The answer is both, it always depends on the situation. I use a tripod if I’m going to sit and wait for a bird but I’ll use a monopod if I’m on the go.
I use a monopod when I'm on a hike and photography is part of the walk, I use a tripod when I intend to stay in the same spot and shoot a particular bird that stays in the area I'm focussing on. Basically, to me they both have a function, but I really appreciate you setting out the different use cases.
I started wildlife photography a couple weeks ago. Didn’t want to invest too much at first so I’m just using my iPhone and a clip-on telephoto lens. I got a basic tripod/monopod combo for like $40 and have only been using the monopod. So far I’ve just been going to local parks and nature preserve areas, so the monopod is perfect for moving around and exploring. Even the height is easily adjustable if I need to shoot higher or lower.
You inspired me to try a monopod about a year ago and now it's my favorite way to shoot. I like a simple tilt-head though - super light weight ...I tried one of those wimberly connectors for monopod and didn't like it.
Spot on advice! I would add that for serious hiking, many monopods double as hiking sticks. When carrying a lot of gear on your back that can definitely help with maintaining balance as you hike. Viewed that way, the monopod's only weight penalty is the head. I generally carry both when day hiking and my main agenda is photography. But for longer hikes, I take a sturdy mini/table top tripod with a simple (no separate pan) ball head and leave my standing height tripod at home. The mini still lets me get an occasional self portrait, star trails, long-exposure water falls,low level shots of swimming and wading waterfowl, and vistas from overlooks.
I forgot about the spike at the bottom of the monopod in my previous comment. I use a long spike in place of the rubber foot to control the monopod from sliding around on the ground when shooting.
I use the Wimberly monopod head on a heavy duty carbon monopod, once you use the Wimberly monopod head you will wonder why you waited so long to get one. They are great. Great video!
I went through many of your videos and ended up with the Robus RCM‐439 and PMG Tomahawk GT2 based on your recommendations for my Sony and 200-600 G lens. Couldn't be happier with the pairing, and it will translate well into your hybrid gimbal setup when I eventually invest in a heavy duty tripod and ballhead. Thanks for your expertise!
I use monopod. But I customized a PVC cap as monopod holster, which is clipped to the belt. I always walk around and primary take photos on birds in flight. I also customized the monopod and a tripod so the monopod could be used as a center column. In rare cases where I expect to use tripod, I carry it. Using a tripod or a monopod in the tradition way significantly limits photo opportunity.
Scott, good info. I have a good tripod, ball heads, gimbal and a Sidekick, but my favorite way for fast action wildlife shooting is a monopod with a ball head and 600mm lens on top of the ball. I have a Manfrotto MMXPROA4US XPRO monopod that is just shy of 71" tall. I wanted a tall one for the overhead shots! This is how I use it: The lens collar is tight and the ball head stays loose, with the monopod fully extended and at an angle in front of me. If I shoot low I drop like you did in the video, but when shooting high I raise the camera and the monopod stays in contact with the ground ready for the shot. With the ball head loose I can spin and elevate with the monopod always on the ground to stabilize and get the shot. I keep my grip around the ball head under the lens foot most of the time to control the flopping tendency of the camera and lens. It's unorthodox, but it works. If I need to rest my hand, I lean the gear against my shoulder leaving both hands free. This works because the monopod is at an angle; like leaning a broom against the wall. I my opinion, a monopod is at its least stable position when it is straight up & down. That's the reason tripod legs splay outward. With a monopod angled forward it is acting as the third leg of a tripod stabilizing you as well as the camera. Whereas a ball head allows a full range of motion, a gimbal or a side mount doesn't unless you lift the monopod off of the ground which defeats its purpose to stabilize. This technique helps me keep up with fast action of the warblers during migrations.
So the ball head is tilted to the side like you can do (essentially turning it into a device like the wimberly just usually not as smooth). Interesting
@@WildlifeInspired Actually the camera/lens stay on top and not to the side of the ball head, which allows more directional flexibility and smoother target following. That is the reason my grip on the rig remains around the top of the ball of the ball head to control the gear flopping tendency due to it being top heavy. (I have used the Wimberly trick the you speak of on occasion.) This method is kind of like "hand held", but with more stability. The loose monopod dangles below the ball head, but it is always in contact with the ground due to its long length ready to anchor the shot with little more than a bit of downward pressure to bury the spike. I hope this makes sense. This technique is an advantage when surrounded by fast action opportunities like birds. The grip on the loose ball is key to the stability: loose grip to follow the target, and snug to stabilize the shot. Back button focus and image stabilization helps make this all workable. The ball is loose, but not sloppy, and the base is tight on the ball head. Animals usually allow a more relaxed method because they usually remain on the same plane where the camera moves left or right to follow them. Birds are so flighty; pun intended. Give this method a fair trial and you may find it has good virtues for the toolbox.. I usually shoot manual using auto ISO, but sometimes manual ISO is desired. Have a good day.
I use neither! I find that I get way more shots when I have my camera off tripod and not tethered to anything. Tripods are helpful for video, but with my stabilization, I can easily go down to 1/50 easily without a tripod, so there really isn’t a need for any sort of ‘pod for me.
I use my IFootage Cobra II monopod with a Wimberley side almost exclusively. That and a Lenscoat bean bag and home made skimmer pod and I rarely use my FLM tripod any more.
I think the pod/head/camera-lens match is even more critical for monopod than tripod. The setup I had for a 70-200 was totally inadequate when I went to a 500 f/4. Now I have two monopod setups and use both. Also, effectively using a monopod required more practice for me than the tripod, but definitely paid off. Thanks.
I have monopods and tripods, but I tend to grab my gun sticks. I have a tall one and a short one. Not too heavy for me to tote around. Unless it’s my 800 and it has to go on the big tripod.
@@WildlifeInspired lol, I don’t shoot ducks! Except with a camera! My husband is a retired deer hunter and he gave me the first one. Then I bought a shorter one that I could sit and photo with. Check them out, Scott!
I agree. I only have a Tripod yet, I will get a Monopod. Tripod is great for stationary work. Monopod more for flexible work when you have to move a lot (hiking, switching positions etc). I think flexibility is the keyword. I love my Robus Tripod but it's a lot to carry 😁 Thanks for the video
Robus seems to be a good value for what you get. The carbon fiber is not the "stiffest" but its less than half the price of the big brands and definitely holds it's own. For a monopod look for 3-4 sections and avoid 5-6 sections.
Great differentiation in the use case for both. Thanks. I use a monopod with a Sidekick and a small ball head. I have a video foot modification for stability and friction panning. For high angle shots looking up I jam my foot on the video "chicken foot", throw a lever (not 'twist' in this model) to loosen and pull up to lengthen the monopod, then lock the lever, quick and easy. No strain, no holding, no wobble who needs it at 71 yoa! Generally running the monopod a little longer helps with a) stability with the foot pushed out forward of you, and b) a little extra height for the up angle when used plumb vertical, camera rotating on the gimbal. Not a heap of change but even quicker than the 'chicken foot stomp' method!
second time someone mentioned this. I think I do similar but sounds like you guys are extending maybe 3-4 mor inches more than I am. I will try it longer and see how it works. Thanks for the comment
Hi Scott, love the channel! I'm trying to optimize my setup for travel photography, and wondered if you have any thoughts on 2-in-1 tripod monopod combos, e.g. those offered by 3 legged thing? I'm unsure if the monopod elements are actually good or if they're more of a gimmick
Good advice. Personally, when we head out in the vehicle to look for birds I always put both the tripod and monopod in the back seat. Best to be always prepared.
I have a mono and tripod, I use the monopod 25% of the time, tripod 25% then mainly hand hold. Just looked through all favourite images and I don't recall ever getting a good photo while using a monopod for some reason. I did get some monopod shots at a water set-up but that was only because I was yet to purchase a tripod. Strange I use the monopod fairly often but it hasn't been a useful tool for me. I am trying to use the monopod more often after watching your videos because I am still a believer that it is the best option for a hybrid style of shooting where you are walking heaps but also patiently waiting for the subject to appear
When I use a monopod I put a strap on the camera and make sure it's around my neck. That eliminates the risk of accidents and it also allows me to take a break without having to set the camera on the ground. What do you think about using a gimbal on a monopod? Excellent video; thanks.
Gimbals are okay but they swing around and are heavier than needed. So they absolutely can be used but they seem to be more then I need and not as convenient to hike with.
Monopod with fluid head all the way, unless you staying in one spot. I got 1 large tripod, (for the gimble), 1 very small tripod which goes down flat water level and 3 monopods with fluid heads. Easier to pack, lighter and use it as a walking stick all the time with the camera mounted on the fluid head. Oh yea get a long string/rope and thigh it around your neck and to the monopod (with come clip). I can leave it hanging around my neck and have my hands free (for a snack or a smoke).
Scott, this is a really great video, thank you very much. I have one question about "nimbleness" and changing perspective, though: Surely, if you have a tripod with the legs folded together (or only one of the legs extended) you effectively have a monopod, so you can change the angle of view rapidly, as you could with a monopod? I accept that the weight is heavier than with a monopod; however, if you have a fairly lightweight (i.e. carbon fibre) tripod, can you not use it as a quasi-monopod when you want to, and as a tripod when you need the extra stability?
@@WildlifeInspired Oh, I see, that's very helpful. Thanks very much for answering my question. I'm just starting to get into bird and insect photography, having been a birder for many years. I'm using a Sony 200-600 lens (on an A6600), but I find that it becomes quite heavy to hand-hold after a while. I will try out some monopods; thanks again.
As I grow older I have evolved from hand-held bird photography to using a monopod. It helps me to be able to hold the weight of the camera and 600 mm lens without succumbing to the shakes. The only problem I have with the setup is the pain it gives me in my shoulder when I hoist it onto my shoulder to hike. There are pads and cradles for carrying loaded tripods around, but I haven't found anything to pad my shoulder when carrying a loaded monopod. Do you have any advice?
Hi Scott, I love your videos - very useful as usual. I got a question, currently I only shoot handheld with a D7500 with 200-500mm for wildlife and was considering a monopod but can't decide between heads. Can you have a look at LEOFOTO MPG-01 (MH-100 knockoff) - versus a LEOFOTO VH-10S (Sirui L-10 knockoff)? Any advice would be great!
Great info... thank you! I use a Manfrotto 680B monopod when running around with my Nikkor 500 f/4 and when not moving around, I use my Gitzo series 5 tripod with a Wimberley Gimbal WH-200. Am considering the purchase of a Leofoto LH-55 for the tripd as well. Any feedback on the Leofoto LH55 would be appreciated. Look like a RRS copy!
Basically if i am over 1/500 I turn it off on monopod or tripod (sometimes even slower on tripod) However, I do sometimes forget lol and leave it one for a while before I recognize that the gears are turning.
@@WildlifeInspired LOL Scott, I have done the same thing so many times as well, thank you for your reply! :) I enjoy your videos on youtube and instagram and love your photography. Have a great weekend :)
I usually carry two cameras when shooting wildlife, one with a long lens 800 mm for longer reach that I put on a tripod and the other one with a 100-400mm for closer subjects which I handhold. I find the tripod a better set up in this case since I just leave the long lens on the tripod while I shoot with the other camera. Do you ever carry two cameras when you shoot wildlife and if so what would your set up be? Thanks
Does a OM camera magically levitate? The point is tripods and monopods arent JUST for stabilization, I use a tripod in some situations so I can point the camera and wait for action, a monopod can keep me pointed in one direction without having to lower the lens to the ground and lifting it back up (songbirds)
The answer is both, it always depends on the situation. I use a tripod if I’m going to sit and wait for a bird but I’ll use a monopod if I’m on the go.
same
I use a monopod when I'm on a hike and photography is part of the walk, I use a tripod when I intend to stay in the same spot and shoot a particular bird that stays in the area I'm focussing on. Basically, to me they both have a function, but I really appreciate you setting out the different use cases.
Thanks so much for the comment Dr. Hope to see you here more often
I started wildlife photography a couple weeks ago. Didn’t want to invest too much at first so I’m just using my iPhone and a clip-on telephoto lens. I got a basic tripod/monopod combo for like $40 and have only been using the monopod. So far I’ve just been going to local parks and nature preserve areas, so the monopod is perfect for moving around and exploring. Even the height is easily adjustable if I need to shoot higher or lower.
You inspired me to try a monopod about a year ago and now it's my favorite way to shoot.
I like a simple tilt-head though - super light weight ...I tried one of those wimberly connectors for monopod and didn't like it.
Great to hear!
Spot on advice! I would add that for serious hiking, many monopods double as hiking sticks. When carrying a lot of gear on your back that can definitely help with maintaining balance as you hike. Viewed that way, the monopod's only weight penalty is the head. I generally carry both when day hiking and my main agenda is photography. But for longer hikes, I take a sturdy mini/table top tripod with a simple (no separate pan) ball head and leave my standing height tripod at home. The mini still lets me get an occasional self portrait, star trails, long-exposure water falls,low level shots of swimming and wading waterfowl, and vistas from overlooks.
I forgot about the spike at the bottom of the monopod in my previous comment. I use a long spike in place of the rubber foot to control the monopod from sliding around on the ground when shooting.
I use the Wimberly monopod head on a heavy duty carbon monopod, once you use the Wimberly monopod head you will wonder why you waited so long to get one. They are great. Great video!
Thanks (the PMG is even better!)
I went through many of your videos and ended up with the Robus RCM‐439 and PMG Tomahawk GT2 based on your recommendations for my Sony and 200-600 G lens.
Couldn't be happier with the pairing, and it will translate well into your hybrid gimbal setup when I eventually invest in a heavy duty tripod and ballhead.
Thanks for your expertise!
wonderful!
I use monopod. But I customized a PVC cap as monopod holster, which is clipped to the belt. I always walk around and primary take photos on birds in flight. I also customized the monopod and a tripod so the monopod could be used as a center column. In rare cases where I expect to use tripod, I carry it. Using a tripod or a monopod in the tradition way significantly limits photo opportunity.
I have had a couple people recommend this and there is someone making these holsters now. I will have to try at some point
Thanks for sharing another awesome video like always 🐦👍
Scott, good info. I have a good tripod, ball heads, gimbal and a Sidekick, but my favorite way for fast action wildlife shooting is a monopod with a ball head and 600mm lens on top of the ball. I have a Manfrotto MMXPROA4US XPRO monopod that is just shy of 71" tall. I wanted a tall one for the overhead shots! This is how I use it: The lens collar is tight and the ball head stays loose, with the monopod fully extended and at an angle in front of me. If I shoot low I drop like you did in the video, but when shooting high I raise the camera and the monopod stays in contact with the ground ready for the shot. With the ball head loose I can spin and elevate with the monopod always on the ground to stabilize and get the shot. I keep my grip around the ball head under the lens foot most of the time to control the flopping tendency of the camera and lens. It's unorthodox, but it works. If I need to rest my hand, I lean the gear against my shoulder leaving both hands free. This works because the monopod is at an angle; like leaning a broom against the wall. I my opinion, a monopod is at its least stable position when it is straight up & down. That's the reason tripod legs splay outward. With a monopod angled forward it is acting as the third leg of a tripod stabilizing you as well as the camera. Whereas a ball head allows a full range of motion, a gimbal or a side mount doesn't unless you lift the monopod off of the ground which defeats its purpose to stabilize. This technique helps me keep up with fast action of the warblers during migrations.
So the ball head is tilted to the side like you can do (essentially turning it into a device like the wimberly just usually not as smooth). Interesting
@@WildlifeInspired Actually the camera/lens stay on top and not to the side of the ball head, which allows more directional flexibility and smoother target following. That is the reason my grip on the rig remains around the top of the ball of the ball head to control the gear flopping tendency due to it being top heavy. (I have used the Wimberly trick the you speak of on occasion.) This method is kind of like "hand held", but with more stability. The loose monopod dangles below the ball head, but it is always in contact with the ground due to its long length ready to anchor the shot with little more than a bit of downward pressure to bury the spike. I hope this makes sense. This technique is an advantage when surrounded by fast action opportunities like birds. The grip on the loose ball is key to the stability: loose grip to follow the target, and snug to stabilize the shot. Back button focus and image stabilization helps make this all workable. The ball is loose, but not sloppy, and the base is tight on the ball head.
Animals usually allow a more relaxed method because they usually remain on the same plane where the camera moves left or right to follow them. Birds are so flighty; pun intended. Give this method a fair trial and you may find it has good virtues for the toolbox.. I usually shoot manual using auto ISO, but sometimes manual ISO is desired.
Have a good day.
I use neither! I find that I get way more shots when I have my camera off tripod and not tethered to anything. Tripods are helpful for video, but with my stabilization, I can easily go down to 1/50 easily without a tripod, so there really isn’t a need for any sort of ‘pod for me.
I do find it helpful to keep the lens upright and pointed in the general direction. I shoot handheld about 20-40% of time Im guessing.
I use my IFootage Cobra II monopod with a Wimberley side almost exclusively. That and a Lenscoat bean bag and home made skimmer pod and I rarely use my FLM tripod any more.
Id say 10% i use a tripod, usually in winter for some reason (raptors?)
I think the pod/head/camera-lens match is even more critical for monopod than tripod. The setup I had for a 70-200 was totally inadequate when I went to a 500 f/4. Now I have two monopod setups and use both. Also, effectively using a monopod required more practice for me than the tripod, but definitely paid off. Thanks.
Thanks for the view !
I have monopods and tripods, but I tend to grab my gun sticks. I have a tall one and a short one. Not too heavy for me to tote around. Unless it’s my 800 and it has to go on the big tripod.
gun sticks should i be scared?
@@WildlifeInspired lol, I don’t shoot ducks! Except with a camera! My husband is a retired deer hunter and he gave me the first one. Then I bought a shorter one that I could sit and photo with. Check them out, Scott!
I agree. I only have a Tripod yet, I will get a Monopod. Tripod is great for stationary work. Monopod more for flexible work when you have to move a lot (hiking, switching positions etc). I think flexibility is the keyword. I love my Robus Tripod but it's a lot to carry 😁 Thanks for the video
Robus seems to be a good value for what you get. The carbon fiber is not the "stiffest" but its less than half the price of the big brands and definitely holds it's own. For a monopod look for 3-4 sections and avoid 5-6 sections.
Great differentiation in the use case for both. Thanks. I use a monopod with a Sidekick and a small ball head. I have a video foot modification for stability and friction panning. For high angle shots looking up I jam my foot on the video "chicken foot", throw a lever (not 'twist' in this model) to loosen and pull up to lengthen the monopod, then lock the lever, quick and easy. No strain, no holding, no wobble who needs it at 71 yoa! Generally running the monopod a little longer helps with a) stability with the foot pushed out forward of you, and b) a little extra height for the up angle when used plumb vertical, camera rotating on the gimbal. Not a heap of change but even quicker than the 'chicken foot stomp' method!
second time someone mentioned this. I think I do similar but sounds like you guys are extending maybe 3-4 mor inches more than I am. I will try it longer and see how it works. Thanks for the comment
I always use a bean bag. On very rare occasions a tripod, but that's because of my wildlife photography style.
ben bag, standing ? i use it laying down but how standing?
Hi Scott, love the channel! I'm trying to optimize my setup for travel photography, and wondered if you have any thoughts on 2-in-1 tripod monopod combos, e.g. those offered by 3 legged thing? I'm unsure if the monopod elements are actually good or if they're more of a gimmick
Good advice. Personally, when we head out in the vehicle to look for birds I always put both the tripod and monopod in the back seat. Best to be always prepared.
I keep both in the car and hope no one breaks in
I have a mono and tripod, I use the monopod 25% of the time, tripod 25% then mainly hand hold. Just looked through all favourite images and I don't recall ever getting a good photo while using a monopod for some reason.
I did get some monopod shots at a water set-up but that was only because I was yet to purchase a tripod. Strange I use the monopod fairly often but it hasn't been a useful tool for me.
I am trying to use the monopod more often after watching your videos because I am still a believer that it is the best option for a hybrid style of shooting where you are walking heaps but also patiently waiting for the subject to appear
it also keeps the camera focused in a general area as opposed to having to lift it each time you shoot
When I use a monopod I put a strap on the camera and make sure it's around my neck. That eliminates the risk of accidents and it also allows me to take a break without having to set the camera on the ground. What do you think about using a gimbal on a monopod? Excellent video; thanks.
Gimbals are okay but they swing around and are heavier than needed. So they absolutely can be used but they seem to be more then I need and not as convenient to hike with.
A carbon fiber tripod with a sturdy ball is light weight and easily converts to a monopod by folding the legs together.
I cant see any way that would work for my personal style, but if it works for you that's great, having both options on one set up would be really nice
Thank you for the information, Scott !!👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Any time!
Great vídeo!! Helpfully.
Fascinating yes indeed
Hope you enjoyed
Love it!! Great video.
Thanks so much!
Monopod with fluid head all the way, unless you staying in one spot. I got 1 large tripod, (for the gimble), 1 very small tripod which goes down flat water level and 3 monopods with fluid heads. Easier to pack, lighter and use it as a walking stick all the time with the camera mounted on the fluid head. Oh yea get a long string/rope and thigh it around your neck and to the monopod (with come clip). I can leave it hanging around my neck and have my hands free (for a snack or a smoke).
which fluid head are you using?
Very informative Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Scott, this is a really great video, thank you very much.
I have one question about "nimbleness" and changing perspective, though: Surely, if you have a tripod with the legs folded together (or only one of the legs extended) you effectively have a monopod, so you can change the angle of view rapidly, as you could with a monopod? I accept that the weight is heavier than with a monopod; however, if you have a fairly lightweight (i.e. carbon fibre) tripod, can you not use it as a quasi-monopod when you want to, and as a tripod when you need the extra stability?
Those tripods used like that are really impractical. I absolutely use tripods, I just try pick and chose the right set up for what I'm doing that day.
@@WildlifeInspired Oh, I see, that's very helpful. Thanks very much for answering my question. I'm just starting to get into bird and insect photography, having been a birder for many years. I'm using a Sony 200-600 lens (on an A6600), but I find that it becomes quite heavy to hand-hold after a while. I will try out some monopods; thanks again.
As I grow older I have evolved from hand-held bird photography to using a monopod. It helps me to be able to hold the weight of the camera and 600 mm lens without succumbing to the shakes. The only problem I have with the setup is the pain it gives me in my shoulder when I hoist it onto my shoulder to hike. There are pads and cradles for carrying loaded tripods around, but I haven't found anything to pad my shoulder when carrying a loaded monopod. Do you have any advice?
pool noodle? just get one that looks cool and fits your personality
@@WildlifeInspired
Huh, that looks like a good idea - thanks! Now, to find one in camo .... ;-)
Hi Scott, I love your videos - very useful as usual. I got a question, currently I only shoot handheld with a D7500 with 200-500mm for wildlife and was considering a monopod but can't decide between heads. Can you have a look at LEOFOTO MPG-01 (MH-100 knockoff) - versus a LEOFOTO VH-10S (Sirui L-10 knockoff)? Any advice would be great!
get the mpg you wont like the top heavy tilt head as much.
Great info... thank you! I use a Manfrotto 680B monopod when running around with my Nikkor 500 f/4 and when not moving around, I use my Gitzo series 5 tripod with a Wimberley Gimbal WH-200. Am considering the purchase of a Leofoto LH-55 for the tripd as well. Any feedback on the Leofoto LH55 would be appreciated. Look like a RRS copy!
I don't use ballheads often, I have a big Robus that serves me just fine and a little smaller Fiesol (solid).
Great video
Thanks!
Hey Scott, thanks for this. Do you turn off image stabilization when you use a monopod, especially at a slower shutter speed?
Basically if i am over 1/500 I turn it off on monopod or tripod (sometimes even slower on tripod) However, I do sometimes forget lol and leave it one for a while before I recognize that the gears are turning.
@@WildlifeInspired LOL Scott, I have done the same thing so many times as well, thank you for your reply! :) I enjoy your videos on youtube and instagram and love your photography. Have a great weekend :)
I usually carry two cameras when shooting wildlife, one with a long lens 800 mm for longer reach that I put on a tripod and the other one with a 100-400mm for closer subjects which I handhold. I find the tripod a better set up in this case since I just leave the long lens on the tripod while I shoot with the other camera. Do you ever carry two cameras when you shoot wildlife and if so what would your set up be? Thanks
Depends on subject, but I have don't a tripod and sling for longer lenses or maybe a hip holster if the second lens is for macro.
Can a monopod still be used this way if you don't use a lens with a collar?
you cant't use a sidemount monopod unless your collar rotates. You would be more limited to a tilt head or a full gimbal (with the cradle attached)
Question: Regarding the Monopod, what's the advantages of a gimbal head you're using over a tilt head? .Thank you,Scott!!.
Go to drive cars with/without power steering. Fill the difference 😊
your rig is balanced with a gimbal, it won’t “flop” like it tends to with a ball head
With gimbals the center of gravity keeps it from flopping. If you use a tilt head it can easily flip forward and back.
With om System you dont need a mono or tripod
Does a OM camera magically levitate? The point is tripods and monopods arent JUST for stabilization, I use a tripod in some situations so I can point the camera and wait for action, a monopod can keep me pointed in one direction without having to lower the lens to the ground and lifting it back up (songbirds)