Monopod suggestions

[Deborah Kral]

I guess it is time to admit that my images are not as crisp as I'd like handheld so it is time to at least get a monopod. I am using the Canon Mark IV with the 300mm f2.8 or the 400mm 5.6. I'm primarily a horseracing photographer so can't use a tripod. Having used a monopod in the past I found it extremely limiting, can you add a head to one? I tried doing a forum search but pretty much got irrelevant information.

Suggestions appreciated.

Deb Kral

[Jeff Cashdollar]

Yes, different heads can be applied to some monopods (just screw on and off). I have one (Sun Pack I think) but never use it, the tripod is much better for me.

I will check the brand and head and get back.

[Myer Bornstein]

Check Really Right Stuff, They have a nice monopod head that I use with a Gitzo Monopod

[Douglas Bolt]

Hi Deb,

You might look into getting a Mongoose head (http://www.birdsasart.com/mongoose.htm) for your monopod. I use the older Mongoose 2.3 on a very old Gitzo monopod. I like the mobility that it provides, compared to most monopod heads.

[Deborah Kral]

Thanks for the suggestions everyone! I need to first get a decent monopod - looking at the Gitzo Traveler and will definitely check out the Mongoose head.

Debi

[Tony Whitehead]

I see you have a nice new generation body, Deb. Is pushing up the iso not an an option that may help? Not sure of the techs of the posted image but get the impression that sharpness is an issue even in your horseracing images which is a very different circumstance to the posted owl with a lot more light I would assume. I have done a fair bit of sport photography and find a monopod very useful and easy to adjust to. I don't use a head but just screw it to the foot of my big teles. I used to use a Manfrotto which I was very happy with but have recently got a Gitzo basalt which is a bit lighter for travelling and a bit quieter when extending which is nice for birds.

[Jeff Cashdollar]

Just another option:

Ran across this is the current "Outdoor Photographer" (p#58). Monostat Unipod - recommended by both PCPhoto and was an Outdoor Photography Editors Pick?

[Hernan Enriquez]

Thank you Debi for this question, I will too check out theMongoose head!
Hernan

[Marina Scarr]

I am not a lover of tripods and monopods. However, I finally came to the realization that my photographs could be better if I used them. I finally bought a Monostat monopod a couple of months ago and love it. I use it with the 1D3 and 400 DO with 1.4 and it handles the weight extremely well. I think you will love the swivel foot and the angles at which you can shoot with this monopod. It's a little pricey but worth it. Good luck.

[Randy Stout]

Deborah:

I use a Gitzo 5540 with a special foot. It is a Gitzo accessory (called a big foot) and it has a pivot arrangement similar to what the Monostat Grace mentions does. This setup will support anything that I can carry.
I use a tripod whenever practical, but this setup is a nice option.

Randy

[Pao Dolina]

I bought a GM5561T as my last monopod.

[Mike Nardini]

I have a Monostat RS16K ART with the Really Right Stuff MH01-Pro Monopod Head. I have found this combination to be invaluable in places that will not allow me to use a tripod (e.g. the orchid greenhouse at Selby Gardens). The Monostat supports a lot of weight and the RRS head allows for easy movement. Not an inexpensive set-up but, just like purchasing a tripod, buy quality and buy only once.