monopod with long lenses

[boris]

i would like to stabilize my camera with a 600mm lens. to use a second tripods isn't a practical way for me. i could use a monopod as a second supporting point or the manfrotto 359
ideas, experience, comments...
thank you, boris

[Archphoto]

That idea would give you less stress on the 3 way head and more stability.

It looks good.

Peter

[Toyon]

Lucas Feininger developed a 5 leg system for his super-telephoto shots of New York City from New Jersey. They are very sharp.

[Eric Leppanen]

I use a Manfrotto 3252 (previous model to the 359) with my Arca monorail. I find it much more practical than a second tripod or monopod. As long as the wind is reasonable, I get sharp photographs even with my 1200mm telephoto lens.

[boris]

which advantages does the manfrotto 359 have?
what monopod would you suggest?
would a very compact and light monopod be sufficient? http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/427323-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging_790B_790B_Modo_Mono_5_Section.html#specifications
boris

[Eric Leppanen]

One of the problems I encountered when using a second tripod or monopod is ensuring that it does not sink into soft soil while I was preparing to take a photograph. If the soil gradually compresses after the second tripod/monopod is set up, then the tripod/monopod ends up dangling from the camera rather than supporting it. If you keep checking throughout the picture taking process to make sure the second tripod/monopod is still supportive, then you can avoid this problem, but if the light is changing rapidly and you are preoccupied with determining exposure, etc., then constantly having to check the tripod/monopod is a real hassle.

The long lens support arm connects to the main tripod, so there is no question as to soil stability. It is also considerably lighter/smaller than a second tripod.

The monopod you linked is very light weight and has a very small footpad, so I would be concerned both about its overall durability as well as its gradually sinking into the soil under the weight of a relatively heavy LF camera. My impression is that it is primarily oriented toward use with lightweight DSLR's and digicams. Note the comment by one of the B&H reviewers: "...it would not be my choice for outdoors or sports, it is not designed to take any punishment."

If you would like to pursue the monopod approach, I would suggest you find a Feisol dealer in Germany or contact Kerry Thalmann at www.reallybigcameras.com. Kerry is a very experienced large format photographer and he carries the Feisol carbon-fiber tripod/monopod product line, which offers excellent price/performance:

http://reallybigcameras.com/Feisol/Monopods

One of these monopods would be much more appropriate for a LF camera IMO.