Camera Monopod

I combined a phone camera holder, the ball head mount, and a camera monopod together to create a platform to steady photos taken on a group of South African safaris I just completed. Most, but not all, photos were taken while sitting in a vehicle so this setup would provide the stability to produce a sharp image. They all worked spectacularly. The cameral holder did it's job. The ball head mount is easily adjustable so that it can compensate for slight angle changes (and even fold at a right angle to take some selfies, which I hate). The monopod provided the flexibility to set a height so that the whole assembly would be on a stable platform, usually the seat or floorboard of the vehicle. Other times it would expand to full height. With care it replaces a tripod with quick extension and contraction, stable height, and a light package easy to carry.

I purchased this monopod primarily for use with several compact cameras I use as "walking around" cameras for several reasons. This monopod is of carbon fiber construction with a length of about 17 inches collapsed and 62 inches fully extended. There is a wrist strap which could be a little more robust, but it is useable. There is also a padded grip at the head end of the monopod which works well for a firm grip. My primary concern for my compact cameras was steady firm handling of the camera which this monopod provides. It does not employ a quick-release plate, but rather two different sizes of screw to mount the camera. The smaller is permanently affixed while the larger screws down over the smaller. For this reason I will probably not use it for full size cameras which I usually place on a tripod, but for a whole range of compact and smaller format cameras, this monopod works great. There is also a nylon carry bag for the monopod which allows stowing it on a backpack or belt.

I love walking about the bayou & our green belt for photo work. Longer lenses, especially heavier ones, benefit from some additional stability. The idea of the monopod is to afford just that little extra stability. Pluses: lightweight, easily adjusted, quick to setup, nice construction Negatives: not as rigid as desired, tends to slip, no ball head I'm keeping it and learning to use it within the design limits. A good ball head is required, so I added one. The tripod will slip some due to the friction locks not being strong enough. This shows up with heavier lenses. Overall a good value.

Altura Monopod - August 2021: This steady-pole is much better than I expected, especially considering the price. For older people like me with slightly shaky hands, this helps with telephoto and low-light pictures. Specifically, it screws into the bottom of my camera while my hand holds the foam handle. It has a solid feel. The extension clasps snap/click open/close with crispness. The tube extensions are grooved so they won't rotate, but do slide smoothly in/out. A rubber foot extends to cover a metal tip so it won't scratch floors but retracts to take pictures outdoors. For the record it weighs 11 ounces with included case and is 17 inches long at its shortest. It just fits in my backpack. It extends more than I need, but then I am a bit short. I am very impressed with this camera accessory. DB

Very sturdy

I have purchased 2 of these. Both wore out quicker than I would have expected. The first one made it approximately 6 months. The next one was 2 months. I like the functionality of the monopod but it doesn't hold up to the work I need it to do. To be fair I am shooting with a 600 MM Tamron lens but still I would expect more. Hopefully they will create a new one that can hold up. I would definitely try it because I have liked all my other Altura products.

Very easy to use. Adds stability without having to set up a tripod.

This thing is hot garbage. It is very flimsy. It cannot hold the weight of a Nikon Z7ii with a 70-200mm lens attached. It kept collapsing and there is no tightening adjustment. Ease of use is pure trash. Mounting is easy… just like my ex

Like it. Used for photography

Much more flexible to use than a tripod.

Very easy to use Fits my camera and came with an adapter which i didn’t need Very compact and comes with a bag for storage I’m just under 5 feet tall so has one more length piece that I can use so if you are taller than 5ft I would recommend getting a bigger size Great quality…..highly recommend