LF from the top of a ladder

[John Cook]

Depending on the configuration of the ladder, cine grip rigging equipment may be very useful for attaching the camera in various places without drilling a lot of holes. I'm talking about a heavy-duty version of the bracket in Ralph's picture.

Matthews makes all sorts of useful stuff. But there is so much of it to wade through, you really need to visit a dealer who knows the line. The catalog cam be confusing to someone who has never used grip goodies. But a good Mafer clamp is a place to start:

http://www.matthewsgrip.com/mse.php?show=product&cat=291&products_ID=26562

Phillipe Halsman is reputed to have shot from a ladder often. There is a story that once, he lost his balance and fell off, injuring his leg. It is said that he had the presence of mind to squeeze the shutter release on the way down.

[Frank Petronio]

Check out the Kinsey Photographer book of logging photography from the turn of the century. Not only did he have ladders, but he had giant tripods for his ULF cameras.

I know the Gitzo 504 goes 111 inches - maybe that is enough? they aren't that expensive anymore.

[Phil_4235]

This vendor sells a tripod ladder they call an "astronomer ladder" -
http://www.tallmanladders.com/astronomer.html

LOL - check this one out! -
http://www.dickinsonfamilyfarm.com/ladder/

Phil

[steve simmons]

An orchard ladder is basically a tripod. The opposing leg swings out at an infinity of positions which works well with uneven ground. If you have a store called Orchard Supply Hardware try it. Otherwise someplace like Home Depot, Lowe's, etc.

I cut a hole in the top to put a bolt through to the tripod head.

steve

[Joseph O'Neil]

Bike mount - I love it.

I actually have used my Graphic that way. I have a Manfrotto clamp mount, and I have used it on my ten speed just like the photo above.

Should work in a pinch for ladders too.
joe

[CXC]

Lots of good info, everybody, thanks. CXC

[Kirk Gittings]

"The perfect definition of an orchard ladder. With a 10' ladder and a long cable release it can be reached from the gound when making the exposure.
steve simmons"

I have fooled around with Gordon Hutchins' orchard ladder with a head bolted on and it works very well.
The sturdiest I have seen.

[Brian C. Miller]

The bike mount stinks, as there is too much vibration. Try helmet mount instead. REI sells a little tripod which has a Velcro strip on it. The strip fits down in through the helmet. Can't use the Graflex, though, but the Pentax 645 is OK. (and the 645 is my only camera with motor drive)

[Jim Ewins]

Is that a radar detector next to the Nikon??