What is better a Tripod or Monopod?

[LiverpoolCol]

What is better a Tripod or Monopod? I am wanting to take lots of night time photo's and I'm not sure which is best to use, as I am travelling on a plane and I need something light.

[fourteen85]

I would say a tripod without a shadow of a doubt, if you want long exposure times then a tripod will be far more stable, you can have a brew while you are waiting

[ianmunt]

THe " Gorillapod" might be another option.The heavy duty one intended for SLR cameras is very versatile and can be "attached" to a wide range of nearby objects

[4candles]

It depends mainly on anticipated shutter speeds.

At normal focal lengths, I'd be happy to use a monopod at speeds as low as �sec, and maybe 1/8sec with a telephoto.

I'd guess for most night time shots you'd be using somewhat slower shutter speeds, so unless you're using very fast film, or risking graininess with say an ISO800 setting on a digital camera, I'd say you'll need a tripod.

There are some very good compact tripods, if you don't need the height, and there are full size ones available now that are somewhat lighter than years ago.

Hope you find something suitable, and happy shooting!

[pug100]

For long exposures a tripod is your only real option as a monopod will be prone to wobbling on a long exposure. Monopods are usually used in situations where you need to be mobile such as the snappers behind the goals at football matches.

[dustypuss]

I found that a mono pod is good for wild life as the critters wont stay still . a tripod can be used as a mono pod by just extending one leg. so go lightweight tripod

[fo3nix]

I'd go with tripod too, simply because it's more stable.

Idea for a quick monopod-type thing:

Take a piece of flat metal, a few inches in diameter or so.

Take a piece of strong string, about your height minus a foot.

Take a bolt with the right size to screw into the tripod mount on your camera.

Fasten all together, with string in the middle. Stand on the metal object, and screw into camera -- hold high enough for string to become taught, and it'll serve to prevent vertical shakes.

Quite handy (just roll it up into your pocket).

[dustypuss]

all so good if you get tooth ache.

you could all so use a been bag.

ps where are you going

[pingu748]

a tripod can be used as a monopod .. but u cant use a monopod as a tripod .. tripod every time ... buy the best u can afford from manfrotto or slik ... imo !