Hiking with the 500 F4 (Help!!)

I take long hikes (about four miles) every weekend with the Canon 500 F4 and 40D over my shoulder on the Gitzo/Wimblerley combo. My right shoulder is really getting bad so I've been taking Artie's advice to switch frequently and now my left shoulder is chronically sore even though it was perfect a month ago. So, since I'm to the point where I'm having trouble putting my shirt on in the morning I'm going to have to make a change. My question is....Does anybody have some good advice on an excellent strap (perhaps with neoprene) to carry the camera/lens, just over one shoulder like a rifle with a sling, so I can just toss my tripod up and attach the lens quickly if I get a great opportunity along the trail. I would just carry the tripod in one hand. Thanks for the help .... photo would be awesome.

I use a flexible neoprene strap which makes hiking with the 500 quite bearable. The lens is on the right side, the strap over the left shoulder and I support it with my right hand with which I lift the aluminum knob on the hood a little. I don't use a tripod, though.

I think it is this one: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...ic_Strap_.html

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Originally Posted by Axel Hildebrandt

I use a flexible neoprene strap which makes hiking with the 500 quite bearable. The lens is on the right side, the strap over the left shoulder and I support it with my right hand with which I lift the aluminum knob on the hood a little. I don't use a tripod, though.

I think it this one: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...ic_Strap_.html

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Hey Axel: I know I might get a lot of different responses but this is just what I was visualizing, neoprene and all. Ordered it already. Thanks.

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Originally Posted by Danny J Brown

Hey Axel: I know I might get a lot of different responses but this is just what I was visualizing, neoprene and all. Ordered it already. Thanks.

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You are very welcome and I hope it will help with your shoulder problems.

Danny have pm you. But for others, maybe our new lens support might help. You can read about it on my blog www.naturesportalblogspot.com . If people have read my previous thread on it, please excuse.

Another vote for the Optech neoprene strap - I find these are fantastic having used them for over 20 years. Like Axel, I don't hike with a tripod - prefering to go handheld but do take a monopod along in case of needing a little extra support. I find my big lenses fit well in the crook of my arm - hand under the end of the lens hood and lens/body resting on my upper arm and am comfortably able to walk for miles like that.

You might also consider a Pod Pad. It is a pad that attaches to the tripod and rests on your shoulder with the tripod on top of it. To me it makes a big difference.

Danny,
I hike often with my 500 f/4, but I when I go distance, I keep a smaller lens out, like 300 f/4 and the 500 stays in the backpack. I find keeping it on the tripod and over my shoulder hurts too much after a mile or so. If I see something that needs quick response, the 300 f/4 does the job. A 500 on a tripod over the shoulder takes too long to set up and is so big it can scare away the subject. If it isn't skittish, then taking the backpack off and setting up the lens on a tripod often works fine.
Maybe some football type shoulder pads for those times when you do want to carry the 500 (I've been meaning to try that for a while).

I also use carabiners to attach camera gear to the shoulder straps of the backpack. The backpack straps help distribute the weight on both shoulders.

Where does one get a "pod pad?"

Roger

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Originally Posted by Ed Cordes

You might also consider a Pod Pad. It is a pad that attaches to the tripod and rests on your shoulder with the tripod on top of it. To me it makes a big difference.

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Hi Ed: I tried the pod pad and then my wife made an even thicker one with one of those walmart camo cushions but I think the problem is with the leverage of the tripod pulling at my upper arm tendons where the connect to the shoulder. Hard to explain.

Have you checked out cottoncarrier? http://cottoncarrier.com/index.html . It's strong enough to hold my 800/5.6 + 7D.

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Originally Posted by Jia Liu

Have you checked out cottoncarrier? http://cottoncarrier.com/index.html . It's strong enough to hold my 800/5.6 + 7D.

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I'll check it out some more when I get home from work. Looks interesting. Do you carry your 800 in front or in the side holster?

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Originally Posted by rnclark

Where does one get a "pod pad?"

Roger

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Roger--

Here is a link to the Pod Pads Ed referred to. Quite handy: Pod Pad

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Originally Posted by Danny J Brown

Hi Ed: I tried the pod pad and then my wife made an even thicker one with one of those walmart camo cushions but I think the problem is with the leverage of the tripod pulling at my upper arm tendons where the connect to the shoulder. Hard to explain.

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Looking at your avatar it will be easy to explain why your shoulder hurts. It will be a tendinitis and a weight trauma combination. If it continues after an AINE you should seak medical advice.
I have travelled with my gear like you, but have given up because of not hurting my shoulders.
Put your long lens on your backpack or suspended in a system like the OP/tech or similar and the tripod on the other hand. Please be aware do change frequently from side to side even with a spread set-up. Our type of gear is too heavy and put a strong stress on all joints and tendons. Items like Podpad are good but not for more than a small walk.

I personally use the 400mm F5.6 L or 300mm F4 L IS hiking.

I am always hiking when taking nature shots. So am not interested in carrying a heavy 500mm lens.

The 400mm F4 DO IS seems an ideal lens to use.

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Originally Posted by Pedro Serralheiro

Looking at your avatar it will be easy to explain why your shoulder hurts. It will be a tendinitis and a weight trauma combination. If it continues after an AINE you should seak medical advice.
I have travelled with my gear like you, but have given up because of not hurting my shoulders.
Put your long lens on your backpack or suspended in a system like the OP/tech or similar and the tripod on the other hand. Please be aware do change frequently from side to side even with a spread set-up. Our type of gear is too heavy and put a strong stress on all joints and tendons. Items like Podpad are good but not for more than a small walk.

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Thanks Pedro - I think you are right that its not just the weight on the shoulder but the pull on my arm as I balance the rig. I also agree that it must be tendonitis because the pain doesn't come until later, especially in the morning. I'll try the OP/Tech and if I still have trouble, I'll just take the 300 F4 for the 4 - 5 milers like I used to. Its kind of sad but that's just the way it is, especially at 51 years old. Thanks again.

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Originally Posted by Danny J Brown

Thanks Pedro - I think you are right that its not just the weight on the shoulder but the pull on my arm as I balance the rig. I also agree that it must be tendonitis because the pain doesn't come until later, especially in the morning. I'll try the OP/Tech and if I still have trouble, I'll just take the 300 F4 for the 4 - 5 milers like I used to. Its kind of sad but that's just the way it is, especially at 51 years old. Thanks again.

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You're welcome! That's my MD speaking!
Don't give up just because you are no longer 35... I'm like you a well-seasoned photographer and I carry lots of gear. Just understand your body language and rest when it begs. Also for a long walk I use a beach rolly to carry the load.
I have lenses like the 800, 500 and the 300. Normally the 800 is near the car, the 500 goes to 10 miles and the 300 everywhere.
Planning is everything, and remember if you can't approach that bird, let the bird approach you!

I don't carry this type of equipment but I met a gentleman at the Alligator Farm this year who uses a gel bicycle seat pad, much less expensive then a pod pad and works just as well.

Thanks everybody for all of the great ideas! I should be getting the Op/Tech strap tomorrow from B and H and I'll use it over the holidays as a trial period, taking Dr. Seralheiro's advice not to push so hard. I've had the 300 F4 for over two years and truly love it but I feel lost now when I go out w/o the beast (500 F4). I can have that baby off my shoulder and ready to shoot on the Wimberley in about 6 seconds (I've timed it), but those days are over...........and I'll adjust to Axel's technique.

Danny

Another vote for the Optech neoprene strap ;)
Have used it for over 5 years now, and very comfortable with it on my 500VR.

I have been using the Balck Rapid RS-4 strap with a Kirk 1 inch clamp secured to the lens foot since the beginning of the year, a better mouse trap for sure. The RS-5 is overkill.

http://www.blackrapid.com/product/camera-strap/rs-4/
http://www.kirkphoto.com/1_in_Quick_Release_Clamp.html

Best,

Chas

Danny,

you might want to look at the discussion in the following thread. Just another option. JR

http://www.birdphotographers.net/for...ad.php?t=41691

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Originally Posted by Charles Glatzer

I have been using the Balck Rapid RS-4 strap with a Kirk 1 inch clamp secured to the lens foot since the beginning of the year, a better mouse trap for sure. The RS-5 is overkill.

http://www.blackrapid.com/product/camera-strap/rs-4/
http://www.kirkphoto.com/1_in_Quick_Release_Clamp.html

Best,

Chas

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Interesting alternative Chas - I'll keep it on my radar. I'm aware of the system but haven't seen it in use with a supertele. Looks like the lens is ready to go as quick as you can loosen that Arca clamp. I sent you a PM.....thanks.

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Originally Posted by Joerg Rockenberger

Danny,

you might want to look at the discussion in the following thread. Just another option. JR

http://www.birdphotographers.net/for...ad.php?t=41691

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I looked at the link and I will keep it in mind if a basic neoprene strap with quick release doesn't solve the problem. Thanks Joerg.

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Originally Posted by Danny J Brown

Interesting alternative Chas - I'll keep it on my radar. I've seen them but never know anybody to use one. Looks like the lens is ready to go as quick as you can loosen that Arca clamp.

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Danny, I use both. A Black Rapid modified at the end with a Kirk plate, and a Kirk system.
For the big lens I rather prefer the mod or the Kirk one then the provided screw.
You have to pay close attention at two moments, when you fix the lens foot and when you loose the foot. A mistake and the land will tell the story. Even so I use them everytime.
The OP/tech is much more confortable, but not so quick in action, that's why I will adapt this strap to both systems.

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Originally Posted by Pedro Serralheiro

Danny, I use both. A Black Rapid modified at the end with a Kirk plate, and a Kirk system.
For the big lens I rather prefer the mod or the Kirk one then the provided screw.
You have to pay close attention at two moments, when you fix the lens foot and when you loose the foot. A mistake and the land will tell the story. Even so I use them everytime.
The OP/tech is much more confortable, but not so quick in action, that's why I will adapt this strap to both systems.

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Pedro - I don't think the provided screw would work for me anyways because I use a tripod.
I've already thought about your "be careful" points with the Black Rapid -- I'd have to learn not to drop the lens as I was releasing the Kirk clamp at the foot but it sounds like you and Charles, and others do fine with this system.

I noticed that the OP/tech has inline quick release clamps. If it was slung across my body it looks like I could reach down and pop a clamp open quickly if I was in a hurry to get the lens on the tripod. That way I wouldn't have to lift the strap over my head. I should get mine tomorrow to see if I like it. I'm excited to try the new equipment because I'm off for the rest of the week!!

Danny,

I am off fly fishing all day tomorrow;)

The rig works very well with a 500mm and camera riding behind your hip w/ lens facing backward, and the Kirk clamp never comes loose. Even if the clamp did loosen sligthly the small set screws on the ends of the lens plate will keep the clamp from falling off. The rig can quickly swing to action for handheld images, or be placed atop the gimbal head with the small kirk clamp still attached if it is placed far front on the lens foot.

Best option I have found by far. It is outstanding for carrying an additional camera and lens along with one atop the tripod as well. You never have to worry about the gear falling off your shoulder and it is quickly accessable.

Chas

You need a personal sherpa!!!

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Originally Posted by Carl Gandolfo

You need a personal sherpa!!!

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Now your talking Carl! "I need a sherpa" has been my personal mantra for a long time. My wife just rolls her eyes.

Hi Danny,
For what it's worth when I hike in anywhere with my 500 mm I iuse my Lowpro® lens bag. This is a great bag that allows for additional pockets to carrry other lenses or gear. It fits like a backpack with padded should straps and an adjustable waist belt. I carry my Gitzo tripod with padded legs over my shoulder. These combinations seem to work well or at least for me. Good luck with your search for carrying your gear.

Bob Walker

BOB, Could you tell me the model number of the bag you are refering to. Also do you carry it with the hood, and camera still attachd. thks don

Hi Don,
In answer to your questions here I will start with finding the right bag. If you do a search for the Lowpro camera and lens bags website you will want to look at their bag for the 600mm lens. This bag will accommodate your 500mm f/4 lens with a camera body attached and the lens hood mounted in reverse very nicely. I can't remember the price but it's well worth it I think. This bag also has a rain cover so there's not much more we could ask for other than someone else carrying it for us (o: I hope this information helps you Don and anyone else who has encountered the same problem or inconveniences. Good luck and let me know how you make out.

Bob Walker

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Originally Posted by Axel Hildebrandt

I use a flexible neoprene strap which makes hiking with the 500 quite bearable. The lens is on the right side, the strap over the left shoulder and I support it with my right hand with which I lift the aluminum knob on the hood a little. I don't use a tripod, though.

I think it is this one: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...ic_Strap_.html

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Danny that is exactly the way I usually carry my 500VR, with my right hand supporting the knob of the hood, the neoprene strap over one shoulder and the camera/lens on the opposite side. It is really easy and fast to switch the camera/lens from carrying position to shooting position and very confortable for a trek.
I think that my neoprene strap is exactly the same madel that Axel uses :)

Hello Gentlemen,
I have always said what ever works for you. Most of the hiking and tramping through the woods I do is done in rugged territory in the northern woods of Canada or our own Adirondack Park here in N.Y.S.. I have a good investment in camera equipment and try to protect it the best I can as I can't afford to go out and replace it to often. I think a lot depends on what type of conditions/terrain you encounter and photograph in. Like I stated previously the Lowpro 600mm lens bag works fine for me and the padded Gitzo tripod legs. What works for you is always best.

Good luck with your photography pursuits no matter what method you use to carry your photo equipment gentlemen.

Bob Walker
www.pbase.com/moosebob

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Originally Posted by Bob Walker

Hi Danny,
For what it's worth when I hike in anywhere with my 500 mm I iuse my Lowpro® lens bag. This is a great bag that allows for additional pockets to carrry other lenses or gear. It fits like a backpack with padded should straps and an adjustable waist belt. I carry my Gitzo tripod with padded legs over my shoulder. These combinations seem to work well or at least for me. Good luck with your search for carrying your gear.

Bob Walker

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Hi Bob: I have a Lowepro Lens Trekker that is very comfortable on hikes but doesn't allow quick access. In the end I might be best off to carry the 500 in the backpack and the 300 F4 around my neck. I have a couple of 40D's so this would work.