Gadling gear review - Manfrotto Modo Pocket mini folding camera stand
In this Gadling gear review, I'll introduce you to the Manfrotto Modo Pocket 797 mini camera stand. This 50 gram (about 1.7 ounces) folding stand screws to the tripod mount found on the bottom of most cameras. When folded, it is only about 6 millimeters thick. The Modo Pocket is a master of simplicity - it really only consists of three parts, two of which fold open to help angle your camera on a surface.
Once opened, a small cord prevents the 2 legs from folding open too far, and helps keep them angled. Sturdy rubber feet are injection molded to the legs, so there is no chance of them falling off.
An attached camera can be angled in a variety of ways - you can keep it straight, or angle it up/down about 45 degrees. This opens up a whole world of creative options, including shots from the ground up.
One clever addition is a threaded hole on the bottom of the Modo Pocket, which allows you to mount it, along with your camera on a second tripod, without having to remove it.
Despite its small size, I found that it had no problems whatsoever with heavier cameras like the Olympus Pen E-P1. Of course, it is very much in its element with a P&S camera. The manufacturer rated maximum camera weight is 500g/1lb.
There are other pocket camera stands/tripods on the market, but the Modo Pocket is the smallest you'll find, plus its small size means it can stay attached to your camera at all times, ready for when you need it.
At $19.95 (MSRP) it is not a cheap little accessory, but Manfrotto are known in the camera world for their fantastic quality, and the Modo Pocket is no exception. This does not look or feel like some cheap little gizmo. The Modo Pocket is available from most camera equipment vendors.
I've quickly learned to love the quirky little Modo Pocket - it is great for timed family photos, or if you don't want to put your camera down on a dirty muddy surface. It is ready for use in a matter of seconds whenever you need it.
PRO'S: Great quality, can stay on your camera, very lightweight and thin.
CON'S: Price feels a tad on the high side.
Filed under: Gadling Gear Review
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Cynthia Aug 30th 2009 3:17PM
Honestly, $19.95 does not seem like much for this to me! I haven't been able to find this locally, so I haven't tested it myself yet. That said, Manfrotto's are continually sought out for their quality. This appears to be equally well-made with some decent features. Anyone who wants to get better night photos or start experimenting with some of their camera functions more would probably get a lot out of this without having to lug a big tripod around. Just keep in mind the 1 pound weight limit, and, as with any tripod, make sure your camera is securely attached before releasing your grip.
TFAR Sep 4th 2009 5:46AM
Not bad. I like that it can stay on the camera. On the other hand I think it is of limited utility. It doesn't allow for great lift or an uneven surface or really varied inclination angles. It cannot be used to prop the camera against a wall and have it shoot in any direction. If your camera has a flat bottom (most do) this add little extra use.
Instead I use this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/141864-REG/Giottos_QB2081_Compact_Ball_Pod_Tripod_with.html
Mine is a version with fixed legs but otherwise looks just like it. It holds a Canon G9 with attached RRS L-bracket just fine even is pointed down (weight 415g). Mine weighs 55g (2oz) without the leather sheath. With it it weighs 71g. The sheath has a belt loop, too.
I really like how I can hold it against a wall and shoot with great stability either with direct trigger or with the two second timer. At less than $20 highly recommended.
Till