18 May 2009

Monkeying with the Gorillapod

Photo by Spikeale

I've spent much of the week playing with the Gorillapod SLR, a very cool alternative to a small tripod. It's not unusual with such gadgets that the idea sounds brilliant, but it never really translates to real-life use. So it was with a little bit of trepidation that I cracked open the packaging on my birthday present. I'm very happy to say my doubt was unfounded.

The flexible legs on the Gorillapod also have a great deal of grip, meaning that you can mount your camera on just about anything. A swing, a tree, your car's wing mirror, the handlebars of your kid's bike. Wrap it round and you're ready to go. I've been having a blast, especially when combined with my camera's wireless remote. I also used it in 'sensible' ways. To get that tripod sturdiness, but really low down, and I even used it as a brace to hold the camera steady on my chest.

This is no replacement for a tripod, it's something new...and it's fun. It's also inexpensive, so well worth adding to your arsenal. It will repay you by allowing you to do more with your camera. [amazon uk]