Review on 📷 VidPro 70-Inch 5-Section VentureMaxx Professional Monopod, Supports Up to 45 Pounds by Russ Charmin

I did a lot of research to find the perfect monopod. I bought the VidPro MP-66 and there weren't any reviews back then so I took a chance and was so glad I did. I'm a professional photographer and cameraman who shoots both photos and videos for weddings, events, documentaries, portraits and since I sometimes shoot both photos and videos at the same time I have to switch from video to photo. during my filming. I shoot with the D610 and D750 and am constantly changing lenses of different sizes and weights (the largest lens I shoot with is my 70-200 2.8 lens). I was specifically looking for a monopod that 1) can quickly adjust height, 2) is lightweight, 3) is small enough to maneuver in tight spaces/crowds, 4) has a base that I can quickly pack into a 90 degree vertical position. (I've gone through a lot of trial and error with different brands and types of monopods/bases. For reference, I used a Chickenfoot VariZoom carbon fiber monopod with twist-lock, a Benro S4 aluminum monopod with flip-lock, and a Manfrotto Fluid Flip - Lock Monopod Base and COMAN Brand Aluminum Twistlock Monopod with "Quick Lock" Base). I've been using this monopod for a good 6 months now and have paired it with a decent video head. Here's my review of the product: 1. HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT: SO incredibly quick and easy! All you have to do is hold down the buttons on the top of the monopod to decrease the size. To extend the monopod, simply pull it up to the desired height. I find it helpful to keep one foot on the base while adjusting the height so I don't have to hold the bottom end with both hands. If you don't want the monopod to fully retract to its smallest size (e.g. when going from fully extended to medium height) all you have to do is hold down the buttons to lower it and once you reach it When you have reached the desired height, release it and pull it up slightly to fix it. You need to practice this, but once you get used to it, it's such a time-saving feature! And the big plus of the buttons on top is that you don't have to bend down to lock or unlock each section of the monopod! Yes, Flip Locks can be fast, but it still takes time to lock/unlock and customize each section. And I've learned to unlock the twist locks all at once and then adjust the height, but then you still have to lock the sections separately. Over time I've found that for whatever reason, the locks on either type of these monopods can come loose and making additional adjustments mid-shoot becomes a problem. BASE LOCK: There are so many bases you can buy online that have a locking feature that I find VERY useful. However, most locking bases are twist locks which take time to lock into position. Sometimes I shoot with one camera on a monopod and shoot with another camera (which I usually keep in my belt holster). With this monopod base, I could be at full height or even half height and keep the base locked while shooting static (I put a foot on one of the base's legs for extra support), freeing both legs . Raise your hands so I can shoot with another camera at the same time. The beauty of this base is that it is a FAST BLOCK. You simply tighten the piece of metal on the base and the monopod is free to move. To lock it upright again at a 90 degree angle, move the piece of metal back down. The base of the monopod will only fully lock into place when it is at the perfect 90 degree angle, as the mechanism has to "hook" it to keep it in place. The beauty of this is that when I'm not using it in the locked position and knowing I'll be there after I've picked it up and moved it, I just pull the metal piece down and once I'm in my next position I set simply place your foot on the base's leg and wiggle around a bit until it "hooks" and locks into place. This quick release mechanism is very similar to the Manfrotto XPRO Liquid Base but better as the legs of this base are much longer making it more stable when locked upright. The Benro and VariZoom bases snap in different places and I love how you can lock the Chickenfoot base at different angles, but these bases are HUGE which is good for stability but when moving in tight spaces , you could knock someone over. more if you don't have time to stretch your legs.3. WEIGHT AND SIZE: Most people need small and light gear to run and shoot. I feel the same way and I like carrying as little gear as possible or being as hands-free as possible. This base-only monopod is very light, and at its smallest size with the base legs down, I can probably hang it on my belt for shooting. When it comes to the weight of a monopod there are always compromises, especially if you want to lock it upright and use it as a tripod. If it's too light, it won't balance the weight of your camera and will wobble or fall off. If you notice that unlike other monopods, when fully extended, this monopod is the widest part at its base. I like it because I feel it adds more stability to the bottom of the monopod.4. ADDITIONAL FEATURES: The construction and quality of this monopod is strong and durable. The finish on the monopod and the base itself appears to be matte, and considering how much I've actually used it, I don't see any scratches. It's all black, which I think makes it look "clean" and the VidPro logo unobtrusive. I love that it comes with a carry case and its own quick release plate. You can also use the base as a table tripod which I love! While it's not recommended to leave this monopod unattended in a fixed vertical position with the camera on top, I did it at the lowest possible height and nothing fell off. Finally, if you have any problem, the company's customer service will be very helpful and will reply you FAST. If you are looking for a monopod in the market, I definitely recommend it!