Professional Ball Head Camera Mount

Professional Ball Head Camera Mount

Normally, mounting a camera on a monopod steadies it enough for superior exposures. With the ball mount, you can lean the monopod into a rock or tree, and still aim the camera for a good composition. Using this method with a delayed shutter release, it's possible to bracket motionless multiple exposures for HDR images. Nice when a tripod is too heavy to haul.

The ball mount allows you to hold the camera out at the end of the monopod for nifty self-portraits with lots of scenery in the background. The ball mount can also position the camera at the right angle over fences and crowds, into holes and around corners, for perspectives that would otherwise be out of reach. Definitely worth keeping in a pocket. Mini ball head with single knob for ball and pan functions.

Professional Ball Head Camera Mount Product Features:

1. Weight: 1.8 ounces
2. Load capacity: 4.4 lbs
3. Base with 3/8-Inch socket with 1/4-Inch bushing
4. Top plate with 1/4-Inch thread
5. Height: 2.4-Inch

Most Helpful Professional Ball Head Camera Mount Customer Reviews:

14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars - Lightweight but good, September 6, 2007 By Bookloving Grandma "Tex"

Watch how many pounds a ball head holds before you order any of them. This one is small and would hold maybe 2-3 pounds.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - Giottos MH1004 Mini Ball Head with Single Knob, February 26, 2008 By Jean A. Mccormick "Italianquassolo"

Was given to me as a Christmas Gift. Works with my Monopod beatifully. Can't imagine taking photos without using this attachment. Adjusts easily and works great. I just leave it on top of my monopod.

Buy now from amazon, with cheapest price.

Thanks for visiting me, and enjoy your days.

8:40 AM | 1 comments | Read More...

Manfrotto 679B Monopod 3-Section Replaces

Manfrotto 679B Monopod 3-Section Replaces 679 (Black)

Manfrotto 679B Three section Monopod featuring sure rubber grip, wrist carrying strap, quick action lever leg lock system with 45° run, large 60 mm camera/head platform with plastic cover and dual 1/4” - 3/8” camera fixing screw. This replaces the Bogen Manfrotto 679.

After reading several reviews before purchase, the product performs as expected. Compact size for transport. Light weight. Have used primarily for shooting sporting events and have seen a marked improvement in shooting action shots over a hand held camera. Does the job for a very reasonable price.

Manfrotto 679B Product Features:

1. Quick action leg lock system; Sure rubber grip
2. Maximum height: 63.39 in / 161.01 cm; Minimum height:25.59 in / 64.99 cm; Load capacity: 22.05 lbs / 10.00 kg; Weight: 1.32 lbs / 598.74 g;
3. Attachment: 1/4" and retractable 3/8" screw attachment type; Color: black color; leg cross-section: round; leg sections: 3; legs tube diameter: 29.4 x 25 x 20 mm;

Most Helpful Manfrotto 679B Customer Reviews:

62 of 63 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - Outstanding!, August 6, 2005 By Lodge2

A little heavy for what it is desinged for, but that's because it is built like a tank. Compared to other similar items, it may be 2x the price but it is 10x the quality.

I bought this for several small cameras that I take out for family outings. It is probably overkill for my small digital camera, but it keeps the camera still which helps prevent blurry pictures.

It retracts to a relatively compact size and has a padded grip area with a wrist strap. This is definitely a quality piece of equiment and Bogen seems to have one of the best reputations of camera support manufacturers.

It is a well made monopod and well priced, lightweight design and easy to extend and mount a camera, I like the fact that it has two sizes of threads and it is easy enough for me to use the smaller threads by just pushing down on the camera lightly to thread in the smaller threaded stud into the camera, it also has a plastic tool that just clamps onto the monopod to tighten or loosen the tension on the extension locks.

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Sony VCTMTK Compatible Cameras Camcorders

Sony VCTMTK Travel Tripod for Compatible Sony Cameras & Camcorders

This Sony VCTMTK portable tripod is perfect for those who need a steady hand for picture and video taking. Its metal alloy finish, expandable legs (up to 7-1/8'') and carrying pouch not only makes this a stylish addition to your accessories but also provides the steadiness you need to produce beautiful works of art.

Features and specifications include:

* Compatible with: DCRPC101, MVCCD350/500,DSCP8/10/32/52/72/92 digital cameras
* High tech construction adds unique style
* Compact design for easy portability
* Compact design for easy portability
* Extendable legs allow for a maximum height of 7 inches
* Portable Tripod specs:
* Dimension(Approx.): Max. Height 180, Min. Height 135mm (7 1/8 , 5 3/8inches) (Min.Height=Leg Close)
* Weight: (Approx.) 130g (4.6oz)
* Material: Zinc / Brass / ABS / Elastomer
* Color: Silver
* Spec & Remarks -1: Maximum Load 1.2kg(42.4oz)
* Cleaning Cloth specs:
* Dimension: (Approx.)Width 150mm x Length 150mm (6 x 6inches)
* Dimension(Approx.) Width 150mm x Length 150mm (6 x 6inches)
* Material: Polyester / Nylon
* Color: Blue
* Carrying Pouch specs:
* Width: 70mm x Length 170mm (2 7/8 x 6 3/4inches)
* Material: Polyester
* Color: Gray

Most Helpful Sony VCTMTK Customer Reviews:

26 of 26 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - sturdy and well-designed, October 5, 2005 By C. Church "dagmar"

An excellent purchase that lives up to the Sony name. My main concern before buying it was that it would swivel enough that I could point my mini-camera straight down to take macro photos of documents. It does this easily, and the legs don't get in the way. It's small enough to chuck in my backpack and take it all the time in case I need it, and it has its own little sturdy fabric carrying bag so that it doesn't get tangled up in anything else. Overall, I would rate it as excellent.

This small tripod has proved to be quite useful. First, because of its size, it is absolutely portable, fitting into the side pocket of camera bag. It has allowed me to setup stable shots even when visiting places where carrying a full-size tripod is not possible or at least not convenient. You can use your digital video camera to shoot still photography of small electronic components. This mini-tripod has been wonderful for these shots, as it allows the camera to still be very close up to the subject and yet still mounted on a stable surface. And, trust me, when shooting such a small subject, any hand jitters show up every time. I definitely recommend this to anyone using digital cameras, whether video or still photography. It's a very handy piece of aluminum to have with you.

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Manfrotto 496RC2 Release Replaces 486RC2

Manfrotto 496RC2 Ball Head with Quick Release Replaces Manfrotto 486RC2Manfrotto 496RC2 Ball Head with Quick Release Replaces Manfrotto 486RC2

This Manfrotto 496RC2 ball head has been total redesigned for better ease of use. A new design friction control knob allows the photographer to achieve superior control when handling the camera and making micro movements without having to totally lock and unlock the ball head. The knobs have been redesigned to be more ergonomic, easier to handle and more user-friendly. The ergonomic shape allows the user to better lock the ball securely. A repositionable Locking lever allows the user to place it in a comfortable position in order to use it in the most convenient way. Just pull it outwards, put it in the best working position and then release it. This model features a RC2 quick release plate including an additional safety system that prevents the accidental detaching of the camera from the head. The locking lever securely locks the head both in the +90° -90° ball positioning and in the 360° pan movements. This ball head is strong enough to hold a 35mm SLR camera with medium weight lenses and light medium format cameras up to 13 pounds. This replaces the Manfrotto 486RC2.

The 496RC2 ball head from Manfrotto is a winner. The ball is easily and securely positioned at a wide variety of angles. The machined metal parts are well made with a nice textured finish. The head easily attaches securely to a Manfrotto tripod. A set screw keeps the head from back threading on the tripod. An expensive camera body will be well protected when positioned on the 496RC2.

Manfrotto 496RC2 Product Features:

1. Supports up to 13 pounds
2. Repositionable locking lever for most comfortable use.
3. New ergonomic design.
4. New friction control for better control.
5. Quick release system features a new style secondary lock.

Most Helpful Manfrotto 496RC2 Customer Reviews:

44 of 45 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - Impecable italian quality, January 15, 2010 By Pger

I got this from J&R NY through Amazon, along with a Manfrotto 055xprob tripod from Adorama. Excellent service from all parts involved and items arrived earlier than expected. These top notch Manhattan establishments have never dissapointed me (along with B&H).

Originally I was going for the 486RC2 but then I found out that this model was replaced by the 496RC2. Main addition is the friction control knob and I gotta tell you this was an awesome addition. The quality of this head and the Manfrotto tripod is outstanding, you do feel the quality components when you touch them. Friction control is great because you can fine tune it depending on the weight of your camera lens.

I was a little worried about not having a separate panning knob like the 498RC2 but the friction control allows me to have just enough friction so I can pan easily with the main knob without changing the vertical alignment of the camera so its a non issue.

Grazie mille Manfrotto per questo produtto, mi piace moltisssimo!!!

Update 01/19: after some use I just want to comment. This ballhead is all I wanted it to be! However, if you do a lot of panoramas do get the 498 model which has a separate panning head. I found out I don't miss one as I don't do a lot of panoramas, plus I have it on top of a Manfrotto 055xprob which is very tall so I don't need to extend the center column. This allows me to loosen the center column nob a little when I need to pan so it serves me as a panning knob. Also you can do it be releasing a little the friction control knob as I stated above.

Warning: Disassembly voids your warranty, but if you must... Remove the lock lever screw and the conical insert that it holds and then the preload screw. Carefully remove the rectangular label so as not to bend it and remove the base retaining screw behind it (this is the crux of the disassembly). Lift the ball housing off of the base reveals the ball locking components (note where the lock lever inserted. Remove the 4mm hex screw under the camera mount plate which allows the QR mechanism to be removed from the ball stem. The ball can then be removed. Inspection found a two areas within the ball housing that showed some galling (scratches).

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Manfrotto 680B Monopod 4-SCTN Replaces

Manfrotto 680B Monopod (4-SCTN) - Replaces 680 (Black)

Four section Manfrotto 680B Monopod featuring sure rubber grip, wrist carrying strap, quick action lever leg lock system with 45° run, large 60 mm camera/head platform with plastic cover and dual 1/4” - 3/8” camera fixing screw. This replaces the Bogen Manfrotto 680.

It really helps you out when you are shooting in low light conditions, say under 1/60s. It also makes for a good walking stick when not in use, if you are shooting outdoors.

Most Helpful Manfrotto 680B Monopod Customer Reviews:

47 of 48 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - What a back saver!!!, March 4, 2008 By Grant Brummett

What a back saver!!!

Pros:

Small and light enough to carry anywhere
Makes for a really steady shot in questionable lighting situations
Takes the weight off your back and arms while still maintaining that ready to shoot stance

Cons:

Could be a couple of inches taller

I wanted to take photos at the Arizona Renaissance festival using my Canon 135mm F/2 and Canon 70-200 F2.8 L lens. They are both so heavy especially the 70-200 lens and I had hurt my back several years ago and it has never recovered. So I needed someway to get several thousand photos without killing myself.

What a God send this monopod was. I haver never owned one before and didn't realize how usefull it can be. A tripod is just way too clumbersome for something as dynamic and crowded as a Renaissance festival. You have to be able to move out of the way quickly and to move to get the shot. A monopod fits the fill perfectly. After shooting for over 9 hours my back and arms were almost as fresh as when I arrived. I simply could not have stayed more then an hour or two without it killing my back.

Don't forget you will probably want a ball head or some other head with a rapid connect release system. This is essential when you suddenly find you need to take your camera and / or lens off the monopod. I am using a Bogen-Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System (3157N) and found it works perfectly.

9-9-2008 Update:

My back has gotten much better recently so I'm not using this monopod as much for back support anymore. Where I am using it still is to get low light shots where I am on the edge of getting the shot if I were hand held with my image stabilized lens. I have found that I can get away with a several second long exposure using this monopod and my Canon 17-55 F/2.8 IS lens. It's much easier to carry and easier to move then a full on tripod so I find the combo really useful in places where people would frown on using a tripod like inside a museum.

Overall Rating

Size and weight :
Sturdiness :

Although I've had this for a few years, I would highly recommend this monopod along with the optional swivel head. This is a sturdy, professional quality item and is great in those situations where a tripod is not feasible. The monopod is especially nice with a video camera that has 20x zoom capability. The greater the zoom, the shakier the movie. This unit is also strong enough to double as a walking stick when you are on a photography hike.

11:22 PM | 2 comments | Read More...

Manfrotto 190XPROB Section Aluminum Pro Tripod

Manfrotto 190XPROB 3 Section Aluminum Pro Tripod

The Manfrotto 190XPROB three-section tripod is ultra stable, flexible, and easy to use, making it a great choice for professional photographers everywhere. The tripod is distinguished by its Manfrotto-patented horizontal center column, which has been completely redesigned to create a more user-friendly feel. By extending the column to its highest vertical position, users can now swing the tripod round to horizontal without removing the head or disassembling the column itself. This makes switching between framing and positioning setups more convenient than ever. In addition, Manfrotto improved the ergonomics of the leg angle release mechanism and the quick-action leg locks, making it a breeze to open, position, and close the tripod in just a few seconds. The tension of the locking mechanism is even user-adjustable, so you can find the right tension for your comfort level.

Overall Rating

Ease of use :
Vendor service :

Manfrotto 190XPROB Product Features:

1. Flip lever leg locks make opening, positioning and closing fast and easy. The tension of the locking mechanism is user-adjustable, and all parts can be easily serviced or replaced.
2. Each of the legs can be set to a different angle of spread for more flexible, versatile positioning and to help keep camera equipment well-balanced over the tripod's center of gravity.
3. The patented PRO model has a unique design which allows the center column to be used horizontally as an extending arm, or vertically (both right-way-up and upside-down). When used horizontally, it can be turned through 360 around the tripod, and is useful for macro work, low angle shooting, extreme balance points and off-centre work. This also makes the tripod a helpful accessory for chair-bound photographers, who can sit beside instead of behind the tripod, therefore much closer to the camera viewfinder.
4. Four pre-set independent leg angles give the tripod great positioning flexibility and versatility, and allow all intermediate heights from the stated minimum to maximum levels to be reached. Stability is assured at all 4 angles by the spring-loaded step mechanism.

Most Helpful Manfrotto 190XPROB Customer Reviews:

142 of 142 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - Sturdy tripod for the value-conscious, October 20, 2007 By John L. Hemingway

I've had plenty of opportunity to field test my 190XPROB since buying it several weeks ago. It has more than met expectations. Paired with a good ball head (mine is the Bogen-Manfrotto 486RC2 Compact Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System), it will satisfy most value-conscious serious amateur photographers. My rating reflects this combination of quality and price.

For the record, my dSLR and heaviest lens together weigh about eight or nine pounds.

Stability without center column extended: The 190XPROB easily supports my camera with macro, normal zoom, or mid-telephoto zoom lenses attached. The tripod legs are independently adjustable to four different positions, allowing many different shooting configurations. The tripod has been stable in all of them. [...]

This tripod is rock solid. Very easy to set up and take down, my old tripod used to pinch my had and make me bleed....I can happly say that I have not even come close to bleading with this tripod!

The one CON is that it is on the heavy side, I did expect that so its not a big deal but if you are looking for light weight, this aint it.

If you are looking for an amazing product for an affordable price this is it.

11:06 AM | 0 comments | Read More...

Gitzo GT1541T 6X G-Lock Traveler

Gitzo GT1541T Series 1 6X 4S G-Lock Traveler - Replaces GT1540T (Black)

With such a good ratio of compact folded length to extended open height, the Traveler is the ideal tripod to carry with you around the world. Gitzos unique patented 180 folding mechanism accommodates the head inside the folded tripod legs and makes this the smallest folded tripod for its open size and number of sections. Matching this compactness with the sturdiness of lightweight carbon fiber and good speed in setup makes the Travelers the ultimate tripods.

FEATURES:
GROUND LEVEL SET - This feature allows you to remove the center column to save weight and get the camera closer to the ground. Uses existing components: the upper disc with reversible 1/4 - 3/8 bolt and the column hook assembly: Remove column and fix the disk directly to the upper casting using the column hook. No tools needed. RAPID COLUMN - The center column locking collar above the tripod shoulder makes it easier to adjust the column quickly. Series 1 and above are built with an anti-rotation grooved center column for improved stability.
REVERSIBLE COLUMN - The rapid column can easily be inverted for an alternative shooting angle or low level macro work.

You can find lighter or heavier, bigger and smaller tripods but this is the very best small travel pod ever. At 2 pounds and 16" folded it is tiny and light but it holds a 70-200 f/2.8 lens easily. It is flawlessly made, rock solid (for a 2 pound pod) and so easy to carry. Mate it with a tiny ball head like a RRS BH-25 and you have a very good, sub 3 pound, 16" folded pod and head. No more excuses to leave the tripod at home when you travel or hike. It is not cheap, but it is the best. Period.

Gitzo GT1541T Product Features:

1. Ground Level Set feature
2. New Anti Leg Rotation system
3. Built-in accessory hook
4. Rapid center column
5. Reversible Column

Most Helpful Gitzo GT1541T Customer Reviews:

36 of 36 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - Gitzo 1541T Traveller tripod, October 20, 2008 By Alisdair Aird

Lightweight carbon fiber tripod, folds extremely small. I normally use a bigger stronger carbon fiber Gitzo tripod with an Acratech head for my Nikon D2X. I got the 1541T (with a lightweight Really Right Stuff head) for travelling light with hand luggage only. Certainly, my normal tripod better suits the weight of the Nikon with a decent lens, and the 1541 cannot match its strength and stability. However, the 1541 scores so highly on portability that it is well worth considering for situations where saving weight and space is paramount. And for a lighter camera such as the D700 it could be a first choice, as it has all the usual Gitzo virtues of versatility, speed of adjustment, high rigidity-to-weight ratio and high build quality.

All the good things you may have read about this tripod are true. Extremely light, extremely compact, extremely rigid, well engineered and well fabricated is how I would describe it. It probably won't replace the big heavy tripod you use while snapping photos of grizzlies while enduring gale force winds in rough terrain in Alaska, but if you're shooting a barn in the morning mist off a road in Virginia it's perfect. I got the Markin head to go with it and, unlike my big muscullar Manfrotto (now relagated to the studio,) I take it everywhere.

The down side is, of course, the price. I can imagine being nearly as pleased with one of the Chinese rivals for it is, after all, only a tool. I say "nearly as pleased" because I take comfort and assurance in the reputation of the name Gitzo.

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Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short

Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short

Take the versatility of a ball head, add true ergonomic control and you get the 322RC2 Horizontal Grip Action Ballhead! The 322RC2 is unique in that it allows you to unblock, move, position and lock your camera with one hand in one position. This is due to the revolutionary design of its grip handle which incorporates the ball lock lever.

A friction control wheel lets you regulate the power of the blocking mechanism to match the weight of your camera and lens. The 322RC2 is made from magnesium for lightweight performance, and is designed to keep the weight of your equipment as close as possible to the tripod's center of gravity by way of its reduced height. It is this fact, matched with the precision construction of the 322RC2 that gives the head its load capacity of 11 pounds (5.5 pound capacity when in the vertical position).

The Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short comes complete with a built-in bubble spirit level and quick release camera plate (standard 1/4-20-inch screw, with secondary safety pin). The 322RC2 is suitable for use with 35mm or medium format cameras. In addition, you can also mount the 322RS shutter release accessory. The 322RS is a world's first. With its remote control electronic camera shutter release, the 322RC2 becomes the only photographic head available today that can put camera control within reach without having to move your hand from the head grip to the camera body.

Overall Rating

Construction quality :
Weight :
Ease of use :

Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short Product Features:

1. The built-in, carefully hand-set bubble spirit level helps make sure your horizons really are horizontal.
2. Separate control for pre-setting the friction of the ball when unblocked.
3. The position of the red line indicates the approximate amount of friction applied.
4. The compact, rectangular 200PL quick release plate system fits neatly under small-bodied still cameras up to SLR (even with tele lenses) or small medium format, or under small video cameras or spotting scopes.
5. Its rubber pad gives a good grip without damaging the camera, and its angled sides ensure that it also fits perfectly and tightly into a wide range of Manfrotto heads reversible center column allows head and camera to be mounted below the tripod - useful for: low-level shooting (because it keeps the tripod and your equipment out of the mud); working with heavy duty.

Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short Technical Details:

1. Unblock, move, position and lock your camera with one hand in one position
2. Revolutionary grip handle design with ball lock lever
3. Friction control wheel regulates power of the blocking mechanism to match the weight of your camera and lens
4. Built-in bubble spirit level and quick release camera plate
5. Load capacity of 11 pounds; 5.5 pound capacity when in the vertical position

Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short Product Details:

1. Product Dimensions: 6 x 4 x 4 inches ; 1.8 pounds
2. Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
3. Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
4. ASIN: B000184N22
5. Item model number: 322RC2
6. Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars (138 customer reviews)

Most Helpful Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short Customer Reviews:

261 of 262 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - Everything it claims to be - more than the sum of its parts, January 5, 2008 By Black Belt Systems "fyngyrz"

The 322RC2 Ball Head and rapid connect plate, used in combination with a decent set of tripod legs (for example, Bogen Manfrotto 190XPROB) are a profound step up from the all-in-one tripods you may be used to. Even more importantly, they are a step up from most other ball heads by virtue of the immense improvement in both speed and ease of aiming your camera once actually mounted to the ball head. I can't emphasize this enough: This product actually changes how you use your camera, because repositioning the camera on all axis at once is a one hand, fraction of a second operation.

I know that's hard to visualize, so let me describe the process. The head has a handle sticking out the side, quite substantial and comfortable, that fits in your hand (right or left, your choice.) On this handle is a very large "trigger" that fits beneath all of your fingers as they wrap around the handle. When you pull this trigger, the ball head releases your camera and you can move it, using the handle as a precise and ergonomic lever, to any new position you like in no more time than it takes to adjust your wrist and arm - essentially immediately. Then you simply let go of the trigger and the ball head locks the camera right where you have it pointed. [...]

Buy Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short from Amazon at cheapest price.

Manfrotto 322RC2 Joystick Head Short is a useful piece of equipment. It's horizontal positioning provides leverage for the camera's weight. This ball head is a great item. It offers so much versatility with so much ease. When the grip is in the horizontal position, it will allow you to pan unlike traditional quick release ball heads. You can adjust it from a right handed position to either left handed position or to a traditional vertical position like any other quick grip ball head. With one quick motion, you can go from horizontal shot to a vertical shot. The grip also has a tension knob built in so you can increase the tension when you have to use heavier lenses.

12:33 AM | 0 comments | Read More...

Manfrotto 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe Safety Lock

Manfrotto 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe with Safety Lock (Black)

A monpod is a simple way to keep your camera steady when and where a tripod can't. Manfrotto's 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe offers simple use and versatility, plus compact carrying convenience, to help ypu get the most out of your photography. The 685B sports a new safety lever that prevents accidental deployment of the locking release mechanism. To close the monopod, simply activate the safety lever with the small finger, which then allows the grip action handle to be depressed. The lever is simple to operate while still maintaining the one-handed closing operation. To further improve the single-handed performance of the Neotec Monopod, Manfrotto has added a lightweight rubber foot pedal to make opening or closing a snap. To increase the height of the camera, simply step on the pedal and lift the mon to the new position. For storage and transportation, the foot pedal folds away against the bottom leg section. Manfrotto 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe has also added a protective leg-warmer on the bottom leg section to provide protection against the elements and offer a comfortable grip during transportation. And for extra ground support and increased grip, a suction cup foot has been added. Leg Sections - 3 Max Load Capacity - 17.6 pounds Weight - 1.76 pounds

Overall Rating

Comfort :
Construction quality :
Ease of use :
Ease of setup :

Manfrotto 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe with Safety Lock Technical Details:

1. Safety lever that prevents accidental deployment of the locking release mechanism
2. Lightweight rubber foot pedal makes opening or closing a snap
3. Special aluminum alloy used in the aeronautical industry
4. Leg-warmer for protection against the elements and a comfortable grip during transportation
5. 66.9-inch maximum height with center column, 17.6 pound maximum load

Manfrotto 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe with Safety Lock Product Details:

1. Product Dimensions: 27 x 4 x 4 inches ; 2.4 pounds
2. Shipping Weight: 3 pounds
3. Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
4. ASIN: B000AQOD2U
5. Item model number: 685B
6. Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars(18 customer reviews)

Most Helpful Manfrotto 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe with Safety Lock Customer Reviews:

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars - Great for added stability, February 17, 2007 By Sputterkar "Sput"

This is a great accessory to stabilize those images for excursions out. Using a compact ball head with quick release offers quick mounting and dismounting.
I must admit the first time I mounted my camera with my 100-400mm lens I was a bit anxious but that soon dissipated.
Raising and lowering my equipment took some effort but that added to my own security that camera with lens would NOT simply drop with the weight. Applying pressure to the foot and squeezing the trigger works with some effort. The added safety release for lowering is a great feature to alleviate accidental lowering because the trigger is pressed.
The foot cup can be turned so a pointed end is revealed to allow stability when shooting on the earth and of course, extended to add stability for floor use. Only draw back I have enountered is no full length strap for carrying thus I can't simply throw it over my shoulder and move on to the next shot.

Buy Manfrotto 685B Neotec Monopod Deluxe Safety Lock from Amazon at cheapest price

This monopod is very fast to set up and to make instant height adjustments. Pull up to extend, then squeeze the handle and safety lock and push down to shorten. It's not like other monopods that require knobs to be turned for adjustment. It has a lever at the base to step on so it can be held down with the foot while pulling up with one hand to extend it. Speed is critical in wedding photography, where this comes in handy to keep my camera steady in low light situations.

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Joby GP8-BHEN Gorillapod Ballhead bundle

Joby GP8-BHEN Gorillapod Focus with Ballhead X bundle

Joby GP8-BHEN Gorillapod Focus with Ballhead X bundle Technical Details:

1. Intended for professional camera rigs with large zoom lenses and video cameras weighing up to 11.1 lb (5.3 kg).
2. The Gorillapod Focus has a permanent universal 1/4" tripod screw and 3/8" adapter screw.
3. With over two dozen leg joints you can rotate bend and rotate the Gorillapod Focus 360°. The Ballhead X allows full 360° panning and 90° tilts allow you to position your camera equipment at virtually any angle and capture portrait or landscape shots with ease.
4. The Gorillapod Focus is equipped with rubberized ring and foot grips to provide secure positioning of equipment.
5. The Ballhead X is completely compatible with any camera up to 11.1b (5 kg) and nearly every standard stabilization device.

Joby GP8-BHEN Gorillapod Focus with Ballhead X bundle Product Details:

1. Product Dimensions: 3 x 2.8 x 14.6 inches ; 1.6 pounds
2. Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
3. Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
4. ASIN: B003II3FD0
5. Item model number: GP8-BHEN
6. Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4 customer reviews)

Most Helpful Joby GP8-BHEN Gorillapod Focus with Ballhead X bundle Customer Reviews:

46 of 46 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars - Perfect for what it is supposed to do, August 5, 2010 By Andres Cordon "Andres"

The quality of the materials is wonderfull, i thought the ballhead would be so-so but actually it outperforms the tripod. The ballhead can handle the 11 pounds this combo claims but the tripod doenst at some angles/positions.

The most important is to UNDERSTAND that if you buy this combo it doesnt mean that it will replace your regular (big) tripod. This tripod works wonderfull if you "hug" something with the legs. It also works great for macro... as you can check in my video. This tripod would have save me a lot of time asking strangers to take pictures of me and my girlfriend while traveling in Paris and Brussels.

In my video you can see how it handles a Nikon D90 + Battery Grip with 2 batteries + 18-200mm VRII + SB600 flash. I also tested it with a heavier D300 + 70-300mm VR + SB600 flash.

I am impressed with how this combo was able to keep everything thight hanging from a door and a tree branch.

I didn't rate it 5 stars because few sections of the legs came not as tight as the majority.

I hope this video helps, and check the pictures i uploaded too. This thing does exactly what it is suppossed to do, it fits in any backpack, its light and the ballhead is simply superb.

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This tripod has really changed the game. It truly does allow you to capture any angle just about anywhere without having to haul a full sized tripod. It works incredibly well for self portraiture & is built strong. You can't go wrong with this one.

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