Mono/Unipods for DSLR cameras?

Question

My boyfriend has a Nikon D40, and I wanna get something for him on his birthday. Would you recommend a monopod/unipod or should I go with the usual tripod? Could unipods really support a DSLR's weight? Are there any cons as to using a unipod for a D40? And are most unipods really just small (20something inches?) Please help. Thanks.

Answer 1

well it all depends what he is shooting for example if you shoot night photos u want a tripod because it will cause less camera shake but if he is shooting day the defineteley a monopod because tripods are not really meant for day but some ppl do

ps-i shoot skateboarding photos with a nikon d300,mb-d10 battery grip and sb600 flash

Answer 2

you have to find out what kind of lenses he is using/going to use.  the tripod is a must for night photography.  the advantage of the monopod is that it is generally lighter and can provide "quick" support.  you can easily get one that extends to about 61'' from 25''.  one of its main uses is support for long and heavy lenses.  so if he is not going to be spending the day shooting a soccer match or a baseball game with a 400mm lens, he will probably benefit from the tripod before he benefits from the monopod.

Answer 3

I use a really good momopod for shooting sports.  

It is the Manfrotto model 680.  It expands enough so I don't have to bend over to compose and shoot and collapses to 20 inches.

I mount a 400 mm f/2.8 lens on it with my D3

Answer 4

I recommend a monopod for sports or travel.

Personally, I have about 4-5 tripods and 3 monopods.  The tripods are usually left in the car because of their bulk and weight.  The monopod provides just that "extra" steadiness for shooting on the move.

As a sports and event photographer, I find a good monopod to be a lifesaver.  In a crowd, or when I have to change my shooting positions, a tripod slows me down, and is too often jostled by others in the crowd.

P.S. Look for a model that has fliplocks, and not turn collars to adjust the length.  fliplocks are faster and more secure.

Answer 5

HI Katia.    Nice Bday present!!   I would suggest you buy him the tripod.   The monopod does require that someone continually give it support or hold it up.  The tripod gives the freedom of hands to work with the camera.. the camera's settings and the lens.   We have a monopod and a couple of tripods...  we wind up using the tripod more often as I mentioned it gives us more freedom to concentrate on shooting and the camera.   Also...  brands that do have models which support the weight of the heavier DSLR and lens are the Bogen and Giottos.   Try not to get one with very thin legs as they tend to wobble on windy days.  Hope I gave you some ideas.  Thanks for reading.