I've been asked how much should you pay for a good monopod. Here is a quick answer and a few more detailed answers to consider.
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First, here are the quick answers:
1. Get as much as you can afford. Ideally, a monopod is a purchase that should only have to make. Unless you lose it or it gets stolen, you should get one that will last your entire photography lifetime. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. You can easily do this for less than $100.
2. Get a cheap one. This is the answer I give to photographers who are only occasionally using this accessory for shooting video with a point and shoot camera. Treat it with respect. Don't over load it and don't over tighten and you'll be fine.
3. Shooting a selfie portrait? The answer is quite different. These selfie monopods, also known as selfie poles, camera extender arms or cameras on a stick, have a completely different use and corresponding price tag.
The simple answer ion this situation is to go with one that is affordable and highly rated. The most expensive selfie monopods cost around $30, most sell for less than $20 and some around $10, whereas the most expensive camera monopods sell for around $300.
Because of the many diverse and creative uses for a monopod, and because of the contrasting types of photography and video you Digital Photography Tips readers engage in, here is my longer worded advice for finding the right monopod or selfie pole for the right price.
I'm really biased to rely heavily on reading reviews on Amazon about digital photography equipment as well as a myriad of other products. I don't buy EVERYTHING there , but I ALWAYS go there to read the reviews. Amazon does so much volume with a lot of products that they have the most reviews on those products.
Getting the opinions of others who have already purchased the exact same item will give you a broader scope of experiences from actual buyers and not the BS from the people who are marketing.
As an Amazon affiliate I may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases, at NO added cost to you.
Why bother with a tripod at all? Several reasons. The most important one is sharper photos. Even though you may have a steady hand, you'll never achieve the same stability as when your camera is supported by a stationary support like a monopod or a tripod. Additional advantages of using a monopod:
I hope you enjoyed this article called "How much should you pay for a good monopod." Whatever you do with your monopod choice, have a blast with your photography!
Stay inspired. Shoot more photos.
ABOUT BRUCE LOVELACE
Bruce is the publisher of this website. He is the author of the book "Improve Your Photography Instantly." Read more on Bruce on his Bio Page. He's been known as The Traveling Photographer ever since 1994. Or read more about this website.
View some of Bruce's photos on Instagram. Visit the Facebook Page. Watch him on YouTube. Bruce runs photo workshops for kids and adults, and provides one-on-one photography coaching.