Have to say I asked because I worry the tripod I use is not really up to the job of dealing with a heavy telephoto. Don't think I could manage the lens on a mono as I need both hands for the camera and lens adjustment, reckon I should use one of the video tripods but I do not have quick release plates to spare so that is a pain, best go look for some quick release plates or steal one off one of the video cameras.

aw i really like the robin on a branch and the last one because they have the natural surrounding unlike the birdfeeder even tho they are great too i know the birdfeeders are the only way to attract them

oh i know the birdfeeder ones aren't 'real photography' as such - but i just love the pics anyway the clarity I've been able to get even with my equipment never fails to amaze me! I'm still like a child with a new toy hehe!

The monopod is a lot easier to use than I thought it would be Snapper! Might be worth trying one out - as I find I can still use both hands (one to operate the camera and one to operate the lens) and the mono helps by supporting it - rather than becomes something else to control. With my cheapo tripod, I found it extra hard work as I was always having to fiddle with the tripod too - so really I needed three hands and often missed shots. So yeah *good* tripod, or monopod - but I personally think the Monopod allows for more freedom of movement

xx

May give it a try but because of my silly aged fingers I am worried I will drop things, you should see me trying to get the thing on the tripod in the first place talk about a performance