This upcoming weekend, I'm going for an epic snow kiting session in Lake Tahoe, CA. I wanted to capture different point of views while recording video; without breaking the bank. A quick trip to the local hardware store, and we have the super stiff, lightweight, easy to assemble, DIY $4 camera pole mount.
Bill of Materials (thanks McKenzie Wells for the H.D. links):
- $3.00 - 1/2"; x 36"; PVC Riser Pipe (these are threaded at each end)
- $0.63 - 1/2" Cap (the cap is also threaded)
- $0.18 - 2 or 3 washers
- ? - 1 lock washer
- $0.20 - 1/4" 20 bolt
Tools Required:
- Drill and drill bit
Instructions:
- Drill the end cap, and screw the bolt through the hole
- Add washers to the end of the screw so the tripod mount will be tight
- Attach GoPro Tripod Mount
- Screw the end cap mount on the PVC riser
- Attach GoPro HD
- Record adrenaline pumping moments
Please check out the comments for some more tips.
Update: 1/27/2012
mattyb1018's Rubber Grip Mod:
You can add a rubber grip to your GoPro monopod by using a bicycle handlebar grip. Try your local bike shop. Thanks mattyb1018 for the tips!
Keolaw's Float Mod:
For surfers and water sporters, cutting a pool noodle to attach to the monopod works great to keep it afloat. Teflon tape can be used to seal the end caps. Thanks Keolaw for the tips!
Sample video of the $4 monopod in action:
