TRIPOD OR MONOPOD? GEAR.
SmallRig The SmallRig AD-01 3751 features an updated quick- release plate with a built-in spanner to allow the camera to be placed at speed. The head plate slot has screw holes and the bowl base has hidden 1/4in- 20 threaded holes for accessory attachment. Featuring a built-in bubble level, this tripod works with a 75mm bowl base for levelling and easy management of frame level. Furthermore, a three-section extender is included for indoor and outdoor scenarios, and a user-friendly quick-release flip-lock. There’s also a protective bag, which makes it easy to carry around.
Ronford Baker The Ronford Baker Atlas 50 Fluid Head has a patented counterbalance system. It’s capable of taking a maximum payload of 50kg at 30cm above the head’s pivotal centre, and is operated by a single control knob from 0-100%. The Atlas incorporates the Ronford-Baker fluid system, with seven steps of fluid control on both pan and tilt.
“Heads are interchangeable – you can have sticks made by one manufacturer and a head made by another”
brought out a fluid tripod. I’m hoping to get my hands on one of those and have a play with it.” SMOOTH OPERATOR If you’ve opted for a tripod, it’s important to look at the key factors when deciding which one to buy. Merritt says that payload is the first thing one must consider. “You want to make sure that the tripod head can support the weight of your camera,” he says. “There’s no point buying a really lightweight tripod system if you’ve got a fully decked out FX9 covered in accessories, because it won’t support your camera. Check out how heavy your camera is when it’s
fully loaded and then check out the payload on the head.” Merritt prefers a fluid head on his tripod because, in his words, ‘they are super smooth’. He continues: “Obviously in high-end movies they employ mechanical heads, but that’s a very specialist operation. Heads are interchangeable though. When you buy a set of sticks, there’s a choice of two bowl sizes – 75mm tends to come with the more lightweight tripods and then there’s 100mm on the heavier tripods. You can have sticks made by one manufacturer and a head made by another, but most people tend to just buy them as a system.”
Whatever you opt for, the key to success is correct balancing of the head. If the weight is too far forward or back, you’ll always be fighting gravity. Tripods are stable, while monopods are mobile – but it all comes down to preference.
RUN AND GUN A monopod is perfect for lightweight set-ups that need more stability on the odd shot
61. FEBRUARY 2023
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