I finally decided to modify one of my portable Carbon Fiber Monopods. I specifically chose this Rokinon Carbon Fiber Monopod because it carries a max load of 22 lbs, collapses down to a mere 18", yet can extend to a max height of 65". Not to mention it was just $39 + Free Shipping at the time so I purchased 3 of them. Sorry you missed the deal as it's back up to $70.
Rokinon 65" Carbon Fiber Monopod with Carrying Case
I don't recommend this setup if you like to work with heavy gear, but for me this ultra light monopod combined with a swiveling tripod foot should work great when i'm working event coverage with the small and lightweight Panasonic GH3 + 12-35mm F/2.8 OIS lens.
TPD-2 TRIPOD LEG STAND FOR MOGOPOD
Here it is finished off with a small Benro Video Fluid Head. The whole system breaks down into three pieces at just 18". Stable, lightweight, and easy to pack.
Joey S
@Emm - Do you prefer this setup over the Mogopod MarkIII?
Ted H
the bento foot is available too and a little cheaper than this big one. Here's the link https://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-Benro-ST1-Fluid-Monopod-Support-Stand-for-A28T-A29T-A38T-A48T-A49T-/271192129582
Emm
Post author@Apple - I've been using it for two days of all day event coverage now, and so far it rocks. Very easy to tote around and fold up when not in use.
Mike D
Be careful about buying that Rokinon monopod from ebay seller Bestpriceoptics. I purchased the $39 deal back when Emm first published it on the Cheesycam blog. I was overseas and had someone bring the package over with them who was visiting. It turned out they sent the wrong item: a crappy plastic tripod. I informed the seller of their mistake. They replied saying that they were sending out the correct item in the next couple days. I waited for the item to arrive to my address back in the US. The item never came, and I informed them of it. No replies. I continued messaging them and never got a response again.
Buyer beware...
Apple
Could I put this on my Benro S4 monopod? I hate having to tighten and loosen the base up with an allen wrench on my benro. Does the mogopod base have any audio creaking issues like the benro when you move the monopod around? I have to loosen the base, test, loosen more, test, loosen more...gets old after a while when transitioning the monopod from a stable shot to slider like shots.
musicoterapia
The monopod looks really well! The head is maybe the most important part for a good experience..
Emm
Post author@Rob S. - I think you're referring to the older Mogopod. This is the MarkIII version with a totally different tripod foot also. I just added a few photos to the article so you can see my setup.
Rob S.
Hey! They actually fixed it. When it first came out I emailed to ask if it could fold up while mounted on the Mogopod and they said no.
Emm
Post author@Metabolics - The monopod (unmoved) works great to support a 5DMark III. The MogoPod foot when used with the real Mogopod will work with the 5D Mark III.
This modification was for my lightweight setup, but I'm taking this out to cover CES 2014 this entire week. I'll report back to see how well I can abuse it.
Emm
Post author@Rob S - I was just using the Velbon over in New York a few months ago. Still works great. For those who complain about getting enough height, just add a belt mount to the bottom of the monopod like this: https://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-080-Monopod-Belt-Pouch/dp/B001A1Q0CU/
For the Mogopod Legs, here's what it looks like folding on the Mogopod: https://pncgear.tv/faq/how-do-i-properly-open-and-close-the-tpd-2-tripod.html
Rob S.
Love these DIY posts that really made Cheesycam what it is today. Do you still use your Velbon Ultrastick or has this replaced it? I'm still using mine. Do the legs fold up on this with the assembly mounted? I know that it doesn't on the Mogopod which seems like an oversight on their part.
Metabolics
Hi Emm - would you recommend this monopod rig for use with a 5DmkIII and some Zeiss lenses (21-35-50)? Or is that pushing the weight a bit too much? I don't see a maximum weight that this Carry Speed foot can take. Thanks for the info.