Monopods: When and Why to Use Them

Monopods are a versatile and often overlooked tool. They offer a unique blend of stability and mobility that can be crucial for certain types of photography. 

Coming to you from David Bergman with Adorama, this informative video dives into the practical uses of monopods and when you might want to consider using one. Bergman explains that a monopod is essentially one leg of a tripod, offering a balance between the portability of handheld shooting and the stability of a tripod. They are particularly useful when shooting with heavy telephoto lenses, as they help reduce the strain on your arms and minimize camera shake. Monopods are also beneficial in low-light situations where slower shutter speeds are necessary, as they provide an additional point of stability that complements your camera’s image stabilization.

Bergman emphasizes that while monopods are incredibly useful, they aren’t always necessary. For example, when shooting sports at fast shutter speeds, you can often get away with handheld shooting, especially if you’re using a smaller lens. Monopods come into their own when you’re using larger, heavier lenses, like a 200-400mm telephoto, where the added weight can make handheld shooting impractical for extended periods. Bergman also points out that the construction of monopods varies, with options ranging from lightweight carbon fiber models to more affordable aluminum versions, each with its own set of pros and cons. This choice of material affects not only the weight but also the cost, so it’s important to choose a monopod that suits your specific needs and budget.

One interesting scenario that Bergman addresses is shooting from a moving boat. While you might think a monopod would help stabilize your camera, he advises against it. The constant motion of the boat could cause the monopod to transmit vibrations from the engine and the movement of the water, potentially leading to unwanted motion blur. In such cases, Bergman suggests that you’re better off shooting handheld, allowing your body to act as a natural shock absorber. This advice highlights the importance of understanding the context in which you’re shooting and making adjustments accordingly.

In addition to their primary function, monopods have some practical secondary uses. For instance, they can double as a walking stick when you’re out hiking, offering support and making them a handy tool to have on long treks. This versatility, combined with their lightweight and compact design, makes monopods an excellent choice for photographers who need to remain agile and mobile without sacrificing stability. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Bergman.