mini tripod?

[mike savad]

How about the Ultrapod II?

I have one, which I use with my S110 and my G2. It's fine for the
S110, but forget it for the G2. The weight of the G2 is enough to
make the head slip, and as a result it cannot be easily nor
reliably locked into position. The last time I used the Ultrapod
it took 10 minutes to set it up, during which time I was eaten
alive by mosquitoes (this was in a location with reports of West
Nile, no less!), and swore I'd get a better mini-tripod for my next
trip.

I'm interested in what you decide to do, Mike. My ideal travel
tripod is something very small, like the Cobra mini-tripod
mentioned earlier. If I want anything bigger, I'll carry my
compact Slik tripod with ballhead.

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

is that the Ultrapod 1 - or the 2? from what i saw online, it showed that a large slr could be supported.

http://www.wildlifewatchingsupplies.co.uk/ultra.html shows hunting stuff attached. the pro90 is larger then the g2.

i found a small lightweight junk pod at a garage sale. i wouldn't trust it on it's own, but next to me it should be good. though i still like the look of the ultrapod. the ultrapod site shows specs at 6 pounds. maybe you have a fluke?

---Mike Savad

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

 

[Bill Anderson]

I am sure Richard is using the plain UltraPod (no number). That would be just fine for his S110, but NOT for the G2.

The UltarPod II (Note the 'II') is much beefier, and that is what they show on the wildlifewatchingsupplies link you posted. It won't have any problem with a G-series.

I don't know what took Richard so long to set up about the UltraPod, unless he was trying to my the small one work with a G2. I can have my UltraPod II out, on my G1, and attahced to almost anything in about 30 seconds....

I would say 6 lbs. is an accurate figgure for the UltraPod II. The small UltraPod would be more around or under 1 lbs.

--Bill

How about the Ultrapod II?

I have one, which I use with my S110 and my G2. It's fine for the
S110, but forget it for the G2. The weight of the G2 is enough to
make the head slip, and as a result it cannot be easily nor
reliably locked into position. The last time I used the Ultrapod
it took 10 minutes to set it up, during which time I was eaten
alive by mosquitoes (this was in a location with reports of West
Nile, no less!), and swore I'd get a better mini-tripod for my next
trip.

[snip]

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

is that the Ultrapod 1 - or the 2? from what i saw online, it
showed that a large slr could be supported.

http://www.wildlifewatchingsupplies.co.uk/ultra.html shows hunting
stuff attached. the pro90 is larger then the g2.

i found a small lightweight junk pod at a garage sale. i wouldn't
trust it on it's own, but next to me it should be good. though i
still like the look of the ultrapod. the ultrapod site shows specs
at 6 pounds. maybe you have a fluke?

---Mike Savad

 

[Bill Anderson]

http://www.wildlifewatchingsupplies.co.uk/ultra.html shows hunting
stuff attached. the pro90 is larger then the g2.

Blimey! I just noted that wildlifewatchingsupplies is seilling the UP II for over 20 pounds! Isn't that like $40??? They are about $15 here in the US.

--Bill

 

[b.c.]

again, I concur with Bill. I have both the ultrapod I and ultrapod II, and the I is definitely too small/lightweight for the G2 but ok for a smaller pocket P&S. But the heftier II works fine with G2, no problem with the G2's weight.

I'd agree too that it is very quick to set up. The ball head is very simple, but it's good enough. If you don't mind the size/weight of a real tripod, then go with that, but the ultrapod II weighs practically nothing, so you really can take it with you everywhere.

Something else to keep in mind - it's just an "OK" tabletop tripod, but the true versatility of the ultrapod comes from being able to strap it to almost anything as a support - signpost, stair railing, tree branch, chair armrest, ski pole, lawnmower handle, etc. Be creative and you can usually find something to strap it on to.

The UltarPod II (Note the 'II') is much beefier, and that is what
they show on the wildlifewatchingsupplies link you posted. It won't
have any problem with a G-series.

I don't know what took Richard so long to set up about the
UltraPod, unless he was trying to my the small one work with a G2.
I can have my UltraPod II out, on my G1, and attahced to almost
anything in about 30 seconds....

I would say 6 lbs. is an accurate figgure for the UltraPod II. The
small UltraPod would be more around or under 1 lbs.

--Bill

How about the Ultrapod II?

I have one, which I use with my S110 and my G2. It's fine for the
S110, but forget it for the G2. The weight of the G2 is enough to
make the head slip, and as a result it cannot be easily nor
reliably locked into position. The last time I used the Ultrapod
it took 10 minutes to set it up, during which time I was eaten
alive by mosquitoes (this was in a location with reports of West
Nile, no less!), and swore I'd get a better mini-tripod for my next
trip.

[snip]

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

is that the Ultrapod 1 - or the 2? from what i saw online, it
showed that a large slr could be supported.

http://www.wildlifewatchingsupplies.co.uk/ultra.html shows hunting
stuff attached. the pro90 is larger then the g2.

i found a small lightweight junk pod at a garage sale. i wouldn't
trust it on it's own, but next to me it should be good. though i
still like the look of the ultrapod. the ultrapod site shows specs
at 6 pounds. maybe you have a fluke?

---Mike Savad

 

[mike savad]

this is what i like about this design most. that i can attach it to a near by sign post if i have too. attach a level if it needs it, done.

does the velcro strap come off? after awhile i can see it wearing out.

---Mike Savad

The UltarPod II (Note the 'II') is much beefier, and that is what
they show on the wildlifewatchingsupplies link you posted. It won't
have any problem with a G-series.

I don't know what took Richard so long to set up about the
UltraPod, unless he was trying to my the small one work with a G2.
I can have my UltraPod II out, on my G1, and attahced to almost
anything in about 30 seconds....

I would say 6 lbs. is an accurate figgure for the UltraPod II. The
small UltraPod would be more around or under 1 lbs.

--Bill

How about the Ultrapod II?

I have one, which I use with my S110 and my G2. It's fine for the
S110, but forget it for the G2. The weight of the G2 is enough to
make the head slip, and as a result it cannot be easily nor
reliably locked into position. The last time I used the Ultrapod
it took 10 minutes to set it up, during which time I was eaten
alive by mosquitoes (this was in a location with reports of West
Nile, no less!), and swore I'd get a better mini-tripod for my next
trip.

[snip]

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

is that the Ultrapod 1 - or the 2? from what i saw online, it
showed that a large slr could be supported.

http://www.wildlifewatchingsupplies.co.uk/ultra.html shows hunting
stuff attached. the pro90 is larger then the g2.

i found a small lightweight junk pod at a garage sale. i wouldn't
trust it on it's own, but next to me it should be good. though i
still like the look of the ultrapod. the ultrapod site shows specs
at 6 pounds. maybe you have a fluke?

---Mike Savad

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

 

[mike savad]

http://www.wildlifewatchingsupplies.co.uk/ultra.html shows hunting
stuff attached. the pro90 is larger then the g2.

Blimey! I just noted that wildlifewatchingsupplies is seilling the
UP II for over 20 pounds! Isn't that like $40??? They are about $15
here in the US.

--Bill

didn't notice. though i did notice the camoflauge green they had on a part of it. as now it's a specialized tool, neat examples though.

---Mike Savad

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

 

[Richard Drdul]

Well, I learned something new today! I didn't realize there was a "2" version of the Ultrapod -- I'll have to check it out. You're right -- the one I've been using is the plain Ultrapod with no number. That's why it took 10 minutes to set the damn thing up -- it can't support the weight of my G2. I'll give the Ultrapod 2 a whirl, as I like the design and the ability to strap it to a fixed object.

Cheers!

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

 

[b.c.]

Mike

yes, the velcro strap does come off. It's about 12inches long, about 1/2inch wide or so, composed of two pieces sewn together end to end - about 3 inches of the hook-type velcro on the loose end, and the rest being the fuzzy type of velcro. End of the fuzzy part has a plastic loop through which you strap everything - the loop also holds the strap from pulling out of the main v-shaped leg. So if you're handy at sewing, yes, you could make a new strap to replace a worn one.

this is what i like about this design most. that i can attach it to
a near by sign post if i have too. attach a level if it needs it,
done.

does the velcro strap come off? after awhile i can see it wearing out.

 

[b.c.]

I just dug out my I and II, and by comparison, the whole length of the I when folded is about the length of just one of the shorter legs of the II. The II is much sturdier as well, and I notice now that the strap has been redesigned with a plastic loop, so if you had trouble before with your I, then I think you'll find the new strap arrangement easier to use in addition to the heftier build. The I definitely won't hold the G2.

By the way, I notice you are from Vancouver - if you are looking for an ultrapod II, I got mine at London Drugs, they seem to stock it.

Well, I learned something new today! I didn't realize there was a
"2" version of the Ultrapod -- I'll have to check it out. You're
right -- the one I've been using is the plain Ultrapod with no
number. That's why it took 10 minutes to set the damn thing up --
it can't support the weight of my G2. I'll give the Ultrapod 2 a
whirl, as I like the design and the ability to strap it to a fixed
object.

Cheers!

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

 

[lorim]

Do you know if the Ultrapod II is sold anywhere in Toronto?

Thanks!

LM

Well, I learned something new today! I didn't realize there was a
"2" version of the Ultrapod -- I'll have to check it out. You're
right -- the one I've been using is the plain Ultrapod with no
number. That's why it took 10 minutes to set the damn thing up --
it can't support the weight of my G2. I'll give the Ultrapod 2 a
whirl, as I like the design and the ability to strap it to a fixed
object.

Cheers!

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

 

[mike savad]

i assume they ship there,but BHPHOTO has it, it's where i'll get mine. ultrapod 2 - they don't use the II.

---Mike Savad

Thanks!

LM

Well, I learned something new today! I didn't realize there was a
"2" version of the Ultrapod -- I'll have to check it out. You're
right -- the one I've been using is the plain Ultrapod with no
number. That's why it took 10 minutes to set the damn thing up --
it can't support the weight of my G2. I'll give the Ultrapod 2 a
whirl, as I like the design and the ability to strap it to a fixed
object.

Cheers!

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

 

[Tomzinho]

of course one of the challenges of taking shots from boats is that they rock back and forth. you will get used to it (hopefully), but that doesn't help the camera.

last month i was on a boat near a rocky perch where all these cool birds were hanging out. it was dusk, and so i had to use a long exposure. the birds, the rocks, everything kept on coming out blurred and at first i couldn't figure it out . . .

a while back someone mentioned a good small mini tripod - i'm going
on a cruise in a few months. i want to be able to set up a little
thing on the balcony in case there are sunset shots.

perferably under 12" in length closed, but it should be well made.
i have a really tiny pod. but it was totally useless last time i
used it. it's a deck of cards sized thing, and it doesn't hold it's
posistion all that well. and i had problems getting it to look over
the window ledge.

what would be really cool is something like my gitzo explorer.
something that i can lock the legs in different positions.

anyone know of a good one, peferably cheap (but not to cheaply made).

thanks

---Mike Savad

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/
Added - More Closeups, Flowers, Buildings, and Still life.

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

--
Tomzinho
http://www.pbase.com/tomzinho

 

[mike savad]

i'm hoping that the stablizer in the camera and the stabilzer in the boat will work together. real long shots probably not as the boat moves at 25 knots at full speed. though something distant maybe, who knows.

i just don't want to get sea sick. i have a can of ginger. i have those aweful sea bands. i heard honey works. i'll have to try everything i guess. i don't want to have to use bonine if i don't have to. i don't know of any side effects, but would rather not have it... well anyway, my thoughts are all over right now. either case the bulk of the pictures will be on shore anyway.

---Mike Savad

last month i was on a boat near a rocky perch where all these cool
birds were hanging out. it was dusk, and so i had to use a long
exposure. the birds, the rocks, everything kept on coming out
blurred and at first i couldn't figure it out . . .

a while back someone mentioned a good small mini tripod - i'm going
on a cruise in a few months. i want to be able to set up a little
thing on the balcony in case there are sunset shots.

perferably under 12" in length closed, but it should be well made.
i have a really tiny pod. but it was totally useless last time i
used it. it's a deck of cards sized thing, and it doesn't hold it's
posistion all that well. and i had problems getting it to look over
the window ledge.

what would be really cool is something like my gitzo explorer.
something that i can lock the legs in different positions.

anyone know of a good one, peferably cheap (but not to cheaply made).

thanks

---Mike Savad

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/
Added - More Closeups, Flowers, Buildings, and Still life.

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

--
Tomzinho
http://www.pbase.com/tomzinho

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

 

[Tomzinho]

i doubt on a big ship you will get sea sick, unless you have a storm. when i go on a scuba vacation i take dramamine every morning (the less drowsy formula) and never felt any side effects - or at least none that were stronger than nitrogen narcosis or the bends ;-)

and i also agree, trips are always a good reason to buy more toys, ahem, i mean tools and equipment.

i just don't want to get sea sick. i have a can of ginger. i have
those aweful sea bands. i heard honey works. i'll have to try
everything i guess. i don't want to have to use bonine if i don't
have to. i don't know of any side effects, but would rather not
have it... well anyway, my thoughts are all over right now. either
case the bulk of the pictures will be on shore anyway.

---Mike Savad

last month i was on a boat near a rocky perch where all these cool
birds were hanging out. it was dusk, and so i had to use a long
exposure. the birds, the rocks, everything kept on coming out
blurred and at first i couldn't figure it out . . .

a while back someone mentioned a good small mini tripod - i'm going
on a cruise in a few months. i want to be able to set up a little
thing on the balcony in case there are sunset shots.

perferably under 12" in length closed, but it should be well made.
i have a really tiny pod. but it was totally useless last time i
used it. it's a deck of cards sized thing, and it doesn't hold it's
posistion all that well. and i had problems getting it to look over
the window ledge.

what would be really cool is something like my gitzo explorer.
something that i can lock the legs in different positions.

anyone know of a good one, peferably cheap (but not to cheaply made).

thanks

---Mike Savad

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/
Added - More Closeups, Flowers, Buildings, and Still life.

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

--
Tomzinho
http://www.pbase.com/tomzinho

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/
Added - More Closeups, Flowers, Buildings, and Still life.

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

--
Tomzinho
http://www.pbase.com/tomzinho

 

[Richard Drdul]

By the way, I notice you are from Vancouver - if you are looking
for an ultrapod II, I got mine at London Drugs, they seem to stock
it.

Thanks for the tip -- I'll stop in at LD next week and pick one up.

Cheers!

Richard Drdul
vancouver, BC

 

[mike savad]

i doubt on a big ship you will get sea sick, unless you have a
storm. when i go on a scuba vacation i take dramamine every
morning (the less drowsy formula) and never felt any side effects -
or at least none that were stronger than nitrogen narcosis or the
bends ;-)

and i also agree, trips are always a good reason to buy more toys,
ahem, i mean tools and equipment.

at the very least it gives you an excuse to spend the money. and i find myself a flash bag. i have a domke case, it's nice, but it's like wearing a toaster.

of course the other system i have, i look like batman on vacation.

---Mike Savad

--
http://www.pbase.com/savad/

http://www.photosig.com/userphotos.php?id=9050

 

[b.c.]

Mike

if you're still thinking about the Ultrapod II, as an example of its versatility note that all my entries in CTF challenge 17 (3 eligible and 3 exhibition) were using the the Ultrapod II to attach my camera to some kind of moving object - so the camera was moving with the in-focus object while background blurred. may not be your prime need, but a sample of the unusual things you can do with it compared to a traditional tripod.
some setups shown at: http://www.pbase.com/bc/ultrapod

b.c.

does the velcro strap come off? after awhile i can see it wearing out.

---Mike Savad

The UltarPod II (Note the 'II') is much beefier, and that is what
they show on the wildlifewatchingsupplies link you posted. It won't
have any problem with a G-series.

I don't know what took Richard so long to set up about the
UltraPod, unless he was trying to my the small one work with a G2.
I can have my UltraPod II out, on my G1, and attahced to almost
anything in about 30 seconds....

I would say 6 lbs. is an accurate figgure for the UltraPod II. The
small UltraPod would be more around or under 1 lbs.

--Bill

How about the Ultrapod II?

I have one, which I use with my S110 and my G2. It's fine for the
S110, but forget it for the G2. The weight of the G2 is enough to
make the head slip, and as a result it cannot be easily nor
reliably locked into position. The last time I used the Ultrapod
it took 10 minutes to set it up, during which time I was eaten
alive by mosquitoes (this was in a location with reports of West
Nile, no less!), and swore I'd get a better mini-tripod for my next
trip.

[snip]

Richard Drdul
Vancouver, BC