I'm new to the group, so far have just been observing, trying to learn. In the last few years, I'm having more trouble steadying the camera. I hate to carry a tripod, especially for trips. Is a monopod worth trying for the time being?
A monopod definitely helps steady the camera.
I use both under different conditions.
Yes, you'll find it a big plus in steadying your camera.
Welcome to UHH. Yes, a monopod will definitely help you stabilize your camera.
I have nerve damage in my arms and I definitely recommend a monopod for stabilization
G Brown
Loc: Sunny Bognor Regis West Sussex UK
I find a monopod really useful. collapsed you can lean against a wall and use them, most churches 'hate' tripods because they block access - but not monopods. In woodland you can 'wedge' them in between tree's branches so they are firmly held.
Some have a 'removable' rubber shoe on the bottom section. There is a pre drilled hole there....I fixed a large 'keyring' there with a snap hook attached. That way you can clip it to your belt when not in use (hands free) OR clip it to your belt and use your body to reduce shake.
Unlike a tripod - a light weight one works just as well.
Have fun
I've carried my cameras on my shoulder attached to a monopod for about ten thousand miles in some of the worst backcountry you can imagine. (a little exaggeration, maybe). I don't do it for fun, I consider a monopod essential for times when a tripod isn't appropriate. Having said that, with VR or whatever Canon calls it, I've begun to try some handholding, but the monopod still works for weight support with heavy lenses.
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-MonopodThis link gets you to a great little tutorial on monopod usage. It's a must read before purchasing a new monopod and pressing it into service. Their are excellent illustrations of positions and the use of a tilt head that enables easy positioning of the camera.
It's mainly my hiking stick, because it has a wrist strap, a metal point on the bottom, and a rubber boot for asphalt trails, but add a moderate cost monopod head and it is very useful. Keep the lens stabilizer turned on, though.
I require a cane these days.
It's a small matter to put another 1/4" embedded nut in the handle, and a 2" piece of all thread is all it takes.
I am frequently surprised by how much better I am with a mono or tripod.
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Thank you all for your advice. Will look at monopods. I love looking at everyone's photos!
Jerrin1
Loc: Wolverhampton, England
tnsheltigrl wrote:
I'm new to the group, so far have just been observing, trying to learn. In the last few years, I'm having more trouble steadying the camera. I hate to carry a tripod, especially for trips. Is a monopod worth trying for the time being?
Take a look at the Sirui 204S hybrid monopod: I have owned one for about 5 years and it is a superb bit of kit. Couple it with a quick release Optex strap and carry it over your shoulder or across your back. It is beautifully packaged and comes with a good quality, soft carrying bag (I don't use my bag). There are other, cheaper, hybrid monopods from other manufacturers.
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