The Ultimate Monopod Head? Wimberley Monogimbal Head Review
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- Опубліковано 8 лип 2024
- As you know, I'm a bit of a tripod / monopod junkie. So, I'm excited to share my review of the new Wimberley MonoGimbal head.
This new lightweight head allows you to balance your rig just like a regular gimbal head - point up or down and everything stays in place, no need to tighten the locking knob. However, this compact unit is only a fraction of the size of a normal gimbal head.
Is it right for you? Check out the video for what it is, how it works, setup, field use, and recommendations.
Also, if you want to see it yourself, check it out at the link below:
www.tripodhead.com/products/m...
That was great and totally convinced me to buy the gimbal. I had been concerned about the weight distribution with the side mount, but it's a total non-issue. One of the best pieces of equipment I've bought; life-changing.
There's an additional benefit I discovered. By walking back and forth along the arc of the monopod I can raise and lower the height of the rig without fiddling with the monopod locks, and I can do this without ever removing my eye from the finder, or even thinking about anything. Miraculous!
A really great review with clear instructions about how to use this new head that I just purchased. I subscribed to this channel for that reason. Thank you!
Thanks for the recommendation. I love it. I am glad I saw your video as I was agonizing over which RRS monopod head to order. Thanks again.
Steve, after watching your video over a year ago I decided to get one and I have never looked back. It has pretty much replaced my tripod gimbal in use. Top piece of kit and top review, as well. You should get sales commission from Wimberley!
very useful. Your recommendation never fails. Thanks, Steve.
I took my Wimberly gimbal head with a 300mm f2.8 and 2.0 tele to Dominican Republic on a photo tour through the forest. What a game changer in terms of ability to walk long distances plus save weight and space on travel. It was my first time to use both combinations. Success! I like the new Wimberly monopod head from this video and will give it a try with the 600mm f4 as well. Thanks Steve!
I got this setup a few months back and I have to say I really love it. Of course a lot of shots would be possible with a full tripod that aren't with this rig for me, but you'll never get the advantage of great gear you never take into the field with you and this is a perfect compromise for me, especially combined with the new Nikon 500mm 5.6 PF. Even a whole day hiking is easy with it as long as I get my backpack strap properly configured so the monopod doesn't grind into my shoulder :)
Thanks Steve! FYI this item is so far the most ordered item they have had. So if you are thinking of ordering it don't wait!
You are the best Steve to review honestly any photo products.. this was so useful.. and 3 of us including me bought this head after seeing this review.. Thanks a ton.. from India..
Recently, I purchased a Sirui gimbal head for my tripod and have really enjoyed having it. It's great for bird photography for an hour or more providing an opportunity to take breaks without having to hold my rig.
Just last week, after reviewing this video, I decided to purchase a gimbal head for my monopod and made the purchase. After doing so and waiting delivery I thought, "Did I just pay $190.00 for a gadget?"
Well, I'm glad I did. The Wimberly works great on a monopod as Steve describes and it makes my D500 with 300 f2.8 attached a very mobile rig for a short outings, especially when hiking.
Great video, Steve!
I'll try this. I had tried using a gimbal mount (per your other video regarding this) but it was rather unhandy trying to lug it around, so I had to stop using that. This mount looks like a game-changer for those long walks to the desired shooting spot.
Thanks!
Wow, this is brilliant and just what I desperately need. Thanks Steve
Great video as always, thank you Steve
I watched Steve’s video, I went and bought one, I love it, I also use it on my 600mm f4 like steve, well balanced, and easy to rest on your back and walk with, I have a lot of respect for steve. Rick
Thank you Steve, I was looking for a head for use with my monopod.
Thank you Steve!
Its perfect! I have it and the sidekick- A++
Thanks Steve, you are the best, this thing is a must have for me, thanks
Thanks Steve, very informative.
I use the Wimberley Sidekick SK-100 on my Monopod together with a RRS bh-40 or a 2-way head. Works well. All mounted with RRS quick release clamps on tripod and Monopod so I am ultra flexible.
Just ordered one and it should be here today! Can't wait.
You'll love it. I use mine all the time - in fact, I use my monopod more now than ever before because of it.
Thanks Steve. I'm glad you addressed the carrying aspect. In my nature photography Community College course I show folks how to remember to point the lens down when carrying a tripod/monopod (to keep dust and falling leaves off the lens) while alternating shoulders. With this device the lens is always pointed sideways, and always the same direction, BUT the obvious increase in comfort/stability would more than make up for my "concerns". I'm purchasing this!
LOL - yup down is best. I admit, there's been a time or two I've forgotten that rule and ended up with rain on the glass.
Since I use gimbals for birds in flight I've found that using this relatively flat, horizontal-plane-mount head one needs a monopod that fully extends to eye level minimum so one can shoot up without excessively crouching down to do so. My Gitzo 4542 S4 is too short for me (6'1") so I got the 75" tall Gitzo 4552 S4 and it works much better. Better to have the height and need it, than need it and not have it. Good review!
Thanks, Steve.
Thank You Steve! Saw this review, ordered one along with a RRS clamp. Got both yesterday & took them out today. I am very happy!
I did exactly the same today :-)
So... what RRS clamp did you get ? The RRS PC-LR panning clamp ?
@@71Enno So... what RRS clamp did you get ? The RRS PC-LR panning clamp ?
@@alanalain4884 Hi, I am using the B2-LLR II 60mm on my GITZO Monopod and on my "big" tripods from SIRUI and FLM I am using the B2-LLR II 80mm. Best regards, Enno
@@71Enno Thank you Enno for your reply. Great...
Thanks again for the info, this looks like a winner!
This WMG head with monopod has vastly increased the keeper rate (vs handholding) for my a7RIV & 200-600 combo.
Great monopod gimbal head! It works great with a 1DX and 500mm F/4 II. The lens collar from this camera/lens combination functions smoothly.
Once everything is setup properly, there are no issues with the lens flopping back and forth, even when the monopod is leaned back and forth.
Thanx Steve for your recommendation and as always, your very informative videos.
Thx, needed to hear that, this looks very interesting
I have a ProMediaGear GTK-1 tomahawk which is a beast. This looks neat at a fraction of the weight too....
Thanks for the recommendation Steve, mine just arrived in the mail! I'll be field testing it this weekend for motorsports with my 200-500.
For those asking how the balance shifts between focal lengths with this lens - I'm finding that if you slightly tighten the tension knob, it'll balance whether you're at 200mm or 500mm. I'm not sure if the tension knob will loosen with use, but with my (very brief) testing, it seems to work.
If Wimberly decides to make a version 2, I hope they add a memory setting to the tension knob. This could hopefully solve all of the telephoto balance concerns.
Love your work bro
Thank you!
Great idea and a great video to explain details of mounting. I use RRS.
And I also like the use of the monopod, making it like a tripod - two legs and pod = tripod... sorta.
Ken Konard I’m fortunate to have learned that trick back in 2011 and find it an excellent way of stability!
just ordered mine for return trip to Costa Rica. The last monopod i had broke when I was there, it was miserable. Dennis saved my bacon. Looking forward to another great trip, will be thinking of you and Rose as we splash around in the pool.
Love this head!!!
Once again, very helpful information Steve. And once again you cost me money!!!
LOL - I get that a lot!!
Thank you so much!
This is a great tip. Needless to say, I bought one. This lightweight head transforms bringing the stick along into a convenience. By the way, the stance you create with your monopod is essentially a "tripod" consisting of the monopod and your two legs. It is quite stable. I am free-handing fewer shots these days, which i have to admit, has improved my images.
I have a doubt. How to shot low angle shots with monopod?
Watched your video and thought I would really like the Monogimbal head since I have a Canon 400mm do and Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary and Sport. Just bought a 600mm f/4 and should receive tomorrow. After watching your video I thought this head would be perfect for me. Looked on B&H but they didn't have any yet so tried Amazon and wow there it was. Said they only had 2 left so I purchased one on Friday evening and to my surprise it arrived on Sunday. Great job Wimberley! It was actually shipped from them. We are going to Gatlinburg on Thanksgiving and I plan to take the monogimbal head with the Canon 400mm DO and Sigma 150-600mm sport or contemporary . I am so excited to receive the Canon 600mm f/4 is II tomorrow but don't want to be rushed using it and prefer to use it on my back porch initially.
I just use my ball head tilted on the side in the little notch, does the exact same thing including the back carry. I don't do wildlife, but I've used that for years for field sport, it's a great setup.
Yeah, me too. I’ve been using a ball head with plate tilted 90 degrees on both my tripod and monopod.
The ball head also has a separate friction knob. Works really well.
Thanks for advice
hey fantastic. I was toying with getting a gimbal and then I saw this. I am going to get one.
Most fluid heads have a slot 90* slot. Been using it like that with a sigma 150-600 sports for a while. Works great and it’s cheaper 😉
You can also put a arca swiss plate on the monopod tripod foot ..... that lowers the COG to a point where the lens balances perfectly (600mm F4E FL) on a gimbal !!
I was thinking to a similar system with a ballhead or a panoramic 2D head on the side, plus another panoramic head and a long plate. The tripod collar of the lens at 90° of course. The weight is on the side and NOBODY was using such a system, so I wasn't confident enough, I didn't waste the money and bought a classic gimbal head instead. Now, Wimberley and you are telling me I was right ;) The Wimberley is simplier and better of course...and affordable!
I too am not the biggest fan of side-mount systems, but after hiking with this over the last month, I'm far more confident now.
This adapter is great. I use in combination with my SupaDupa Monopod, D850 and 200-500mm with great success, when a tripod is not possible (quick hikes or places that do not allow a tripod). The Benro monopod has the added benefit of a foot that rotates independent of the shaft of the pod, making panning with it a breeze. Quality built, like their Sidekick I also have for light travel.
I know this is an old comment, but I have a 200-500 as well. Does it need a lens plate to properly attach to the wimberly or can it attach straight on?
@@evanabboud5068 You need an AS adapter/plate on the 200-500 or replace the foot/collar with a 3rd party (what I did). It baffles me that Nikon and other manufacturers continue to make new lenses with non-AS compatible lens feet.
Thanks, Steve. I have kind of vowed to be happy with the equipment I have, but his might be in my future since it is so different from anything I have and it looks very practical.
Pretty cool
Looks like you went down the same path I did first with the full gimbal WH-200 and now this monogimbal head.
Thanks Steve - I am currently using the wimberley wh-200 on my gitzo monopod but after watching this I am getting the mh-100. As you say it is a game changer.
Thank you, very helpful review Steve - I can see this useful bit of kit being added to our collection soon.
Your video is likely the primary reason for purchasing the Wimberley Head - Thank you for a great review. One downside, that I can't seem to find a work-around, is using this head with a smaller lens that does not have a rotating collar. I can easily use an L-Bracket, but am restricted to a 1-way tilt and cannot easily go from landscape to portrait (something I do quite often and needs to be fast given the movement of my subjects (rock climbers) - I don't have time time to remove the camera from the head between shots. I back the recommendation 100%, but do wish I could use it with a smaller lens that doesn't have an option of a rotating collar.
There's no real good solution as far as I know for the side-mount head like the MH-100. They really are made with collared lenses in mind.
Actually got this monogimbal and a Gitzo 4 series together when I bought a used Sigma 150-600mm S off a guy who really didn't like wildlife photography, good deal for me, I can't justify telephoto primes this early into wildlife.
Interesting as I have been using a monopod lately for some sports photography and was really not happy with the lack of maneuverability. This would've made things much better.
That is one super-pricey monopod head even though a nice item.
LOVE your videos...Thanks
OK. Found it on the Wimberley website but they will only ship to my billing address unless I phone them!! I'm in Panama now :-) :-)
wuho! Its like christmas when you Post a new video!
LOL thanks :)
You can do same thing with ball head that has that slot on a side for "vertical" shooting... Ball head is heavyer for sure but you can at least test that do you like this arrangement before buying.
Yup, that's a good way to verify you like the setup.
GREAT !!! GREAT !!!
Hello Steve, I would like to know the RRS clamp model is B2-AS-II? it seems you use it on the monopod directly, isn't it?
Whaaaaat this looks awesome
Hi Steve. Another good video. Question, Have you ever used the Manfrotto 393 Gimbal? If so, how to you rate it against the Wimberley Monogimbal?
Thanks Steve! great video. Just stumbled upon this. I have this MonoGimbal head. Have been using it directly on my Gitzo monopod head and loving it. But am curious to learn the benefits of mounting it on the RRS quick release mount. I am unable to locate the video you are mentioning here as to why you are doing it that way. Any pointers to that will be very helpful. Thanks a bunch again!
If you're going to use a sidekick, why not just use a ball head? Just flip the head over to the side and, voila, you've got a sidekick. It'll be just as compact but even more flexible because you can also use it the way you would regularly use a ball head. It goes without saying that you'll need to use a heavier duty ball head because of all the stress you'll put on the neck when mounted sideways, but it will be more flexible than the one-trick pony sidekick.
Personally, I'm a big fan of the Wimberley gimbal and I don't mind the added bulk to get that balance. You'll never be able to get that kind of balance with a sidekick. The weight of the setup will always be to the side. I do appreciate the review and your insight, though, and I'm a fan of your delivery. Just came across it. Liked and subbed.
Hey Steve- great info - can I ask what kind of hand strap you have hanging from the monopod? Is that for the head to be attached to the monopod? .. I’ve got a 600 f4 on the way and I’m trying to make sure I have everything I need. Love all of your videos! Cheers!
Hello, Do you recommend a gimbal head to a monopod with 3 legs base? will it balance so you can leave the camera (with 150-600 mm lens) unattended?
Thank you Steve for an informative video. What is the "panning base" (I'm not sure what it called) that you used in the video that allowed the left to right movement? Thank you
There's no panning base - that's just a quick release so I can attach other heads to the monopod if I want (I've since removed it since I only use the mono gimbal head). Left to right movement on a monopod comes from twisting the monopod.
Steve, Great video.What model RRS quick release clamp do you use with this? Thank you,
Uu
I'm probably going to go ahead and buy one. But good grief that carrying at 8:50 is terrifying! It'll take me a while to work up to that level of comfort.
It is terrifying at first!!
Hi Steve,
How do you think it would work with a Nikon 600mm f4G VR (the older version) and a D5?
Thanks so much in advance!
Could the quick release head on the MH-100 be removed and replaced with a Monfrotto 357-1 Rapid connect Adapter. This would be a great upgrade to my Monfrotto 562B-1 Fluid Video Monopod with 357 Quick Release.
Steve, thank you so much for another great video. I'm sure you've covered it before, but do you normally keep VR turned ON when using a monopod? Thanks again.
Same question!
Very nice intro to this unique Monopod head, Steve! As a landscape and product photographer, I only occasionally shoot wildlife, and indeed, my "longest" lens is the AF-P Nikkor FX 70-300mm F4.5-5.6E ED VR on a Z7 (with FTZ Adapter). As I've only used tripods, I am now thinking of a good monopod such as the Sirui P-324S with possibly a Leofoto VH-105 head. (I am familiar with Leofoto, as I use one of their CF tripods, which seems very quality indeed.) Have you any experience with this combo, or would you recommend anything else for one without the "Big Boy" lenses? Thank you sir!
You mentioned about the quick release mount at around 2:15.. What is the brand of the quick release mount? I was trying to find the portion in the clip where you said you would talk more about it but could not seem to find it.
I have a problem rotating my 400 2.8. It must be because the foot/ring is in the front of lens just like the 600 f4. It’s also 10 lbs. It’s tough enough to rotate that I may look for an alternative which is unfortunate bc I love it on my 200-400.
Hi Steve. That Monogimbal head that seems great.
I was wondering what model of Really Right Stuff Lever Release Clamp you're using under the head, on the top of your monopod ?
Would you by any chance have a model number ?
Also, but there is a price consideration, wouldn't a panning RRS lever release clamp (RRS PC-LR -255 USD) ultimately be the absolute best as a monopod configuration with the RRS Monogimbal head ?
Thank you for your time and great videos.
How did you get the deer to stay still for 1/60th of a second?
What is the benefit of a gimbal head over a fluid head? I love my fluid head balanced, and I'm not sure if I want to spring for a gimbal head.
Have you ever used it with a shorter lens, scenics for instance with a lens that doesn't have a collar? Should work if you use the perpendicular arm of an L-bracket...I think.
Great video Steve, I have been using a ball head on my monopod but Wimberley is now going to get some more of my money. Curious if you've ever considered adding a tether to the setup just incase things get loose while hiking? If I'm just walking with a single lens I typically carry my camera using one of the black rapid rigs and have started attaching one of their tethers to my tri or monopod if I'm going to be leaving my camera attached to that while moving...it adds a little piece of mind for my paranoia. :)
I have thought about that - and I may just do it. I too am a bit paranoid. I'm more worried about a mistake on my end (i.e. not attaching properly or something), rather than the gear failing, but I think a teacher is a good idea.
I’m setting up my digiscoping with the Wimberly MH100, with a Kowa scope and tripod. The Wimberly provides the tilt but a ball head seems too heavy. I was thinking a panoramic head would be better for the panning. Thoughts?
Steve, would you feel comfortable using this on the OEM collar that comes with the Nikon 200-500mm?
Yes - it's a good collar. However, I like the 3rd party collars because of the built-in dovetail.
I have 2 Canon bodies,
5DIV and 9D and i want to micro adjust the focus for a Sigma 150-600 C lens,
how can i adjust the lens for 2 camera, if i use Sigma USB doc it will adjust
the lens and not according to camera, and if i adjust on camera it will not give
the option to adjust for all 4 focal length, what is your advice?
So Steve: practically speaking, under what conditions would you need to switch to a full tripod and the WH-200? Can you shoot *everything* in your portfolio with the monopod setup? If not, what shots would you miss? I would love to go lightweight to save my aging bones, but it obviously has limitations. Would you ever go out with *just* this monopod arrangement? Hopefully my questions make sense :-) Thanks for all you do - I've got both your e-books, and they have really helped me. Thank you again :-)
The truth is, no matter how great the monopod is, under the same conditions you'll generally get a higher keeper rate with the tripod (assuming slower shutter speeds of course). Tripods are also nice since you don't have to hang onto them the entire time. I tend to use tripods most of the time and monopods when I need to change height quickly or I need a lighter system. Although, after deliberately using this for all my shoots over the last few weeks, I think I my monopod use may go up a bit - it's faster in the field to be sure.
I would (air) travel with this combo over my S4 Gitzo and WH-200 II combo any day of the week.
Wouldn't a Wimberley Sidekick work better since it centers the camera on the monopod?
what quick release base is that you are using (manufacturer) on the monopod?
Looks good Steve. Quick question for a amateur. Do you use stability (VR) while using a monopod? Thanks.
Depends a bit on the shutter speed (you don't need it at higher speeds, say above 1/500th), but yes, otherwise use VR.
Steve Perry Thanks for getting back to me. I appreciate it.
Would you please provide the model number of the RRS quick release clamp that you are using here? Thanks.
Could you list your monopod gear? All the additional plates you have ? Thanks
My Gitzo mono pod is 61.2" I am 6' 1" tall. Is my mono tall enough to use this head efficiently?
Steve, so I actually realized that with the RRS replacement collar/foot, the design completely inhibits you from shooting on the left size. You would run into the same problem with Kirk's design as well. It appears if you were to keep the factory collar/foot combo, and slide on an arca plate that it would solve the issue.
and whats the difference with a ball head in portrait mode? Same exact workings when you use the ball head loose on its side.
My question is and it also applies to a gimble on a tripod, how do you balance the 200-500mm zoom.When I did if I balanced it fo rthe 200mm it drops forward when I move it to 500mm it drops backward. If I try in the middke it drops both way.
Sadly, there's no good answer here - I try to balance it towards the focal length I think I'll use the most. Same problem with any zoom that extends.
Steve, can this be installed on a tripod as well.. i have a tripod with the centre leg, which goes onto my monopod as well.. any idea how it would function then?
It's still less than idea since you lose the rotational element. I'd hate to have this mounted on a tripod and need to track a bird from left to right :)
Hey Steve, great review! I’ve got the i footage cobra monopod and I love that the bottom foot becomes a ground level tripod with a quick attach. Wondering if you think the Waverly head would work on a ground pod or something like that? I’m trying to find a head that I can use normally on the monopod and then pop off to use when I’m low to the ground but I’m not sure if the side mount weight would be a problem without the length of the monopod to hold against it.
I don'r know for sure but it doesn't seem like it would work. I agree, I'm not so sure about a side-mount in that scenario.
@@backcountrygallery appreciate the reply! I’m a new convert to Nikon and your z9 book has been an invaluable resource. Thanks for making it!
@@heymikeriley Thanks so much!
Didn't I just see your video where you tout the full gimbal head for use on a monopod and dis this style of so-called monopod gimbal?
I do admit that I am glad I have seen both. The full gimbal head is so obviously superior in every way except for the bulk. Luckily I can use my existing full gimbal and not bother buying the lesser monogimbal
Maybe you should put a note in this video explaining that.
I know this is an old video already, but I'd like to get your take on the wimberley mh-100, and ask if you have ever used on it on a tripod . Or has something better come out since?
It doesn't work well on a tripod - the camera and lens are too close to the legs. Great on a monopod though - I still use it and don't see that changing.
Steve, great video - very clear and helpful. I had the same question two others asked: What model RRS quick release clamp did you use on this monopod?
It's the 60mm clamp :)
@@backcountrygallery Is the 80 mm working as well, because I ordered the 80mm? Thanks a lot for a feedback
@@71Enno It should be fine - I've not used it though.
Steve Perry Thank's a lot for your quick response and greetings from Germany
The large Kirk clamp also works well. I prefer screw attachments over clamps, because clamps can wear down over time.
This looks so interesting. I’ve always had a fear of using side mounts, I don’t know why but they look less secure to me.
I hear ya - I feel the same. However, I sling my tripod and lens mounted to a gimbal over my shoulder and the mounts are pretty much the same. I'll admit, it took a little getting used to, but I trust it now.
I have this setup with my 1Dx3 and 500 f4 and it balances well, but now since i swapped my 1Dx3 for the R3, it no longer balances, I can move to the end of the foot but it scares me that the foot will come out of the mount, so I find myself constantly tightening the mount. Still I’d rather have this than carry a tripod.
VR question:
Nikon D500 with Nikkor 200-500mm. Lens user's manual states "VR off may have better results when using tripod" and also says "use VR with monopod use".
What do you find works best, VR On or OFF with Wimberley and Gitzo 4 series monopod?
This monopod doesn't use the standard monopod straight line mount.
I have the exact monopod setup as you have in this video. I used it today for birding and found my images a bit blurry. I had VR on with Sport setting on. handheld images were sharper with all same settings. Perhaps I need more practice, today was my very first time taking this monopod out for hiking and photographing birds in flight, perched and walking along ground.
Thank you.
Simon
I have a podcast coming out Tuesday that address this exact topic. :) You should be 100% fine with a monopod + VR since it's not nearly as stable as a tripod. I've used it with good success. However, I also know that the 200-500 doesn't like faster shutter speeds + VR either, you need to keep it under 1/500th or you can have problems. There's also a number of other things that may hav been causing the blur too (heat distortion, for example, is a common culprit). Hope that helps :)
@@backcountrygallery thank you for your reply.
I wasn't aware of the 200-500mm Nikkor lens limitations of VR past 1/500th. For birding, that is not an option for shutter speed. I've been using 1/2500th - 1/4000th with VR on! The eyes are never as sharp as I want them. I performed the lens calibration and that helped but it's still not as crisp as I've seen other people capture.
I've purchased a few tips and tricks videos from you. I'll take another look through your videos, I'm sure I've missed a lot of good pointers.
I'll look forward to your podcast!
Thanks for the inspiring videos and for taking the time to keep us beginners informed and educated.
Simon
@@backcountrygallery I have noticed no issues with my 200-500 and VR at 1/500th or higher--the range I shoot at 90% of the time for action. Now ground heat shimmer? That lens is REAL susceptible, unlike my long primes.
@@jimbailey1122 It's tricky, because VR performance is also body dependent too - the mass of the camera body can sometimes make a difference. There are also different perceptions of what's sharp enough and what's not. That's why it's tough to put out any guidelines, even situation is different. (I do agree on the heat haze with that lens, not sure why it's like that, shouldn't make a difference, but it does)