Quote Originally Posted by Oren


Few more questions here...


Does your umbrella swivel connects to the gorillapod directly? it fits perfectly without any modifications?


What kind of swivel do you use and what's the cheapest one you can recommend on?


Honestly, I don't understand why stores like b&h and the like take $80 for a simple umbrella - is there anything special about these umbrellas? What do you think about this:


Dealextreme has a white shoot through (that's what it looks like) for less than $7: [url="http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.5123]http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.5123[/url]
<div style="clear: both;"]</div>


The umbrella swivel I used is a LumoPro LP634 from MPEX. It's very well made, and it's very similar to the more expensive one Manfrotto makes. Keep in mind you'll need a shoe to go along with it. Otherwise, you could use a LumoPro LP633. I think it would work fine. Both would require the stud I mentioned above to connect the swivel to the flexible tripod, however, I believe both swivels actually come with the stud. You can find swivels cheaper, but both are well made and have taken quite a bit of abuse (from me) while still working fine.


As far as the umbrella goes, an umbrella is an umbrella. There are only 3 things you need to consider when buying one--fabric, build quality, and size (both folded and unfolded). Those dealextreme umbrellas look pretty small (33"). I prefer an umbrella that's a bit larger. Personally, I use the Westcott 43" White Satin Collapsible umbrella. They're a good size, only $20, and they double-fold meaning they pack a lot easier than most umbrellas. I have 2 of the white versions and 2 of the silver reflective ones, and they've all served me well.