Here is the strap that I use - http://www.ebay.com/itm/171847976827?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Yes, for mobility, this beats a tripod and gimbal by a mile !

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

The suspenders that I mention hook to the support belt - NOT your pants ! BTW

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

I developed this system while using the Canon 300 2.8 with 2X. Today I still use the system - but with the much more user friendly Sony A77II and Sigma 100-300 f4 with 1.1-2X CIZ.[/quote]

Very creative. I always admired my grandfather for "Making" something rather than buying it. He taught us grandchildren to make our own boats. When at Oak Creek Canyon, AZ we would have fleets of pretty incredible boats. A kid who was staying in a cabin down the road asked his dada for a boat. He bought one and the kid complained that he did not want it but wanted a cool boat like the Holladays had.
Love your setup. It is inspiring me to try something like it.

John_F Loc: Minneapolis, MN

With a support of that kind, do you have much side-to-side wobble.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Very creative. I always admired my grandfather for "Making" something rather than buying it. He taught us grandchildren to make our own boats. When at Oak Creek Canyon, AZ we would have fleets of pretty incredible boats. A kid who was staying in a cabin down the road asked his dada for a boat. He bought one and the kid complained that he did not want it but wanted a cool boat like the Holladays had.
Love your setup. It is inspiring me to try something like it.[/quote]

Thanks for your nice comment !

A couple years ago I was at Viera here in Fla. There MANY photogs. The ones with bigger lenses were on tripods - most with gimbals. They had to stay on the flat parts of the road while I, with my bodypod and 300 2.8 W/2X , literally ran circles around them getting closer shots with better back rounds. That's when I realized I was onto something......