Tripod or monopod

[BreatholdiveRI]

Hey guys, just wondering what I should invest in first, a tripod or a monopod. This will mainly be for wildlife photography. I am shooting a D90 with Sigma 150-500mm. Is it possible to keep it in the $200 range for now? I am thinking that maybe spending $150 or so on a monopod and head to hold be over while I save for a decent tripod may be the way to go but I would really like some input. Thank you!

[BreatholdiveRI]

Just bought a Manfrotto monopod and a Manfrotto ball head and love them...Great combo.

[bob_r]

Glad you found one that you like. I don't consider a monopod a replacement for a tripod though, especially since you're going to be using it with a 500mm lens.
I'd start saving for a tripod and start checking the used market. Used ones are normally quite a bit less than new ones.

[BreatholdiveRI]

I completely agree, I just thought the mono pod would be a little more useful to me first. I do a lot of hiking to get to my spots and am usually on the move so the mono pod is excellent. I have an idea on the tripod I will go for and that will happen next week or so. Not much of a used market in my area it seems so I will probably just order from B&H or see what my local Hunts has.

[bob_r]

You can find used camera equipment at Http://www.fredmiranda.com (buy and sell forum)
http://photography-on-the.net/ (sell forum)

and there's always ebay.

[Bonish Photo]

Some people think it's strange, but a Wimberley Head atop a monopod for a really long lens makes the perfect combination!



Luca came to visit Cindy and I in Yellowstone and tried out the Canon 500mm on our Wimberley Head atop a Manfrotto Monopod. It's so dang smooth and easy to use, you wonder why others dont use the combo more.

I dont like setting up the Tripod unless I know I'm going to be inthe same spot for a long time, which is something that doesnt usually happen when shooting wildlife photography, so the monopod makes so much more sense



Cindy taking her turn with the set-up while Luca tries to look as serious as possible

[BreatholdiveRI]

That is so funny you suggested the wimberly on a mono pod, I was actually just looking at them and was thinking about trying that setup before I buy a new tripod. I think I will try that first

[Bonish Photo]

That is so funny you suggested the wimberly on a mono pod, I was actually just looking at them and was thinking about trying that setup before I buy a new tripod. I think I will try that first

I'm telling ya, once you try it out, you'll never be able to shoot a big lens any other way!

It's just that smooth