Carrying long, heavy lens in the field (Page 2): Was it me, I would build something like this. Your sizes and dimensions may vary a little because I did this based off of my monopod...

wayne-03 Loc: Minnesota

Was it me, I would build something like this. Your sizes and dimensions may vary a little because I did this based off of my monopod and my 80/200 lens mounting bracket.

Attached file:
(Download)

Attached file:
(Download)

Attached file:
(Download)

redhogbill Loc: antelope, calif

wayne-03 wrote:

Was it me, I would build something like this. Your sizes and dimensions may vary a little because I did this based off of my monopod and my 80/200 lens mounting bracket.

nice job...... looks like what the op was looking for

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

First, let me say I would never carry a big lens with a strap of any kind. I carry big lenses attached to a monopod or a bodypod. When ready for use, I do use a strap to tether for hands free operation and saftey/insurance. I have built a custom made dolly (on wheels) to carry my biggest lens.

I will be posting pictures later of my latest configurations. Search my UHH postings for pictures I have already posted.

sassman3629L Loc: South Florida

The best idea I have ever seen was to use a leather back quiver (archery) with what ever additional neoprene padding added to protect the lens barrel. The camera body can stay attached and reached by simply reaching overhead and drawing the equipment forward into position to use.
In this carry position the camera is not left unprotected to swing around and bang into things. It is also quickly moved into useful position.
I saw this rig in an outdoor magazine back in the 60's!
Sonny

SonnyE Loc: Communist California, USA

Psergel wrote:

I did not know. I am going to take a look right now. Sounds like just the thing!

Click N View.

I have this, but generally, my transport is from the house to the trunk and trunk to the field.

SonnyE Loc: Communist California, USA

La Footsey, Tootsie:
http://www.dropbox.com/sc/8mdlrzrb48txfyk/AAARYAY4ZRfM_6UXJSdKrkEwa

Ze Bottom view:
http://www.dropbox.com/sc/f6f4s9koz1yqplu/AAAC2zKzIjdCz26akGvYg8FVa

Attached is the rail that came with my Nest Gimbal Head. (And modified to balance the lens at 150 to 600mm extension/retraction)

Anytime I am hand carrying my Big Tammy I just use the foot provided as it is designed as a hand hold.

I take exception to the Canon user link. I think a bit much is being relied on with putting everything on the foot shown.
But to each his (her) own.

When walking about, I will generally have my monopod attached, but folded at the ball head. And the OpTech utility strap attached and in use.
The Monopod also comes with a wrist strap, added security.
Of course, if you trip and fall down all bets are off.

This is how I do it. ;)
The utility strap is for safety, the hand hold is primary, the wrist strap is additional safety.
It isn't hung as a rule. I prefer to baby my gear.

The assemblage:
http://www.dropbox.com/sc/uka9j19favjvujr/AABhcsAanHjZu-LuOqMr6OEha

j-p Loc: CT

AzPicLady wrote:

I've been trying to do this for a couple of years! This is exactly what I want. All the bottle holders are just a smidge too small for my big lens. I just haven't figured out how to construct the carrier. You've given me a great idea!

I find that the Speedy Stitcher is ideal for projects that require heavy stitching. Sometimes "custom made" is the best option.

http://www.amazon.com/Speedy-Stitcher-T200-Sewing-Awl/dp/B000HGIJQ4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422982850&sr=8-1&keywords=speedy+stitcher+sewing+awl+kit

Bob Boner

I carry a 600 f/4 with camera attached on a tripod to photograph wildlife. I can't imaging getting sufficient support for sharp images with a monopod or handholding with that focal length, even with the lighter weight lens.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

imagemeister wrote:

First, let me say I would never carry a big lens with a strap of any kind. I carry big lenses attached to a monopod or a bodypod. When ready for use, I do use a strap to tether for hands free operation and saftey/insurance. I have built a custom made dolly (on wheels) to carry my biggest lens.

I will be posting pictures later of my latest configurations. Search my UHH postings for pictures I have already posted.

I have been shooting with these lenses for about 3 years now and has slowly evolved into what I am showing here now.

The first photo shows my big prime lens. At the tripod foot there is a double stainless D ring secured by a stainless hose clamp. This is what I can attach to any tether straps I may use. Next is a 1/2 in. solid aluminum spacer. Next, there is a 1/8X2X10 in. aluminum bar stock. This is used as a carry handle and also a handle for supporting the lens when hand holding. This keeps your hand OFF the lens so you do not disturb focusing or zooming and helps to stabilize. Next, is an adjustable macro slider mostly for balance purposes, but also functions as a carry handle. Next, is the quick release plate I use.

The next photo shows a smaller lens where I only use the macro slider - and - as a handle/support with a 1/4 spacer. This is a non extending zoom, so I need to keep my fingers near the zoom control at all times. ( Sigma 100-300f4)

(Download)

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Bob Boner wrote:

I carry a 600 f/4 with camera attached on a tripod to photograph wildlife. I can't imaging getting sufficient support for sharp images with a monopod or handholding with that focal length, even with the lighter weight lens.

I do it every day ......300 W/2X

SonnyE Loc: Communist California, USA

Bob Boner wrote:

I carry a 600 f/4 with camera attached on a tripod to photograph wildlife. I can't imaging getting sufficient support for sharp images with a monopod or handholding with that focal length, even with the lighter weight lens.

Well, it does work, Bob. And it beats the crap out of hand holding a big lens and all.
The monopod simply supports the weight vertically.
You could just extend a single leg of your tripod for a test run. :idea: ;)

Bob Boner

I use a monopod in cramped spaces (basketball games from the stands). I prefer the tripod otherwise, probably because I am not as strong as I was before I reached the mid-70s.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Bob Boner wrote:

I use a monopod in cramped spaces (basketball games from the stands). I prefer the tripod otherwise, probably because I am not as strong as I was before I reached the mid-70s.

If you are not strong, why would you want to carry a tripod ??

Bob Boner

For stability.

WereWolf1967 Loc: Knoxville, TN

hlpeterson wrote:

I just purchased a Tamron 150-600 lens. I am looking for the best way to carry it into the field, without simply carrying it by the lens foot/monopod.

The attached suggestion that I got off the internet seems the best suggestion so far. Any other ideas? The lens foot that came with the Tamron is too short to accommodate two extra holes for the strap suggested in the attached article.

http://www.justbirdphotos.com/blog/2012/11/carrying-a-large-telephoto-lens-in-the-field

OK, here goes all Hell breaking loose.

That's what wives and or significant others are for. Load a backpack with Brewski's to counterbalance the heavy lens. Problem solved!!!