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11/02/2005 04:31:45 PM · #26 |
Originally posted by Spazmo99:
Originally posted by theSaj:
3021 vs 3221
3221
3021
The pro appears to be able to remove the center column and mount it horizontally. What would the benefit of doing such be? |
You can also remove the center column and invert it, hanging your camera below for that earthworm's POV shot. |
A horizontal post is nice for macro work. You basically have a rail for moving the macro in and out to focus.
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11/02/2005 04:48:47 PM · #27 |
Originally posted by Flash:
The 486 is too small. Had one and sold it for a 488RC2. |
I use a 486 RC2 on a 3021 with a D70 and the 70-200 VR f/2.8 (much like the 70-200 IS) without any size or balance problems.
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11/03/2005 09:33:25 AM · #28 |
Now for heads....
I essentially see three kinds:
1) Ballheads (provide a lot of freedom, questionable on support for heavier lenses)
2) 3-way pan and tilt, these have three handles for adjusting each axis individually. (fine control and stability but at a cost of freedom, I would think I don't have enough "hands" to move each handle for say bird watching or sports - seems more for "portrait, landscape, etc")
3) Third type is like my old cheap tripod. Flat head with one long bar for rotational axis. If you loosen the other axis it can easier be used for motion tracking.
4) I've seen the Wimberley Gimble heads...uh....tad to expensive... *lol*
What I really want is the following, but no one makes it.
5) Mount with a T control arm. And a pressure handle on tripod (or optional foot pedel to apply pressure). Simple squeeze/step and apply pressure to loosen the mount and use the T control arm to control movement on all three axis. Release and it's locked.
*sigh* |
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11/03/2005 10:30:12 AM · #29 |
Originally posted by theSaj:
Now for heads....
I essentially see three kinds:
1) Ballheads (provide a lot of freedom, questionable on support for heavier lenses)
2) 3-way pan and tilt, these have three handles for adjusting each axis individually. (fine control and stability but at a cost of freedom, I would think I don't have enough "hands" to move each handle for say bird watching or sports - seems more for "portrait, landscape, etc")
3) Third type is like my old cheap tripod. Flat head with one long bar for rotational axis. If you loosen the other axis it can easier be used for motion tracking.
4) I've seen the Wimberley Gimble heads...uh....tad to expensive... *lol*
What I really want is the following, but no one makes it.
5) Mount with a T control arm. And a pressure handle on tripod (or optional foot pedel to apply pressure). Simple squeeze/step and apply pressure to loosen the mount and use the T control arm to control movement on all three axis. Release and it's locked.
*sigh* |
Ball heads can be quite solid, however that typically equals larger and heavier. My 488RC2 is the minimum I would use on a long telephoto like the Sigma 50-500Ex. There is a reason that many professionals use Ball heads. They save time.
3 way pan/tilt are simply slow. If action shooting is anywhere on your needs list, then you will loose shots.
T bars are available (or at least "L" brackets). Look at B&H.
Message edited by author 2005-11-03 10:31:01.
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11/03/2005 11:59:02 AM · #30 |
| It looks like the "Bogen / Manfrotto 3021BPRO Tripod Legs w/488RC2" would likely be one of the better setups for me. And the 488RC2 would work well with my Bogen / Manfrotto monopod as well. |
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11/03/2005 02:51:48 PM · #31 |
Originally posted by theSaj:
It looks like the "Bogen / Manfrotto 3021BPRO Tripod Legs w/488RC2" would likely be one of the better setups for me. And the 488RC2 would work well with my Bogen / Manfrotto monopod as well. |
That is what I use, however there are some mighty fine photographers on here that have other variations.
Regarding your monopod, consider the 3229 head by Manfrotto. It is a simple landscape/portrait head that also accepts the same quick release plates as the 488RC2. Attach the plates to your camera body and never take it off. Use either the tri or mono as either head wil accept the same plate. Attach another plate to you tripod collars on your long lenses and you can very quickly use your camera body or collar for support on either your tripod or monopod. Very fast and convienient.
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11/03/2005 03:26:33 PM · #32 |
What advantage would their be to using the 3229 on my monopod instead of the 488RC2 ?
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11/03/2005 04:07:11 PM · #33 |
Originally posted by theSaj:
What advantage would their be to using the 3229 on my monopod instead of the 488RC2 ? |
The 488RC2 is overkill on a monopod in my opinion. Due to the monopods ability to tilt, one really does not need the "ball" action, as the single leg can simulate that. The real need for a monopod to be able to transition from landscape to portrait mode, and the 3229 allows this. The 3229 is specifically a monopod head, and can be found on Manfrottos website under the section for monopod accessories.
If on the other hand one was only going to have one head, then the ball head would be a solution. The 3229 is around $30 dollars, whilst the 488RC2 is nearer $90. Changing the head from one unit to the other is not cumbersome, just a mere inconvienience. I typically have both the mono and tri with me, so selecting the right tool for the task is easier. Also, a tripod can always become a monopod, by simply extending just one leg.
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11/03/2005 04:38:49 PM · #34 |
Actually, I read a few interesting articles regarding the use of monopods for photography. Which basically expressed most people (including myself) use them improperly. The common method. Keep the monopod erect and lean it back or forward if you want to angle was stated to be incorrect. (Though I have seen that "video sites" recommend the straight perpendicular method for easy "panning" but such is a much different use than still photography.
The sites expressed that you need a head mount that can be angled. And then you actually use the monopod at an angle. The foot set in front and the monopod leaning against you and the head mount angled. (or alternative the monopod at a forward angle braced thru the legs). This, essentially makes the monopod + your own two legs, a "three-pod" system. Not saying you can't use it straight up and down. But you're probably losing a lot of the stability of the monopod by doing so...
_
\
\
And even a quick googling will turn up quite a few sites to confirm such proper usage:
[url=
//www.outdooreyes.com/photo5.php3]
//www.outdooreyes.com/photo5.php3[/url]
//www.mediacollege.com/video/camera/tripod/monopod.html |
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11/03/2005 04:42:15 PM · #35 |
Originally posted by Flash:
Also, a tripod can always become a monopod, by simply extending just one leg. |
I think the point of the monopod is to leave the much heavier "tripod" at home. The fact that a tripod can be used with one leg is true. But why would you want to? most of the times, the issue is one of weight and size constraints, often do to travelling and outdoor situations, and you want more stability than hand-held but can't manage the cumbersomeness and weight of a tripod.
I think if someone made a super composite tripod that was strong enough to bear a 10-30lb load, and weighed 3-4lbs and could collapse to the size of a monopod. Most would opt for such over a monopod if they had the $$$.
- The Saj |
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11/04/2005 08:40:03 AM · #36 |
Originally posted by theSaj:
Actually, I read a few interesting articles regarding the use of monopods for photography. Which basically expressed most people (including myself) use them improperly. The common method. Keep the monopod erect and lean it back or forward if you want to angle was stated to be incorrect. (Though I have seen that "video sites" recommend the straight perpendicular method for easy "panning" but such is a much different use than still photography.
The sites expressed that you need a head mount that can be angled. And then you actually use the monopod at an angle. The foot set in front and the monopod leaning against you and the head mount angled. (or alternative the monopod at a forward angle braced thru the legs). This, essentially makes the monopod + your own two legs, a "three-pod" system. Not saying you can't use it straight up and down. But you're probably losing a lot of the stability of the monopod by doing so... |
This may be technically correct, however all one has to do is watch the pros along any fairway of a major golf tournament or during a news conference on Capitol hill (as in c-span coverage) and you will see virtually all the monopod users using it as a one legged support for the lens. Again this may be technically incorrect, however it is the primary purpose for those that need this tool. There must be a reason why the pros do what they do, and there must be a reason why Manfrotto designed and sells the 3229 monopod head. They may not be reasons for you to purchase it, however as part of the opinions you have sought, I felt it appropriate to post for your consideration.
As with all advice offered, you may pick and choose what applies to your needs.
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11/11/2005 01:18:35 PM · #37 |
Well, I decided to go with the Manfrotto 3021BPro & the 488RC2 (+an extra quick release mount) for $240 shipped.
*finger's crossed*
I think I will be happy with this set-up...now I need a "shutter release control"
Message edited by author 2005-11-11 13:18:45. |
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11/11/2005 01:44:51 PM · #38 |
I think you will find it very fast and user friendly. the extra release plate is a good idea. If it doesn't meet your expectations, you can either return it or blame me. ;-]
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12/01/2005 11:52:59 AM · #39 |
Yeah!!!!
I got my tripod last night....
:)
Now...all I need is a camera so I can use the frickin' thing.
:( |
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