Monopod head

My first post - getting up the nerve to show photos!

I am taking a trip to Ecuador this summer and have a Canon 50D, 100-400 5.6 lens with a tripod mounting ring. Planning to bring my Manfrotto 680B monopod. I have been reading very helpful posts about mounting heads on tripods, bracing cameras and tripods to minimize shake, and turning off the IS on a tripod. My question is 2 part: 1) how much of this advice changes for a monopod? and 2) does anyone have advice for a good mounting head for a monopod and the above camera set-up - I know I want quick release, but don't know whether the weight of the system dictates a certain format (pistol grip, ball, etc.). Thanks, really enjoying the education I am getting on the site.

Cal I don't turn my IS off when using a tripod ... On your lens best to set it to "two"

I use the the mount sold by Really Right Stuff Works really well on the larger lenses. Imagine you could get by with less but this is one fine unit !! All you want is for it to pivot up and down, would stay away from ball heads.

Cal I use the Giotto MH-1001 and the MH 200 quick release plate on my Giotto MM 9950 Monopod which I use with my 300F4 L IS and my 400 f/5.6L and it is a great combo.

I agree with Alfred that you do not need to turn off the IS on a monopod but I have had some problems with my 300mm f/4 IS when I use it on a tripod with the IS set on HOWEVER this only happened when I used a radio control release for my camera.

Hope this helps.
<!-- / message -->

Cal -

Welcome from another (relatively new) forum member!

I give another big plus for the Really Right Stuff monopod head. It may be overkill for the 50D/100-400 combo you have now, but you'll never ever need to buy another one even if you get any of Canon's big glass in the future!

Thanks all, appreciate the answers and the additional push on the IS.

I have a Manfrotto monopod that I have an inexpensive, Benro head from China. I have used it with my Sigma 50-500 with good results.