monopod or tripod?

[tylermartin]

im looking into buying a 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 L IS USM lens and im just not sure to get a tripod or monopod? shooting mainly sports?if that makes any difference.

[crosbyharbison]

monopod

[neuroanatomist]

For sports, a monopod will work better - it enables you to move around much more easily.

[Sean Setters]

For sports, a monopod will work better - it enables you to move around much more easily.
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I'd agree with both opinions above. However, I'd add that a decent panning head (like an Induro PHQ) or an even higher-end panning head would might work well for things like motor sports where the paths of motion are constant and repeatable.

[Jeff Lucia]

(like an Induro PHQ)

The Induro has "quintaxial positioning" -- how can you go wrong? []


Seriously, monopod. Feisol rocks, IMHO: rock solid, low price. Add a Manfrotto 234RC quick-release/tilt head and you're in great shape with the 100-400

[Richard Lane]

Definitely a monopod, unless you're shooting video.


You certainly don't need a tripod for stability while shooting high speed frame rates for sports. As stated above the monopod gives you much more mobility, as well as a smaller footprint near the sidelines, and it also enables you to get out of the way of a play more easily, as well as move around with the action of the game.


Also, a tripod definitely doesn't set-up as well in crowds or near; steps, seats, or the stands were people around you would tend to bump into it more easily.


Rich

[Chris White]

I think this will be pretty much unanimous; a monopod with a good head -- second the 234RC.

[Sinh Nhut Nguyen]

Forget either the monopod or tripod. I think you should try to handhold the the 100-400 before you consider getting support for it. That lens is not hard to handhold for couple of hours.

[Richard Lane]

That's a good point, that particular lens is definitely hand holdable.

[Sheiky]

Forget either the monopod or tripod. I think you should try to handhold the the 100-400 before you consider getting support for it. That lens is not hard to handhold for couple of hours.

+1


for sports a tri- or monopod isn't really necessary and I prefer shooting without one. It's way more versatile. Unless you're sitting in a row with 20 other photographers and you don't have room to move(like those guys along the line at the WC Soccer these days..), try without.


Jan