82% OF PHOTOGRAPHERS DO THIS, DO YOU?

[@prsearls]

I'm almost 82 years old and don't have the upper body strength of my youth. Shooting with my 500 mm f/4.0 is uncomfortable for more than a few shots so I normally use a tripod. Camera/lens improvements in ISO noise performance and stabilization has reduced the need for super-fast and heavy lenses like we needed 20 years ago. (But, I'd never give up my Canon 500 mm because of its awesome performance). Each shooting situation (and shooter's desire) is different so use what you need to get your images. I have a medium weight Gitzo I use for most shooting but use my big, Really Right Stuff tripod for the big glass. It's light, rigid and tall. Works for me!

[@mikewilson8513]

I am 75 and I agree with your sentiments. I have a Nikon D610 with various lenses, all nikon glass. I cant afford the latest gear, having invested a few thousand pounds in my kit over the years. I use tripods or monopods when never i can. I cant hold my camera as still as i used to. So its horses for courses. I also still have my D80, which i do use when i need a lighter kit and no tripod. I am in a walking group. We walk a couple of times a week through the English countryside. As we walk about 5-6 miles a D610 plus tripod is really not a good idea. So if i do decide to take my camera. its the D80 and the excellent, but very light 18-55 kit lens. It an excellent combination. Just thought I would let you know you are not alone.

[@surajkarki6556]

Do you use 500 mm f4 is usm lens version 1

[@prsearls]

@ yes

[@marquisdemoo1792]

In 2003 I trekked up the Gandaki valley in Nepal to Mustang. I had a Canon DSLR and stock lens with no image stabilisation. When I got to Mustang we rested for a day and I reviewed my pics only to be disappointed at how fuzzy they were. On the way back I developed a technique of wrapping the straps of my walking sticks together to quickly create a bipod with cradle and by comparison the pictures were fantastic. Since then I have been on the lookout for walking sticks which could be quickly converted into a bipod as I don't want to carry a dedicated mono/bi/tripod when hill walking.

[@erikswenson2659]

I use a monopod with a camera strap around the neck for BIF. You can let go of the camera and let it hang on the strap to rest or get something out of your bag without placing the camera on the ground.

[@wildlife-shorts]

Hi, Duade! I really recommend the peak design slide strap. Its ancor on one side and on the base of the camera, so when you have a long lens, like the 100-500mm it points down and you can walk comfortably. Also, it has a clip that makes adjust the size of the strap easy. If you want to put it on a tripod, it has a quick release system with some anchors. You can leave the anchors in different cameras and use the same strap. The slide is a little expensive, but comes with a life warranty. I just love it to use with my R6 and the 100-500mm. Really recommend

[@hubbs478]

This is the same setup I use with an R7 and 100-500. The Peak Design Slide Strap has a slippery side which makes it easy to slide the camera up to your eye, even when I'm wearing a harness strap for my binoculars. This is the best strap on the market.

[@larrydees]

Don't waste your money if you live in the south, the slip-resistentance coating on the straps melts and makes a nasty mess on your clothing or anything they touch. The company never responded to my multiple emails. Love their design but will never buy from them due to lack of customer support.

[@wildlife-shorts]

@larrydees I live in the Pantanal. The dry season is really hot and dry, and the wet season is really humid. I'm using the strap for more than a year, and it's perfect so far. They delivered the strap here in Brazi, and they always answered my e-mails. Still recommend the product

[@wildlife-shorts]

@@hubbs478 totally agree

[@polmestra]

I also love the peak design! That is what I use

[@ernreeders5583]

Re the Wimberley MonoGimbal, just be aware that Wimberley says "Your Monopod should be rated for 3 times the weight of your setup." I expect that's to cope with dynamic load or with the way the rig levers the monopod when it's slung over your back.

[@mikebartow9415]

Thanks! I have a Peak Design strap and when I have a lens with a foot (70-200 or my 200-500 lens) I simply rest the foot in my belt and walkabout. No worries about it falling and I haven’t noticed any waist or back discomfort. Strap is insurance.

[@89Albatross89]

You remain one-of-the-best, or the BEST wildlife photographer that has a KZbin Channel. Your videos are well arranged. Your advice on "how-to" regarding picture-taking is spot-on. We hope some day to return to Oz. I spent 2 years at a joint USAF and Australia satellite station in Woomera. (Way before your time!) I learned about Vegemite, and chased several big-reds thru the doing after having a bit too much plonk. I'm much more settled now in California. But, if we're ever in Victoria, we would very much like to have a barbie with you and your family! Roger Bossart

[@fernandoish9194]

I used to carry a tripod and monopod (it was both things at once) around with my old equipment. But the new camera and lenses (specifically I went from a 80D + Canon 400mm F5.6 to an R7 + RF 100-500mm) have changed that. IS works so good that I can now just hand hold the vast majority of the time… at 800mm, due to the 1.6x cropping factor of the R7. Which was unthinkable just a few years ago and allows me to be far away enough to not scare many bird species I couldn’t photograph before. Plus I can see the subject clearly through the viewfinder and smoothly follow it. Thanks to the eye tracking system composing the image is way easier, and the fast 15/30 FPS has skyrocketed the number of keepers. The experience of photographing wildlife now feels kinda “easy”. And much more enjoyable.

[@3DEditor]

I'm glad you mentioned a tripod is a must-have when filming video, especially when using a bigger, heavier telephoto lens. If you try filming wildlife without one for long periods of time, your footage will turn out shaky, wobbly and blurry more often than not. I've been mostly filming since the late 1980s, and tripods for video make a huge difference when trying to achieve sharpness with little shake and wobble. The only time filming handheld is acceptable, is for filming moving action shots that require an experienced athlete/filmer to be moving as well on a skateboard or rollerblades. I have done plenty of filming on a skateboard using a much smaller action camera with image stabilization.

[@sashworth8805]

Hello Duade. I really appreciate your videos. You are someone making a living with your photos, but you take the time to make videos to help others. That tells me you're actually a good person. They def help others, and I hope you continue to tutor people! Your photos are an inspiration to others who are trying to take great bird photos! Thanks for your videos!!!

[@rreichar1]

Another great video! I am strictly a handholder. Back in the early 2000s I was a wedding videographer. I used relatively large and heavy Canon video cameras which I hand held the majority of the time. The longest wedding ceremony that I ever did ended up being my last. It was a Greek Orthodox service that lasted 2 and a half hours. I was just recovering from back surgery and by the end of the service I was done. I primarily started that business because of the cool gear I got to buy. I did it for a couple of years as a side gig and then sold everything to a friend who had just graduated film school and wanted to make movies. As a result of that I have very steady hands. These cameras and lenses had no IS at all so I absolutely had to be steady. That has carried over into my wildlife photography. As I have gotten older and developed a few more aches and pains I have been downsizing my gear. I am all in on Olympus right now. I just traded all of my Canon gear for Olympus lenses. For me, right now, it was the right decision. I was very sad to sell my RF 100-500. Hopefully I will someday be able to acquire the Olympus 150-400 but if that doesn’t happen I will be fine with what I’ve already got. This is my hobby so I don’t ever want it to feel like work just to carry my gear around. I use OP/TECH straps. I primarily use a wrist strap. If my shoulder is bothering me or I know I will be out all day I use their sliding sling strap which holds most of the weight while I am walking. OP/TECH straps are cheap and reliable. They aren’t as pretty as some other brands but they don’t fail.

[@Duade]

Thanks Rod, sounds like your wedding background certainly helps. Not a job I could have done. I have back issues so I have to be careful with the heavy weight also. I can see why people are going to Olympus with their light kits and wonderful IS etc. I hope to try Olympus this year at some point. Cheers, Duade

[@davidgrandy4681]

I do a lot of sports photography with a Canon 1d and a Canon 300mm f2.8 with a 1.4X extender. I occasionally see another pro using that kind of set up hand held. I think two things: 1) He's strong as an ox, and 2) He's damn near as smart. I use a monopod with that set up and I let the "stick" literally do all the hard lifting. Ask yourself how long you are going to be able to keep the camera pointed at the subject without having to take a rest. I don't care how light things are getting it's still too heavy to hold for more than a relatively few seconds. Remember there are no prizes for hand holding a camera for extended periods of time, only for good pictures. With the monopod I can hold the subject until they actually do something, as there's no fatigue, and I think I can move around fairly easily. The only things that a monopod doesn't work well for is when the subject is significantly above your head (and I'd try a gimbal on a monopod before hand holding), or if the platform your shooting from is unstable like a boat or a helicopter.

[@Sam-hf8nq]

Black-browed Albatross with the casual wing dip at 2:56 is one of my favorites photos of yours. Just stunning. I'm a fan of tripods for slow-movers like ducks, owls and hawks in trees, etc. And, of course, there a must-have when you're mixing in some video clips with your pics. Love the channel. Cheers from NY.

[@Duade]

Thanks Sam, yes I agree. That Albatross shot is one of my favs also. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@daleroyal6449]

Peak Design strap is unbeatable,I use mine with d500&150/600 for handheld,Alot of people dont realise that these straps have 2 sides to them,1 side is for a smooth action for strap to slide on your clothing whilst photographing,and the oposite side has (what feels like a sticky surface) for when walking with camera to stop it sliding from side to side,Great work as always Duade and many Thanks Dale from UK

[@chrisgrylls9132]

Duade, a great summary of the various options. Obviously, hand holding gives the greatest flexibility, however as age creeps up on me, hand holding is becoming less and less an option, particularly with high resolution cameras. I am using a tripod much more often and regularly use a monopod of which I have two (Manfrotto MPMXPROA3 & iFootage Cobra 2) to give me relatively easy maneuverability and stability for sharp shots. Flimsy monopods like flimsy tripods are a waste of time and money. I highly recommend the Peak Design system for straps, as most of the time I don't use a strap, so it's easily removed.

[@Canada151337]

I use a monopod + Wimberley MH100 as well and it's amazing! I've taken it on hikes with 2,000ft vertical and it slings nicely over the shoulder and then you have a nice rest when the eagles are flying right over head!!

[@j.b.4340]

I didn’t respond to the poll, because I don’t have a proper camera yet, but I use a tripod to photograph the night sky, and I always have to steady my hand on something, for clear wildlife images. (I’m a surveyor, so I’m geared towards the tripod).

[@Duade]

Thanks J. B. yes, tripods come in useful. As a teenager I worked for a local surveyor as a chainman lugging around gear and banging in pegs, I wish those tripods were as light as these ones ;-) Cheers, Duade

[@bobkav285]

Super informative videos, thanks Duade!

[@Duade]

Thank you for the support, Cheers, DUade

[@jeffreyschutt7451]

Thanks!

[@Duade]

Thanks Jeffrey, you are too kind, I really appreciate it, Cheers, Duade

[@robguyatt9602]

Duade, you may recall we discussed Grebes a while back. I was surprised by your comment that they are curious and will approach. I hadn't experienced that back then. For the last few seasons, a pair has nested on my boy's dam and they are shy and go to the other side of the dam when I'm there. But on the neighbor's dam, the pair that nests there always come to me. I had a great time there yesterday as one of the adults brought all 4 youngsters over to me for some great shots at about 10m. When alone, one of that pair has come as close as 5m. How cool is that. So I get that it is a personality thing in individuals.

[@Duade]

Thanks Rob, yes it is curious isn't it, I was out yesterday and had a family literally come over and just camp out not far from me. They all took there turn staring at me watching me stare at them lol. Glad to hear you got some lovely shots and enjoyed the experience. Cheers, Duade

[@robguyatt9602]

@@Duade Did you talk to them like I do? LOL.

[@Duade]

@@robguyatt9602 Yes, I do. 😀

[@NickPage]

I have the Wimberley monopod head as well and shout out to Dan for those awesome strap and ground level tips.. I had never once thought to use it like that while on the ground and it works really really well! Thank you for the awesome tips!

[@Duade]

Great to hear from you Nick, love the channel, I have to say some of those birds flying above the water in your coast shots are a dream of mine. Just awesome. Yes, we are lucky to have such a great community that share their ideas and tips etc. Cheers, Duade

[@NickPage]

@@Duade I appreciate that Duade! I have been binge watching your videos for the past couple months as I have gotten more into Wildlife photography.

[@Duade]

@@NickPage My pleasure mate, glad to hear you have found the channel useful, wildlife photography is a great addition to landscapes as you can continue shooting once you have nailed your landscape shoot. The R5 & RF100-500 is a fantastic combo for wildlife and I am sure you will just kill the habitat style shots which are by far the hardest but most impactful wildlife shots out there. Any questions feel free to hit me up on facebook or email at [e-mail] Cheers, Duade

[@NickPage]

@@Duade I agree the 100-500 is a beautiful zoom. One of the first things I did in my switch back to Canon was pick up an old version 1 of the 500 f4 IS and a teleconverter. Its crazy how much new life the new Mirrorless AF systems can breath into a 23 year old lens!

[@Duade]

@@NickPage Yeah, it sure is, the R5 has been one of the biggest jumps I have experienced. The 700 5.6 is a really sweet focal length combined with the MP. Perfect for ducks and waterfowl etc. The weight being the only downside to the big lenses. It sounds like you might have got the bug bad which is great to hear, I often think I may need to try another style as I am sure it helps you think and look at compositions differently etc. My wife is always telling me to take landscapes of these beautiful places but when the light is good, I struggle to focus on anything but the wildlife. Cheers, Duade

[@marksuchomelsr6698]

Duade, try the Kirk sling strap. I use it with lenses up to my 300 2.8. I have hiked 9 miles with it slung over my shoulder with little to no fatigue.

[@Duade]

Thanks for the suggestion Mark, Cheers, Duade 👍

[@markuhart8850]

I use the Cotton carrier CCS G3. It’s very comfortable and keeps my camera at the ready. I use it with either a Canon 5d Mk IV with 70-200mm lens or 7d with 100-500mm lens.

[@siriofrelativity5130]

Great video as always. I'm looking forward to an update on the Sony gear. Thanks for all you do.

[@Duade]

Thanks, I have a few videos lined up for Sony, Cheers, Duade

[@tordandreasson]

Hi Duade. I hand-hold 80% of the time, then I use a Black Rapid shoulder dual strap as this allows me to carry two bodies; one fitted with a telephoto lens, and sometimes I will also bring a body fitted with a general-purpose lens for landscape. For longer sessions e.g. in hides or stationary or when shooting video I use a Manfrotto 055 carbon fiber tripod. For heavier lenses, I use a Lensmaster RH2 gimbal. When shooting videos I have recently started using a Manfrotto fluid head. Then I also use a frying pan pod when I want low level perspective.

[@themoodyphotographer59]

I have a Surui carbon fiber tripod with a Acratech lever release ball head and a K&F Concepts BA225 carbon fiber tripod for my landscape setup that I use on long hikes. I have a Black Rapid strap for my Z6ll and 200-500mm that I added an extra clip to so that it is connected to the tripod collar and the camera, I don't trust those clips so I added another one just in case. Great video!

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Dennis, sounds like a great setup. Cheers, Duade

[@skakdosmer]

I own a Blackrapid Hybrid Dual Camera Slingstrap which is really good. It allows you to carry two cameras, one on each side of your body, and any time you want, you can just grab either camera, swing it up to your eye and take pictures. I have several tripods. My oldest one is a Hama Profil 74, and it served me well until I got a Tamron 200-400 F5.6. I tried it on a windy day, and it was just wobbling all over the place. So a cheap tripod (I think it was about $80) can be okay, but definitely not for a long lens if there's any wind. So I wanted to make sure I got a stable tripod, and I ordered a Manfrotto #161mk2B with a #229 Super Pro 3-way head. I got a shock when it arrived, 'cause I'd had no idea how enormous it is. Head included it weighs 9.5 kg (21 pounds), and it can bring the viewfinder all the way to 3 metres (10 feet). But it is rock solid! It also has these "retractable spikes" that you showed, and I really love that tripod! Whenever I don't plan to do any walking, I still often favour it over my other tripods. But at some point I felt I needed something in between, so I bought a Manfrotto #055pro3. I chose the aluminium version. When you include the weight of the head, the carbon version is maybe 20% lighter, but it costs twice as much. It came in a kit with a MHXPro-BHQ2 magnesium ball head, and I added an extra RC-128 fluid video head. And when I bought my Sigma 150-600 C, I also bought the Manfrotto #393 gimbal head. It's not one of your "one-armed thief" type gimbals (stealing your money); it's two-armed, so it can be less sturdy and less expensive without losing any stability. They promote it as a monopod head now. They didn't when I bought it, and it works fine for me. For stability nothing beats my 3-way head, though. I've also bought a couple of travel tripods: A Manfrotto Befree (again aluminium) and a K&F Concept KF-TC 2534 (because I wanted to try carbon and twist locks). But although they're both a little better than my old Hama, I'm not impressed with their stability.

[@cesarm8811]

Duade, great video. Lots of really good tips. Thanks.

[@Duade]

My pleasure Cesar, Cheers, Duade

[@davepastern]

Hi Duade - sorry I didn't post a photo of my setup, kind of forgot about it. I'm using: Canon R3 Canon 7D II Canon 60D Canon 300mm f4 IS L Canon 500mm f4 IS L (mark 1) Canon 1.4x TC mark 1 Canon 1.4x TC mark 3 (currently testing it, not happy with it and will probably return it for a full refund) I do have a Benro Mach3 TMA38CL tripod (haven't used it for birding photography yet, but have used it for landscape photography - very sturdy, very similar to the Sirui tripod in your video). I also have a Benro GH5C gimbal, which I haven't used at all yet. I mostly handhold, even with the big 500mm, but like you said, you do get fatigued. I have good days and bad days. I was doing some testing a few days ago and I couldn't pick the 500mm up for more than a second. That's my own personal health though, a healthy person would almost certainly manage better.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, my back plays up on me so I need to be careful handholding heavy gear, a tripod is often just easier. Cheers, Duade

[@davepastern]

@@Duade lower back problems here too - osteoarthritis from L5 down with nerve impingement. On strong pain painkillers for said nerve pain. It doesn’t make life easy does it?

[@utubify100]

Another great effort with plenty of good info - thanks for that, Duade! I hand hold with a quick adjust strap 85+% of the time for the flexibility and nature of the environment where I normally shoot. If I'm practicing a little sit & wait strategy or a set-up, then the tripod & gimbal are often the way to go. My kit is usually around 2.6 kgs, but if it was much more, I'm sure I'd rework my methods some. I have never tried a monopod due to the seemingly limited situations they appear to be designed for, but can see where they would potentially be the best choice at times. Thanks again for further enlightening us on what's out there & what the many options can offer. Have a good one & may your future sessions be rewarding ones ~ Chris

[@Duade]

Thanks Chris, I am very similar and largely depends on the style of shooting and the kit I am using. Monopods are probably the least used for me just because of how difficult it is to film yourself with it. Cheers, Duade

[@utubify100]

I understand, Duade. I never film myself & so never consider that aspect, but makes complete sense for your needs. I've been using a solid Innorel carbon tripod & upgraded version of that Neewer gimbal you had in video & both work quite well for my uses. The gimbal is a little sluggish below -10 C, but not enough to be problematic. Have a good one ~ Chris

[@Original_Old_Farmer]

Point of interest. One of the "cheap" tripods that you liked, you said it was stiff. I would buy that over some of the other tripods for video. It's best to have a fluid head for video. Granted, it isn't, but it's trying. I have a tripod with the post. It's light and with a hand on the post, is fine. Of course, I'm not using the Hubble telescope for a lens. That would change what can be done. My big tripod is a fluid head and is for a commercial shoulder mount video camera. If need be with a fluid head you can remove the drag, iit can be as fast as your expensive tripods. It's a heavy tripod, but that means vibration won't come through the legs. Good video.

[@Gaztography]

Excellent video again Duade, thanks for sharing my image. I have the Neewer gimbal and totally agree with your comments. Shame as its a decent product for the money, although I’m not comfortable taking it apart to re grease, I have seen KZbin videos on that process. It does improve in the summer when the grease gets warmer. For me the flexibility of hand holding using a decent shoulder strap out ways the tripod option, unless I’m setting up a perch or pool in the garden.

[@Duade]

Thanks Gary, yes, it is stiff compared to the Sirui but hopefully a regrease will do the trick. Cheers, Duade

[@AliasJimWirth]

Thanks for the rundown on this important topic, Duade. I noticed recently that I am not using a tripod much anymore, though I bring it along almost always.

[@Duade]

Thanks Jim, I have to admit since getting the RF100-500 and 200-600 I am enjoying the freedom of handholding but if I am waiting then I need a tripod. Cheers, Duade

[@Feniche17]

Yep! bought that neewer tri for iceland trip; broke cent. column after 2d of light pre- trip indoor testing… spent little more $$ and it was well worth

[@Duade]

Sorry to hear that but good to know. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@Karkawry1970]

A9 & 200-600 currently. Although I have a 3 legged thing tripod and Kenro gimbal head, and a 3 legged hing monopod. I am much more frequently using my peak design slide strap, and hand held.

[@Freddiedawkins]

Go to 14:52 the ball head I use has trapped my finger about twice because of lens flop ( my finger was in between the ball of the tripod )and I was using a lens which is about 3kg almost broke my finger and DAM did it hurt I was in the middle of a forest as well so I had to walk back home over barbed wire with a nearly Brocken finger

[@treeman3663]

Hi again I'm at present in the hand held camp for birding and is easier to get around but can be a pain if your waiting for that shot leaning against a post can help if one is close

[@Duade]

Yeah it sure can. Cheers, Duade

[@mikebarker9187]

This is an excellent video and review of topics. Including member pics also adds great value.

[@ZackimusPrime]

Fantastic video as usual! For me it depends on what I’m photographing, because I capture a lot of different things. I use a tripod when I’m ship spotting and a monopod when I’m doing wildlife and handheld when truck spotting or sports. 😊

[@keithpyman8209]

Hi Dude, Regarding camera shoulder straps, I use Optech kit, strap is nylon webbing with snaplock connectors and the shoulder part is a shaped neoprene. The strap can be rigged for right or left handed use and I have found it very comfortable. I now have an RP and an R7 with Optech shoulder straps fitted to both cameras.

[@keithpyman8209]

My apologies for the autocorrect spelling, Dude should have read Duade. Cheers and thanks for the great info about tripods etc.

[@brianhoulihan9335]

Hi Duade I use all three, Mono pod for Sport, Hand Old & tripod for wildlife, big 500mm getting to heavy for my slight frame. great video.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, had fun yesterday, take care, Cheers, Duade

[@jackbrumby1892]

I primarily use a PD hand grip in conjunction with a PD wrist strap for security. I also use a Black Rapid shoulder strap. I have a Wimberly 200, but want the MH100. Cheers.

[@Duade]

Thanks Jack, I will look into getting a strap. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@axelhildebrandt]

As for pelagic trips, using tripods or monopods is something to avoid for one more reason, the engine vibration travels through the hull of the boat and all images would be blurry.

[@Duade]

Thanks Alex, very true, Cheers, Duade 👍

[@AK-hk2pd]

Thanks Duade, i find flexibility the key, however, for those low low shots, gimbal on mud dish appears the proper solution

[@blisteringbooks2428]

You seem to be getting on well with the Sony! I use Benbo style tripods, as a pro motorsport photographer I might be balancing on a muddy bank, as all the legs move independently I can have one pointing up if needed. Incidentally, while working I was attacked by a motorcycle and side car, my smaller Benbo now has a prosthetic leg, white. [32mm plastic pipe] I use a monopod to lug around my Canon 400mm f2.8 as it is so heavy. I also have something that almost resembles a tripod, hooks over the car window, if I am using the car as a hide it takes the weight from my arms, though a beanbag works in an emergency. I use a heavy duty ball head on my monopod. I have made a ground skimmer, I just haven't used it yet. Keep up the good work!

[@shimmeringreflection]

Yep, tripod still useful at night with a low ISO and when waiting for the right moment to click. Funnily enough I have a Neewer N55C too, and it's perfectly fine for my relatively light gear

[@olibertosoto5470]

Handheld is great but slowing that shutter speed down a couple of stops sure comes in handy a lot of times. I use a tall 4 section monopod with quick tab locks - leave the last section extended to the length where fully extending the other sections hits the right hight. Minimal fuss to deploy quickly and you get used to it.

[@Duade]

Thanks Oliberto, yes, I often need that support as I fatigue quickly with heavier lenses. Cheers, Duade

[@olibertosoto5470]

@@Duade 👍🏼Takes about 2 minutes tops for me to start shaking. Forgot to mention that I have never found a more comfortable way to carry than holding on to a collapsed monopod with the camera and lens saddled over my shoulder - just feels natural. I would attach a monopod if just for that reason alone.

[@Duade]

@@olibertosoto5470 Good point, yes, it does often make it easier to carry. Cheers, Duade

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

Thank you. I use several tripods of different size from a Gitzo GT3841XLS. To a RRS TVC-33, and just added a lighter LeoFoto LS-284CEX. The big two have RRS leveling head and clamp to make it easy to clamp on and off different ball heads, gimbals, pan & tilt, and fluid heads. For gimbals I use a Wimberley WH-200 and a RRS PG-02. For fluid a Manfroto MVH500AH with Kirk Arca-Swiss Adapter. Ball heads com either RRS BH-50 or Markins Q10 & Q20. For pan & tilt a LeoFoto VH-30. And then hav two monopods, one from iFootage with Komodo fluid head and a LeoFoto with the Wimberley MH-100. So obviously a fan. Take care.

[@itiswhatitis8179]

Hi Duade, the fellow over at Whistling Wings Photography makes and sells something he calls the Speed Shooter Harness. It's sort of a combination of a monopod and hand holding. You can move around on your feet just as you would when hand holding. I've been thinking about mocking up a similar system to see if it would work for me. If it does, I will probably buy one of his as it appears to be much better than anything I might come up with. You don't need a strap when using this.

[@Duade]

Thanks for that, I believe that maybe what Dan was using in the small clip in the video. Looks like an interesting piece of kit. Good luck with it, Cheers, Duade

[@pseudophotog]

Another helpful video - thanks Duade. As a birder who takes photos I need to stop my binoculars banging into the camera. I use a Black Rapid strap from which I can hang my camera diagonally across my body so it rests on my hip. This system works really well as I can quickly switch from bins to camera and back again.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing, sounds like a great solution. Happy birding out there. Cheers, Duade

[@jonberube2489]

TC7 owner here, I love mine but my only complaint is the spike to rubber feet because unless you're super careful it's easy to get sand that grits up the internal threads. After repeated use one of my buckles would no longer fully lock a leg down but that was 100% resolved by using a simple hex key tool to tighten down one of the screws. In fact you can easily over-tighten the buckles so that it can be a struggle to fully lock. The fast bowl design is so much easier to make micro-adjustments to your ball/gimbal head leveling than trying to adjust legs.

[@Joya5545]

Great video. Talking about ways to carry gear around,coming up with a system for one or two cameras, I’ve found the Cotton Carrier harness to be really good Duade. It allows me to have my RF800mm F11 secured on my chest in front of me, while having the second body with the 100-500mm attached at the side. I like this system because it gives me hands free secured equipment for traipsing through the bush yet a quick way to grab the lens and camera for the shot when needed.

[@craigsam]

Hi Duade, great video. I've made a sled from an old beach chair and attached a gimbal, it looks a bit like a set of helicopter skids under my camera It Works a treat

[@amerphoto1]

I used to shoot off a tripod exclusively with my Nikon equipment, D4s with a 600mm G lens. There was no choice to use it handheld because of the weight. But when I added the Sony A7RIV with a 200-600,, lens to my kit, it was a game changer! Now I can nail birds in flight that I would never even get into the viewfinder with my older gear. I have so many more keepers than ever before.

[@Duade]

Thanks Daniel, and that is a big advantage of modern lighter gear. Cheers, Duade

[@mayhamilton6652]

Really helpful video. Handheld for me most of the time but my tripod sits at the door for the aurora season when I'm very lucky to get pictures from my driveway. It's essential then.

[@brucesummers7448]

"Working height" needed also depends on how high off the ground your subjects happen to be. With birds and mammals and reptiles up in trees a taller trip is needed. Best is the Feisol tripod and the Feisol CT-3472 and the Feisol center column kit that provide 7-10 inches more height above the ground and is able to support a 15 lb lens and camera load with no shake. The Feisol center column is double the diameter of the intergrated center column tripods and as there is no gearing it is far more rigid. Important to realize that a tripod and head are a long term investment. One can upgrade lenses and cameras and continue to use the tripod and heads for decades.

[@konnorwarzecha504]

Hey Duade! My current setup is the Canon 90D with sigma 150-600 C. I am a wildlife photographer on a budget. I almost always handhold the sigma and just use neck strap. I'm always tempted to bring my tripod but I just find it hard to lug around. The places I go are rugged uneven terrain so setting up the tripod is a challenge. Plus I live in a cold climate so add in the snow factor and it's even harder. I just ordered a bean bag as it's lighter and am curious to try it out lying on the ground or stump using that to stabilize instead.

[@Duade]

Thanks Konnor, yes, tripods can be a pain that is for sure. Good luck with the beanbag, Cheers, Duade

[@edwinkibichum5346]

speaking of budget, I use a K&F Concept Aluminium tripod. Got it from China for USD 38.2 😅 but it was listed on Amazon for about $100. Spent about $20 for shipment to Kenya. The tripod is sturdy but I own very light weight gears so I've not pushed it to its limit. The max payload is 10kg/22lb, max height is 72.8" and has flip locks. One leg can also be detached and used as a monopod. Basically I don't regret that purchase

[@tysonator5433]

Great video with some superb ideas which I will be using !

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, Cheers, Duade

[@ernreeders5583]

You asked about strap use Duade. Many folk use a sling. I found as an active 'tog that I had to use one hand to steady the rig when it was hanging off a sling. Eg when skiing with a rig or clambering around a rolling boat on a pelagic cruise I need both hands free. So I use a Cotton Carrier Skout for the lighter rig and a CC Harness for the 4.5kg rig. These hold the rig on your chest. The Skout v1 could be offset to the side of your chest so you could more readily see your feet when moving. CC calls these slings but that's a mistake. Better to call them holsters.

[@TaiwanisMoving]

I use the Blackrapid RS-4. It's a simple cross-body strap with a small pocket on the padded shoulder area that you can put an extra memory card and another battery. It keeps the camera at your waist and always ready to swing up and take a shot.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing, good to hear the strap is working well for you. Cheers, Duade

[@markevenson987]

Duane, very nice, complete video. I am wondering about the demographics of the 82% of the photographers who only shoot hand held? At 71 years and back injuries, etc, I have found that hand holding produces less keepers overall than my tripod setup. I actually have done some studies shooting vehicle traffic with a tripod set up and hand holding at shutter speeds of 1/4000 sec. For me, many more keepers with the support of a tripod. I use an older Gitzo, 2 leg section, no center column, carbon fiber tripod which is very stable. Not too heavy either. After upgrading my kit to an R7 and RF 100-500mm lens, I was doing better with hand holding BUT have gone back to the tripod for more tack sharp results. I don’t live in an area where I walk thru dense bush, so the tripod usually doesn’t get in the way. Most of my shots are of raptors who love to test my patients by sitting on a perch for what seems like an eternity, if I had to hand hold for 30-45 minutes waiting for a fly away……. Well , I think the bird would win the patients game and I would be back in my car. I also have a Manfroto CF monopod . All of my heads are Wimberly, side kick, monopod MH-100 and recently an old WH-100 gimbal. In my experience, if you can buy good used equipment from a reputable manufacturer you are miles ahead of the equipment game. Of course if you can buy new, then……. Happy shooting and GOOD LIGHT to all.

[@markevenson987]

Sorry about the typo, DUADE

[@railway-share3820]

Excellent video Duade. Regarding protecting your camera if you have to lay it down when using a monopod. I bought some waterproof rucksack liners for use with mine. They are cheap, light and have a drawstring. Easy to carry in the pocket and could be used with tripods too in case of showers.

[@johnclark9499]

Hi Duade. Well yet another great video with so much helpful information - and it's great to include info about equipment at the value end of the market, not just the really expensive stuff. I don't think the Sirui AR2024 was available when I bought my Sirui N2204SK (which is a very similar tripod) so I ended up buying a separate leveling base to get the same effect but not quite as elegantly as the AR2024. Glad you like the Wimberley MH100 and monopod combo, it's really great isn't it and pleased to see so many of your members think the same. I'll be really interested as and when you get around to a review of different strap systems - Peak Design, Black Rapid etc etc. When you do try a bean bag, I think the most basic type - literally a bag full of beans (well OK, maybe a camoflage material bag!) is really the most useful and flexible, just need to decide the size that works best for you. Thanks again and best wishes. John

[@Duade]

Thanks for the feedback John, I really appreciate it, yes I do need to try these different straps out. Yep, the Wimberley whilst expensive is a great piece of kit. Cheers, Duade

[@gotmudd]

Agree new tech allows more freedom, but I never leave home without the mini Oben CTT-1000 Carbon Fiber Tabletop. Slow shutter is a magical world that everyone should explore to the fullest. And shooting landscapes ground level will improve your keepers 75%

[@lifeandlandscapesinecuador]

I have started using a monopod more often. With an older camera without IBS it helps me lower my SS while maintaining lower ISO. I just put a small ball head on top of the monopod and it works fine for me.

[@Duade]

Great to hear and thanks for sharing, Cheers, Duade

[@Andy_Thomas]

Re; tripod buckles vs twist-locks - I prefer the buckles, but I bought a tripod with twist-locks because I suspect that they are a bit more reliable in very cold temperatures (i.e. around -20C). Re: straps - we used to use the BlackRapid shoulder straps, but we switched to the Peak Design Slide straps. We find them to me so much more flexible/adaptable.

[@Duade]

Thanks Andy, I am looking at getting the Peak straps to try out. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@boblaird8475]

I only use my tri pod when I am setting up and staying in one place. My tri pod is a heavy duty manfrotto with a U shaped manfrotto gimbal head. Most of the time I use my mono pod which doesn't have extendable legs it's just two poles one inside the other. I have modified my mono pod by fitting a spike on the end so I can stick it in the ground so if I do let go it stays stood up

[@thierryhoornaert9950]

Hi, Duade! Great video. Sirui's tripods are made to point the legs down when setting up! When you untwist all twist locks with a single hand movement, the leg segments gets in place by gravity. Then you can easily twist them in place and do the next leg. Point the legs up when you are breaking camp for the same reason. You will save more than half the time. I also have a (Manfrotto) tripod with buckle locks for comparison: I have to unlock 3x, pull 2x and lock 3x per leg. Its only advantage is you can see that they are really locked.

[@ForrestWest]

I have the flex shooter pro with the clamp and I really enjoy using it. It's my vehicle set up and I have a larger heavier tripod and gimbal that I keep it home. The only negative of the flex shooter is that that one knob controls locking off vertical and panning so you can't just lock off one or the other. Aside from that it's lightweight and very enjoyable to use.

[@Lil-JensStudio]

Best line in the video- "almost like a dance move..." Had to stop and laugh for a moment. It reminded all of us how much you thoroughly enjoy your craft. As for the product, I do not have the iFootage monopod but I did acquire the three legged base last summer. It is a real back and neck saver for me when shooting prone since I can set the camera in place then give my old and scrawny neck a break. I have also used it out in wilderness areas perched atop a rock or large fallen timber. With it's small size, it is the only 'tripod' I keep in my backpack while on a hike. For more challenging terrain and longer distances, I usually employ my Cotton Carrier CCS G3 Cammo Harness. The hands-free design allows me to traverse steep slopes, cross water barriers, and plow through dense vegetation without having to worry about the camera. While it can be used attached to foot and plate, I do not care for how close it is to my face nor how far it sticks out from my torso in this manner. Also, it may not be all that suitable for some of the larger lenses- My Canon RF 100-500 is about the limit, at least for someone my size.

[@Duade]

Trust me I am not dancer lol, thanks for the feedback and great to hear you are enjoying the mini tripod, it is a wonderful piece of kit. Thanks for the tip re the harness. Cheers, Duade

[@treeman3663]

Next video you should do is all about lenses for birding unless you have done them to death already but looking at the best length and f stop for birding fast or slow lens and prices

[@treeman3663]

Your last video I saw was on iso shutter speed and apiture setting for sharp bird shots explained in such a simple way and so helpful thanks

[@ItsAYGIbaby]

I use a Smallrig tripod, without center column and I'm very happy. It's light and very sturdy, even with my Nikon 200-500 and it is only about 170eur with ballhead included. The only downside is its height of 133cm, but it doesn't bother me to much.

[@Duade]

Thanks, great to hear, I might have to try that one out. Cheers, Duade

[@robguyatt9602]

Since going to Z9 from D850, I haven't used either a tripod or monopod. Shooting at 800mm and shutter speeds as low as 1/25th handheld works. The fact that the Z 100-400 with 2xTC is light really helps too. But I do find the sling essential when hiking.

[@SuomiFinland78]

Well, Z9 is heavy, congratulations if you don't use tripod or monopod at all.

[@Duade]

Thanks Rob, great to hear, my mate handholds the Z9 and 800 6.3 which is impressive also. I just don't have the strength, maybe I need to use my lenses in some sort of morning workout routine :-) Cheers, Duade

[@jackbrumby1892]

@@Duade I'm 68 & don't find the Z9 heavy at all. The grip seems tailor-made for my hand.

[@robguyatt9602]

@@Duade LOL. I envy your mate having one. I can't wait. But I should be working out in the meantime. The 200-500 F mount is similar in weight to the Z 800. I had forgotten the weight till recently when I put it on the Z9 (FTZ2 of course) and holy crap my Z 100-400 instantly became even more awesome. LOL.

[@DSG0805]

Well, lets not forget that most people are not playing with the big telephoto primes. Think that would be a bit skewed the other way if that was the case. Not saying you can’t handhold them, just a bit tougher.

[@Salaaran]

Interesting at the 7:00 mark, you mentioned that beginners makes the mistake of opting for a 150-600mm (or 60-600) lens when they have a 400mm one. I am curious, if I as a beginner doesn't have either, would it be a mistake to opt for the 150-600 over the 400mm ones? I was considering just biting the bullet and getting a 150-600 sigma (c or s) used and then just use that as my only lens above 100mm while I can expand on what glass I have below 100mm. Obviously it would be a much heavier lens than 100-400 RF, but then I feel like I would have a lens that I wouldn't need to upgrade anytime soon.

[@NeluCiorba]

after many research yesterday I placed an order for really Right Staff TFC 34 regular which cost almost $1,200 ... with the lead time about 8 weeks! I really hope worth to wait for it, excellent reviews and reliability !! Weight? just 1,747 kg. Using with Flex Shooter it will weight just about 2,400 kg.

[@Duade]

Congrats Nelu, a nice light kit that is for sure. Better than the 3-4 kilos of say a gimbal and large gitzo. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@NeluCiorba]

@@Duade did you migrate towards sonny? Personally I migrated and love the sony A1 paired with 400 + 70-200 2.8... playing with fuji so many years this A1 feels much better in my hands having almost the same commands dials as fuji. . .

[@ForrestWest]

One of my favorite things about a tripod and gimbal is being able to stand beside it waiting for some action to happen and sipping my coffee. If you have a monopod you still have to balance and hold it all of the time and if you let it go for an instant it's going to fall to the ground. To me that doesn't give you the best benefit of the tripod which is being able to stand nearby and not have to hold the camera at every moment. I've added a remote shutter and gone inside the house and grabbed action looking out the window while the tripod and Camera are aimed at a perch.

[@paulliversage4479]

I have just started using a monopod with a speedigimble...don't know if they've reached down under yet...basically it's a cup that goes on the monopod and a ball that goes on the camera foot...you can switch between handheld and monopod in a second...godsend when you're holding waiting for the bird to move....also have tripod and gimble but only use that when I know I will be static

[@Duade]

Thanks for the comment Paul, I might have to check it out, Cheers, Duade

[@philclancaster]

Definitely recommend the Peak design strap, wide comfortable and easy to use. My camera lens combo is about 2.5kg, I don't have any problems carrying it on long trips

[@HansMartinØvre]

I have the same experience with my gimbal head. The grease thickened over time, and at the end it got more or less stuck. I ended up demantle it, clean out all the grease, degrease it with better grease, and now it works perfectly.

[@stebobrown2893]

Great Video! I used a Siri for the past couple of years and have had problems with leg stops and legs sticking. I got turned off going through tripods and finally broke down and got a Gitzo. I'm in my 50's and feel confident this will be my last tripod purchase. The price was a stinger but I feel it will payoff in the long run. Thanks for sharing great info.

[@Keiengepro]

Hey, i just got to say i really like your videos mate!

[@Duade]

Thanks, I appreciate it, Cheers, Duade

[@KurtisPape]

I use both the iFootage TC7 tripod and the C150 monopod 🙂 For hand-holding I have a Black Rapid QD (quick detach) strap made for a rifle paired with a QD compatible tripod foot. This strap is honestly my favourite bit of kit and has allowed me to walk upto 10km with my 3kg camera. Not only does it make it more comfortable to carry but also keeps my camera secure from drops and allows me to disconnect with the press of a button to quickly crouch or lay down. I wouldn't recommend it but I trust the attachment that much sometimes I let go of the camera altogether while walking, the camera starts to swing so it's always worthwhile to keep your hand on to tripod foot.

[@rustyanddebbieperkins]

Outstanding video - I've been hand holding more and more due to the number of people on trails and parks in my area - too many feet around the tripod!

[@zacharygoode8341]

Great information as always Duade! Gimbels are great but not for video in my opinion. I need the ability to adjust friction for smoother panning. The Flexshooter seems like a good compromise between size and adjustability.

[@Duade]

Thanks Zachary, I agree, I really need to try a fluid head at some stage. Cheers, Duade

[@kevins8575]

When using your car as a hide, you can use a piece of pipe insulation, slit along the length, to fit on the top of the nearly-down window. Fast to use and works almost as well as a beanbag

[@Duade]

Thanks Kevin, great tip and yes, shooting from the car is handy. Cheers, Duade

[@franktherabbit42]

You're an exquisite photographer, sir! As for the subject matter. I dont use any kind of stabiliser, tripod or monopod. As for a strap, I made my own with paracord, an O ring and a camera mount.

[@thimoschreiber4275]

So i shoot mainly handheld even with my big 150-600 in combination with 5Ds and Battery grip because i am quite strong, but i got me a tripod for video and if i wait for birds in hides or something and holding for long time isn’t possible. I didnt want to spend a lot of money because i am just starting out so i got a light trave tripod from K&F concept (D255C4). I use it with a Gimbal and its very stable as long as you dont use the center part. The reason i got it was because you can unscrew one leg and attach your head so you have a Monopod. You also can invert the center part and have your camera upside down which enables me to get completely level with the ground without holding the lens. I habe to say tho that i dont like the foot of the tripod, for me its just to small and i often sink in the ground when i am out shooting.

[@Chris_Wolfgram]

Well, I'm one of those guys in the 11%. The only time I don't use a tripod, is when shooting from my car, where I use the window frame for support. And its NOT that I'm using such heavy gear. On the contrary, my long lens is very light, but its slow. It's my RF 800 F11. Love it so much, I plan to get the 600 F11 soon. my only faster birding lens is my ancient 400 5.6, but of course, it has no built in IS, so again, still best with a tripod. BTW, my tripod is probably heavier duty than I really needed, but I guess being "too stable" is never a problem, right ? It is the Artcise CS80C, and it was only $179.00 US $ Fantastic value for what it is. BTW, I just noticed that your using the Flexshooter head. Those look super intriguing. I can see one of those burning a hole in my wallet soon :)

[@dumchidumchi]

iFootage TC9 tripod (ProMediaGear GKJr. Katana Pro Gimbal) or C-180II monopod (ProMediaGear GT2 Tomahawk) for 600 f/4. 100-500 or any other lens handheld.

[@DanBetty]

Love it ... Well done !! Bringing your members into some of your videos Brilliant !!! :) Okay you did it you got me to part with my Dad's 50 year old aluminum tripod and spring tensioned video head. I am going for the FlexShooter Pro Ball Head with Arca-Type Flip-Lever, and the iFootage Gazelle TC7 Fastbowl .. This after watching the majestic Sea Eagle perched for 3 hours waiting for it to fly ( this amazing eagle has returned to Maine for a 2nd year ). I decided I needed a real tripod and tripod head to get any decent photos of it when I am luck enough to find it.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sending the videos through. Good luck with the gear, it is handy when you need that support. Cheers, Duade

[@julioamaral4391]

Thanks, Duade! Very useful information, as I'm preparing for Patagônia - a bus trip. Cheers from South Brazil!

[@ashishgowdacl8741]

I bought sirui w2204. I'm 5'11" and it's comfortable. It's waterproof legs and convertible to monopod makes it 2 in 1. I love it so far. I got it in a deal. Duade, you should check that out to recommend viewers.

[@richardgagne7931]

A nice video, I need to use a monopod due to work related shoulder problems, holding for a period of time will cause discomfort.

[@nordic5490]

I bought the lightest 1" ball mount, great quality, fixed it to the lightest cf mono pod, and let my RF 100-500 flop down to one side in the ball mount slot. Works like a gimble, but, super lightweight, cheap and strong. I always have the camera strap round my neck, just in case. Ball mount flopped over on their side, work great as a gimble.

[@brucesummers7448]

Best strap is the Kirk Enterprises Security Strap that clamps on to any Arca-Swiss clamp or lens foot. I have the strap over one shoulder and keep the lens from moving with one hand and my other hand is free to carry a tripod. A drawback to using a tripod is having all the shots taken at 5-6 feet above the ground. Shooting hand held I can shoot on one need or laying down and I can move around quickly with birds going from branch to branch.

[@houserhythm]

I didn't go dirt-cheap, but definitely price-conscious. Got a Benro GH2 gimbal (€250/$375 - dunno why so much cheaper here in EU, usually the other way around)) and an Evumo XT9S tripod (€290/$280) that's built like a tank - 40mm top section leg diameter, 40kg payload, 1.65m max height and has a leveling bowl with collapsible handle to allow a wider angle of motion. Also has 4 accessory slots and comes with a flat top to replace the bowl. It's in the same class (size & payload) as a Gitzo Systematic series 5, but for 1/4 the price. These 2 just live in the trunk of my car, cause I can never take them with me when travelling on public transport, due to size/weight. For those cases I also have a Sirui AM-254 with some generic ballhead, that I only use for long exposures, everything else I do handheld. Would love to replace the gimbal with one of those Flex Shooter heads (seen them in Jan's video), but they're just too expensiveto justify the purchase for me.

[@ceesnabuursfauna2115]

For walk around handheld is best. In a hide I use a tripod. For low angle I use the ground pod. Eye level is important for me. Handheld I use the R6 and RF100-500, for the ground pod most of the time my 500mm F4 V1 and R6 that works the best, the weight is an advantage in that case. On the Tripod I use both lenses.