Using Monopod - VR on or off (Page 2): Some VR programs have differing degrees that the photographer can select. On a monopod, I would keep it on but set to a lower level. Also...

BobHartung Loc: Bettendorf, IA

irish17 wrote:

I will be using a monopod with a ball head and am wondering if I should switch off the VR while shooting, also should I be using a cable release?

Some VR programs have differing degrees that the photographer can select. On a monopod, I would keep it on but set to a lower level. Also practice, practice, and then practice some more before your trip.

TomV Loc: Annapolis, Maryland

I can see where a wired shutter release, fastened to your monopod, would be of benefit.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

TomV wrote:

I can see where a wired shutter release, fastened to your monopod, would be of benefit.

If you are referring to my post (please use 'Quote Reply' so that we all know), I'd like to expand on that. I do NOT fasten the wired release to the monopod, but hold it, free, in my hand. I've use the same exact device since the F5, a 10-pin MC-30A. I've bought 2 new ones and 2 used ones over the years, and keep them in my most used camera bags. No BBF for me! I find the release MUCH more comfortable, accurate and useful. I hate having to wrap my hand around the body or having to use two fingers, one for focus and one for release. Best of luck.

rehess Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA

cjc2 wrote:

Lots of opinions. When I shoot sports with my 400/2.8 it is on a monopod, with a RRS tilt head and a wired cable release. The VR is off. I normally shoot at 1/1000th, or above. I've been doing it this way for decades. I find that using VR slows down focus acquisition and tracking speed. When I handhold my 70-200/2.8, the VR is turned on. Specific lens and camera are also part of my decision making on this issue. To each his/her own. Best of luck.

Yes, once you are at/over 1/500 or so, VR/IS isn't going to do any additional good at exposure time. As a user of IBIS equipment, I've been told that you have an advantage over me because VR makes framing and AF easier?

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

rehess wrote:

Yes, once you are at/over 1/500 or so, VR/IS isn't going to do any additional good at exposure time. As a user of IBIS equipment, I've been told that you have an advantage over me because VR makes framing and AF easier?

Not sure what the question is. I do NOT find VR to be helpful with AF speed, acquisition time or accuracy. Not sure what you're referring to about framing. Best of luck.

rehess Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA

cjc2 wrote:

Not sure what the question is. I do NOT find VR to be helpful with AF speed, acquisition time or accuracy. Not sure what you're referring to about framing. Best of luck.

In theory, your view should jump around a little less than mine does, especially at long focal lengths.

Thank you for the feedback on AF.

jabra

While on wildlife shooting hikes, I use monopod exclusively. I mount lens collar directly to it.
I do not use monopod when shooting with other lenses than long telephoto. I keep VR on.

To me, a ball head and a cable release seem quite useless with monopod.
If needed, switching from landscape to portrait is easy with the collar ring on the lens.

Ultimately, you'll soon find out, after a few tries, what works best for you. Happy shooting!

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

TomV wrote:

I can see where a wired shutter release, fastened to your monopod, would be of benefit.

I can't.
Wouldn't one at least be holding the camera with one hand, typically the shutter hand? I'd be stabilizing the camera (or tilt head) with the other hand. Which hand would you use to trip a remote shutter attached to the monopod?

rehess Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA

Longshadow wrote:

I can't.
Wouldn't one at least be holding the camera with one hand, typically the shutter hand? I'd be stabilizing the camera (or tilt head) with the other hand. Which hand would you use to trip a remote shutter attached to the monopod?

I use the camera and monopod as a unit; I hold the camera "as normal" with my right hand, using right fore-finger to trip the shutter. Normally, when I press the shutter, I am pressing down against the monopod, and the monopod is pressing against the ground to provide the needed stability

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

rehess wrote:

I use the camera and monopod as a unit; I hold the camera "as normal" with my right hand, using right fore-finger to trip the shutter. Normally, when I press the shutter, I am pressing down against the monopod, and the monopod is pressing against the ground to provide the needed stability

Would you use a remote release with a monopod?

rehess Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA

Longshadow wrote:

Would you use a remote release with a monopod?

I'm not sure what the point would be.
I am always holding/touching the monopod.
It's not like a tripod that I can get nothing but air between me and the camera.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

I use the shutter release as a convenience and to keep my had from cramping when I'm shooting sports with a 400 on a monopod. Works well for me, and I've been doing this since my F5. Best of luck.

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

cjc2 wrote:

I use the shutter release as a convenience and to keep my had from cramping when I'm shooting sports with a 400 on a monopod. Works well for me, and I've been doing this since my F5. Best of luck.

So how do you hold the camera & release?

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

Longshadow wrote:

So how do you hold the camera & release?

The release part is easy -- just press the shutter button on the end of the release. I usually have a hand on the monopod and perhaps another on the lens, but, when shooting fast action sports that is not always possible and anything goes. In those situations I have a second body on my left with a shorter zoom, usually a 70-200/f2.8. My shutter speed is normally 1/1000th or better so rock solid isn't absolutely necessary. I do something completely different for other types of work. It all depends. I've developed a work habit and workflow over a good number of years. Check out my SmugMug site to see if you like my work. Best of luck.

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

On.