Gimbal Heads

[Dave_S]

Do any of you wildlife photographers use a Gimbal Head, either on a Tripod or Monopod?

If so, which model do you use, and do you think they of any real benefit, or just a cumbersome piece of extra kit to carry around?

I note that they vary in price, from the cheap Opteka (Chinese I guess) at £90 on 3-bay, to £400-500 at the top-end.

Dave

[2Beers]

Re: Gimbal Heads

There is an article in the latest issue of photoplus help me by a gimbal head its on sale to the general public on the 29th

[Paulstw]

Re: Gimbal Heads

I just use the default 3 way tilt and pan head. I have found it rather annoying and wish I did have a gimbal head. So many options so will be watching this with interest :)

[Dave_S]

Re: Gimbal Heads

There is an article in the latest issue of photoplus help me by a gimbal head its on sale to the general public on the 29th

Indeed there is Alex, which is what prompted me to raise the question.

Dave

[2Beers]

Re: Gimbal Heads

I have been thinking of getting one as well I do know a couple of guys that use the manfrotto 393 and swear by it.

The only thing is the added weight that I would have to lug around

[Dave_S]

Re: Gimbal Heads

The 393 does seem to have a good following, it reviews well, and is not expensive.

However, being made of Steel, the biggest complaint is the weight, apparently.

Dave

[Stan]

Re: Gimbal Heads

A gimbal head is more suitable to support the big heavy lenses such as the 500f4 or 300 f2.8 both of which are probably too heavy to hand hold for any length of time. If you are just using a more standard lens such as the 300 f4 or 400 f5.6, then you dont really need a gimbal or a tripod

Stan

[Dave_S]

Re: Gimbal Heads

Although I have only just bought the 400mm 5.6 L lens, and not yet had the chance to take it out 'in the field', when attached to the 5D Mklll, it weighs as much as a 5lb bag of spuds.

As such I don't know how, comfortable (or uncomfortable) it is going to be holding it up in the 'firing position' for any length of time.

Hence my thinking when I do get out with it, to take the monopod.

Dave

[Norman]

Re: Gimbal Heads

I have both 500 & 600/f4 lenses and wouldn't be without my King Cobra. Gone up a bit since I bought mine and you will also need a arca quick release plate that adds to the expense.

[colin C]

Re: Gimbal Heads

I only use a tripod if I am going to spend any significant time in a hide. I have used most of the gimbal heads on the market and have settled for the Manfrotto 502 fluid video head. Just the right amount of resistance can be dialled in to make following birds in flight smooth. It also has spring loaded self leveller so that when you let go, it goes back to the central position. I don't use the handle that comes with it.

http://www.parkcameras.com/23432/Manfrotto-MVH502A-Pro-Video-Head.html?referrer=Froogle&gclid=CMODjbTb-b0CFWUOwwodsI8AYw

[Dave_S]

Re: Gimbal Heads

That's an interesting approach Colin.

I have used a fluid video head in the past, when I was very much into video (back in the old VHS-C days I should add), and they are indeed super smooth in their action.

I think that for out and about use with the 5D + 400 5.6 L + 1.4x TC, I'll take the monopod along with me.

Dave

[antoeknee]

Re: Gimbal Heads

Just got my copy of the magazine delivered today and 393 was the choice of the reader. You'd need to be very sure it's something you need as it weights 1.6kg. Also this costs £130.

Must admit I'm at a loss to understand the pricing of these mounts for example the Wimberley was £520 and a further £55 for a mounting plate!

[Dave_S]

Re: Gimbal Heads

Must admit I'm at a loss to understand the pricing of these mounts for example the Wimberley was £520 and a further £55 for a mounting plate!

I guess that there is a limited market for these 'high end' gimbal heads, as I can't see the average hobbyist photographer paying that sort of money, for something that might only see occasional use.

Therefore, the market is probably limited to the professional photographer, and then how many of them would require one. You don't see the pros at football matches at using them, which means they are probably restricted to pro wildlife photographers, or lottery winners.

I think Colin's suggestion has a lot of merit. Not too expensive, compact and lightweight, and a super smooth action.

Dave