Rule of thumb with monopods and slow shutter speeds

10 years 3 months ago #328729 by Zeberk
I'm finally putting some use to my monopod that I hardly use.  During the daylight this worked great, I'm just wondering how useful this would be in lower lighting situations.  What is the slowest shutter speed that you dare to use a monopod?

Have any of you tried the mini leg things for monopods that allow them to stand on their own? 


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10 years 3 months ago #329029 by Ruby Grace
When in question I always use a tripod.  Actually I have a monopod, but don't use it often as I prefer a really still shot, sun, dusk or dark.   

Canon EOS 5D Mark II, 17-40mmL, 24-105mmL, 100-400mmL, 300mm f/4L IS, Sigma 12-24mm, 430EX, Extension tubes
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10 years 3 months ago #329205 by effron
The same rule for hand holding applies to a monopod. Focal length=shutter speed. I own one but wasted my money, I just always carry a tripod.....:unsure:

Why so serious?
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10 years 3 months ago #329271 by Foggy

effron wrote: The same rule for hand holding applies to a monopod. Focal length=shutter speed. I own one but wasted my money, I just always carry a tripod.....:unsure:



LOL, I think we all are in the same boat.  


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10 years 3 months ago #329463 by Cathy Kadolph
I have a monopod, but don't use it much at all.  I prefer just using my tripod

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once you grow up." Pablo Picasso
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10 years 3 months ago #330399 by Rob Conley
Get a tripod that doubles as monopod :thumbsup:


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10 years 3 months ago #330409 by Stealthy Ninja
I see monopods as a tool for people with long heavy lenses or weak arms.
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10 years 3 months ago #330699 by Camera Diva
Very rarely will use one, most time it turns into another object I have to carry around. 

At the beginning of time there was absolutely nothing. And then it exploded! - Terry Pratchett
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10 years 3 months ago #331293 by Joves
I actually use mine as much as my tripod. With a monopod like anything else photography related, you need to use proper technique. The more you use it the better you get with it, or I found that to be my case. With a good ball head they are great for macro where you are belly shooting to get a good steady setup. As a general rule the one to one method that Ernesto mentioned is a good rule, but if you are good with your tripod you can go below that. It is a matter of finding something to help you steady it, such as a tree, railings, or other set object. If you are in palces where it is rocky, I have often used crack in rock, or spaces in rock piles as well. I am pretty much 99% of the time able to find something to help me keep it still. You just have to look around.


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