Holiday Gift Guide 2024 – Get A Grip!

And by get a grip, I mean how to hold your camera, or attach it to a device for stabilization.

First off, one item I will always recco is the SpiderPro Hand Strap.

Having tried a TON of attempts in this category, nothing beats this.
There is one on each of my cameras, always and it’s the most secure, ergonomically designed wrist grip I’ve found. Whether I’m grabbing the camera out of a bag, or using a Black Rapid strap for 2 bodies, the Spider is always on the camera body.

Various times of the year, the Spider does go on sale, and no doubt Black Friday will be the same. Speaking of Black Rapid, this is still my go to system on assignment.
Well made, lightweight, and the slide system for you camera just works. I have the double harness, and feel this Hybrid Breathe Strap works best for me.

 

One thing that is a perennial is the Joby Gorrillapod. With a variety of sizes, everyone needs at least one of them in their kit. Infinitely adjustable, and depending on your gear weight, there are many options to choose from.
Add on an appropriate ball head and you have a strong way to mount your camera, or speedlight, continuous light.

In a similar realm, and with different attributes is the Platypod eXtreme, and the new Handle.

When you need to mount your camera low this is the ticket.

Plus with all of the varying sizes screw holes on the plate, you can add a myriad of accessories. I like the flex arms which are goosenecks with tripod mount holes to add light just where you want them, and of course the handle
The handle has come into play a variety of ways, with changing its height, adding lights, or doing an overhead shot. Secure, well made, and right priced.
The Platypod can be mounted on trees, secured to flat or round surfaces, and more.
This set-up is perfect for the closeup photographer, and another item that should be in your toolkit.

In the tripod range, it does get personal:
Is weight your main factor? Is stability with a large payload the goal?
In the weight category, one of the best deals right now is this BeFree from Manfrotto.
Folds small enough to slip into a backpack, and make sure you get the carbo fiber, to hold down the overall weight. Built and priced for the hobbyist.


This Oben tripod is a heavy duty, built like a tank tripod.
Add on a solid ball head and you can mount a full size DSLR, with a long lens, and know this rig is not going anywhere.

A couple of items in the video range is the monopod from Manfrotto, with a fluid head.
This one has feet that fold out, which you can step on for added stability, and has a damped connection at the feet for smooth pans or vertical moves.
I recco this as a main part of your run and gun video kit. I use this so much, that when I was in a location without, bought another locally!!

I do employ a lot small tabletop tripods primarily for mic stands. The Manfrotto PIXI has been my go-to.

Of course if you want to go higher end, the Gitzo line is excellent and you do pay for the privilege.

Here is their traveler model. Same carbon fiber legs as the Manfrotto model and about $250 more.

There are a ton of ways to mount your cameras. Just make sure it is sturdy, fits your shooting needs, the design meets your transport options, and you get the right head!

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