22 replies to this topic

[Thumper]

I've been looking at the Gorilla Pod as well. What are your thoughts?

It makes a great quick tripod; light, easy to carry around, and it is very useful in situations where a level or similar surface is not available to deploy a full tripod on with any stability. The focus model can handle heavier setups easily, and it is still stable. I can put my D2Xs with my 70-200 on it, and the Focus model is just fine. It is always a good idea to test the setup before letting go of it though.

I was a little skeptical of this thing at first, but my wife wanted one for her camera, so when hers came in, I gave it a try. I was actually pretty impressed. The Acra Ballhead X is nice too.

[rocknrumble]

Thanks Thumper.

[whitelotus9]

A very quick to make and inexpensive "bean bag" for camera stabilizing can be made by buying one or more bags of dried pinto (or navy, etc.) beans and pouring them into a sturdy Zip-Lock bag which is then sealed and placed into a 2nd Zip-Lock bag (to prevent holes from rough surfaces).  Toss it into your gear and you have a suitable support.  Or just toss in a bath towel which can be rolled or folded up as needed.