Yep Dangermouse thats where I got the idea from and found it quite useful, with a D200 and 300mm F4 AFS and my Mag 679 Manfrotto Monopod attached but not extended hanging underneath, it worked quite well but I wouldn't be so keen on swinging one of the Metal jobbies about like that however. I think it may just be too much stress on the screw threads?

Actually if you use the Monopod attached to a long lenses tripod mount but just leave it hanging there it can make quite a good counterbalance.I used to use my Monopod that way at the odd Airshow before Stabilisation came to the fore, it was about the only way I could stand a Monopod for a full days shooting without sticking it in the bin
Tried those shooting stock thingies as well (Forget the Name) but it's something to do with Bush They need to be able to place the Camera offcentre to be effective but they all seem to place the Camera and Lens right on the top and make it pretty awkward and uncomfortable...
Never thought of trying a steadycam or even a Figrig (Manrotto)...

For those that are, erm...Interested:arrow:
http://www.pixiq.com/article/test-1

Talk about a Christmas Backlog! I've actually just been giving the G.P.O. A Rocket for late delivery!
Yes I still have the 77mm, I'm maybe going to do a swap for a 70 with Mike-P but he's not got back to me yet, he's waiting for his unstained K5 so he has first bite so to speak. Mail me if you really want it though and we can sort something I'm sure...

Me too! Just a heads up for everyone:arrow:

Nice Captures Dangermouse!

Algenon when I've been using the Monopod Aircraft Have to Take evasive action


it's not always a disaster when you get too close...

Hi Dangermouse,
Monopods are ok if you can get in the right position but with display Aircraft especially when they change position rapidly (I'm thinking Red Arrows here and Not those big American Thunderbirds!:twisted You just end up tied in Knots... Monopods just don't work except with Sloweer Aircraft that are following a clear line, Tripods as you say are not even allowed on the Airfield unless your in the Press Pen. I am hoping the pentax AF will be ok for me as some of my best efforts came from a D200 and a D70 with the 80-400mm AFVR, Which certainly is not the fastest combo in the world but if the AF adapter is no go I'll just stump up for the 300 F4 and use it bare, only 450mm Equivilant feild of view but it will just have to do.
I'll take some convincing to go for another Bigma...:arrow:

It's all a compromise with Aviation Mike isn't it?
Depends on the Aircraft the amount of prop blades and engine speed (Prop Rotation Speed) With A Biplane,usually two blades you'll get next to no Prop blur above 1/200th


With the Faster Monoplanes with three/four or more Blades 1/350th is about the fastest you can go for, like this Saab B17...


Then theres the conditions as well!
This shot of the Twin Pioneer was taken in a gale!
The Pilot radioed the Airfield telling us the he was "Proceeding Crosswind Runway one at ... 48 Miles per Hour!"



Then theres just how much of a Prop disc you want to show, which is down to personal taste. I'm ok with just enough to show movement but if you want more disc it can mean going so low on your shutter speeds that your keeper rate drops to Zero...
And don't get me started on Helicopters! They're just a flipping nightmare...
P.S. Happy new Year Everyone