A monopod is a kind of one-legged tripod that differs from full-fledged counterparts not only in shape and lack of limbs, but also in small size, which is very convenient during transportation.
Benefits of using it
As a rule, this type of tripod allows you to reduce the load on your hands when working with heavy equipment, for example, when shooting wildlife or sports events or https://www.artlook.us/service/wedding-proposal-photography/, when a powerful telephoto lens is indispensable.
Unlike a tripod, this tripod does not limit the photographer in space, allowing you to change the location if necessary.
Shooting at slow shutter speeds is no worse than using a conventional tripod. The monopod acts as a stabilizer, eliminating shaking.
It can be used as a holder for external lighting devices, of course, if there is a lower base with three legs or an assistant who will carry this entire structure in its absence.
Distinctive features of the upper part of the monopod
For greater convenience, the tripod is equipped with a swivel head, which can be of four types:
Ball. Thanks to a special ball mechanism, the camera can rotate and change the viewing angle by tilting in the desired direction.
3D. The 3D head is equipped with separate hinges that are designed for each axis of rotation. Hinges for reliability have locking handles. This view is very convenient for changing camera positions, some of them have a degree scale (reducer) that allows you to set the DSLR at a certain angle, but this function is more useful for a meticulous idealist.
Video filming. Video heads are characterized by smoothness and the lack of the ability to rotate to portrait mode. Also in its structure, a balancing mechanism (counterbalance) is provided, which blocks the spontaneous displacement of the camera.
Panoramic. I think from the name it is clear that this mount is intended for shooting panoramic scenes (when, by moving the camera to the side, the frames are “stitched” together).
Most often, the camera is attached to the head through a removable platform, which is equipped with a thread.
The thread, in turn, is screwed into the hole of the carcass, after which the entire structure is inserted into the sinuses of the upper part of the monopod.
Some budget options do not have removable pads and cause inconvenience to use.
Distinctive features of the bottom of the device
The lower part of the monopod also has some distinctive features that have a special impact on operation.
For example, a given device typically consists of many individual sections that are responsible for its length. The more their number, the smaller the size it has when folded.
However, in this case, it is worth considering that the innovation is not so ideal and may affect both the price and its sustainability.
The cost of a tripod is also affected by the types of fastening of these same sections – a latch is somewhat more expensive than a swivel sleeve.
In addition to the above, it is important to know that the monopod has two types of legs:
Rubberized is most suitable for smooth surfaces, such as parquet, tiles, linoleum.
Spike-shaped is intended for soft surfaces, such as carpet or street covering (earth, sand, gravel, lawn).