Well, I did use the monopod exclusively yesterday. It does take some getting used to. I am restless and ansty by nature, so I had to really discipline myself to hold still for longer shots.


The footage came out close to perfect. I got into places I normally couldn't have gone, shot angles I never could with tripod or shoulder brace. It is SO unobtrusive.

Thanks to all for your encouragement!

I use my 561B all the time. In fact when the camera is not on the tripod its on the 561B. Brilliant bit of kit but a word of warning......

There is an almighty temptation to rest your toes on one of the three little feets as a sort of reassurance that the thing won't slide away. Don't put your feet on the 561B's feet.

Because they will break off! They are attached by two plastic bridges to help them fold up, and these are not very strong. I rested my foot on one of the feet and broke one off.

I had to get in touch withe the UK Manfrotto parts specialist who took 4 weeks to get the part imported to me ( the whole bottom feet assemby) Price was £60 plus VAT and postage. And its not simply a case of unscrewing the old one and putting on the new, as there is a tension issue to get right and I have been phaffing around with it for a few weeks on and off to get it to feel right again.

But I do highly recommend it.

Thanks for the heads up Steve. That is good to know about the feet!

helps for monopod
 

For your interest:

three things I've made for my monopod which seem to work quite well.

1. a strong foot for the monopod which can be put on or taken off very easily.
2. a weight (material made into pockets which are filled with lead shot and wrapped around the bottom of the monopod leg and held with velcro) to help the monopod function as a stabiliser.
3. a support, which goes on my bumbag strap, which the monopod foot sits on and allows the monopod to be used easily as a crane.

Jeff,

Glad the 561 worked out for you. It's incredibly flexible, it just takes a good bit of concentration to use. Like you said, you have to really concentrate on being still. You also have to be careful to tilt with the head instead of tilting the pod off vertical. If you do tilt the pod, then start a pan, everything is slanted and it looks like a goofy episode of the original Batman TV series.