Monopodos are mobile designs that make large food recording more comfortable. Main differences from tripods: main “legs”, weight loss (up to 2.5 kg on average), and compact. Tips focused on the use of a handheld (tripod) to camera and evaluation of attention-designed models.
One-Sided Characteristics Monopods
There are aluminum and carbon designs. The only fundamental difference is that the carbon single-strand is slightly lighter.
The design is telescopic. This means they can be enlarged and increase in length. The models have different types of clips (mechanisms that allow the design to be extended to larger sizes). They can be rings with elastic covers or locks (classic version).
A monopod consists of three parts: the “head,” the base, and the “feet. The “head” is the upper removable part of the structure where the camera is located. It can be used to tilt and rotate the camera.
The base is the sliding rod itself, which when folded is 30-60 cm long. The “feet” are the parts connected to the bottom of the base. These are mini tripods that allow the monopod to stand more firmly on the surface.
The kit includes all three components or just the arm (base). Heads” and “feet” can be added to almost any tripod.
The lighter, smaller models are tripods/monopolies for action cameras and phones. These designs do not have “feet” and “heads”. There is only a sliding base and a base for smaller cameras or smartphones. They are very light (up to 1 kg) and can support light weight (up to 1 kg).
The camera and other equipment (lights, sound, screen) are connected via special twisted bases. The typical thread of a camera is ¼. However, there are models that include threads. Thread⅜ is less common. When choosing a monopod, make sure the thread on the mounting screw matches the thread on the camera.
How to Use a Camera Monopod – 7 Ways
Of course, the monopod can be used for different purposes, so which one you choose is the most suitable for you? Here I want to share my suggestions for using a monopod.
Panorama
Monopods are durable thanks to their legs. And the “head” with a handle allows you to move the camera smoothly. You can create nice panoramas both vertically and horizontally without worrying about camera shake. In this case, the base of the monopod is firmly fixed and only the camera-mounted “head” can be moved.
Sliding (Sliding) Imitations
From left to right, forward and backward. You can step on it with one foot for added stability. The rod of the monopod itself must then be moved back and forth or left and right. It is nice to be able to adjust the rigidity of the monopod. You can find the most comfortable and beautiful variations of sliding.
As a Mini Tripod
The “legs” can be unscrewed and used separately to take pictures. For example, take a shot from the ground, from below. Or simply place the camera on a table.
Record Audio
A lightweight carbon monopod can be used to create a microphone arm. A professional “rod” will cost more. And if you need a microphone on a long stick, you can easily replace it with a monopod.
Without a Tripod
Structures without a tripod at the bottom are used with cameras and telephoto lenses. In this case, instead of “legs” a metal or rubber end is placed: the first is for working on the ground (conical shape, standing firmly on the ground); the second is for working on asphalt or tile; the third is for working on a surface that is not covered by a tripod (e.g., a wall or a wall).
Great Video
Results are taken from a drone. A camera with stabilizers must be mounted and the arm extended to its full length. All that remains is to enhance this structure. The image quality is much better than a quadcopter, but there is a limitation in the height of the arm. This is an excellent trick for reporting when you need to present a large number of participants. For example, during a parade or sporting event. Even if you don’t have a drone, a monopod can make a great video.
For Mounting Monitors and Recorders
Such devices improve visibility and provide detailed images while you work. About the best monopods and recorders on our blog.
Advantages of Using a Tripod
Light. You will need to work for hours at film festivals and sporting events. It makes your hands and back tired a lot. Especially if your camera weighs more than the tripod (up to 6 kg in weight). Single-stranders are a good alternative, as their weight is usually between 0.5 and 2.5 kg.
Agility and mobility. The lightweight and delicate design can be quickly assembled and reinstalled up to smaller sizes (30-60 cm). For example, when shooting weddings, or video races.
It is suitable not only for photography but also for video recording. It can be used to create dynamic videos with beautiful effects. We will explain them in detail below.
Inexpensive Model of Monopod Silloui P-306
Lightweight (only 500 g), six-piece economical monopoly. Designed to work with telephotos. The body is made of aluminum alloy. This makes it not only light but also durable. The minimum working height is 38 cm and the maximum height is 154 cm. The maximum load is 8 kg.
Manfrotto Mpcompact-bk
Economical monopod for action cameras (e.g. GoPro). Aluminum construction is lightweight (330 g) and durable. Can withstand loads of up to 1 kg. This is a monopod (stabilizer) for action cameras without “feet” in the kit. The idea is that the photographer holds the picture in his hand. Minimum working height is 41 cm. The maximum working height i s-131 cm.
This is the last economic model in our evaluation. It is a tripod that can hold a camcorder or camera. Maximum capacity is 10 kg. Minimum working height is 51 cm, maximum height is 169 cm. In contrast to its predecessors, it has a spiritual level. With its help, you can determine the amount of cameras – including 1⁄4 screws – to which almost any camera can be screwed. For added stability, “feet” can be placed at the bottom.
Inexpensive Stand-Alone (Tripod) for Film Production Sirui P-204Sr
Large fixed legs are the trademark of Sirui single and a real advantage. Thanks to them, the construction stands firmly on the surface. The legs of this model have two places. They are low and tall.
The monopod can be converted into a Mini Tripod (for example, if you want to actually pull something from ground level). The monopod has removable accessories that can be removed by unscrewing the base plate. The maximum load capacity of the design is 8 kg. The minimum working height is 69 cm and the maximum working height is 160 cm.
A nice feature of the Sirui single is the armor lock. Tightening the blue-up clip locks the horizontal and vertical rotation. When relaxed, it unlocks.
The set includes a transfer bag, shoulder strap, hexagonal set, rubber buttons, and metal spikes. The latter is essential for single-level ground and ground manipulation. There is also an extra double-threaded pillow (1⁄4 thread on one side and 3⁄8 threaded on the other). You will need this extra pillow if you want to convert the monopod into a mini tripod. This way the double threads can be screwed in from one side to the top. It depends on which threads you need.
Model Sirui P-326Sr
The design is lightweight (1.5 kg), powerful (made of carbon fiber), and fixed (thanks to the large “legs”). to lock or unlock the Sirui monopod in the desired position, screw/screw the blue clip “foot”. You can also check the degree of rigidity of the route. This can be done using the special clamps at the bottom of the drawing. When fully relaxed, the hit will be very loose. And when you tighten it, it becomes very hard.
Sirui P-326SR single differs from previous models of the same company. Here the range is 61-150 cm; Sirui P-204SR is 65-160 cm. The model withstands loads of up to 8 kg. It is designed to operate with a very diaphragm by-product report.
Accessories are identical to the P-204SR.
ManFrotto MVMXPro500
The highest model in a series of expensive exclusives. In folded state, 78 cm, maximum deployment conditions – 200 cm.
Some words about the “head” to which the camera is attached. On the sides there are 3⁄8 threads, available with 1⁄4 to 3⁄8 adapters. This allows you to wear what you need (lights, sound, screen). The handle is longer than its counterpart in this option. It can be positioned on the left or right side.
There is a reversible stopper – the camera will not suddenly fall to one side.
Besides, there is also an exclusive insurance mechanism at the base of the monopod. Likewise, there is a single ring on the base.
Made of aluminum – lightweight and durable. Its upper part, like all monopods, has an insert of soft material (rubber). Thanks to this it will not slip in your hand.
In addition to the adapter, this set includes a padlock for the tripod and a tool to tighten the monopod screws. There is no event.
Conclusion
We have collected the key features of these single ways and promoted you to include them in this article. However, of course, it is up to the user to make their own choices.