|
View previous topic :: View next topic |
Author |
Message |
Erock
Joined: 07 Aug 2006 Posts: 87 Location: Taylor
|
Posted: 12/14/2011, 6:12 pm Post subject: Tripods and hiking |
|
|
|
|
I know a number of you on this sight enjoy photography while out hiking (or perhaps enjoy a little hiking while out photographing, either way) so I thought I'd throw a question out to the group.
What sort of tripod do you use while out hiking, especially for longer hikes or backpacking trips? What do you like about your current setup? What don't you like about it?
Right now I'm shooting with a Nikon D90 and a kit lens (18-105mm) but have finally reached a point where I would like to start branching out into different lenses (or maybe even bodies). Telephoto is high on my list for lenses and am toying around with upgrading from the cropped sensor. The D90 is small and light which makes it nice to haul around, though, and since I don't do large prints it really doesn't make that much sense to get a larger, heavier camera.
For my tripod I'm actually using a gorillapod which has worked surprisingly well. It packs small, is very light and is fairly versatile although height is obviously a drawback unless there are some conveniently placed trees or rocks about. I do like that it forces me to shoot from a unique perspective but there are some shots that I've had to pass up on.
I'm currently looking for something that's small, compact and lightweight to make it easier to pack on long hikes but sturdy enough to keep the camera stabilized for long exposures (star trails, for example). |
|
Back to top |
|
|
hiking2
Joined: 20 Nov 2010 Posts: 16
|
Posted: 12/15/2011, 6:01 am Post subject: |
|
|
|
|
I have found that using my hiking stick as a monopod is the most readily available means for stability (aside from natural environment rocks, etc.) and adds no weight to my pack. I simply cut off the head of a machine bolt with the same threading as the camera mounts (almost universal) and then "reverse screwed" the threaded portion into the handle of the stick. It protrudes only about 3/8 inch above the handle, but using the handy strap of the stick I can cover the unused threading until needed. I also have one of those 6", fully adjustable tripods, but find that placing camera on rocks, and such, is more readily workable. |
|
Back to top |
|
|
BoyNhisDog The dangerous place where the winds meet
Joined: 05 Jan 2003 Posts: 1375 Location: Tucson
|
Posted: 12/18/2011, 3:55 pm Post subject: |
|
|
|
|
I have used the Gitzo 0541 legs with this Acratech ball head for a long, long time now. The longest lens I use is 60mm and a wide angle 10-22 is the most used lens. This setup has held it steady for macro work and extremely low light work. The elevations from ground level to chest high give a lot of perspective options. I have carried it for about 80 days this year so far and about that much every since I got it.
They are expensive and surely a lot heavier than your current gorillapod but when speaking of other tripod options it is relatively light weight. Mine have been abused in all weather and tons of sand, still going strong. _________________ Seize from every moment its unique novelty and do not prepare your joys
- Andre Gide |
|
Back to top |
|
|
Sun Ray
Joined: 26 Sep 2005 Posts: 22 Location: Scottsdale
|
Posted: 12/20/2011, 12:53 pm Post subject: |
|
|
|
|
I use a gorillapod also and love it's flexibly to get into the position and angle I need. Light and easy to use....hard to beat if you are looking for light weight. |
|
Back to top |
|
|
azbackpackr Hi Tech Wizardess
Joined: 31 Dec 2005 Posts: 3639 Location: Needles CA
|
Posted: 12/26/2011, 8:01 am Post subject: |
|
|
|
|
Sun Ray wrote: |
I use a gorillapod also and love it's flexibly to get into the position and angle I need. Light and easy to use....hard to beat if you are looking for light weight. |
That is what I've been thinking of getting. Or will borrow it from my daughter for my trip. I got a new camera for Christmas! It's one of those waterproof, shockproof, dustproof Fujifilm ones. Perfect for what I do. Fits in my pocket, etc. |
|
Back to top |
|
|
Back to top
|
|